To connect a laptop to a TV, match the laptop’s video output to the TV’s input. If both have HDMI, plug in an HDMI cable and select that input on the TV. If the laptop uses USB-C, first confirm that its particular port supports video; you may need a USB-C-to-HDMI adapter and a separate HDMI cable. Then choose how the picture should appear on your laptop and TV.
Choose the right connection for your laptop and TV
Check the exact laptop model’s specifications and inspect the TV’s available inputs before buying anything. A USB-C connector’s shape alone does not mean it can send video: the port, computer hardware and software, cable, and adapter must support the required display capability. Microsoft explains this limitation in its USB-C troubleshooting guidance.
| Laptop output | TV input | What you need | What to check |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI | HDMI | HDMI cable | Connect the laptop’s HDMI output to the TV input you will select. |
| USB-C or Thunderbolt | HDMI | A video-capable USB-C-to-HDMI adapter and HDMI cable; some adapters include other ports or charging pass-through. | Verify video support on the laptop’s specific port and the adapter’s resolution, refresh-rate, and feature limits. Apple’s USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter, for example, requires a separately sold HDMI cable: Apple adapter details. |
| Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt 2 | HDMI | A compatible Mini DisplayPort-to-HDMI adapter or cable | Confirm the laptop has that port and check the adapter’s supported display modes. Apple describes Mac-to-HDMI connection options in its HDMI connection guide. |
| Windows PC with Miracast | Miracast-compatible TV or receiver | No HDMI cable; a wireless adapter may be needed if the TV lacks a compatible receiver. | Both the PC and TV or receiver must support Miracast. Follow the wireless adapter maker’s setup directions if using one. |
Connector type does not determine the maximum resolution or refresh rate by itself. Those depend on the laptop, adapter, cable, and TV together. Apple’s Mac display guidance notes that supported display capabilities vary by model and setup.
Connect a laptop with HDMI
- Connect one end of an HDMI cable to the laptop’s HDMI output and the other to an HDMI input on the TV.
- Turn on the TV and use its input/source control to select the HDMI input where the cable is connected. The label and menu steps vary by TV maker.
- If the picture does not appear, choose an external-display mode on the laptop. Windows users can press Windows+P and select Duplicate, Extend, or Second screen only.
Connect a laptop with USB-C or Thunderbolt
- Check the laptop’s exact model documentation to confirm that the USB-C or Thunderbolt port supports video output.
- Connect a compatible USB-C-to-HDMI adapter to that port, then connect an HDMI cable from the adapter to the TV. Some adapters add charging pass-through or USB ports; those features do not replace checking display compatibility.
- Select the TV’s HDMI input and configure the display in Windows or macOS as needed.
Apple documents connecting compatible Mac USB-C or Thunderbolt ports to HDMI using an adapter. Check the adapter’s limits and whether it includes an HDMI cable before choosing one; see Apple’s HDMI connection instructions and the adapter’s product details.
#1 Best Overall
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 80 million+ powered by our leading technology.
- Vivid Video: The HDMI adapter lets you connect to any TV or display with an HDMI port to stream video in up to 4K resolution.
- Plug and Play: Instantly turn your laptop’s USB-C port into an HDMI port, with no installation necessary. This product does not support charging or Power Delivery (PD).
- Premium Construction: A lightweight aluminum casing allows for greater heat dissipation, while the reinforced braided-nylon cable is designed to withstand the twists and tugs of daily use.
- Compatibility: Supports USB-C DP Alt mode, USB4, and Thunderbolt connections.
Connect an older Mac with Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt 2
For a Mac with Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt 2, use a compatible adapter or cable that converts the laptop’s output to HDMI, then connect it to the TV. Confirm the Mac has the port and that the adapter supports the display mode you need. Apple lists this connection path in its Mac HDMI guide.
Connect wirelessly from Windows
Wireless projection is an option when both the Windows PC and TV or receiver support Miracast. On Windows 11, Microsoft’s documented procedure is to turn on the TV or display, press Windows+K, and select the receiver. If you use a wireless adapter, attach it to the display as directed by its manufacturer. See Microsoft’s screen mirroring and projection instructions.
Rank #2
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- COMPACT DESIGN - The compact-designed portable BENFEI USB-C to HDMI adapter connects a computer, desktop, laptop, or other devices with USB-C port to a monitor, projector, HDTV, or other devices with HDMI port; Tuck this lightweight gadget into your bag or pocket to do a business presentation with your laptop and projector, or extend your desktop screen to a monitor or TV;
- SUPERIOR STABILITY - Built-in advanced IC chip converts USB-C digital signal to HDMI signal; Please pay attention, the USB-C device should support the USB Type-C DP Alt mode.
- INCREDIBLE PERFORMANCE - The USB-C to HDMI adapter supports resolutions up to 3840*2160@60Hz including, 3840*2160@30Hz, 2K@144Hz, 1080P, 720p, 1600x1200, 1280x1024 for high definition monitors or projectors; Plated USB-C connector resists corrosion and abrasion and improve the signal transmission performance; Molded strain relief increases cable durability
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Choose how the picture appears
Windows: duplicate, extend, or TV only
Press Windows+P, then choose the display mode:
- Duplicate: Show the same content on the laptop and TV.
- Extend: Use the TV as additional desktop space and move windows between screens.
- Second screen only: Show the picture on the TV.
Microsoft documents these options for Windows 11 and Windows 10. Windows 10 support ended on October 14, 2025, so it is not a currently supported Windows release. Details are in Microsoft’s projection guidance and USB-C guidance.
Mac: adjust display and arrangement
When a Mac display is powered and connected properly, macOS detects it automatically, according to Apple’s display setup instructions. Open Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions) > Displays to adjust resolution, refresh rate, or arrangement. Available options and the number of displays supported depend on the Mac model.
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Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Rank #3
- 5 in 1 Connectivity: The USB C Multiport Adapter is equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 100W USB C PD port, a 5 Gbps USB A data port, and two 480 Mbps USB A ports
Fix common connection problems
The TV shows no picture
- Select the specific HDMI input used by the cable, rather than another HDMI input.
- Check that the cable is firmly seated at both ends.
- For USB-C, confirm that the laptop’s particular port supports video and that the adapter and cable support the required display mode.
- On Windows, press Windows+P and choose a mode that uses the external screen.
For additional Windows monitor checks, see Microsoft’s external monitor troubleshooting guide.
The USB-C adapter is not recognized
A USB-C port, cable, or adapter may lack the required Alternate Mode support. Check the laptop and accessory specifications, use a video-capable port and compatible cable, and connect the adapter directly to the laptop while troubleshooting instead of routing it through a hub or dock. Microsoft explains the relevant compatibility requirements in its USB-C troubleshooting article.
Rank #4
- CHECK YOUR DEVICE FIRST( USB-C MALE TO HDMI FEMALE): This adapter works with USB Type C ports that support DP Alt Mode. Want to be sure before you buy? Check your device specs - not every USB-C port sends video.
- ONE-WAY VIDEO & AUDIO OUTPUT: This adapter sends video and audio from your USB-C device to an HDMI display. It does not support charging, and it is not designed for HDMI-to-USB-C direction.
- 4K@60Hz USB-C TO HDMI ADAPTER CABLE: Get clear 4K picture at 60Hz from a compatible USB-C laptop or tablet. It also works with older HDMI 1.4, 1.3 and 1.2 screens.
- PLUG AND PLAY, NO SETUP: Turn your USB-C port into an HDMI port with no drivers and no installation. What you see depends on your device and your screen.
- EXTEND YOUR REACH: Going from USB-C male to HDMI female lets you keep using the HDMI cable you already have, and place your laptop or phone where you want it.
The picture is cropped or has the wrong resolution or refresh rate
Check the supported modes for the laptop, adapter, cable, and TV as a complete chain. Then review the operating system’s display settings and the TV’s picture or overscan controls. Mac display capabilities can vary by model and adapter, as described in Apple’s display guide.
Mac picture works, but sound stays on the laptop
On a Mac, open Apple menu > System Settings (or System Preferences) > Sound > Output, then select the HDMI device. Apple documents this in its Mac HDMI instructions.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
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