HDMI 2.1 monitors are a hot topic now with the release of Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X. It opens the way for 4K 120Hz with devices that do not have DisplayPort 1.4 which you will usually find on graphics cards for PCs. It’s the one factor that’s gatekeeping gamers from using the best PC monitors instead of TVs for next-gen consoles.
However, the bottom line is that there are no HDMI 2.1 monitors available at the moment, at least at the time of this writing. You have to go with a high-end TV like the LG CX which is actually a great option with OLED technology to boot. However, it’s too big for desktop use, even if you go with the smallest 48-inch variant and it just isn’t as fast as a tuned and dedicated gaming monitor.
Updated July 27th, 2024.
What Makes HDMI 2.1 Monitors So Important?
HDMI 2.1 monitors will change how the product is used in multi-platform gaming setups since its capabilities won’t be limited by its connectivity. 4K 144Hz monitors like the Acer CP7271K can only be fully utilized by a PC with DP 1.4 since its HDMI 2.0 slot is limited to 4K 60Hz. HDMI 2.1 monitors will change, and the new connector will allow up to 4K at 120Hz.
This means you can enjoy high-refresh rates for all of your games, although, with consoles, the specific title’s coding will also dictate if it supports 4K at 120Hz. HDMI 2.1 will also reduce the need for dithering and DSC or Display Stream Compression which reduces the color output to give way for the refresh rate. You can play games with full and uncompressed color that is important for HDR devices and titles.
But on the other hand, 4K HDMI 2.1 monitors will nullify the need to buy a separate high-end TV if you want to enjoy games at high refresh rates and full HDR output. A setup with the latter plus the monitor mentioned above will cost thousands, so it won’t be practical for the majority of gamers. HDMI 2.1 monitors can help save money in a way by bridging that gap between the two display types.
What Changed with the Connector for HDMI 2.1 Monitors?
HDMI is considered universal compared to DisplayPort because the connector design doesn’t change with every generational update. HDMI cables are designed to be backwards compatible and vice versa, so it’s very unlikely that you have to spend more money on a “high-grade” variant if you want to use it for HDMI 2.1 monitors.
It’s convenient, but it can also be confusing since it isn’t made clear if a specific cable or connector has which version or standard. Some cables and devices might work as advertised, but others might not be fully compatible with HDMI 2.1 since it’s fairly new. The market will normalize sooner or later, but we’re hoping manufacturers will get it right as soon as the monitors listed below are released.
HDMI 2.0 Versus HDMI 2.1
The main difference between HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 2.1 with the former having a total of 18 Gbit/s while the latter has a staggering 48 Gbit/s. That’s a massive difference, so it opens more possibilities such as higher refresh rates and a humongous maximum resolution. It’s the main reason why HDMI 2.1 is advertised together with 8K screens since the connector can handle it with aplomb.
It doesn’t matter as much for common uses like watching movies, but gamers will appreciate HDMI 2.1’s ability to produce 4K at 120Hz smoothly. It’s not yet fully implemented, as we can see on the PS5 and Series X, but it’s where the future of gaming is geared right now.
Best HDMI 2.1 Monitors
The monitors listed below are not yet released, but we know we will get more information when 2021 starts.
Alienware AW3225QF – 4K 240Hz OLED Gaming Monitor with HDMI 2.1
The Alienware AW3225QF is one of our favorite gaming monitors now because of its amazing specs. It has a 32-inch 4K OLED panel that goes up to 240Hz, making reviewers and enthusiasts call and consider it the endgame monitor. That means you get top-of-the-line visuals to match the best games out right now, especially those that are made to run in HDR.
It is not the most feature-packed in its category, but it does include HDMI 2.1 connectivity for console gaming. This makes it flexible and future-proof for gamers who have the most sought-after gaming gear in the market. It is not cheap, but it’s a solid investment for years to come.
Dell G3223Q – Affordable HDMI 2.1 4K Gaming Monitor
The Dell G3223Q is an excellent option since it’s not too expensive but it still manages to have attractive specifications. It only goes up to HDR 600, but that’s less of a focus if you are in its segment. Its IPS panel is vibrant and very accurate out of the box, enhancing the value per dollar you spend on it further.
This option might be cheaper than most in the lineup, but it still offers excellent flexibility and durability. You get two HDMI 2.1 slots and a fully adjustable stand for the price, so it can serve a PC and two 4K 120Hz consoles at the same time.
Aorus FO32U2P – High-End 4K 240Hz OLED Monitor with HDMI 2.1
The Aorus FO32U2P is another endgame monitor that dictates the future of gaming performance for monitors. It has a 240Hz 4K OLED panel with perfect HDR capabilities, making it very desirable for those who want the best. It is vibrant and capable of infinite contrast ratio, so it’s a must-buy for many despite the higher price.
Connectivity is one of the key characteristics you can enjoy if you go with the FO32U2P. It has DisplayPort 2.1 and DP 1.4 Out, mini DP 2.1, and two HDMI 2.1 slots. You even get a 65-Watt USB-C slot for laptops which sweetens the deals since its also usable for your work computer.
INNOCN 32A6V – Affordable Mini-LED Monitor with HDMI 2.1
The INNOCN 32A6V is a very affordable 4K 160Hz monitor that’s intended for both professional and gaming use. It is not OLED, but it has an HDR 1000-grade mini-LED panel that offers fantastic HDR performance. It’s also very accurate, making it suitable for editing work and content creation.
It’s a budget model, but it still carries desirable features, particularly in the connectivity layout. It has USB-C alongside its HDMI 2.1 ports, making it very flexible for a budget model. It’s one of our favorites this year simply because it presents tremendous value in a very competitive market.
MSI MPG 321URX – Lowest Priced 240Hz OLED Monitor with HDMI 2.1
The MSI MPG 321URX is also a 4K 240Hz OLED monitor designed to satisfy the most demanding gamers. It’s priced better than its competitors, yet it offers more features. It’s also very vibrant and capable of fantastic HDR, so you aren’t losing out if you opt to save the money and go with it.
The 321URX has USB-C with 90 watts of charging power alongside its HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort connectivity. It is great for editing and office work, so you get more out of your money. It’s also designed and built like a true premium option, so you don’t lose out on excellent build quality and aesthetics.
Lenovo Legion Y32p-30 – High Quality 4K Gaming Monitor with HDMI 2.1
The Lenovo Legion Y32p-30 is one of our favorite 4K monitors because of its excellent design and build quality. Its IPS panel offers excellent clarity and color quality, making it seem like a P-series monitor from the brand. It’s smooth and practically blur-free, so it’s great for competitive gaming as well.
We love the robust design of the Y32p-30, which makes it seem less like a gaming variant. It has two USB-C ports and HDMI 2.1 connectivity. You can basically use it for your gaming PC, 4K 120Hz consoles, and a USB-C laptop from work.
LG 27GR93U – Premium Quality HDMI 2.1 Monitor with Low Price
The LG 27GR93U from the UltraGear lineup offers fantastic value, even if it’s from a premium brand. It features a 4K 144Hz panel and DTS HP:X compatibility, ensuring that you get the best visual and audio experience from the monitor. It offers fantastic clarity and smoothness, plus it can be calibrated for professional use.
LG imbued this monitor with superb build quality, so it doesn’t look or feel cheap in person. It doesn’t have the most connectivity options in the lineup, but both of its HDMI ports have version 2.1 bandwidth.
Editor’s Note: HDMI 2.1 monitors are still missing from the market even if the devices that can benefit the most from them are already out. However, we feel that next year’s tech conferences will see numerous reveals for these new products, and maybe some will go on sale shortly after. Keep checking this page if you are interested in getting an HDMI 2.1 monitor for your personal setup at home.
About the Author:
Paolo is a gaming veteran since the golden days of Doom and Warcraft and has been building gaming systems for family, friends, and colleagues since his junior high years. High-performance monitors are one of his fixations and he believes that it’s every citizen’s right to enjoy one. He has gone through several pieces of hardware in pursuit of every bit of performance gain, much to the dismay of his wallet. He now works with Monitornerds to scrutinize the latest gear to create reviews that accentuate the seldom explained aspects of a PC monitor.
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