VGA cables link a computer, laptop or graphics card to a monitor or projector through the 15-pin analogue D-sub connector, which makes them useful for anyone still running older displays or meeting-room equipment. This category currently has no listed models, so no brands are shown yet.
The guidance below explains what to check before buying a VGA cable elsewhere or when stock appears.
How to choose a VGA cable
Connector type. A standard VGA cable has a male plug at both ends and joins a computer to a display. A male-to-female cable is an extension, useful when the monitor port sits out of reach of a normal lead.
Length. Choose the shortest cable that reaches comfortably. VGA is an analogue signal, so a long run can produce a softer picture, ghosting or colour fringing, especially at higher resolutions.
Shielding and ferrite cores. Look for a cable with good shielding and the small cylindrical ferrite cores near each plug. They reduce interference from nearby power cables and give a steadier image, particularly on longer leads.
Resolution. Most VGA cables of decent quality can carry Full HD (1920 x 1080) on a short run, although sharpness depends on the cable, the graphics output and the display. If you use a higher resolution, a thicker, well-shielded cable matters more.
Adaptors for newer devices. Many modern laptops and graphics cards no longer have a VGA port. In that case you need an active HDMI to VGA or DisplayPort to VGA adaptor, because the conversion only works from digital to analogue. Remember that VGA carries no sound, so audio needs a separate cable.
Brands we carry
No brands are listed in this category at the moment, so there are no brand details to compare. Until models are added, these points help when judging any VGA cable:
- A clearly stated connector type, such as male-to-male or male-to-female, and the exact length.
- Shielding and ferrite cores mentioned in the product description.
- Fully wired 15-pin connectors with thumbscrews, which hold the plug firmly in the port.
VGA cable FAQ
Can a VGA cable carry audio?
No, a VGA cable carries only the video signal. To get sound from a computer to a monitor or projector, you need a separate audio lead, usually a 3.5 mm cable, or a display with its own speakers connected another way.
What is the difference between VGA and HDMI?
VGA is an older analogue video standard, while HDMI is digital and carries video and audio together. HDMI generally gives a sharper picture at high resolutions. VGA remains useful for older monitors, projectors and some office equipment.
How long can a VGA cable be?
Short and medium lengths are usually fine for a clear picture, but quality drops as the cable gets longer. At higher resolutions the effect is more visible, so a well-shielded cable of a few metres is a safer choice than a very long budget lead.
Can I connect a VGA monitor to a laptop without a VGA port?
Yes, with an active adaptor that converts a digital output such as HDMI or DisplayPort to VGA. A simple passive cable will not work, because the signal has to be converted from digital to analogue. Check that the adaptor supports the resolution of your monitor.
