HDMI is an input and output format that is essential in today’s high data world. The benefits of HDMI are extraordinary, but not all HDMI is considered equal. Like many other things, there are different versions, and HDMI 2.1 is the most current, allowing high data rate transfers for high bandwidth activities like 8K and modern gaming systems.
The Element model Q650 series of televisions have HDMI 2.1 incorporated in their systems. This is Element’s highest-end television, and all their other models have HDMI 2.0 integrated.
There are no exact substitutes for an HDMI 2.1 port, but if you would like an Element TV that still meets your HDMI needs, you will have to utilize HDMI 2.0 and ensure your needs are met. Read on to determine your needs and whether HDMI 2.0 is right for you.
Why Element?
Element’s quality standards are higher, customer service is better, and the employees are local. Nearly all who own an Element TV have given great feedback and likely will choose Element when considering their next television purchase. The cost is in-line with other brands, and they offer many different models to fit all budgets. Element makes five base models:
- The 100 series, which is their bare-bones lower-cost modelThe 300 series, which is their lowest-cost model utilizing Roku TV and compatibility with numerous smart home systemsThe 400 and 450 series, which have an upgraded high definition rangeThe Q650 series, which is their highest-end series and is their only series that has 120Hz, Dolby® high dynamic ranges, a QLED backlight, and HDMI 2.1 technology
Combining HDMI 2.1 and the top-line features of the Q650 offers an experience that very few televisions can offer. The Element 300 and 400 series television utilizes Roku TV as its operating system, so you have numerous options for utilizing a lower-level TV.
Now that you know the models that Element makes keep reading to see if HDMI 2.1 is right for you.
HDMI 2.0 or HDMI 2.1
Depending on your needs, you may not need the cutting-edge capabilities of an HDMI 2.1 compatible port. HDMI 2.0 ports, which all other Element televisions utilize, are also very capable of handling most tasks. The main difference between HDMI 2.0 and 2.1 is the bandwidth it can support.
HDMI 2.0 can support up to 18 Gbps, whereas 2.1 can support up to 48 Gbps, over twice the amount. Because it can support more bandwidth, it can support newer, better technologies. An HDMI 2.0 port can support a 4K resolution at 60Hz, whereas 2.1 can support 8K at 120Hz.
Most of the difference in resolution is not very noticeable between the two, but you may see a difference with extreme games, movies, and large televisions. Particularly when watching fast-moving action movies or games that require multiple players over the internet, you will be able to see a difference.
Beyond resolution, the upgraded HDMI will support less system latency and much higher quality audio. It will also enable audio outputs like Dolby TrueHD, Atmos 3D, and DTS Master through an HDMI ARC data channel and a soundbar. Finally, it supports a format that creates truer colors through dynamic HDR. Without HDMI 2.1, you may be unable to support these formats.
Alternatives to HDMI
If, for some reason, you simply cannot support even HDMI 2.0, some alternatives can accommodate your Element TV, but none of them are very good. You can utilize an adapter if you have something other than an HDMI output from the device to convert to HDMI.
These adapters utilize video quality much lower than 8K or even 4K, with the best format being a VGA converter at 1080p. The VGA adapter doesn’t support sound, so you would need a different solution to sound. All of the Element models accept USB ports as well.
If you’re looking for a different TV that has HDMI 2.1, then there are several currently available.
Finding output devices that will output in the USB format would be tricky. Some converters will convert formats other than HDMI to USB, such as VGA, RGB, or RCA cables. You may find that the quality of these conversions will severely deplete video and audio quality, and even some functionality may not work.
The only scenario in which an HDMI cable may not be needed is when utilizing the Element TV as a computer monitor for non-gaming use. The lack of required sound and the low need for a fast refresh rate may show that alternatives could be suitable.
