What is a DisplayPort?
While most of us know about HDMI cables thanks to their vast uses, a DisplayPort has become much more common in the past decade or so. They are usually more used when it comes to high-end gaming monitors or expensive GPUs. A DisplayPort is an exceptional cable with its iconic L-shaped header.
While most people prefer HDMIs as they are viewed as universal connectors, this cable might be the underdog since it has way more functionality in comparison. In case you want a cable and connection that will allow you to make the most of your computer, your monitor, and your GPU, then a DisplayPort might be where you need to start!
This is primarily because a DisplayPort is not simply a cable, it is a set of standards that work with more precision and efficiency to help create the best user experience. This digital interface standard has been created to produce video and audio using just one cable. In this way, it is quite similar to an HDMI cable as it ensures it connects to your GPU and displays that content on your monitor.
What is the difference between DisplayPort and HDMI?
As we mentioned before, at the crux of this debate, both HDMI cables and DisplayPorts have the same function! They are used to transmit both audio and video connections from the source and send it to the display.
Over the years, we have seen a considerable head-to-head battle between DisplayPorts and HDMI cables partly due to competition to become the universal standard. However, this has also led to a rise in improved bandwidth support and the ability to handle better resolutions and frame rates. Therefore, the competition has led to them being improved for the better.
For the best compression technology advancement, both are surpassing the other. So, users certainly have their work cut out for them! The decision can be a difficult one. In our opinion, it depends more on the use you want to get out of the cable as opposed to picking one.
For Windows OS users, the choice might be related to what kind of work they want to do. Are you going to edit, stream, or play games? However, for Mac OS users, you might opt for DisplayPort because it works conveniently or connects easily!
You also need to make sure whether your monitor offers support for the one you prefer or if it supports both.
Now, if you look at what one you should choose, you’ll be looking at the most recent versions of both. For DisplayPort, the latest version is 1.4, and with HDMI, we are at 2.0. finally, it is our suggestion to not disregard DP just because more devices tend to support HDMI. This might soon be changing because, in a lot of different ways, DP is better!
Does monitor come with DisplayPort Cable?
The answer to this specific question is both yes and no! Many monitors now come with DisplayPort cables. However, an overwhelming majority do not. Usually, you’ll only get a VGA or DVI cable included with your purchase. This can be a bit of a letdown especially if you’re insistent on using DisplayPort as a connection method.
That being said, in our opinion, we think that the DisplayPorts that come with your monitor might not be the best thing to count on! For starters, many users find out that the DisplayPort cable they are getting with their monitor is usually too short to be used conveniently. They end up having to purchase a new one anyway!
However, there might be a far more sinister reason why you should never use the DisplayPort that comes with your monitor. That’s exactly what we are about to discuss next in more depth!
Why should you never use the DisplayPort cable that comes with your monitor?
The DisplayPort video interference standard was created by VESA and when they first designed the cable, they made sure to add some features which will ensure that you can use it alongside single-link DVI or HDMI adapters. It also made sure that via your DisplayPort cable, you could directly power VGA adapters.
However, this use of the active VGA power adapter using DisplayPort might not be the best idea and it can cause irrevocable harm to your graphics card! Confused? Well, the issue arises with the live pin in this adapter. Your standard use DisplayPort cable cannot have a live pin as specified by the DisplayPort official rules.
One end needs to be the DP side and the other end needs to be attached permanently or be fitted with a connector that is custom made for the task. Now, you might be thinking well, what’s the problem then? Well, many manufacturers do not read the specifications that VESA has added for DisplayPort technology.
This is because they are not reading the actual compliance documentation that is required to manufacture cables. That’s why a lot of the cheaper DisplayPort cables are potentially harmful for your use with the monitor you purchase. This is even an issue that has been acknowledged by VESA and that’s why we recommend that you use a specific cable that you purchase yourself!
Conclusion
In conclusion, this has been our in-depth guide on does monitor come with DisplayPort cable included or not. We have found that most do not come with it included however, it might be for the best! We recommend that you opt to purchase a good option that is compatible with your monitor and GPU.
All you have to do is look it up or ask your seller for more information. Hopefully, this has been a detailed guide and our readers now have vital information that can aid them to make the best decision for themselves.
