> 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/hdmi-adapters/usbc-to-hdmi-adapters.md).

# USB-C to HDMI adapters

**Requirements on USB-C port**

Not all USB-C ports carry a video signal. You need one that can. Read more here: [USB-C DisplayPort alt mode](/drawtab/guides/pen-displays/usbc-dp-alt-mode.md)

**Quality**

There is no loss in video quality using this kind of adapter because it is completely digital.

**What I use**

On the high end, I've used this adapter from [CalDigit USB-C to HDMI 2.1 adapter](/drawtab/catalog/accessories/docks-and-hubs/caldigit/caldigit-usbc-to-hdmi-2.1-adapter.md)

I've also had good luck with the "Amazon Basics Premium Aluminum USB-C to HDMI Cable Adapter (Thunderbolt 3 Compatible) 4K\@60Hz, 6-Foot, Black". Note that is an entire cable, not just an adapter. link: <https://www.amazon.com/dp/B083KV1BR3>

This comes in different lengths (6ft and 3ft) and different refresh rates (60Hz and 30Hz). Make sure you buy one long enough for your needs and get the 60Hz version.

<div align="left" data-full-width="false"><figure><img src="/files/J9WCAuZlHHkVvC5VOrSv" alt="" width="188"><figcaption></figcaption></figure></div>

## Alternative: Thunderbolt docks

Instead of a single USB-C-to-HDMI adapter, you can use a **Thunderbolt dock**. These are usually meant for laptops with Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 ports, and they add many extra ports at once - not just video.

A few things to know:

* Docks have rules about which USB-C ports they work with. They generally work well when plugged into **Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, and USB4** ports, but some docks may not work with plain **USB 3.x** USB-C ports.
* Not every dock has an HDMI port. I personally use a [CalDigit TS4](/drawtab/catalog/accessories/docks-and-hubs/caldigit/caldigit-ts4-thunderbolt-dock.md), which has DisplayPort but no HDMI - so I pair it with a DisplayPort-to-HDMI adapter.
* Thunderbolt dock compatibility can be finicky, so do your research before you buy.
