well yes they are completely different cables, and the hdmi cable only has one cable to connect were for the component cables you have to plug in 5 different cables, but as far as quality i would say they are the same
No, but the HDMI cable also carries AUDIO.
It allows you to connect component cables into a HDMI connector/cable on the tv set.
No. HDMI cables will need an HDMI input and only HD capable TVs will have them.
HDMI delivers a better picture quality and better sound quality over component cables.
hdmi or component cables
The 3 COMPONENT cables are to be used if you don't have the HDMI connector.
Any Hdmi cable can be used to connect your Xbox to your Hdtv. However you can purchase cables both component and Hdmi made be Microsoft for connecting your system other manufacturers of Hdmi cables include Monster cables and Sony.
Component Cables should be used only when an HDMI connection is not available. You made the question harder to answer by making your component cables higher quality sounding than you did the HDMI. Good cables are felt to be important and there are poor quality HDMI cable that cost more to ship than to purchase. There are even 3D quality HDMI cables now being sold. Actually most gaming will not require the technology that is required in a Blu Ray 3D disc connected to a top of the line 3D HDTV to watch a movie on your PlayStation 3
If you can afford it and are set up for it go HDMI. They provide more resolution and are easier to use.
You don't need HDMI cables for an HD signal, but if you want to get maximum resolution for your tv (1080 p) you do. The short answer is no, you do not need HDMI Cables just to get an HD signal. BUT HDMI cables transfer the higher-resolution images at a faster rate, giving you a much better picture.
first choice HDMI. You should only get Sony PS3 component cables if you HDTV does not have HDMI input
For DISH Network receivers, the HDMI cables provide the highest quality video and audio and then component cables, which gives you HD quality if you have HD programming.