DisplayPort cables

DisplayPort cables connect a computer, laptop or graphics card to a monitor, and suit anyone setting up a home desk, a multi-screen workstation or a gaming display. Our range has over 1,300 products from brands such as Delock, Roline, InLine and Lindy, in many lengths and DisplayPort versions.

How to choose a DisplayPort cable

DisplayPort version. The version decides the highest resolution and refresh rate the cable can carry. DisplayPort 1.2 handles 4K at 60 Hz, DisplayPort 1.4 adds higher refresh rates and 8K with compression, and DisplayPort 2.1 cables are made for the newest high-resolution, high-refresh monitors. Match the cable to the weaker of your graphics card and your monitor.

Length and cable type. Short passive cables of one to two metres are the simplest option and work well at full bandwidth. Over about three metres, signal loss can cause flickering or a black screen at high resolutions, so look for active or fibre-optic cables for long runs behind a wall or across a large room.

Connector type. Most monitors and graphics cards use the full-size DisplayPort socket, but some laptops and older workstation cards use Mini DisplayPort. Check both ends before ordering, and choose connectors with a locking latch if the cable will be moved often or hangs under its own weight.

Certification and build quality. VESA-certified cables have been tested against a specific DisplayPort version, which matters at 144 Hz and above. Good shielding and a firm moulded connector also help prevent dropouts, particularly when the cable runs near power adapters.

DisplayPort cable brands we carry

• Delock: a German brand known for a very large catalogue of cables, adapters and connectors, including many less common lengths and connector combinations.
• Roline and Value: house brands of the Swiss distributor Secomp, offering cables for office and installation work.
• InLine: a German brand from Intos Electronic, focused on computer and AV cabling for everyday use.
• Lindy: a connectivity specialist known for AV cables, including long-distance and active cables for displays.
• StarTech.com: a Canadian brand known for professional adapters and connectivity products for IT technicians.
• Digitus: the cabling brand of Assmann Electronic, widely used in network and office installations.

Also in our range: shiverpeaks, S-CONN maximum connectivity, ACT, Equip and Wentronic.

DisplayPort cable FAQ

What is the difference between DisplayPort 1.4 and 2.1 cables?

DisplayPort 2.1 cables support much higher bandwidth than 1.4 cables, which allows higher resolutions and refresh rates without heavy compression. A 1.4 cable is enough for most 1440p and 4K monitors. You only need 2.1 if both your graphics card and your monitor support it.

How long can a DisplayPort cable be?

Passive DisplayPort cables usually work reliably up to about two to three metres at high resolutions. Longer runs can still work at lower resolutions, but for full performance over greater distances an active or fibre-optic cable is the safer choice.

Is DisplayPort better than HDMI for a monitor?

For a PC monitor, DisplayPort is often the better fit, as it is standard on graphics cards and supports high refresh rates and adaptive sync. Many monitors also let you chain several screens from one port using Multi-Stream Transport. HDMI remains the usual choice for TVs and consoles.

Do I need a certified DisplayPort cable?

Certification is not required for the cable to work, but it confirms the cable was tested for a specific DisplayPort version. It is worth looking for if you run a high refresh rate or a 4K or 8K display. Uncertified cables can cause flickering or signal dropouts at the upper limits.