“HDMI 2.1 cable” is not the official name of a cable category. HDMI 2.1 is a specification version; the cable category associated with its 48 Gbps bandwidth is called Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable. So cables for HDMI 2.1 features do exist—the misleading part is treating “HDMI 2.1” as the cable’s official category or proof of certification.
What does “HDMI 2.1 cable” actually mean?
The HDMI Forum announced HDMI Specification Version 2.1 on November 28, 2017. Its announcement described the new specification’s bandwidth capability of up to 48 Gbps and named the cable supporting that bandwidth the Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable. The Forum said it supports 48 Gbps for uncompressed HDMI 2.1 feature support. HDMI Forum, November 28, 2017.
That distinction matters when shopping: “HDMI 2.1” describes a specification, while Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable is the official cable name for the 48 Gbps category. A seller’s use of “HDMI 2.1” alone does not establish that a cable is certified.
How do you check whether a cable is certified?
- Look for the official Ultra High Speed HDMI Certification Label on the packaging or unit of sale. HDMI Licensing Administrator says compliant cables must carry this label. HDMI Licensing Administrator: HDMI cables.
- Scan the label’s QR code with a standard QR-code app to check the cable’s certification record. HDMI Licensing Administrator: HDMI cables.
- Check the cable itself for the required Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable name on its jacket. HDMI Licensing Administrator: HDMI cables.
Use the certification label as your check rather than relying on a product title or an unsupported “HDMI 2.1” claim.
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- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Do you need a new cable for 4K at 120 Hz?
Not automatically. The HDMI Forum lists 4K at 120 Hz and 8K at 60 Hz among examples supported by the HDMI 2.1 Specification; those examples are not a guarantee that every source, display, cable, or setup supports those modes. HDMI Forum, November 28, 2017.
Check the capability of both devices and the signal features you want, then consider whether your current cable works reliably for that setup. The official category information describes what a cable class can support; it does not show that every HDMI 2.1 device requires a replacement cable or that your existing one is inadequate.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
What should you compare when choosing a cable?
- Category and certification: For a setup needing the bandwidth associated with HDMI 2.1 features, look for a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable and verify its label.
- Required bandwidth: Match the cable to the signal features supported by your source and display; the “HDMI 2.1” wording alone does not certify a product.
- Run length and construction: HDMI says cable length depends on cable type and construction, not on one universal maximum for every cable. HDMI cable specifications.
- Connector type: Make sure the cable’s connectors suit the ports and physical layout of your devices.
How does HDMI 2.2 change the cable names?
HDMI’s newer terminology includes Ultra96, the feature name for HDMI 2.2 cable support at 64, 80, or 96 Gbps. HDMI’s overview still identifies Ultra High Speed as the 48 Gbps cable category and says Ultra HDMI cables are backwards compatible with existing HDMI devices. HDMI 2.2 overview.
For a 48 Gbps cable category, the name remains Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable; Ultra96 is the newer designation for the higher HDMI 2.2 bandwidth levels.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable?
It is the official cable category associated with 48 Gbps bandwidth for uncompressed HDMI 2.1 feature support.
Does “HDMI 2.1” on a product listing mean the cable is certified?
No. Check for the official Ultra High Speed HDMI Certification Label and scan its QR code to verify the certification record.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
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