Should I use HDMI or Thunderbolt port on Mini M2 Pro for 2nd display?

[Jwinnin]

Greetings!

I have a Mini M2 Pro connected to two Dell 2723QE monitors. The Dells support USB-C input as well as HDMI and Display Port. I currently connect the two monitors directly to the Mini via the thunderbolt ports. I want to save one of these thunderbolt ports for other purposes, and so I am considering connecting the second monitor via HDMI, instead.

Are there any downsides to this? For example, any weird UI issues? Performance issues? Thank you!

 

[joevt]

DisplayPort 1.2 and 1.4 have more bandwidth than HDMI 2.0. HDMI 2.0 can't do 4K60 10bpc or HDR without resorting to chroma sub sampling 4:2:2 or 4:2:0. Maybe 4K60 8bpc 4:4:4 or RGB (not HDR) is sufficient for your needs. Or maybe you don't mind 4:2:2 or 4:2:0. Or maybe you can force RGB mode with some some modifications. https://gist.github.com/GetVladimir/c89a26df1806001543bef4c8d90cc2f8#gistcomment-4573529

Otherwise, consider getting a Thunderbolt 4 hub or a Thunderbolt 3 to Dual DisplayPort adapter. Since the display only supports 4K60, each DisplayPort connection should only require HBR2 link rate and two of those can be connected to a single Thunderbolt port.

 

[Fishrrman]

I'd try HDMI, to see if it worked "well enough". Doing so frees a tbolt/USBc port.

Be careful about buying HDMI cables.
I'd be looking for a "high-speed HDMI 2.0" rated cable. I'm sure Joevt could say whether or not this would be sufficient.

If you already HAVE an HDMI cable around, try that first. It might be "all you need".

 

[pshufd]

Always use TB for monitors if possible.

 

[Jwinnin]

Thank you all for the replies.