There are times you might want to attach an external monitor to a laptop or desktop, but you might not always have a spare HDMI port, especially if you want multiple monitors. However, using a USB to HDMI adapter can easily solve that problem, giving you plenty of places to plug in another monitor. Read on to see some of the best options available.
If you’re in a hurry, here are our top 3 quick picks for the Best Usb to Hdmi Adapter:
- StarTech.com USB 3.0 to HDMI Adapter
- Plugable 4K DisplayPort and HDMI Dual Monitor Adapter
- INTPW USB-C to Dual HDMI Adapter
Criteria for Choosing the Best Usb to Hdmi Adapter
When it comes to USB to HDMI adapters, you have to think about what type of USB port you are working with and the resolution of the screen. You also have to make sure you get a high-quality adapter that will work with your setup and not fail at a critical time. That is why these things were considered for the adapters on this list:
- Resolution: Adapters support different resolutions at different frequencies, meaning you have to be careful when selecting an adapter, especially if you have a demanding screen or special setup.
- Reliability: It is important that an adapter is reliable, especially if you plan on using it for meetings or presentations. The smallest lapse in performance can become noticeable, making reliable adapters a must.
There are plenty of other considerations as well, such as compatibility, size, and price, but the supported resolutions and reliability are far more important than anything else.
The 8 Best USB to HDMI Adapters
There are many USB to HDMI adapters on the market, including those meant for different types of USB ports. Some even support multiple monitors or displays other than HDMI. You will see adapters of all sorts on the list below, which should help you find one suited to your needs.
StarTech.com USB 3.0 to HDMI Adapter
When it comes to quality, it is hard to beat StarTech, and their USB to HDMI adapter is no different. It is made to work and to last, and while you have to pay a bit of a premium for the name, they are worth considering if you want something reliable. After all, their USB to HDMI adapters are built for IT pros and go through rigorous testing.
This USB to HDMI adapter has a USB 3.0 input cable and an HDMI port that supports resolutions of up to 1920 x 1200 or 1080p 60Hz. Therefore, it can help you increase productivity by extending your desktop on an additional monitor without missing a beat. Plus, it has a risk-free performance warranty to ensure your money is well spent.
PROS
- StarTech products go through significant testing
- It is designed by and for true professionals
- It supports 1920 x 1200 or 1080p 60Hz
- There is a risk-free performance warranty to give you peace of mind
CONS
- The price is much higher than other brands
- It is only meant to work with a PC and Windows
Plugable 4K DisplayPort and HDMI Dual Monitor Adapter
If you want something versatile that works with both USB 3.0 and USB-C, then you can take a look at this USB to HDMI adapter from Plugable. In fact, it is more than that, allowing you to connect both HDMI and DisplayPort, which can be mixed and matched since it works with two monitors, giving you even more versatility with your setup.
The adapter works with up to two 4K monitors, extending displays at resolutions up to 3840 x 2160 at 60Hz. It also works with lower resolutions, making it a safe option for any situation. Moreover, it works with most Windows and Mac systems. And to add to the convenience, the cable and USB 3.0 to USB-C adapter are easily concealed.
PROS
- It works with both USB 3.0 and USB-C
- The adapter allows you to connect both HDMI and DisplayPort
- There are ports for up to two monitors at once
- It supports resolutions up to 3840 x 2160 at 60Hz
- It can be used with most Windows and Mac systems
CONS
- It is quite expensive compared to other simple USB to HDMI adapters
INTPW USB-C to Dual HDMI Adapter
If you have a USB-C port that you want to get more out of, you can pick up this adapter, which has a total of four ports. The ports include two HDMI ports, a USB 3.0 port, and a charging port for Thunderbolt 3 Type-C equipped devices. The 3.0 port provides up to 5Gbps of data transfer, while the Type-C charging port provides 100W of fast charging.
The HDMI ports allow you to mirror or extend your screen, and they can get up to 4K resolution. Of course, even though it works with 3840 x 2160, it only does so at 30Hz. However, this compact adapter is a great choice if you are looking to work with various screens and devices, especially if you do not have powerful multimedia demands.
PROS
- It is a great choice if you only have Type-C USB ports
- There are four different ports, including two HDMI ports
- It is a lightweight and compact addition to your setup
- It works up to 4K resolution
- The price for the quality and versatility is fantastic
CONS
- It does not support two external monitors, only duplicating them
- It does not excel in any particular aspect
USB C to Dual HDMI Adapter,7 in 1 USB C Docking Station
Unleash the ultimate power of connectivity with this 7-IN-1 USB-C Docking Station. Experience unparalleled display expansion with dual 4K HDMI, DP, and 1080P VGA outputs. This docking station is your key to unlocking multiple displays on Windows and mirror mode on Mac. Its three standard USB 2.0 ports offer robust and interference-free connectivity. Be it streaming movies on an ultra HD big screen, presenting on a projector, or enjoying games, this docking station brings it all to your fingertips. Designed for Thunderbolt 3 compatible devices, it’s the smart solution to elevate your digital experience. Upgrade now for a smarter, more interconnected life.
PROS
- Diverse array of connectivity options
- Supports up to 3840×2160 4K 60HZ resolution
- Works with Thunderbolt 3 compatible devices
CONS
- Only supports mirror mode on Mac OS
- May cause some wireless interference
StarTech.com USB 3.0 to Dual HDMI Adapter
StarTech appears again as a reliable choice for those who want a product that is guaranteed to last. The brand designs its products with excellence in mind, and they do plenty of testing to ensure what they send out works well. You even get ample support and a warranty that lets you spend the extra money without worry.
Of course, the real reason StarTech stands out is its performance. Although this dual HDMI adapter only works well with Windows products, it works incredibly well. It allows you to extend your computer to up to two additional monitors. One of the ports supports 4K at 30Hz, 1920 x 1200 at 60Hz, or ultrawide displays, while the other supports 1920 x 1200.
PROS
- The adapter is designed and tested for maximum performance
- You can easily get support if you are having issues
- It allows you to extend your display on two additional monitors
- One of the ports supports 4K or ultrawide displays
CONS
- The price is much higher than similar products
- One of the ports only supports up to 1920 x 1200 resolution
Cable Matters SuperSpeed USB 3.0 to HDMI Adapter
Another option for USB 3.0 to HDMI is Cable Matters. Their adapter is high-quality and built to last, being one of the sturdier choices out there. It reaches speeds of 5Gbps for stellar performance, and it supports resolutions up to 2560 x 1440, which includes 1080p setups.
If you pick up this adapter, you can also add other adapters to support multiple monitors since it is built to support additional adapters. Therefore, whether you are looking to add multiple monitors or just extend or mirror a single one, this is a great choice. It is lightweight and compact as well.
PROS
- It is durable and built to last
- It reaches speeds of 5Gbps
- It supports resolutions up to 2560 x 1440
- The adapter is capable of extending or mirroring your screen
- It can work with additional adapters for multiple external screens
CONS
- It is not a great choice for gaming
- It requires manual driver downloads on systems other than Windows
Anker USB-C to HDMI Adapter
If you want a portable option that will not cost you much but will get the job done, you can take a look at this USB-C to HDMI adapter from Anker. It works with devices up to 4K resolution, and it does not require any software installation before you put it to use, allowing it to be a true plug-and-play option.
It also has a lightweight aluminum casing that helps with heat dissipation and increases its portability another notch. The brand also uses a braided-nylon cable to resist the wear and tear of daily use, ensuring that it lasts longer. It is truly a high-performance option that will not set you back.
PROS
- It supports resolutions of up to 4K at 60Hz
- There is no software installation required before use
- The casing helps with heat dissipation
- The braided-nylon cord resists daily wear and tear
- The quality for the price is outstanding
CONS
- It is not as durable as some other adapters
Belkin USB-C to HDMI Adapter
The last USB to HDMI adapter on this list is by no means one to overlook. Belkin utilizes unique shielding to minimize electromagnetic interference, ensuring you have a stable connection the entire time you are using the adapter. It is also capable of supporting resolutions up to 4K at 60Hz for a clear picture.
All of these features make it a solid choice for gaming and other demanding multimedia endeavors. So, if you are looking for a solid USB-C to HDMI adapter that can be used for almost any situation, then you can grab this one from Belkin.
PROS
- It supports resolutions up to 4K at 60Hz
- The EMI shielding ensures a stable performance
- It is a great choice for multimedia and gaming
- It works on a good range of devices
CONS
- The price is a bit high for what it does
- Some people find their customer support to be lacking
How to Shop for a USB to Hdmi Adapter
Now that you have seen some of the USB to HDMI adapters available on the market, you should have a better understanding of what you can get and what would suit your needs. To help narrow down the choices even further, you can consider these things:
- Resolution: What resolution do you need the adapter to support? If you need a basic adapter that works for resolutions up to 1920 x 1080, there are plenty of options that can get the job done. If you need to hit 4K, then you will need to be more selective. The same is true for ultrawide displays.
- Compatibility: Not all adapters work with all devices, with some only working on Windows or another operating system. Make sure that any adapter you get will work for your devices, considering both port type and operating system.
- Number of Monitors: Some of the adapters only work for a single monitor, while others are aimed at connecting multiple monitors to your device. If you want more than one external monitor, you need to pick a device that handles multiple monitors. Also, make sure it allows you to properly extend to each monitor.
You will also want to consider the size of the adapter and whether you want a hub that can handle multiple types of displays. Moreover, price is always a consideration, especially if you are only looking for something to do a simple task for presentations or meetings.
In Conclusion
There is a lot of great USB to HDMI adapters out there. However, some are more suitable for certain devices and tasks than others, making it important to do your research and find the one that will work for you. Just make sure that any adapter you buy is reliable.
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