> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/guides/pen-displays/display-connector-types.md).

# Display connector types

## Overview

When working with pen display tablets, you'll encounter lots of different connector types. This is a visual map of those connectors.

## Terminology

* the "male" end is called the **plug**
* the "female" end is called the **receptacle**

## HDMI connectors

Wikipedia: <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HDMI>

![](/files/dciy0FYSQmdp2CHZsdR1)

## DisplayPort connectors

Wikipedia: <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DisplayPort>

Normal-sized DisplayPort connectors

![](/files/KlDAaCxbFb6tBKPYTVr8)

Mini-DisplayPort connectors

![](/files/6UZOF4mTTSgNDGs3PenO)

## USB-C connectors

![](/files/4ZfL7lRrwJRyyi7ytSn7)

Wikipedia: <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB-C>

The important thing to remember about USB-C is that it is a popular connector type, but it is often not clear what a given cable or port supports. For example:

* Some ports and cables support power only
* Some ports and cables support power + data
* Some ports and cables support power + data + display signal
* Some ports may not deliver as much power as you need
* Some cables may not support as much power as you need

## Thunderbolt 3 and 4 connectors

Thunderbolt 3 and 4 use the same USB-C port shape.

The important thing about Thunderbolt cables and ports is that they are required to carry a display signal. So, if your USB-C cable or port supports Thunderbolt 3 or 4, it can carry a display signal.

Wikipedia: <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thunderbolt_(interface)>

![](/files/CDqBUEBxWAKmycwk1j8O)

## Thunderbolt 2 connectors

Thunderbolt 2 connectors use the mini-DisplayPort connector type. Again, by definition, they can carry a display signal.

![](/files/D5fLu2I5g8PWvO0yUi6r)

## USB-A connectors

USB-A ports are not used to provide a display signal. They are being listed here as a reference so you know what they look like compared to the other USB ports.

![](/files/vp9ObbPGpcvDRTYlaDdS)

## Other resources

* [Techquickie - Why DisplayPort Is Still Better Than HDMI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qr-ACsQ1BXA) Aug 11, 2023