So you finally bought a new monitor.
One small problem, though.
There are a lot of things you should probably take into account when you’re buying a DisplayPort cable.
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After all, it’s possible for you to’t just buy the first one you see.
So you might be wondering now: how do you actually choose a DisplayPort?
While you’re at it, check what DisplayPort version your display output supports.
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The signal will be passed at the lowest compatible version, but your monitor will work.
And while you’re checking both, also check the actual port.
Is it an actual DisplayPort, or do you see a smaller USB-C connector?
It still carries over a video signal, though, so don’t let that confuse you.
What Is Thunderbolt?
Is It Better Than DisplayPort?
In your cable search, you might occasionally see the word “Thunderbolt” floating around.
But should you care about it?
Whether you should care about it, though, the answer is probably not.
Thunderbolt can carry DisplayPort, but Thunderbolt also allows for connecting things like docking stations and hard drive enclosures.
It’s basically a USB-C cable on steroids.
For connecting a display, though?
You don’t need all that.
And even putting that aside, you probably can’t even use it.
Some Intel motherboards do have a rear Thunderbolt port, but the vast majority of PCs don’t.
Thunderbolt is great otherwise.
But if you see a Thunderbolt cable, you should steer clear of it in your specific use case.
For one, you should check the quality of the cable you’re buying.
You should largely steer clear of no-name brands and check the reviews for whatever you’re buying.
On that note, be sure to buy a VESA-certified cable.
Also, double-check you check the length of the cable.
Most cables are around ten feet, but you might buy almost any length of DisplayPort cable you desire.
Which begs the question:what is the best DisplayPort cable?
