HDMI
HDMI stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface and is a digital connection for both video and audio signals. The latest version, HDMI 2.1, supports resolutions up to 8K and enables 4K gaming with refresh rates up to 120 Hz, which particularly provides smoother image display on modern consoles.
DisplayPort
DisplayPort cables offer higher bandwidth than HDMI cables. This higher bandwidth allows more signals to be transmitted simultaneously. This is particularly advantageous when connecting multiple monitors to a laptop or computer, as DisplayPort supports this more efficiently and stably.
VGA
VGA is an analog connection that only processes video signals and does not support audio. In addition, VGA does not include digital rights management or protection. Because the signal is analog, factors such as the quality of the cable, the connector pins, and the distance between the PC and the monitor influence the final image quality.
Which Connection
Will you choose?
Are you looking for a charger, USB hub, splitter, or extension cable, but are you confused by all the connections like USB-C, HDMI, or VGA? We'll explain it simply, so you can choose the right connection with confidence.
What connections are on your monitor, laptop, or PC?
On this information page, we explain everything about the connections you will encounter on your monitor, laptop, or PC.
We provide extensive information on the most common connections such as USB, HDMI, and DisplayPort.
USB-C
USB-C is a versatile USB connection with a reversible plug. This connection is suitable for multiple applications, such as Thunderbolt 3, DisplayPort, and Power Delivery. As a result, USB-C can not only transmit video signals but also simultaneously power and charge a laptop.
DVI-D
DVI stands for Digital Visual Interface and is an older digital technology considered a precursor to HDMI. The DVI standard can support both analog and digital signals. DVI-D is the variant that exclusively transmits digital video signals.
Ethernet (network)
Ethernet is a network connection used to connect devices to a network via a cable. By using a network cable, latency is reduced, which provides a faster and more stable network connection than wireless connections.
USB ports
Most laptops and computers are equipped with USB ports. These are used to connect devices such as USB sticks, external hard drives, keyboards, mice, and other peripherals. With a USB connection, you can, for example, easily transfer photos and video files from your smartphone to a laptop or PC.
The connections shown on the left are USB-A ports. These are common USB connections found on monitors, laptops, and computers. There are different standards within USB-A. For example, USB 2.0 is still common, but USB 3.1 is significantly faster. USB 2.0 has a maximum transfer speed of 480 MB/s, while USB 3.1 can reach speeds of up to 10 Gb/s.
Some monitors have a built-in USB hub. This allows you to connect multiple peripherals directly to the screen. You then connect the screen to your laptop or PC, giving you full control over the connected peripherals.
› All USB cables
HDMI connections
Most monitors are equipped with an HDMI port to connect them to a laptop or desktop computer. HDMI ports come in different versions, each offering support for different speeds and capabilities.
The HDMI version used affects the maximum refresh rate (Hz), the supported resolution (such as Full HD, QHD, and 4K), and suitability for game consoles like the Xbox and PlayStation 5. Higher refresh rates require a newer HDMI version. Additionally, the HDMI cable used also plays an important role in achieving the desired performance.
Do you want to use the monitor with a game console? Then an HDMI 2.1 port is required for the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. For the Xbox Series S, an HDMI 2.0 port is sufficient. You can find more information about this at the bottom of this page.
On the right, you will find an overview of the different HDMI versions and their corresponding speeds.
DisplayPort connections
As with HDMI, many monitors are equipped with a DisplayPort connection. This connection allows you to easily connect a laptop or desktop computer to the monitor. DisplayPort is specially designed for high image performance and is widely used with professional and gaming monitors.
DisplayPort connections are available in different versions, each offering support for specific resolutions, such as Full HD, QHD, and 4K, and various refresh rates (Hz). The performance you can achieve depends on the DisplayPort version used. Additionally, the quality and version of the DisplayPort cable are also important to utilize the maximum capabilities.
To the left, you will find an overview of the different DisplayPort versions and their corresponding speeds.
