SCORCHING HOT DEAL!! Save £50 on a Gigabyte RTX 5080 GPU when you buy a 850W Corsair PSU. Use code HOT50

Most Viewed
Latest Arrivals
  • PCs
  • Gaming
  • Graphics Cards
  • Components
  • Monitors
  • Accessories
  • Deals
Game-ready PCs next day
3 year PC warranty*

SCORCHING HOT DEAL!! Save £50 on a Gigabyte RTX 5080 GPU when you buy a 850W Corsair PSU. Use code HOT50

What ports do you need on a gaming monitor?


HDMI monitors

HDMI is the most widely used port for monitors, TVs, and consoles. It transmits both video and audio, making it a versatile option for most setups.

Key details:

Versions: HDMI 1.4, 2.0, and 2.1.

  • HDMI 1.4: Supports 1080p at 60Hz and 4K at 30Hz.
  • HDMI 2.0: Supports 4K at 60Hz, ideal for modern gaming.
  • HDMI 2.1: Supports 4K at 120Hz and 8K, perfect for next-gen consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X.

Why it matters:

  • Ideal for gamers who use consoles or have a gaming PC with HDMI outputs.
  • HDMI 2.1 unlocks the full potential of high refresh rate gaming on supported monitors.


Shop HDMI monitors

Did you know?

HDMI 2.1 allows for Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) on next-gen consoles? Imagine playing Elden Ring on a PS5, where HDMI 2.1 adjusts the refresh rate dynamically to match the frame rate, eliminating stutter during intense boss fights.

DisplayPort monitors

DisplayPort is a popular choice for PC gaming monitors, offering high bandwidth and support for advanced features like FreeSync and G-Sync.

Key details:

Versions: DisplayPort 1.2, 1.4, and 2.0.

  • DisplayPort 1.2: Supports 1440p at 144Hz or 4K at 60Hz.
  • DisplayPort 1.4: Supports 1440p at 240Hz, 4K at 120Hz, and 8K at 60Hz.
  • DisplayPort 2.0: Supports 1440p at 360Hz, 4K at 240Hz, 8K at 120Hz, or 16K at 60Hz.

Why it matters:

  • Best for PC gamers who prioritize high refresh rates and resolution.
  • Necessary for advanced features like adaptive sync technologies.


Shop DisplayPort monitors

Did you know?

DisplayPort enables daisy-chaining multiple monitors for immersive setups? For gamers using Microsoft Flight Simulator, DisplayPort makes it possible to connect multiple monitors seamlessly, creating a panoramic view of the skies.

USB-C monitors

USB-C is a versatile port that supports video, audio, data transfer, and power delivery through a single cable.

Key details:

  • Common in modern monitors and laptops.
  • Alt Mode: Allows USB-C to act as a DisplayPort, transmitting video and audio.
  • Supports resolutions up to 4K and beyond, depending on the device.

Why it matters:

  • Great for gamers with laptops or devices that rely on USB-C.
  • Reduces cable clutter and simplifies connections.


Shop USB-C monitors

Did you know?

USB-C can charge your laptop while gaming? With one cable, you can power your device and play games like League of Legends in full 4K resolution without worrying about battery life or cable clutter.

Legacy monitor ports

VGA and DVI are older connection standards still found on some budget or older monitors.

Key details:

  • VGA: Analog-only, supports resolutions up to 1080p.
  • DVI: Digital, supports resolutions up to 2560x1600.

Why it matters:

  • Only useful for older devices or budget setups.
  • Not recommended for modern gaming due to limited resolution and refresh rate support.


Did you know?

Older VGA connections can cause noticeable input lag? If you’re playing competitive games like Overwatch on a legacy setup, you might experience delays that put you at a disadvantage compared to modern digital connections.

Considerations when choosing your monitor ports


What devices do you use?

  • "For gaming consoles, prioritize HDMI 2.0 or 2.1. For PCs, DisplayPort is often the best choice."

What is your monitor’s resolution and refresh rate?

  • "Ensure your port choice supports the resolution and refresh rate you want to achieve."

Do you value simplicity or advanced features?

  • "USB-C is great for minimal setups, while DisplayPort offers advanced features for PC gamers."

Monitor port tips and common mistakes

  • ✓
    Match the port to your setup: Use HDMI for consoles and DisplayPort for PCs.
  • ✓
    Check cable compatibility: Not all HDMI or DisplayPort cables support every version.
  • ✓
    Future-proof your purchase: If you plan to upgrade your GPU or console, opt for ports like HDMI 2.1 or DisplayPort 1.4+ for better longevity.
  • ✕
    Using legacy ports: Avoid VGA or DVI unless absolutely necessary.
  • ✕
    Overlooking cable quality: Cheap or older cables may not support the full capabilities of your monitor.
  • ✕
    Assuming all ports are equal: Different versions of HDMI and DisplayPort have varying capabilities. Check the specs.

Monitor port FAQs

Only if you’re gaming on a next-gen console or need 4K at 120Hz.

DisplayPort offers higher bandwidth and advanced features, while HDMI is more versatile and widely used.

Yes, especially for laptop gamers or minimalist setups, though it depends on the device’s capabilities.

Yes, if your monitor and GPU support multiple inputs. It’s useful for connecting multiple devices.

DisplayPort is often preferred for VR setups due to its high bandwidth and low latency, essential for a smooth VR experience.

Yes, USB-C with Alt Mode allows video and audio transmission, making it a great choice for portable gaming setups.

No, older HDMI cables (e.g., HDMI 1.4) might not support newer features like 4K at 120Hz or HDR. Ensure your cable matches your monitor’s and console’s specifications.

Thunderbolt is an enhanced version of USB-C that supports faster data transfer, higher resolutions, and daisy-chaining multiple devices. Some monitors with USB-C also support Thunderbolt.

Yes, but ensure the adapter supports the resolution and refresh rate you need. Active adapters are often required for higher resolutions like 4K.

Multiple inputs allow you to connect multiple devices simultaneously, such as a gaming PC, console, or streaming device, without constantly swapping cables.

Copyright © 2025 CCL Computers