Neither DisplayPort nor HDMI inherently makes a graphics card render more frames per second. Choose the connection that supports your display’s target resolution, refresh rate, VRR, HDR and color format. If one input allows a higher refresh rate than the other, it can show more of the frames your PC already renders—but that is a display-mode advantage, not an FPS boost.
FPS, refresh rate and displayed frames are different
Rendered FPS is how many frames the game and GPU produce each second. Refresh rate is how many times per second the display can update. Displayed frames are the rendered frames the screen can present under the chosen refresh and sync settings.
For example, a game can render 200 FPS while a display runs at 144 Hz. The connection does not make the game render fewer frames, but the display cannot refresh 200 times per second in that mode. A 240 Hz mode can present more frequent updates than 144 Hz; switching to the port that enables it does not itself increase the game’s rendered FPS.
When DisplayPort is the better choice
DisplayPort is often a strong starting point for a PC gaming monitor, particularly when its DisplayPort input supports a higher refresh rate or a better-documented adaptive-sync mode than HDMI. Historically, many monitors offered their highest refresh rates and PC adaptive-sync features over DisplayPort. That is no longer a universal rule: compare the exact input specifications.
#1 Best Overall
- [VESA Certified DP to DP Cable 1.4] This 8K DisplayPort Cable 1.4(NOT HDMI) is officially certified by VESA Association; iVANKY 8K DP Cable supports high resolutions 8K(7680x4320)@60Hz, 5K@60Hz, 4K@240Hz, 2K@240Hz, 1080P@240Hz and Dynamic HDR and HDCP 2.2; Backwards compatible with DisplayPort 1.3/1.2/1.1, etc; It also works fully with FreeSync and G-Sync; NOT compatible with HDMI / Mini DP
- [Enhanced Gaming Experience] The DisplayPort 1.4 Cable provides higher bandwidth, HBR3 supports 32.4 Gbps of bandwidth; High refresh rate and high resolution, Maximize the performance of your graphics card and monitor, to allow you to clearly perceive the movement of enemies; No motion blur, screen tearing or flickering; Dynamic HDR can optimize the game's dark picture and enhance the details, especially in FPS, 3A masterpieces and MOBA games
- [Anti-Interference & Ultra Durability] Our Display Port cable 1.4, crafted from 30AWG tinned copper, offers more flexibility and a slimmer profile than 28AWG cables, and helps reduce signal loss; It features a Nylon Braided jacket that can withstand over 28,000+ bends, ensuring long-term reliability; The 24K Gold Plated connectors enhance durability and heat dissipation for stable signal transmission; The Latch-free design prevents damage to your equipment when disconnecting
- [Wide Compatibility] This DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable 1.4+ can be directly connected from DisplayPort-equipped desktop/laptop to monitor; Compatible with Odyssey G7 G9 CHG90 CRG9, Ben Q, Dell, HP, Acer, iiyama, Alienware monitors and others; Supports DP, DP++, and DisplayPort++; Suitable for Graphics cards and monitors with Displayport ports; Do not use extensions or adapters, signal conversion will reduce the performance
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- Choose it if the monitor’s DisplayPort input supports the highest refresh rate you want.
- Check DisplayPort if an older monitor offers a narrower VRR range or lower maximum refresh rate over HDMI.
- DisplayPort can also be useful for Multi-Stream Transport (MST) and daisy-chained displays, where supported by the GPU and monitor.
DisplayPort bandwidth depends on its version and implementation. DisplayPort 1.4 is commonly used for high-refresh PC monitors, while DisplayPort 2.1b can reach an 80 Gbps link rate and a maximum payload of 77.37 Gbps at UHBR20. Not every product bearing a DisplayPort 2.1b label supports UHBR20. Check the GPU, display and cable specifications together. VESA’s DisplayPort FAQ explains link rates, payload and UHBR capability.
When HDMI is the better choice
HDMI is usually the practical choice for a gaming TV or console: TVs generally use HDMI inputs, consoles connect over HDMI, and home-theater equipment commonly relies on HDMI for features such as eARC and CEC. HDMI 2.1 also supports gaming features including VRR, ALLM and 4K/120-class modes when the connected devices implement them. The HDMI Forum lists up to 48 Gbps with a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable; the label alone does not guarantee every device supports every feature. See the HDMI Forum’s feature overview.
Rank #2
- VESA Certified DP Cable 1.4: This 8K Displayport 1.4 Cable is officially certified by VESA Association; It supports 8K@60Hz, 5K@60Hz, 4K@144Hz, 2K@240Hz and HDCP 2.2/1.4. Display port 1.4 cable is more flexible and slimmer than 30AWG tinned copper, can directly be connected from DisplayPort equipped desktop/laptop to monitor
- Ultimate Gaming Experience: High refresh rates of 4K@144Hz and 2K@165Hz enable crystal-clear enemy tracking with zero frame drops. Dynamic HDR optimizes dark scenes and enhances visual details, delivering tactical advantages in FPS games and immersion in AAA masterpieces
- Wide Compatibility: The DisplayPort cable is compatible with all graphics cards and monitors equipped with DisplayPort ports. It works seamlessly with gaming monitors such as BenQ, Alienware, ASUS ROG, LG Ultragear, Acer Nitro, GIGABYTE, and more. It also supports popular graphics cards, including the RTX 5090/5080/5070Ti/4090/4080/4070Ti/3090/3080 Ti, AMD 7900XTX/7900 XT, and others. Please avoid using extensions or adapters, as signal conversion may reduce performance.
- Advanced Technology: The cable delivers enhanced 32.4 Gbps bandwidth via HBR3, featuring multiple shielding layers and 24K gold-plated connectors. Supports Display Stream Compression 1.2 (DSC), FEC error correction, 32-channel audio, plug & play functionality, and Mirror/Extended Modes
- Multi-functional Support: The 8K DisplayPort cable supports video resolutions up to 8K@60Hz and transmits HD audio and video from computer to display, ideal for video streaming and gaming. It is also backward compatible with DP 1.3/1.2/1.1
HDMI can also be the better option on a monitor if its HDMI input supports a higher refresh rate, more bandwidth or the VRR mode you need. Conversely, older HDMI inputs may limit a monitor to a lower refresh rate than DisplayPort, including in some 1440p configurations. HDMI 2.0 may also require compromises for some 4K high-refresh modes. Check the input-specific mode table rather than assuming all ports on a display are equivalent.
Bandwidth by interface version
These headline figures describe link capability, not guaranteed resolution and refresh rate on a particular setup. Actual usable modes depend on encoding overhead, color depth, chroma format, compression, and the capabilities of every device in the signal path.
Rank #3
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- Cutting Edge 16K DisplayPort Cable: UGREEN16K DisplayPort cable 2.1 supports high resolutions 16K@30Hz, 8K@240Hz, 4K@240Hz, 1080P@540Hz. And backward compatible with Display Port 1.4 1.3, 1.2. Single-screen video output of 16K@30Hz (DSC 1.2a), and dual-screen supported. The DP to DP cable also supports HDR, HDCP 2.2, FEC forward error correction and UHBR10 which ensure your immersive viewing experience. (Note: 20-pin is disabled with no power. No need to worry about the 20-pin issues.)
- VESA Certified 54Gbps DP Cable 2.1: This Display Port 2.1/2.0 cable features an unprecedented bandwidth of 54Gbps, nearly 3 times what was available in the previous DP 1.4 spec. Stable and high-speed transmission without signal loss. The DisplayPort cable also backward compatible with previous DP 1.4 and DP 1.2 standards. The monitor cable meets the VESA Standard and supports 3D&HDR and Dolby&eARC to provide you with amazing sound and image quality
- Optimized for Game Enthusiasts: The DP cable 2.1 is highly recommended for game setups as it works well with game monitors and graphics cards, delivering high-quality video and audio signals with no lag or interference. It supports FreeSync and G-Sync, which are essential for gaming. You can easily connect multiple monitors with Multi-Stream Transport (MST). Variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM) bring you smoother game experience especially in FPS, 3A and MOBA games
- Ultra Durability: UGREEN DisplayPort cable port with no buckle design can prevent accidental damage. DP cable 2.1 is made of 28AWG tinned copper and tinplate which features triple shielding and resistance with EMI. Aluminum alloy housing is resistant to rust and can accelerate heat dissipation. The Display Port cord has a strong nylon braided jacket, which is 10X more durable than PVC. It can provide higher connectivity and longer service life for better signal transmission
- Wide Compatibility: UGREEN 16K@30Hz DP cable is compatible with all devices with DP ports, compatible with Valve Steam Machine, Nvidia RTX 5090/RTX 5080/RTX 3090/RTX 4090/RTX 4080ti/RTX 5070ti/RTX 5050 graphics cards, and AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT/RX 6900 XT/RX 7900 XT/RX 9060 XT graphics cards, and Odyssey G8/G9, Ben Q, Alienware, LG Ultragear monitors, HDTV, Fire TV, computer and others. Support DP, DP++ modes, backward compatible 2.0/1.4/1.3/1.2
| Interface | Headline capability | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| HDMI 2.0 | 18 Gbps total link rate | Older monitors and GPUs may limit resolution or refresh rate; practical modes depend on timing and color format. |
| DisplayPort 1.4 | 32.4 Gbps link rate; about 25.92 Gbps payload before display compression | Often suited to 1440p high refresh and 4K high refresh with DSC or reduced settings. |
| HDMI 2.1 | Up to 48 Gbps with an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable | Supports high-refresh 4K and TV gaming features when implemented by the connected products. |
| DisplayPort 2.1b | Up to 80 Gbps link rate and 77.37 Gbps maximum payload at UHBR20 | Maximum performance requires compatible UHBR20-capable GPU, display and cable. |
| HDMI 2.2 | Up to 96 Gbps with an Ultra96 cable | Introduced in HDMI Licensing Administrator’s 2025 overview; check product availability and implementation as of October 2026. HDMI 2.2 overview. |
Do not choose based on the largest number in a version name. HDMI 2.1 exceeds DisplayPort 1.4’s headline link rate, but DisplayPort 2.1b at UHBR20 exceeds HDMI 2.1. Neither comparison alone tells you which port on your equipment supports the mode you want. DisplayPort’s specification information and cable certification guidance provide further detail on capabilities and cable classes.
VRR, input lag and DSC
VRR depends on the devices and input
Variable refresh rate (VRR) synchronizes display updates with the GPU’s frame output to reduce tearing and improve perceived smoothness. It does not increase the game’s rendered FPS. AMD says FreeSync works over HDMI and DisplayPort, subject to the GPU and display’s capabilities. A monitor may still support different VRR ranges or HDR combinations on different inputs. Check AMD’s FreeSync information and its monitor database for input-specific examples.
Rank #4
- IN THE BOX: 6-foot 8K DisplayPort to DisplayPort 1.4 cable
- CONVENIENT: Connects the latest computers and monitors for expanded workspace and multi-monitor configurations
- VIDEO RESOLUTION: Up to 8K (7680x4320) plus 4K Ultra HD (3840x2160 @ 60Hz); Dynamic HDR and 3D
- AUDIO: Crystal clear audio pass-through for uncompressed digital 7.1, 5.1 or 2 channel sound; up to 1536kHz audio sample frequency
- SUPPORTS: High bandwidth HBR3, 32.4 Gbps bandwidth, DSC 1.2 display stream compression, FEC forward error correction, and 32 audio channels
For NVIDIA users, G-SYNC Compatible support is validated for individual displays, not guaranteed by the connector name. Check the exact model and connection in NVIDIA’s monitor directory and its variable-refresh-rate guidance. Some older monitors support adaptive sync only through DisplayPort; some newer monitors and TVs support VRR over HDMI.
Neither connector is universally lower-latency
Do not assume DisplayPort always has lower input lag. Monitor processing, refresh rate, VRR and V-Sync settings, frame queueing, GPU render time, game settings and the display’s own measured latency matter more than the connector in most comparisons. HDMI 2.1’s Quick Frame Transport is designed to reduce transport latency in supported setups, but that does not make every HDMI 2.1 connection faster than every DisplayPort connection.
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Best Value
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- 【VESA Certified DP80 Cable 2M】Silkland 6.6FT Display Port 2.1 Cable is the first VESA-certified DP80 cable on Amazon. With 80Gbps bandwidth, it supports uncompressed 4K@240Hz, 8K@60Hz and 2K@540Hz resolution. Up to 16K@60Hz, 8K@240Hz, 4K@960Hz 540Hz 480Hz 360Hz with DSC enabled. DP80 cable compatible with UHBR20, dynamic HDR10+, 3D, and HDCP 2.3 for superior visuals. Backward compatible with DP 2.0, and DP 1.4, and supports flawless 7.1/5.1/2.0 uncompressed audio pass-thru
- 【Born for gaming】16K DisplayPort cable is tailored for high-end gamers. Featureing VRR, FEC, ALLM and DSC 1.2a technologies for stable, seamless data transfer and smooth, uninterrupted visuals, no lag, tearing and flickering. MST technology allows multi-monitor setups to expand your gaming world. Dynamic HDR enhances dark scenes and details, while 32-bit audio and lossless surround sound pass-through, helping you spot enemies in FPS and AAA games
- 【Top-Notch Quality】Silkland DP cable has no latch. Plug and play. Features 24K gold-plated connectors for optimal signal quality and corrosion protection. Built with 28AWG tinned copper conductors and triple shielding for stable, high-speed transmission. Tinplate blocks electromagnetic interference and minimizes signal loss. DP to DP cable with nylon exterior is 10 times more durable than PVC, withstanding bending and wearing for long-lasting performance
- 【Wide Compatibility】Our DisplayPort to DisplayPort 2.1/2.0 cable is compatible with all devices featuring DP ports. It works seamlessly with gaming monitors like Odyssey G8/G9, CHG90, CRG9, BenQ, Alienware, ROG Swift, LG Ultragear, ASUS, Acer, GIGABYTE, and more. It also supports popular graphics cards, including the RTX 5090D/5080/5070Ti/5070/4090/4080/4070Ti/3090/3080 Ti/3070, AMD 7900XTX/7900 XT, and others. Works with DP, DisplayPort++, and supports G-Sync, FreeSync for better gaming. *Please ensure your device is equipped with a DisplayPort port. The product does not support connection via HDMI, USB or other ports.
- 【Services from Silkland】We take pride in delivering top-notch cables and exceptional customer service. We are committed to supporting you throughout your purchase journey with our monitor cables. We offer a 24-month service and provide technical support within 18 hours to resolve any issues you may encounter
DSC can enable demanding modes
Display Stream Compression (DSC) is designed to be visually lossless and can carry a resolution and refresh-rate combination that would exceed an uncompressed link’s capacity. It does not normally reduce the game’s rendered FPS. DSC must be supported throughout the relevant GPU-to-display path; some systems may also have HDR, color-depth or multi-monitor limitations. NVIDIA documents DSC requirements and generation-specific limitations in its high-resolution display guidance and multi-monitor and bandwidth notes.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Choose by scenario
| Setup | Preferred starting point | Verify |
|---|---|---|
| 1080p or 1440p PC monitor | DisplayPort if it supports the monitor’s highest refresh rate | Maximum refresh rate and VRR range on each input. |
| 4K high-refresh monitor | Whichever input supports the full target mode; this may be HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC, or DisplayPort 2.1 | Refresh rate, DSC, HDR, color depth and RGB/4:4:4 support. |
| Gaming TV | HDMI, typically HDMI 2.1 for 4K/120-class gaming | Use the TV’s supported high-bandwidth input and enable its enhanced or gaming mode if required. |
| PS5 or Xbox Series console | HDMI | Console, display input and cable must all support the target mode, such as 4K/120 Hz VRR. |
| Multi-monitor PC setup | DisplayPort may be preferable | GPU output limits, MST support and any DSC-related restrictions. |
| Older monitor or GPU | Compare the exact HDMI and DisplayPort versions and input limits | Available modes may differ significantly between ports. |
How to select the right port and cable
- Identify the complete signal path. Check the GPU output, display input, cable, and any adapter, dock, receiver or KVM switch between them. Every link must support the desired mode. A label such as HDMI 2.1 or DisplayPort 1.4 is not enough by itself.
- Read the display’s input-specific specifications. Find the manual’s resolution and refresh-rate table. Check each input’s maximum refresh rate, VRR range, HDR and bit-depth support, and whether DSC is needed.
- Use a cable certified for the required bandwidth. A VESA-certified DP40 or DP80 cable is relevant to the corresponding DisplayPort link rate; an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable is the certified choice for HDMI 2.1’s up-to-48-Gbps link. Certification cannot upgrade an unsupported GPU or display. For HDMI 2.2 equipment, verify whether an Ultra96 cable is actually required. See the official DisplayPort products database and Ultra High Speed HDMI cable information.
- Connect directly when troubleshooting or gaming at high refresh. Adapters, docks, receivers and KVMs can limit bandwidth or remove VRR, HDR, high refresh or audio support. USB-C video may use DisplayPort Alt Mode, Thunderbolt or USB4; capability depends on the laptop port, dock and cable, not just the USB-C connector shape.
- Select the maximum refresh rate in Windows. In Windows 11, go to Settings → System → Display → Advanced display → Choose a refresh rate. Wording can vary by Windows version or driver; select the highest supported rate for the connected display.
- Check the GPU output mode. In NVIDIA Control Panel, open Display → Change resolution. Where available, choose the resolution under the PC category, then set the display’s native resolution and maximum supported refresh rate. Select RGB and Full dynamic range where available; set the desired color depth if supported. AMD Radeon Software provides similar display controls, though labels vary by release.
- Enable VRR if wanted. Enable Adaptive-Sync or FreeSync in the monitor’s on-screen display and Radeon Software for AMD systems. For NVIDIA, enable G-SYNC or G-SYNC Compatible when supported. On a TV, enable its game mode or VRR setting if required.
- Verify the active signal. Check Windows Advanced display, the GPU control panel or the monitor’s information panel for the current resolution and refresh rate. Confirm HDR and VRR status, and color format or bit depth where available. An in-game FPS counter alone does not confirm the display mode.
Why a monitor can seem slower—or get stuck at 60 Hz
A port limitation can cap refresh without lowering the game’s internally measured FPS. For example, a PC may render 200 FPS while a display input is limited to 144 Hz. A 60 Hz fallback, unavailable VRR, tearing or stutter can also make motion seem less smooth. V-Sync may cap output to the active refresh rate, and some monitors offer an overclocked refresh mode only over a specific input.
If the display is stuck at 60 Hz, check these items in order:
- Confirm the refresh-rate selection in Windows Advanced display.
- Check the monitor’s on-screen display for an input mode or overclock setting.
- Review the GPU driver’s resolution and refresh-rate settings.
- Check the cable’s certification, condition and length; test a known-compatible cable if available.
- Temporarily remove adapters, docks, receivers and KVM switches.
- Ensure the cable is connected to the graphics card, not the motherboard, when using a discrete GPU.
- On a TV, enable the relevant enhanced, high-bandwidth or gaming input mode.
- Try another port on the GPU or display and check whether the target mode is input-specific.
- Check for relevant graphics-driver and display-firmware updates.
- Test with a direct GPU-to-display connection to isolate intermediate devices.
If the mode appears but the signal flickers or drops out, the cable or an intermediate device may not be carrying it reliably. A reduced mode may also be offered instead: lower refresh, disabled HDR or VRR, 8-bit color, or YCbCr 4:2:2/4:2:0 in place of RGB or 4:4:4. Chroma subsampling can make text and fine desktop elements look less crisp, even if it is acceptable for video on a TV.
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Will a better cable increase FPS?
No. A cable cannot increase rendered FPS. A correctly certified cable can prevent signal instability or allow a mode the previous cable could not reliably carry, such as the display’s full refresh rate or HDR setting. Buy for the capabilities required by the GPU and display, not for a promise of extra frames; a more expensive cable does not add features that the connected devices lack.
Quick Recap
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