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What type of HDMI cable should I choose for 4K content?

By Ludovic Lamentière , on 9 May 2025 , updated on 9 May 2025 - 10 minutes to read

The transition to 4K resolution is now the standard for enjoying exceptionally sharp images and vibrant colors on high-definition televisions, video projectors, and monitors. However, not all HDMI cables are created equal, and choosing an HDMI cable suitable for 4K isn’t as simple as plugging in the first one you see. Between technical standards, required bandwidth rates, cable lengths, and specific uses such as gaming or watching HDR movies, the options can quickly seem complex. This guide will help you decipher the essential criteria for selecting a 4K HDMI cable that will guarantee optimal image quality, without loss or latency, whether you’re watching French or American TV series or for an immersive console experience. Understanding HDMI standards and their impact on choosing a 4K HDMI cable HDMI cables carry digital audio and video data at high speeds, but not all support 4K with the same level of performance. The first step in choosing the right HDMI cable is to understand the currently applicable HDMI standards: HDMI 1.4, HDMI 2.0, and HDMI 2.1. Each of these versions offers a different bandwidth, a key factor that determines resolution, frame rate, HDR options, and audio format support.

HDMI 1.4: The Gateway to 4K

Introduced in 2009, HDMI 1.4 provided the first access to 4K resolution, with support for up to 4K at 30 frames per second (fps). It also supports 3D and some Deep Color options for an improved color space, but its maximum data rate is limited to 10.2 Gbps, making this type of HDMI cable less relevant for content requiring greater fluidity or sophisticated colorimetry, such as HDR.

HDMI 2.0: The standard for 4K at 60 Hz

The HDMI 2.0 standard brought a major leap forward by doubling the data rate to 18 Gbps. It now allows 4K display up to 60 Hz, which makes a significant difference for fast-moving content, sports, or navigating console menus. HDMI 2.0 also supports common HDR formats like HDR10 and Dolby Vision, as well as extended color spaces like BT.2020. For these reasons, a premium HDMI cable is often recommended to take full advantage of these options on 4K TVs or projectors.

HDMI 2.1: The Revolution for 4K at 120 Hz and Beyond

With data rates up to 48 Gbps, HDMI 2.1 has become essential for demanding applications. This Ultra High Speed HDMI cable supports 4K up to 120Hz and even 8K resolution at 60Hz, but is especially popular with gamers using the latest generation Xbox or PlayStation consoles with bandwidth-intensive games. Associated technologies include dynamic HDR, eARC, VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), and ALLM (Auto Low Latency Mode), ensuring unparalleled fluidity and visual richness. This cable is also ideal for UHD Blu-ray playback or demanding 4K HDR TV streams. HDMI Standard

Maximum Data Rate

Supported Resolution

Frame Rate	HDR Support	Typical Applications	HDMI 1.4	10.2 Gbps	4K UHD (3840×2160)
Up to 30 Hz	Basic HDR	Standard video playback, basic TV	HDMI 2.0	18 Gbps	4K UHD
Up to 60 Hz	HDR10, Dolby Vision, BT.2020	Gaming, HDR movies, high-quality streaming	HDMI 2.1	48 Gbps	4K UHD and 8K UHD
Up to 120 Hz	Dynamic HDR, eARC, VRR, ALLM	Advanced gaming, home theater, premium streaming	Choosing an HDMI cable	compatible with the standard appropriate for your intended use avoids disappointment.	Make sure the cable is a High Speed HDMI model

or higher for 4K. Always choose cables with official certification, guaranteeing validated performance. Compatibility with
HDCP 2.2 is standard for protected 4K content. This initial overview highlights that a newer, better-certified HDMI cable will be the key to unlocking the full richness of today’s 4K UHD content. The choice directly impacts signal stability, audio/video synchronization, and user experience. The fundamental criteria for choosing a 4K HDMI cable according to use: video, gaming, or home theater
Beyond the standard, determining the right HDMI cable requires adjusting the selection based on the specific context and connected equipment. We’ll start by clarifying how bandwidth, frame rate, and HDR impact the choice. For classic 4K HDR video viewingWatching movies, TV series, or streaming content in 4K HDR requires a cable that supports 4K at 60 Hz minimum and the HDR formats: HDR10, HDR10+, Dolby Vision, and HLG. A Premium High Speed HDMI cable (HDMI 2.0 standard) is more than sufficient. This type of cable handles signals up to 18 Gbps, enabling a smooth experience and rich colors, thanks in particular to its support for BT.2020, the fundamental color space for 4K HDR.
Specific requirements of 4K gaming consoles The latest consoles such as the Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 require an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable to exploit their full potential: 4K at 120 Hz, VRR, and ALLM. These technologies offer exceptional fluidity and low latency, essential for gamers who want to avoid any lag or artifacts. For competitive gaming or immersion in 4K HDR open worlds, an HDMI 2.1 cable is essential. For casual gamers, a Premium HDMI 2.0 cable may be sufficient for 4K 60 Hz.

Demanding gamers should opt for Ultra High Speed cables certified to HDMI 2.1. Make sure you use a cable with reinforced shielding.

to minimize electromagnetic interference during long gaming sessions.

Choose cables with pure copper or silver-plated conductor materials for better transmission.

Home Theater and Multi-Device Streaming

For high-end setups combining a soundbar, AV receiver, 4K projector, and TV, the HDMI cable must handle full bandwidth with ARC or eARC for audio, while ensuring a stable connection. The cable must also be compatible with lengths greater than 5 meters without significant loss. In this case, the use of Ultra High Speed certified HDMI cables with shielding and gold-plated contacts is recommended. Use

Recommended HDMI Cable Type

HDMI Standard

Required Data Rate
Key Features
Device Example Standard 4K HDR Video Premium High Speed Cable
HDMI 2.0 18 Gbps HDR10, Dolby Vision, BT.2020

UHD Blu-ray Player, 4K TV

4K 120 Hz Gaming Ultra High Speed Cable HDMI 2.1

48 Gbps	VRR, ALLM, eARC, Dynamic HDR	Xbox Series X, PS5	Multi-Device Home Theater	Shielded Ultra High Speed Cable	HDMI 2.1
48 Gbps	eARC, ARC, Long Distance, Stability	AV Receiver, Soundbar, Projector	Depending on the context, adapting your choice will not only preserve image and sound quality, but also avoid any slowdowns or unsupported formats via the connection. This point is crucial when playback relies on streaming content or platforms with very strict HDR signatures.	HDMI cable length, materials, and long-distance performance: what do you need to know?	To fully utilize a 4K HDMI cable, the length and quality of the materials play a major role, especially in 2025 as audiovisual systems become more modular and complex. Simply purchasing a long HDMI cable to connect a set-top box or Blu-ray player to a video projector located several meters away is not enough.
Limitations Related to the Length of Conventional HDMI Cables	Unamplified HDMI cables can transmit without signal degradation up to approximately 5 meters for version 2.0 and 10 meters for some 1.4 cables. Beyond this distance, bandwidth drops, which can cause flickering, color loss, or a complete loss of signal. This decrease drastically impacts image quality at high resolutions, particularly in 4K HDR.	Technical Solutions for Long Distances: Optical HDMI Cables and Amplifiers	For installations where the HDMI cable length exceeds 10 meters, the best option is optical HDMI cables. These models use optical fiber to transmit the light signal without loss or electromagnetic interference. This technology ensures high reliability, often without the need for an amplifier.	Alternatively, integrating HDMI repeaters or signal amplifiers ensures a stable and consistent signal over long distances, sometimes up to 20 to 30 meters depending on the model. These solutions, although more expensive, are essential in complex or professional installations.	Prefer a cable with multiple shielding against electromagnetic interference.
Gold-plated connectors and solid contacts ensure long-lasting conductivity and resistance to oxidation.	For lengths between 10 and 15 meters, consider an optical HDMI cable rather than a traditional copper cable.	Beware of HDMI cables included with some devices: their quality is often basic and unsuitable for extended sessions or long distances.	Length	Recommended Cable Type	Risks

Solutions

0 to 5 meters

High-Speed or Premium HDMI Copper Cable

Low

Standard, no amplification required 5 to 10 meters Premium HDMI Cable with reinforced shielding

Slight loss possible

Favor shielding and solid contacts

10 to 30 meters

Optical HDMI cable or cable with amplifier High signal loss, interference Optical fiber, repeaters, amplifiers
Finally, taking these technical constraints into account avoids unnecessary expenses while ensuring a high-performance and stable multi-device connection, essential for enjoying your 4K content in optimal conditions, whether you’re watching the best TV series or for an intense online game on your Xbox.
Certification and quality criteria: should you invest in HDMI cables certified for 4K?
Certification, although sometimes overlooked, is a fundamental guarantee of success when choosing a 4K UHD-compatible HDMI cable. It is based on rigorous tests conducted by the HDMI Forum, which validate compliance with standards, manufacturing quality, and the integrity of the transmitted signal.

Why choose a certified HDMI cable? A certified HDMI cable guarantees:		Sufficient bandwidth	without interruptions, essential for 4K HDR.
	Compatibility with all major HDR formats and advanced features like eARC.		Increased resistance to interference thanks to careful cabling and shielding.
	Strong connectors with solid contacts prevent connection loss.		Recommended Brands and Models in 2025
	There are several leading brands in the industry, suited to different budgets and needs. For example:		Amazon Basics Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable

: excellent value for money, HDMI 2.1 certified, perfect for 4K at 120 Hz on recent consoles and TVs. Belkin Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1

: premium cable with reinforced shielding, ideal for long-distance installations and home theaters.

AudioQuest Pearl HDMI

: a more premium cable, with high-purity copper conductor materials, multiple shielding, and gold-plated connectors.

Brand Certification
Standard
Available Length
Recommended Use

Recommended Price

Amazon Basics

Ultra High Speed HDMI 2.1
1-3 m Gaming, 4K 120Hz Streaming
Less than €20 Belkin

Ultra High Speed	HDMI 2.1	1-5 m	Home Theater, Long Distances	Around €50	AudioQuest Pearl
Premium Certified	HDMI 2.0	1-10 m	Home Theater, Audio-Video Quality	€70-100	Investing in a quality, certified HDMI cable prevents many disappointments: frozen images, no sound, HDR incompatibility, or even intermittent signal loss. The cable should be seen as a fundamental link between your devices and the final quality of the 4K image. Optimize Installation and Ensure the Best Experience with a 4K HDMI Cable
Once you have a suitable HDMI cable, ensure proper installation to maintain a stable signal and perfect image quality, especially with long cables or multiple devices in cascade.	Installation Tips and Practical Tricks	Avoid excessively long cables without amplification, especially over 5 meters, to avoid compromising signal quality.	If possible, limit the number of connectors and adapters between devices, as each connection can generate attenuation.	Choose cables with effective shielding to prevent electromagnetic interference from other electronic devices, especially in a multi-device living room.	For complex installations, consider using HDMI switches or multiplexers suitable for 4K, making sure they are also compatible with HDMI 2.0 or 2.1.
When connecting, make sure to firmly insert the cable to ensure stable contact and avoid unwanted disconnections. Avoid pitfalls and optimize lifespan	Cheap cables offered with consoles or built-in players are often of low quality and prone to wear out quickly. Opt for sturdy cables made from premium materials that can withstand frequent handling. Cable lifespan can be extended by avoiding tight bends, keeping the cable away from heat sources such as stoves or inserts, and prioritizing organized storage. This offers real added value, especially if you want to maximize your binge-watching sessions of French or American series in 4K HDR. Best Practices	Mistakes to Avoid	Use certified and shielded cables	Use basic cables provided in uncertified kits	Limit the length without an amplifier or optical fiber

Bend the cable at a right angle or in a tight knot

Install carefully and avoid multiple adapters

Frequently plug and unplug without precautions

Store properly, away from heat or mechanical stress

Routing the cable too close to sources of electronic interference
The success of an installation depends as much on the quality of the HDMI cable chosen as on the meticulousness of its integration into the audiovisual environment. By taking these criteria into account, take full advantage of the visual potential of 4K UHD, with precise and fluid rendering adapted to all your uses.

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Ludovic Lamentière

Ludovic a 39 ans et c'est le cinéphile de la bande. Il a sa carte abonnement au cinéma depuis plus de 15 ans et sort tous les mercredis soir pour ne pas manquer les nouveautés. Il aime plutôt les films complexes et les thrillers.

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