Discover the convenience of using a reliable USB-C to HDMI cable to connect your computer, tablet, or smartphone to a bigger screen. This cable easily expands your screen space, making it perfect for watching videos or working on documents. It’s compatible with most devices that have a USB-C port, so you can quickly connect your portable gadgets to a monitor or TV without any trouble.
Best USB-C to HDMI cables: Our top picks
These cleaver adapters and cables work across the most common USB varieties to easily link up your gadgets.
1. Anker USB C to HDMI Adapter
Effortless Connectivity: The Anker adapter stands out as a sensible option. Affordable and compatible with a wide range of devices, it effortlessly handles tasks up to 4K 60Hz, making it ideal for phones, MacBooks, and similar gadgets.
Pros:
- Straightforward and user-friendly
- Durable braided cable with sturdy connectors
- Reliable performance as promised
Cons:
- Adapter length is limited, so ensure your HDMI cable is long enough
- HDMI 2.1 adapters offer more capabilities at a higher price
The Anker Adapter is a great choice. It works with MacBooks, smartphones, and PCs that can connect via HDMI. It’s simple and affordable, with a short braided cable and sturdy connectors. You just plug it in, and it works right away. The only downside is that it doesn’t support HDMI 2.1, which means it’s limited to 4K resolution at 60Hz. But for most devices, this is still fine, as not many output 8K resolution.
2. Uni USB-C to HDMI Cable
This cable is a great choice for its length and performance, offering fast connections between your devices.
Pros:
- Available in various lengths to suit your needs
- Performs reliably as expected
- It’s a complete cable, eliminating the need for an additional one
Cons:
- Limited to supporting up to 4K resolution at 30Hz
If you’re looking for a USB-C to HDMI cable, Uni’s 6-foot cord is a great choice. You won’t have to cast from your devices anymore because this cable directly connects them to a TV or monitor, and it can be as long as 15 feet. It supports 4K at 30Hz, 1440p at 60Hz, or 1080p at up to 120Hz, which should be good for most devices.
However, for smoother 4K, you’ll need a cable with higher HDMI specs. The cable is durable as it’s made from braided nylon and the connectors are sturdy but not too bulky. Plus, it’s not too expensive. If you’re using a cable for 1440p or below, this is a good alternative to the Anker adapter mentioned earlier, which supports 4K at 60Hz.
3. Belkin USB Type C to HDMI 2.1 Cable
The Belkin USB Type C to HDMI 2.1 Cable stands out as the pinnacle of cable technology. Its HDMI 2.1 specification catapults it beyond its predecessors, offering unparalleled power and performance. With the capability to handle 8K video at 60Hz and 4K video at an astounding 144Hz, this cable redefines visual clarity and smoothness.
Pros:
- HDMI 2.1, a significant leap in technological advancement.
- Supports up to 8K resolution at 60Hz, delivering unparalleled visual fidelity.
- Ample 6.6-foot length for versatile use in various setups.
Cons:
- Lacks braided construction for added durability.
- Considerably high price point, reflecting its cutting-edge features and capabilities.
This cable is for those who want top-notch quality. It’s called the Belkin USB Type C to HDMI 2.1 Cable because it uses HDMI 2.1, which means it can handle really high-quality video. It can display pictures up to 8K resolution or videos up to 4K resolution with very smooth motion. It’s also 6.6 feet long, which is a good length.
One good thing about it is that it can still connect to older devices, so you can use it with things you already have. But there’s one downside: it’s expensive. It costs $50 when it’s not on sale, but that’s because it’s the fastest HDMI cable available.
4. Best versatile length: Ugreen USB-C to HDMI cable
The Ugreen USB-C to HDMI Cable offers great versatility at an affordable price. It provides an impressive 4K resolution at 60Hz, all for under $20.
Pros:
- Exceptional 4K resolution at 60Hz, a remarkable feat for its price range.
- Three different length options are available, allowing you to choose the perfect amount of cable for your setup.
- Performs reliably and as expected.
Cons:
- Does not support HDMI 2.1 technology, limiting its capabilities compared to more advanced cables.
Ugreen’s 6.6-foot cable is a solid choice among USB-C to HDMI adapters and cables. It offers versatility with three size options: 3.3, 6.6, and 10 feet, allowing you to purchase just the right amount of cable for your setup. With support for up to 4K resolution at 60Hz, although not HDMI 2.1, it still meets the needs of most users perfectly well.
5. Best budget: QGeeM USB C to HDMI Adapter
At just a few bucks, the QGeeM Adapter is a budget-friendly option. While it may not support full 60Hz at 4K resolution, it performs well at 1080p without any issues.
Pros:
- Simple design, easy to use.
- Performs as expected.
- Affordable pricing.
Cons:
- Maximum resolution capped at 4K 30Hz.
QGeeM provides a simple adapter, capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz. Unlike a cable, this adapter requires you to use your own HDMI cable, offering versatility in cable length.
It’s compatible with a variety of devices, including newer MacBooks and Android smartphones, and requires no software or driver installation. The adapter’s design is compact and durable, featuring a short cable made from woven nylon and a gold-plated connection, making it perfect for travel use.
6. Anker USB C to Dual HDMI Adapter
If you’re managing a dual monitor setup, consider the Anker USB C to Dual HDMI adapter. It’s a solid choice for connecting a device to two monitors or TVs simultaneously.
Pros:
- Supports 4K resolution at 60Hz when using one port; 4K at 30Hz when using both.
- Plug-and-play functionality for hassle-free setup.
- One of the few products available in this category.
Cons:
- We anticipate the arrival of an HDMI 2.1 version in the future.
The Anker USB-C to Dual HDMI Adapter does precisely what its name suggests: it enables the splitting of a single USB-C video signal into two HDMI-out signals. This allows you to connect your smartphone or iPad to two monitors simultaneously. However, it’s important to note that there are some limitations to this technology. For instance, on certain devices, it may mirror the same display on both monitors instead of extending the display across them.
One of the great features of this adapter is its ability to support 4K resolution at 60Hz when only one of its ports is in use. This versatility makes it a solid standalone USB-C to HDMI adapter, with the additional port available for future needs. While it comes at a higher price compared to single adapters, the added functionality may be indispensable for some users. There’s anticipation for Anker to release a version supporting HDMI 2.1, which would remove the 4K 30Hz limitation and offer even more capabilities.
How did we choose the best USB-C to HDMI cables?
The selection process for determining the best USB-C to HDMI cables primarily involved gathering information from various online sources and customer reviews. Each product underwent scrutiny through tools like FakeSpot to verify the accuracy of reviews.
We aimed to compile a diverse range of HDMI adapters across different price points and HDMI specifications, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the category. Fortunately, the functionality of most products in this category is similar, so the focus shifted toward identifying reliable options that are durable and dependable.
FAQ’s
Q: What is a USB-C to HDMI cable used for?
A: A USB-C to HDMI cable allows you to connect devices with USB-C ports, such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones, to external displays like monitors or TVs. This enables you to mirror or extend your screen for presentations, entertainment, or productivity purposes.
Q: How do I choose the right USB-C to HDMI cable for my needs?
A: Consider factors such as resolution and refresh rate support, cable length, compatibility with your devices, and budget. Higher resolutions and refresh rates may require HDMI 2.1 compatibility, while longer cable lengths offer more flexibility in setup.
Q: What is the difference between HDMI 2.0 and HDMI 2.1?
A: HDMI 2.1 offers higher bandwidth, allowing for higher resolutions, faster refresh rates, and advanced features like Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and Auto Low Latency Mode (ALLM). HDMI 2.0 supports up to 4K resolution at 60Hz, while HDMI 2.1 can handle up to 8K resolution at 60Hz.
Q: Do I need an HDMI 2.1 cable for my device?
A: It depends on your device and usage requirements. While HDMI 2.1 cables offer future-proofing and advanced features, HDMI 2.0 cables may suffice for most current devices and applications. Consider your specific needs before deciding on the cable type.
Q: Are USB-C to HDMI cables plug-and-play?
A: Yes, most USB-C to HDMI cables are plug-and-play, requiring no additional drivers or software installation. Simply connect one end to your device’s USB-C port and the other end to the HDMI port of your display, and it should work seamlessly.
Q: Can I use a USB-C to HDMI cable with my smartphone?
A: Yes, if your smartphone supports video output via USB-C, you can use a USB-C to HDMI cable to connect it to an external display like a monitor or TV. Check your smartphone’s specifications to ensure compatibility.
Q: Are USB-C to HDMI cables backward compatible with older HDMI versions?
A: Yes, most USB-C to HDMI cables are backward compatible with older HDMI versions. However, the capabilities of the cable may be limited by the HDMI version supported by both the cable and the connected devices.
Q: What should I look for in terms of durability when choosing a USB-C to HDMI cable?
A: Look for cables with features such as braided nylon construction and sturdy connectors to ensure durability and longevity. These features help prevent cable fraying, bending, and damage from regular use.
Q: Can I use a USB-C to HDMI cable to connect my laptop to multiple monitors?
A: It depends on the cable’s specifications and your laptop’s capabilities. Some cables support dual-monitor setups, allowing you to connect your laptop to two external displays simultaneously. Check the cable’s features and your laptop’s compatibility for multi-monitor support.
Q: How can I ensure the reliability of customer reviews when choosing a USB-C to HDMI cable?
A: Use online tools like FakeSpot to analyze customer reviews and ratings for authenticity and reliability. Additionally, consider reviews from reputable sources and look for common themes or patterns across multiple reviews to gauge the overall performance and quality of the cable.