USB-C to HDMI: Everything You Need to Know (2026 Buying Guide)

Whether you want to mirror your laptop screen onto a monitor, cast a presentation to a projector, or hook up your phone to a TV, a USB-C to HDMI cable or adapter is one of the most useful accessories you can own. But with different resolutions, cable lengths, and adapter types on the market, it's easy to end up with the wrong one.

This guide explains exactly how USB-C to HDMI connections work, what separates a cable from an adapter, what to look for when buying, and which Maplin products will suit your setup.

USB-C is the small, oval-shaped connector found on most modern laptops, Android smartphones, and tablets. HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is the standard video output port used on TVs, monitors, and projectors.

A USB-C to HDMI cable or adapter bridges these two standards — letting you send video (and often audio) from your USB-C device to any HDMI display.

What makes this possible is a feature called DisplayPort Alternate Mode (sometimes called HDMI Alt Mode). Certain USB-C ports can carry video signals directly, bypassing the need for additional processing hardware. When your device supports this, the USB-C port essentially doubles as a display output — and a USB-C to HDMI cable can take that signal straight to your screen.

Devices that typically support USB-C video output include:

• MacBooks (all models with USB-C/Thunderbolt)
• Most Windows laptops with a USB-C/Thunderbolt port
• iPad Pro and iPad Air (USB-C models)
• Many Android smartphones and tablets (Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, OnePlus, etc.)

Devices that do not support USB-C to HDMI:

• iPhones (all models — Apple uses a proprietary Lightning or a limited USB-C implementation that doesn't carry video on standard cables)
• Older Android phones with Micro-USB

This is one of the most common points of confusion, and it's worth getting right before you buy.

A cable has a USB-C plug at one end and an HDMI plug at the other. You plug one end directly into your laptop or tablet and the other straight into your display. There's no additional connector in between — it's a clean, single-cable solution.

Best for: Permanent or semi-permanent setups (e.g., a laptop connected to a desk monitor), longer runs, or anyone who wants a tidy connection without adapters cluttering the desk.

Maplin's USB-C to HDMI Cable supports 4K Ultra HD at 60Hz and is available in 2m, 3m, and 5m lengths.

An adapter has a USB-C plug at one end and an HDMI socket at the other. You plug the adapter into your USB-C device, then use a standard HDMI cable to connect it to your display.

Best for: Travel, flexible setups where you need to connect to different displays, or situations where you already have HDMI cables in place.

Maplin's USB-C to HDMI Adapter is a compact 12cm dongle supporting 4K Ultra HD at 30Hz — ideal for presentations and on-the-go use.

Cable Adapter

This is arguably the most important spec. The two key options are:

• 4K @ 30Hz — supports 4K resolution but with a lower refresh rate. Fine for presentations, static work, and watching video. May feel slightly sluggish for fast-moving content or gaming.
• 4K @ 60Hz — supports full 4K resolution at 60 frames per second. This is the one to choose for smooth video playback, gaming, or general everyday use on a 4K display.

If you're connecting to a 1080p (Full HD) display, both options will work perfectly — the resolution cap only matters if your monitor is 4K.

Think carefully about the distance between your device and your display:

• 2m — suits most desk setups where your laptop sits close to the monitor
• 3m — good for presentations in meeting rooms, or if your screen is mounted on a wall
• 5m — ideal for connecting to a TV across a room, or longer boardroom runs

For very long runs (beyond 5m), signal quality can start to degrade — look for an active cable, or consider a signal booster.

Wondering how far an HDMI signal can reliably travel? Read our guide on what is the longest HDMI cable length.

Always verify your USB-C port supports video output before buying. On most laptops, the spec sheet (or the manufacturer's website) will state whether a USB-C port supports "DisplayPort Alt Mode" or "Thunderbolt". If it does, you're good.

Need a refresher on the different types of USB-C ports and what they do? Our USB-A vs USB-C guide explains the key differences.

USB-C to HDMI cables carry both video and audio — so your sound will come through the HDMI connection to your TV or monitor's speakers (or via ARC to a soundbar). You don't need a separate audio cable.

For more on HDMI audio features including ARC and eARC, see our HDMI ARC guide.

Look for cables with:

• Gold-plated connectors — resist corrosion and ensure a reliable signal
• Braided outer sheathing — more durable and tangle-resistant than rubber-coated cables
• Strain relief at the plug ends — prevents the cable from fraying where it meets the connector

Working from home / office setup
Connect a MacBook or Windows laptop to an external monitor for a dual-screen workspace. A 2m cable keeps your desk neat and supports a crisp 4K display.

Presentations
A compact USB-C to HDMI adapter is perfect to carry to meetings or conference rooms. Plug into the room's projector or screen via an existing HDMI cable — no fumbling with multiple adapters.

Home entertainment
Connect a laptop, phone, or tablet to your TV to stream video, browse the web on the big screen, or play games. A 3m or 5m cable gives you the freedom to sit back comfortably.

Gaming
For gaming, the 4K @ 60Hz spec matters. Make sure your cable supports this refresh rate if you want smooth, responsive gameplay on a 4K TV or monitor.

Photography and video editing
Mirror your creative work to a larger screen for client review, colour checking, or detail work. With 4K support, what you see on the external display will be sharp and accurate.

1. Check your USB-C port actually supports video output — not all do
2. Try a different USB-C port on your device if there are multiple
3. Check the HDMI cable is firmly seated at both ends
4. Restart your device with the cable connected
5. Try a different HDMI input on your TV or monitor

• The cable may be damaged — try a replacement
• Ensure you're using a cable rated for the resolution you're running (e.g., 4K@60Hz requires the right cable specification)
• Check for interference from other cables running nearby

• Go to your device's sound settings and select the HDMI output as your audio device
• Ensure your TV/monitor supports HDMI audio input
• If using an adapter, check that it carries audio (most do — confirm in the product spec)

For a more detailed troubleshooting walkthrough, see our guide: Why Isn't My HDMI Cable Working?

Browse our full range of USB-C to HDMI cables and adapters to find the right solution for your setup:

• Maplin USB-C to HDMI Cable — 2m / 3m / 5m (4K @ 60Hz) — ideal for home and office use
• Maplin USB-C to HDMI Cable — 5m (4K @ 60Hz) — for longer runs and across-room connections
• Maplin USB-C to HDMI Adapter — 0.12m compact dongle (4K @ 30Hz) — perfect for travel and presentations

Still unsure which cable type is right for you? Our complete guide to cable types covers all the basics in plain English.