The Best USB To HDMI Adapters
With the prevalence of smartphones, laptops, and tablets, it may seem like screens are getting smaller and smaller. Fortunately, you can still enjoy your favorite movies and shows on the big screen, even when your media is loaded up on your smaller devices. With a USB-to-HDMI cable, you can simply plug one end into your computer and one end into your TV or projector. It's a super handy piece of gear that has undoubtedly saved countless movie nights.
What to Look For
We wanted to find the best of the best in USB-to-HDMI adapters, so we scoured the market with four main questions in mind: Is this adapter durable? Is it affordable? Is it compatible with our devices? Is the image quality good? Our favorite was the cable from Uni USB, largely because it’s compatible with Thunderbolt 3 ports. That means you can stream your favorite shows from your laptop to your television. We also dig the USB 3.0 adapter from Cable Matters since it can support 2K resolutions. For more of our in-depth reviews of these nifty cables, read on.
Uni USB C to-HDMI Cable
Simplicity at its finest
When you hear the term USB-to-HDMI, you might imagine an adapter that has a USB connector on one end and an HDMI connector on the other. In reality, though, many cables on the market today represent a variation of this form, with a USB or USB-C plug on one end and a female HDMI port on the other. That’s why the Uni USB-C-to-HDMI cable is such a relief. It’s one of the few true USB-to-HDMI adapters out there, featuring a male connector for each on either end, so you don’t have to invest in a separate HDMI cable to use it. What’s more, it’s also one of the most advanced options, supporting 4K video quality at 60Hz and Thunderbolt 3 compatibility for all of Apple’s latest devices.
Pros:
- We were thrilled to find that it’s compatible with a wide range of devices, including Macbooks and iPads.
- The picture quality is outstanding and can really enhance movie nights.
- We were pleasantly surprised by the durability of the jacket, which is made out of braided nylon.
Cons:
- The ends are pretty stiff, but that’s only a problem if your TV’s HDMI port is flush with the wall.
Cable Matters SuperSpeed USB 3.0 to HDMI Adapter
Reliable connections
When you hear the term USB-to-HDMI, you might imagine an adapter that has a USB connector on one end and an HDMI connector on the other. In reality, though, many cables on the market today represent a variation of this form, with a USB or USB-C plug on one end and a female HDMI port on the other. That’s why the Uni USB-C-to-HDMI cable is such a relief. It’s a true USB-to-HDMI adapter, featuring a male connector for each on either end, so you don’t have to invest in a separate HDMI cable to use it. What’s more, it’s also one of the most advanced options, supporting 4K video quality at 60Hz and Thunderbolt 3 compatibility for many of Apple’s latest devices.
Pros:
- This adapter is immensely useful for adding additional monitors to a desktop setup, especially since many computers only have one display port.
- The 2K video resolution looks fantastic on many TVs and monitors.
- It even comes with a DVI adapter for connecting it to older monitors, which is a nice bonus.
Cons:
- You may have to download the appropriate drivers from the Cable Matters website to get it to work on certain devices.
QGeeM USB C to HDMI Adapter 4K Cable
Stream to the max
Plenty of USB-to-HDMI cables will fulfill your 4K streaming needs, but few are as easy to use and as widely compatible with as diverse a range of devices as the QGeeM USB C to HDMI Adapter. And no matter what kind of device you’re using it with, we believe the 4K plug-and-play design means it performs seamlessly and painlessly, transmitting picture quality in stunning high definition. From a construction quality standpoint, it’s also a great choice, incorporating premium copper cores and a braided nylon cable for extra durability.
Pros:
- The plug-and-play works on most machines, so you can use it right out of the box.
- The video and audio quality and truly impressive.
Cons:
- It converts to a female HDMI port, so you’ll have to also get an HDMI cable.
StarTech USB 3.0 to HDMI Display Adapter
Crystal clear
Users with older model laptops who are still looking to transmit premium video quality will love the StarTech USB 3.0 to HDMI Display Adapter, which plugs right into a traditional USB port and can connect with any HMDI-equipped secondary monitor. It’s ideal for Windows operating systems since relies on DisplayLink software that is automatically downloaded and installed once you make the first connection. From there, it beams high-definition video at four times the resolution of standard 1080p, though it’s also backward compatible, so it will work with non-4K monitors, too.
Pros:
- It’s a great way to upgrade computers that don’t have HDMI ports or for adding a second monitor to your setup.
- It’s “Plug-and-Display Certified”, which means the drivers download automatically the first time you plug it in.
Cons:
- It’s a bump up in price from the 2K options. However, if you have the money and the love of high-resolution video, this is the pick.
Anker 5-in-1 USB C Hub Adapter
The more the merrier
If you’re as device-crazy as us, an external monitor is likely not the only thing you need to connect to your laptop daily. Luckily, this Anker 5-in-1 USB C Hub features a handful of useful ports that will expand your computer’s functionality and ensure you have a way to move data from one device to another. Not only does it have a female HDMI port that supports 4K video at 30Hz, but it also incorporates two USB 3.0 ports and an SD and microSD card slot for transferring all your photos and other information. We’ve found that it’s extremely easy to use, too, allowing you to switch between ports without having to disconnect from your system.
Pros:
- The durable build can handle all the plugging in and out that you’ll do.
- This offers just about every important port that you need.
- We’re impressed by how affordable this option is.
Cons:
- It can get pretty hot, especially if you use it for charging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a USB-to-HDMI cable?
A USB-to-HDMI cable is an adapter that allows you to connect a USB-equipped device, such as a laptop, with an HDMI-equipped one, such as a TV or external monitor. These cables come in a few different varieties, including true male-to-male models as well as the more commonly found male USB to female HDMI — that is, an HDMI port rather than a plug. In recent years, as USB-C has come to eclipse USB 3.0 as the standard on most modern devices, so too do most adapters now feature USB-C plugs instead of the older USB 3.0.
Which USB-to-HDMI cable do I need?
This depends first and foremost on what kind of device you’re trying to use it with. If you have an older, USB 3.0-equipped laptop, you’ll want a model with that plug. Alternatively, if you have a USB-C-equipped laptop, you’ll need that one. Beyond that, you should consider the quality of video transmission the adapter is capable of, since some support 4K streaming, while others only 1080p.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.