Adapters and converters link devices whose ports or signals do not match, such as HDMI to VGA, USB-C to HDMI, DisplayPort to HDMI, USB to Ethernet or USB-A to USB-C. They suit anyone connecting a laptop to a monitor or projector, adding a network port, or getting older equipment to work with newer hardware.
How to choose an adapter or converter
Connectors and direction. Check the exact port on each device, including whether you need a male or female end. Many video converters work in one direction only, so an HDMI to VGA converter will not send a signal from a VGA source to an HDMI screen.
Passive adapter or active converter. A passive adapter only changes the plug shape and works when both ends use the same type of signal, as with many DisplayPort to HDMI cables. Turning digital HDMI into analogue VGA needs active electronics, and because VGA carries no sound, such converters usually add a separate audio output.
Resolution and refresh rate. Match the adapter's stated maximum to your screen. Full HD at 60 Hz is enough for office work, while 4K at 60 Hz needs a suitable standard on the adapter and the source, such as HDMI 2.0 or DisplayPort 1.2 or newer. Some older adapters limit 4K to 30 Hz, which makes the cursor feel sluggish.
USB-C capabilities. Not every USB-C port carries video. Check that your laptop or tablet supports DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt before buying a USB-C to HDMI adapter. If you also need charging, look for a model with power pass-through so one port can do both jobs.
Network and data speed. For a USB to Ethernet adapter, match the speed to your network: Gigabit is enough for most home and office connections, while 2.5 Gigabit only helps if your router and switch support it. Plug it into a USB 3.0 or faster port to avoid a bottleneck.
What to look for in a maker
- Established cable and connectivity makers: they usually publish full specifications, including supported resolutions, chipset and power limits, which makes compatibility easier to check.
- Laptop and monitor manufacturers: adapters sold by the maker of your device are designed around its ports, which helps with USB-C video and docking features.
- Unbranded adapters: these can cover basic jobs such as changing a plug shape, but they often leave out resolution and chipset details, so read the listing carefully.
The manufacturer and specifications are shown on each product page, so compare those before you order.
Frequently asked questions about adapters and converters
What is the difference between an adapter and a converter?
An adapter changes the physical connector, while a converter changes the type of signal. A USB-C to USB-A adapter is a simple plug change. An HDMI to VGA converter has to translate digital video into analogue, so it contains electronics and often needs power.
Can I connect a USB-C laptop to an HDMI monitor?
Yes, if the USB-C port supports video output. Look for DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt in the laptop's specifications. A USB-C to HDMI adapter or cable then connects the two, and some versions also pass power through to the laptop.
Do I need a converter to connect HDMI to VGA?
Yes, because HDMI is digital and VGA is analogue, so a plain plug adapter will not work. You need an active HDMI to VGA converter. VGA does not carry sound, so choose one with a 3.5 mm audio output if you want audio.
Will an adapter reduce picture quality or speed?
It can, if the adapter supports lower limits than your equipment. A video adapter capped at 30 Hz at 4K or a network adapter running over a slow USB port will hold back the connection. Check the maximum resolution, refresh rate and speed before buying, and the adapter should not be the weakest link.
