Can HDMI 2.0 Run 144Hz?
Exact HDMI 2.0 refresh-rate limits by resolution, including what changes with HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort.
Updated February 14, 2026
At a Glance
Start here if you only need the short answer.
- 1Yes. HDMI 2.0 supports 144Hz at 1080p and 1440p on compatible devices.
- 2No. HDMI 2.0 cannot run 4K at 144Hz.
- 3For 4K 144Hz, use HDMI 2.1 or DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC.
HDMI 2.0 Maximum Capabilities
Each target below shows whether this setup can deliver it reliably.
| Target | Result | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1080p | Yes | Fully supported at 144Hz |
| 1440p | Yes | Usually supported at 144Hz |
| 4K | No | Typically limited to 60Hz |
| 4K with DSC | No | HDMI 2.0 does not support DSC |
Why HDMI 2.0 Cannot Run 4K 144Hz
HDMI 2.0 tops out at 18 Gbps. That is enough for high refresh at lower resolutions, but not enough for uncompressed 4K 144Hz.
1080p 144Hz
~8-10 Gbps
1440p 144Hz
~14-16 Gbps
4K 60Hz
~17.8 Gbps
4K 144Hz
~32+ Gbps
Because HDMI 2.0 is capped at 18 Gbps, 4K 144Hz exceeds its available throughput.
For 4K 144Hz, you need HDMI 2.1 (48 Gbps) or DisplayPort 1.4 with DSC.
Common Reasons 144Hz Does Not Work
If something is not working, these are the highest-impact checks.
- 1
Monitor limits high refresh to DisplayPort
Some monitors expose 144Hz over DisplayPort but cap HDMI input to 60Hz or 120Hz.
- Check your monitor manual for per-port refresh limits
- Confirm HDMI input mode is set to full bandwidth in the OSD
- 2
Wrong cable generation
Old or low-quality cables can fail at higher throughput even if they physically fit.
- Use a certified High Speed or Ultra High Speed HDMI cable
- Avoid adapters when testing maximum refresh
- 3
GPU HDMI port is older than 2.0
Older GPUs can output only HDMI 1.4 bandwidth levels.
- Verify the exact HDMI version on your GPU model
- Test DisplayPort if available
- 4
Refresh rate not enabled in software
The panel can stay at 60Hz until manually changed.
- Set refresh rate in Windows Advanced Display settings
- Also check NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Radeon settings
HDMI 2.0 vs HDMI 2.1
Use this side-by-side view when deciding between the two options.
| Feature | HDMI 2.0 | HDMI 2.1 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Bandwidth | 18 Gbps | 48 Gbps |
| 4K 60Hz | Yes | Yes |
| 4K 144Hz | No | Yes |
| 8K Support | No | Yes |
Decision Guide
Use this quick split to decide if this setup is enough or if you should move to a stronger option.
Great Fit If...
- 1080p 144Hz gaming
- 1440p 144Hz gaming
- 4K 60Hz productivity
Consider Another Option If...
- 4K 120Hz+
- 4K 144Hz gaming
- High-end console output at 120Hz
Common Questions
Fast answers to the questions people ask most before buying.
Can HDMI 2.0 run 144Hz at 1440p?
Yes, HDMI 2.0 can run 1440p at 144Hz when both the GPU and monitor support that mode over HDMI.
Why is my 144Hz monitor stuck at 60Hz?
Most 60Hz locks come from using the wrong port/cable combination, limited monitor OSD settings, or refresh rate settings left at 60Hz in the OS/GPU panel.
Is HDMI 2.1 required for 144Hz at every resolution?
No. HDMI 2.1 is mainly required when you move to bandwidth-heavy modes such as 4K at 120Hz or 144Hz.