Is HDMI Much Better Than VGA?
- HDMI 1.0 is compatible with 1080p display devices, with a maximum resolution of 1,920 by 1,200 pixels. HDMI 1.3 increased this resolution to 2,560 by 1,600 pixels for even greater definition. By comparison, VGA has a maximum resolution of 2,560 by 1,920 pixels. Of course, if your source is standard definition to begin with, using a higher resolution cable (or display) will not change this. Furthermore, your display device will only present images up to its maximum resolution, despite the resolution of the cable or media.
- HDMI technology carries both digital visual and audio content between your source and display, while VGA carries only visual signals. Thus, you require only one cable to watch and listen to your content with HDMI but you must pair a separate audio cable when using a VGA cable to transmit visual data. You may also use an HDMI cable to connect your cell phone -- such as HTC EVO or Nokia N8 -- to a display, via HDMI micro connectors that require much less space than either traditional HDMI or VGA ports.
- Length is an important consideration when you purchase either an HDMI cable or a VGA cable. Signals traveling through either cable will degrade as the cable becomes longer. For example, the HDMI organization recommends that you do not use an HDMI cable longer than 10 meters, or approximately 33 feet, without the use of a repeater. VGA cables can achieve longer distances, between 25 and 50 feet, without the use of a repeater. However, companies such as Epson recommend an ideal length of 15 feet for VGA cables. Thus, to receive the best signal, you should use the shortest possible cable and keep it as straight as possible.
- You can pair output devices that support only HDMI or VGA with displays that would otherwise be incompatible with converters. These utilities can convert digital HDMI signals to analog VGA, or vice versa, as well as other digital signals, including but not limited to DVI and Display Port. Another factor to consider as a consumer is cable quality and thickness. Generally speaking, a thicker cable (either HDMI or VGA) offers more insulation to protect the wires. With longer cables, say over 15 feet, thickness becomes more important than with shorter cables.
