Which Samsung TVs Have HDMI 2.1?

Samsung tv HDMI portsSamsung tv HDMI ports

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When you make the decision to upgrade your Samsung TV, you want to take advantage of the latest technology. One thing many people look for is HDMI 2.1 technology.

Samsung Models with HDMI 2.1

Most Samsung TVs made from 2020 on feature HDMI 2.1 ports. Check the table below for some of the best Samsung TV models that support HDMI 2.1.

Model YearHDMI 2.1 Supported Models
2023S95C, S90C
2022QE1C, QN990C
2021AU800, Q60A, Q70A, Q80A, QN85A, QN90A
2020TU8000, Q700T, Q800T, Q95T
2019Q90R, Q900

Note that to use HDMI 2.1 technology, you’ll need an HDMI 2.1 cable — even if your TV supports HDMI 2.1.

Can You Use HDMI 2.1 on an Older Model Samsung TV? 

HDMI 2.1 technology will only work if your Samsung TV supports a 120Hz refresh rate. You can check your TV’s refresh rate following the steps below:

  1. Press the Menu button on your remote.
  2. Select “Settings.”
  3. Choose Picture > Picture Options.
  4. If your TV supports 120hz, you’ll see “Refresh Rate” listed as “Auto Motion Plus 120Hz.”

While you can use an HDMI 2.1 cable in an HDMI 2.0 port, you won’t get the enhanced quality the new technology offers unless your TV supports it.

Should I Update to HDMI 2.1?

Samsung tv

Ultimately, the choice to update your TV comes down to personal preference. While you may be satisfied using HDMI 2.0, it is worth considering updated HDMI versions. Some of the benefits include:

  • Higher video and sound quality
  • Better gameplay

Higher Quality

The HDMI 2.1 version supports the latest audiovisual standards and leaves room for future expansions. 

HDMI 2.1 has twice the bandwidth of HDMI 2.0 and supports:

  • Enhanced audio return channel, or eARC. This is an upgrade over HDMI ARC, allowing for the best possible sound on external speakers. 
  • 4K and 8K video. HDMI 2.1 supports 4K video at 120 frames per second, or fps, and 8K video at 60fps. 
  • Variable refresh rate, or VRR. HDMI 2.1’s ability to support higher frame rates allows your TV to refresh at the same rate as the content on-screen.

Better Gameplay

Because HDMI 2.1 allows for a variable refresh rate, your game console will display an image on-screen the moment it’s rendered. 

Along with Game Mode, Samsung TVs with HDMI 2.1 also improve your gaming experience through Auto Low-Latency Mode, or ALLM. This automatically triggers your TV’s lowest latency setting to reduce (or even eliminate!) lag during gameplay. 

Note that only the newest game consoles, like the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, can take advantage of HDMI 2.1 technology. 

FAQ: Samsung TV HDMI Ports

Do Any Samsung TVs Have All HDMI 2.1 Ports?

Newer Samsung TVs, produced from 2020 on, will usually include HDMI 2.1 technology. However, the ports will usually just be labeled “HDMI,” so you’ll need to check your model’s specifications to be sure. 

Does HDMI 2.1 Make 4K Better?

You can get a maximum frame rate of 50fps while watching 4K content through an HDMI 2.0 cable. Upgrading to HDMI 2.1 increases this to a maximum frame rate of 120fps. 

Can You Use Regular HDMI with HDMI 2.1?

HDMI 2.1 is backward-compatible with HDMI 2.0, so you’ll have no problems plugging an HDMI 2.0 cable into an HDMI 2.1 port.

How to Tell the Difference Between HDMI and HDMI 2.1

The best way to tell which HDMI port you have is by checking your TV’s manual and labeling. If you can’t find the information in your manual, check your model’s online listing.

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