PC monitors have long been the preferred choice of gamers looking for fast refresh rates and state-of-the-art display technology, but they are no longer the only game in town.

These days, however, TV manufacturers are just as serious about the gaming market as the best players are about performance. Many manufacturers have begun offering HDMI® 2.1-compatible TV models, offering an attractive alternative to computer monitors in terms of features and price point. [HDMI Gaming Ambassador Tyler McLachlan, also known as Bustin on Twitch, said, "The idea of being able to use a TV with gaming capabilities without being limited to just a monitor is great news. It means more choices and more freedom in where you game."

What makes today's HDMI 2.1-capable TVs ideal for gaming starts with resolution and refresh rate: supporting 4K resolution at 120Hz, these sets not only offer greater spatial resolution at four times the number of pixels of Full HD, but also double the typical 4K@60Hz TV They also offer twice the refresh rate; at 120Hz, fast-paced games appear noticeably sharper. For gamers who are less concerned about refresh rates and want a more immersive, higher resolution, these sets also support 8K@60Hz.

But that's not all. Some HDMI 2.1-compatible TVs have built-in features specifically designed for hardcore gamers, such as VRR (variable refresh rate), ALLM (automatic low-latency mode), and QFT (quick frame transport).

VRR makes gameplay more fluid. Games render frames on the fly, but the time it takes depends on many variables, including frame complexity, screen resolution, GPU speed, etc. VRR waits to display until the frame is fully rendered, thereby eliminating the possibility of image lag, juddering, and frame tearing by eliminates the possibility of image lag, juddering, and frame tearing.

ALLM, also known as game mode, sends a signal from a game console or gaming PC to the TV, automatically putting the TV into low-latency, low-lag mode. When the TV no longer receives the ALLM signal, such as when watching a movie, ALLM is deactivated to ensure an optimal entertainment viewing experience.

HDMI 2.1 compatible TVs also offer QFT, which reduces latency and eliminates lag in gaming, enabling real-time interactive virtual reality.

These TVs even give gamers accustomed to wearing headphones a reason to rethink their gaming audio experience. With support for Enhanced Audio Return Channel (eARC), HDMI 2.1 compatible TVs can support high data rate immersive audio experiences such as Dolby Atmos and DTS:X.

In addition, there is a growing library of Dolby Atmos movies, TV shows, and streaming services. For gamers who are willing to give up their headphones or play in front of an audience, eARC is the path to an unparalleled immersive audio experience.

The other part of this equation revolves around the development of gaming graphics cards and gaming consoles that can take advantage of these features.

The latest and most powerful AMD and Nvidia graphics cards support HDMI 2.1, gaming capabilities and 4K at 120Hz. Similarly, the Microsoft Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 also support these gaming capabilities as well as 4K and even 8K at 120 Hz.

Together with HDMI 2.1 compatible TVs, these consoles and cards offer serious gamers the best performance and ultimate gaming experience.

To connect HDMI 2.1 compatible game consoles, PCs, TVs, AVRs (audio-video receivers) and sound bars, it is essential to use the proper cables Ultra High Speed HDMI® cables are designed to meet stringent specifications to ensure support for all HDMI 2.1 features Ultra High Speed HDMI® cables are the only cables that comply with the stringent specifications designed to ensure support for all HDMI 2.1 features. Once connected, simply enable the appropriate settings on your TV, AVR/soundbar, or gaming device.

HDMI 2.1-compatible TVs made for gaming are a great alternative to computer monitors. Nearly all major TV manufacturers have released or announced that they are releasing gaming-oriented models. [HDMI 2.1 compatible TVs are available in gaming sizes for convenient desktop use and large screen sizes for group play, offering top-notch performance for serious gamers and the best entertainment experience for watching movies and TV shows at an The HDMI is the most affordable way to enjoy the best entertainment experience for watching movies and TV shows.

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