HDMI Cable Versions: 2.0 vs 2.1 and Labels
HDMI cables are not sold by version number; for HDMI 2.1 features like 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz, buy a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable, rated to 48Gbps.
By Andrian ChengContributing writer.
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The short answer
"HDMI 2.0" and "HDMI 2.1" are versions of the specification that TVs, consoles and players follow. Cables are not meant to carry a version number. They are sold by cable name, and the name tells you the bandwidth:
- For 4K at 60Hz with HDR, a Premium High Speed cable (up to 18Gbps) is enough.
- For HDMI 2.1 features such as 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz, use an Ultra High Speed cable (up to 48Gbps).
- For the newest HDMI 2.2 gear, there is the Ultra96 cable (up to 96Gbps).
Why there is no "HDMI 2.1 cable"
Wikipedia reports that HDMI Licensing banned version numbers in product labeling in 2009, so cables should be named by their speed certification instead. The HDMI Licensing Administrator's cable guide says cables must carry their official cable name on the cable jacket, and the package must show the cable name logo or the certification label. If a listing says "HDMI 2.1 cable", check the jacket and the label for the official cable name.
HDMI cable types
The HDMI Licensing Administrator lists these cable types:
| Cable name | Up to | What it is tested for |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Not stated | 1080i or 720p video |
| High Speed | 10.2Gbps | 1080p and beyond, including 4K at 30Hz, 3D and Deep Color |
| Premium High Speed | 18Gbps | 4K at 60Hz, HDR and BT.2020 color |
| Ultra High Speed | 48Gbps | 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 120Hz |
| Ultra96 | 96Gbps | HDMI 2.2 features, including 4K at 240Hz and 8K at 60Hz in full 4:4:4 color |
Cables "with Ethernet" add the HDMI Ethernet Channel, which works only when both connected devices support it. Automotive versions are built for cars.
HDMI 2.0 vs 2.1 vs 2.2
| Version | Released | Top bandwidth | Headline video |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI 2.0 | September 2013 | 18Gbps | 4K at 60Hz |
| HDMI 2.1 | November 2017 | 48Gbps | 4K at 120Hz, 8K at 60Hz |
| HDMI 2.2 | June 2025 | 96Gbps | Up to 4K at 240Hz and 8K at 60Hz uncompressed |
Release dates and the 2.0 and 2.1 figures are from Wikipedia's HDMI article; the 2.2 figures are from the HDMI Licensing Administrator. The HDMI Licensing Administrator's specification page lists features such as eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), QMS (Quick Media Switching) and QFT (Quick Frame Transport).
How to spot a certified cable
The Ultra High Speed cable entered the market in 2020 under a mandatory certification program. Each model must pass testing at an authorized test center, and each package must carry a certification label that standard QR code apps can scan to check it. The licensing body also buys cables from stores and marketplaces and tests them. Both Ultra High Speed and Ultra96 cables are tested for low EMI, meaning less interference with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and phones.
Quick buying guide
- Streaming box or Blu-ray player at 4K 60Hz: Premium High Speed or better.
- 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz from a console or PC: Ultra High Speed.
- HDMI 2.2 sources and displays: Ultra96, the only cable the licensing body says supports every HDMI 2.2 application.
For sound, Wiki Shopping lists 50 soundbars with HDMI ARC or eARC on October 27, 2026, a count read from each soundbar's store listing.