The live version of this guide is available on the LinusTechTips forum here. This page was only created for code testing and is no longer used, so the information here has not been updated in several years.

Please use the up-to-date version on the forum: https://linustechtips.com/topic/729232-guide-to-display-cables-adapters-v2/

How to use:
  • Use the output (left) dropdown only, for general information about an interface (DVI, HDMI, etc.)
  • Use the input (right) dropdown only, to see all options for connecting to a specific port on a display
  • Use both dropdowns for information about a specific adapter combination — make sure they are in the right order!
  Output
(Computer / Source)
  Input
(Monitor / TV / Display)
 
   
(Note: Order matters! Make sure that the Output / Input are in the correct order and not reversed.)

 
Click to Expand:

Maximum Refresh Frequency and Resolution of Everything [Link]
Close


Which Cable Type Should I Use? (DisplayPort vs. HDMI vs. DVI vs. VGA) [Link]
Close


Connecting to a 120+ Hz Display [Link]
Close


Active vs. Passive Adapters [Link]
Close


Active Adapter Requirements for Multi-Monitor Configurations [Link]
Close


Do HDMI Cables Have Versions? [Link]
Close


Is HDMI Limited to 60 Hz? [Link]
Close




Bandwidth / Maximum Refresh Frequency Calculator [Link]
Close