An external adapter allows a dual mode displayport output to send tmds signal and also bumps the voltage up to the standard hdmi 5v.
Displayport to hdmi cable vs adapter.
When deciding between a displayport vs hdmi cable for 4k screens the main thing to pay attention to is the monitor refresh rate.
The tippy technology that allows the use of a simple passive adapter is called displayport dual mode or dp.
Which connection to choose.
These adapters are powered by pin 20 in the displayport receptacle and can only be used right at the source device if they are used with a.
Both standards are capable of delivering a good gaming experience but if you want a great gaming experience right now displayport 1 4 is generally better than hdmi 2 0 hdmi 2 1 beats dp 1 4.
If you re unfamiliar with the term the refresh rate is the number of times the display changes the image onscreen.
It uses another signal type technology and even a lower cable voltage 3 3 v instead of the 5 v of hdmi dvi.
Hdmi tmds signals operate at 5v.
Usb c connectors also output video over the displayport standard which makes it easy to output video from a laptop or android phone with an adapter to the typical dp plug or hdmi.
A quick way to check whether you can use a passive adapter is to see if the displayport or mini displayport source has the dp symbol above it.
Displayport signals operate at 3 3v even when using tmds in compatibility mode.
Passive adapters are less expensive since they do not need to include additional chips.
If you re looking to connect a computer to a tv or monitor your choices are hdmi displayport dvi and vga.
Supports up to 4k at 120hz or 8k at 30hz.
Supports up to 4k at 60hz some 1 2a ports may also support amd s freesync.