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For 4K gaming, you need at least HDMI 2.0, but HDMI 2.1 is better. The difference matters: HDMI 2.0 handles 4K at 60 Hz, while HDMI 2.1 does 4K at 120 Hz or even 8K. Depending on whether your console or graphics card can output 120 fps and your monitor supports it too, HDMI 2.1 is really worth it. When buying, check the label on the cable or in the product description - plenty of cheap cables are marked as "High Speed" but don't deliver much.
In practice: A certified HDMI 2.1 cable won't break the bank, maybe 15 - 30 euros for decent quality. What matters more is not using some ancient cable that's been lying around for ten years. Cable length matters too - the longer it is, the more likely you'll get signal loss. Under 5 meters and you're good, but above that I'd go for a proper HDMI 2.1 cable instead of some cheap option.
What often gets overlooked: the quality of the cable itself is just as important as the specification. Cheap HDMI 2.1 cables don't always live up to what they promise, and you'll notice it through image errors or connection drops while gaming. I'd go for certified cables - it's usually written on the packaging - and don't just grab the cheapest one just because it says "HDMI 2.1" on it.
Another important point: how long do you need the cable to be? With longer cables (over 3 meters) it becomes more critical that it's really high quality. I've got different lengths lying around at home and with a cheap 5-meter cable there was constant flickering, but with a better one from a well-known brand it worked perfectly right away. So just don't skimp on this if you're serious about gaming.
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