HDMI vs. Mini HDMI vs. Micro HDMI: What's the Difference?
When it comes to video and audio connections, HDMI has emerged as a popular and acceptable connection port. However, many people do not know that there exist HDMI connectors of different types and models.
Many of you might know the regular HDMI port that is used with TVs and video gaming systems. But you may have found Mini HDMI and Micro HDMI floating around; these are its smaller sizes. That is why these compact connectors can be observed in cameras, tablets, and smartphones.
Their sizes differ in appearance and intended usage, even though all cables are meant to transmit audio and video, preferably in high quality. This knowledge will enable you to select the appropriate cable or adapter for the devices in question. So, let’s start with HDMI, Mini HDMI, and Micro HDMI to find out what makes the difference.
Difference Between HDMI, Mini HDMI, and Micro HDMI
Comparison of HDMI Types
Feature | HDMI (Type A) | Mini HDMI (Type C) | Micro HDMI (Type D) |
Connector Size | 13.9 mm x 4.45 mm | 10.42 mm x 2.42 mm | 6.4 mm x 2.8 mm |
Primary Use Case | TVs, monitors, gaming consoles, projectors | Tablets, DSLR cameras, small laptops | Smartphones, GoPros, very compact devices |
Pins | 19 | 19 | 19 |
Compatibility | Direct connection to most displays and devices | Requires an adapter to connect to standard HDMI ports | Requires an adapter to connect to standard HDMI ports |
Signal Quality | Supports high-resolution video (up to 8K) and high-speed data transfer | Supports the same high-resolution video as HDMI, but the cable length is usually shorter due to smaller connectors | Supports high-resolution video like HDMI, typically used for short-distance connections due to smaller size |
Cable Length | Can support longer cable lengths (up to 15 meters for 1080p signals) | Shorter cable lengths recommended (usually up to 5 meters) | Shorter cable lengths recommended (typically up to 3 meters) |
Durability | More durable due to larger size and thicker connectors | Less durable than HDMI due to smaller size | Least durable, prone to damage due to small and thin connectors |
Backward Compatibility | Compatible with older HDMI versions through the same Type A connector | Requires adapters to connect with standard HDMI Type A ports | Requires adapters to connect with standard HDMI Type A ports |
Availability of Cables | Widely available, various quality and length options | Less common, specific to devices with Mini HDMI ports | Least common, typically provided with compatible devices or bought separately |
Data Transfer Rates | Supports up to 48 Gbps (HDMI 2.1) | Supports the same data rates as full-size HDMI | Supports the same data rates as full-size HDMI |
Ethernet Channel Support | Yes (HDMI 1.4 and above) | Yes (HDMI 1.4 and above) | Yes (HDMI 1.4 and above) |
Audio Return Channel (ARC/eARC) | Yes (ARC in HDMI 1.4, eARC in HDMI 2.1) | Yes (ARC in HDMI 1.4, eARC in HDMI 2.1) | Yes (ARC in HDMI 1.4, eARC in HDMI 2.1) |
CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
3D Video Support | Yes (from HDMI 1.4 onwards) | Yes | Yes |
HDR Support | Yes (from HDMI 2.0 onwards) | Yes | Yes |
Usage in Devices | Most common in TVs, monitors, home theater systems | Used in compact laptops, tablets, and some cameras | Used in smartphones, action cameras, and very compact devices |
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