Modern laptops and ultrabooks are often equipped with HDMI ports, while many high-end monitors support DisplayPort (DP) for better refresh rates and resolution support. If you have an HDMI-enabled laptop or ultrabook and need to connect it to a DisplayPort (DP) monitor, you may face compatibility issues due to the different signal types these ports use. This guide will explore the best ways to bridge this gap effectively using HDMI to DP adapters, cables, and converters.
HDMI is a widely used audio-video interface designed primarily for consumer electronics such as TVs, laptops, projectors, and gaming consoles. Key specifications include:
Bandwidth: Varies by version (HDMI 1.4 – 10.2 Gbps, HDMI 2.0 – 18 Gbps, HDMI 2.1 – 48 Gbps)
Resolution Support:
HDMI 1.4: Up to 4K @ 30Hz
HDMI 2.0: Up to 4K @ 60Hz
HDMI 2.1: Up to 8K @ 60Hz
Audio Support: Supports multi-channel digital audio
Connector Types: Standard, Mini HDMI, and Micro HDMI
DisplayPort is a digital display interface commonly used for computer monitors, providing high bandwidth and better performance than HDMI for gaming and professional use. Key specifications include:
Bandwidth:
DP 1.2: 17.28 Gbps
DP 1.4: 32.4 Gbps
DP 2.0: 80 Gbps
Resolution Support:
DP 1.2: 4K @ 60Hz
DP 1.4: 8K @ 60Hz with DSC
DP 2.0: 16K @ 60Hz with DSC
Audio Support: Similar to HDMI
Connector Types: Standard DisplayPort and Mini DisplayPort
HDMI and DP use different signaling technologies:
HDMI is a consumer electronics standard that uses TMDS (Transition Minimized Differential Signaling).
DisplayPort is a PC-centric standard that uses LVDS (Low Voltage Differential Signaling).
Since HDMI and DP signals are not directly compatible, a passive HDMI to DP cable won’t work. Instead, you need an active adapter or converter cable to change the signal type from HDMI (source) to DisplayPort (monitor).
Best For: Connecting an HDMI laptop to a DisplayPort monitor with an existing DP cable.
How It Works: Converts HDMI signal into DisplayPort signal.
Requirements: Usually requires additional power via USB.
Supported Resolutions:
1080p @ 60Hz
1440p @ 60Hz
4K @ 60Hz (depends on adapter quality)
Example Products:
Cable Matters HDMI to DisplayPort Adapter
StarTech.com HDMI to DP Converter
Best For: Direct HDMI-to-DP connection without extra cables.
How It Works: A built-in converter chip converts HDMI signal to DisplayPort.
Supported Resolutions:
1080p @ 60Hz
4K @ 30Hz (some models support 60Hz)
Example Products:
Rankie HDMI to DisplayPort Cable
Benfei HDMI to DP Cable
Best For: Laptops with USB-C ports that support DisplayPort Alt Mode.
How It Works: Converts USB-C output to DP signal.
Supported Resolutions:
4K @ 60Hz
8K @ 60Hz (USB-C DP 1.4)
Example Products:
Cable Matters USB-C to DisplayPort Adapter
Anker USB-C to DP Cable
Feature | Specification |
---|---|
Input | HDMI 1.4, 2.0, or 2.1 |
Output | DisplayPort 1.2, 1.4, or 2.0 |
Resolution Support | Up to 4K @ 60Hz, 8K @ 60Hz (with high-end adapters) |
Power Requirement | USB-powered (5V) for active adapters |
Audio Support | Yes (depends on adapter) |
Cable Length | 3ft to 10ft (varies by product) |
Fazter offers high-quality, tested adapters and cables that ensure compatibility and durability. Benefits of buying from Fazter include:
Certified HDMI to DP Adapters: Tested for full compatibility with laptops and monitors.
Competitive Pricing: Affordable deals with discounts on bulk purchases.
Reliable Performance: Only premium chipsets used for signal conversion.
Customer Support: Expert assistance available for setup and troubleshooting.
Fast Shipping: Quick delivery options available worldwide.
Here are some of the top deals available at Fazter:
Fazter HDMI to DisplayPort Adapter – $19.99 (Supports 4K @ 60Hz, USB-powered)
Fazter HDMI to DP Converter Cable (6ft) – $24.99 (Plug-and-play solution, no additional power needed)
Fazter USB-C to DP Cable (10ft) – $29.99 (Best for USB-C laptops, supports 8K @ 60Hz)
Connecting an HDMI-enabled ultrabook or laptop to a DP monitor is straightforward with the right adapter or converter cable. Since HDMI and DisplayPort use different signaling technologies, using an active HDMI to DP adapter or converter cable is necessary for seamless connectivity. Whether you need 1080p, 4K, or even 8K resolution support, Fazter provides high-quality adapters that ensure stable performance and durability.
For the best HDMI to DisplayPort adapters, check out Fazter’s latest deals and enhance your display experience today!