Why does CalDigit pick DisplayPort over HDMI?

At CalDigit, we design our docking stations with professionals in mind, ensuring they get the best performance and reliability. The main reason is because DisplayPort is native to the Thunderbolt spec, but many don’t know what that means. Here is a quick breakdown of why DisplayPort is better. 

1. Seamless Thunderbolt & USB-C Integration

Thunderbolt technology natively supports DisplayPort, meaning no extra conversion is needed. HDMI, on the other hand, requires additional processing, which can introduce latency, compatibility issues, and signal degradation. By using DisplayPort, we ensure a more efficient and stable connection for your high-performance setup.

2. Higher Bandwidth for Better Performance

DisplayPort supports more bandwidth than HDMI. For example, DisplayPort 2.1 delivers up to 80 Gbps, whereas HDMI 2.1 maxes out at 48 Gbps. This allows for higher resolutions, refresh rates, and uncompressed video streams, giving users a superior visual experience.

3. Multi-Monitor Support Without Hassle

One of the key benefits of DisplayPort is Multi-Stream Transport (MST), which enables daisy-chaining multiple monitors from a single port. HDMI does not support this feature natively, meaning users would need additional adapters or multiple outputs to achieve the same setup. For professionals working with multiple displays, DisplayPort simplifies connectivity and reduces clutter. HDMI users may spend a lifetime buying dongles whenever there is a change to the spec, while DisplayPort allows you to ignore all that.

4. Fewer Compatibility Issues

Our docks are designed to work across multiple devices and operating systems. Since DisplayPort is natively supported in Thunderbolt and USB-C, it eliminates the need for active adapters, reducing compatibility headaches. HDMI, by contrast, often requires adapters or conversion chips, which can cause issues depending on the host, device, or adapter. HDMI adds a few more variables to troubleshoot, while DisplayPort just works.

5. Optimized for Professional and Gaming Use

DisplayPort has long been the preferred standard for high-end displays, thanks to features like adaptive refresh rate technologies (G-SYNC, FreeSync) and Display Stream Compression (DSC) for visually lossless 8K and high refresh rate 4K output. While HDMI has improved in recent years, DisplayPort remains the go-to for professionals who want the best performance.