The primary difference between an Ethernet cable and an HDMI cable lies in their function: Ethernet cables transmit data for networking and internet connectivity, while HDMI cables transmit audio and video signals.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
Purpose
- Ethernet Cable: Used to establish a wired network connection, typically connecting devices like computers, routers, and modems for internet access and local network communication. It transmits data packets.
- HDMI Cable: Used to transmit high-definition audio and video signals from a source device (e.g., Blu-ray player, gaming console, computer) to a display device (e.g., TV, monitor, projector).
Signal Type
- Ethernet Cable: Transmits digital data signals using protocols like TCP/IP.
- HDMI Cable: Transmits uncompressed digital audio and video signals.
Connectors
- Ethernet Cable: Uses an RJ45 connector, which is a rectangular connector with a clip.
- HDMI Cable: Uses an HDMI connector, which comes in different sizes (Standard, Mini, and Micro) but is generally trapezoidal in shape.
Common Uses
| Cable Type | Common Uses |
|---|---|
| Ethernet | Connecting to the internet, network file sharing |
| HDMI | Connecting gaming consoles to TVs, Blu-ray players to TVs, connecting computers to monitors |
Can HDMI carry Ethernet?
While the primary function of HDMI is for audio and video, some HDMI cables support "HDMI with Ethernet" functionality. This allows for network connectivity over the same HDMI cable, primarily for devices to share an internet connection. However, this feature isn't universally supported and requires both the cable and connected devices to be compatible.
In Summary
| Feature | Ethernet Cable | HDMI Cable |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Data networking, internet connection | Audio and video transmission |
| Signal Type | Digital data | Uncompressed digital audio/video |
| Connector | RJ45 | HDMI (various sizes) |
