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For connecting a display to a Mac mini, DisplayPort via Thunderbolt/USB-C is generally preferred for higher resolutions and refresh rates, while HDMI is suitable for 4K at 60Hz.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
DisplayPort (via Thunderbolt/USB-C):
- Higher Bandwidth:
- DisplayPort offers higher bandwidth, allowing for higher resolutions and refresh rates.
- Native Protocol:
- DisplayPort is the native protocol for Thunderbolt, so using a Thunderbolt port with a DisplayPort cable provides the best performance.
- Multiple Displays:
- DisplayPort can support multiple monitors simultaneously, while HDMI typically supports only one.
- Mac Mini M4 Pro:
- The new Mac mini with M4 Pro supports DisplayPort 2.1 via Thunderbolt 5, allowing for up to three 6K monitors.
- RGB Color Output:
- DisplayPort allows the Mac mini to recognize the display properly and set RGB color output instead of YCbCr, which can lead to better color accuracy.
HDMI:
- 4K at 60Hz:
- HDMI supports 4K resolution at 60Hz, which is a common standard for many displays.
- Compatibility:
- HDMI is a widely used standard and is compatible with a variety of devices, including TVs, projectors, and monitors.
- Mac Mini M4 Pro:
- The new Mac mini with M4 Pro supports HDMI 2.1, allowing for up to 4K resolution at 60Hz.
- Audio Return Channel (ARC):
- HDMI features ARC, which allows audio to be returned from the display to the Mac mini, which DisplayPort lacks.
Which to Choose:
- For the best performance and higher resolutions/refresh rates: Use DisplayPort via Thunderbolt/USB-C.
- If you need to connect to a TV or projector: HDMI is a good option.
- If you are using a Mac mini M4 Pro: You can use either DisplayPort or HDMI, depending on your needs.
- If you have a higher refresh rate 4K monitor, you'll want to use DisplayPort, unless you have a M2 Pro or M2 Max
