DisplayPort vs DVI - these are the differences
In our comparison DisplayPort vs. We will show you how the two technologies for connecting a monitor to a computer differ.
DisplayPort vs DVI: Digital transmission for better graphics
Both systems enable the transmission of digital signals between the computer and the screen. In comparison to the old VGA technology, a much better image quality is achieved.
- DVI is available in several variants, which are called differently. While both analog and digital signals can be transmitted with DVI-I, DVI-D is only available for digital signals.
- In contrast, only digital information is exchanged with the DisplayPort.
DisplayPort vs DVI: The screen resolution
- The main characteristic is the achievable resolution, which is decisive for the image quality. DVI provides two options here. In the so-called single-link process, a resolution of 1, 600 x 1, 200 pixels is achieved. With the dual link, resolutions of 2, 560 x 1, 600 pixels are possible. A corresponding connection cable with more PINs is required for this.
- Significantly higher resolutions can be achieved with DisplayPort technology. The standard DP 1.3, which has been available since 2014, comes to 5, 120 x 2, 880 pixels.
Length of the connection cable
- Among other things, the length of the connection cable is decisive for the achievable resolution. With DVI, this is a maximum of five meters.
- With the DisplayPort it is around 7 to 10 meters.
External distinction between DisplayPort and DVI
- Visually, both systems use different connectors. DVI connectors are significantly larger than DisplayPort connectors. They are equipped with 18 + 5 PINS in the single-link process and with 24 + 5 PINs for dual-link, whereby the five stands for the smaller part of the analog applications. The plugs are screwed to the devices to give them a hold.
- DisplayPort plugs are essentially none and are similar to USB ports. They take up much less space than DVI. They are simply plugged into the devices. Most systems have a mechanical lock to prevent them from slipping out.
Image and sound reproduction and compatibility
- With DVI, only image information can be transmitted. Separate cables must be used for sound signals.
- DisplayPort, on the other hand, transmits picture and sound information.
- DisplayPort is electrically compatible with DVI. For example, if you have a DisplayPort connection on the PC and a DVI interface on the monitor, you can connect the two devices using an adapter. The graphics card in the computer recognizes this and adjusts the signals accordingly.
Use of multiple monitors
- The advantage of the DisplayPort is the possibility of daisy chaining multiple devices. If you want to connect more than one monitor to your PC, you only need one DisplayPort slot on the computer for the first monitor.
- This is not possible with DVI. Appropriate distributors are required here.
Another option for connecting the computer to an output device is the HDMI standard. In another article we will show you what is behind it.