The short answer is: Yes. But it’s not as simple as that.
Okay, connecting the two is simple, but you can’t just use any type of converter. Plus, the DisplayPort signal is not compatible with HDMI.
There are a few adapters involved.
Basically, it’s just like connecting your iOS device to a non-apple device. No, don’t get mad. You know it’s true!
A well-known member of the fellowship of the ring once said: “One does not simply connect their DisplayPort to HDMI”…or something like that.
You need to be sure that you are using the right equipment and connecting each end to the right sockets. But how do you do that exactly?
Don’t worry, we’re going to be talking about that and more!
Quick Navigation
What Do You Need to Connect DisplayPort Adapter to HDMI?
If you’re not techy, this might all feel confusing for you.
But don’t worry, we’ll be taking things slow. Let’s start with the basics that you will be needing.
There are two types of adapters that you can use:
First: Active Adapters
- Portable DisplayPort to HDMI active adapter connects a DisplayPort (DP, DP++, DisplayPort++)...
- Display Port to HDMI adapter transmits high-definition audio and video from your computer to an HDTV...
- Active HDMI to DisplayPort adapter supports video resolutions up to 3840x2160 @ 60Hz (Ultra HD) and...
Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
Active adapters make use of additional chips to make the conversion inside your adapter. It is a great option if you are planning to use multiple monitors with the same computer.
The only downside here is that it’s a bit pricey compared to passive adapters sold in the market.
Second: Passive Adapters
- COMPACT DESIGN: The BENFEI DisplayPort to HDMI adapter connects a computer, laptop or devices with...
- SUPERIOR STABILITY: Built-in advanced IC chip converts DisplayPort signal to HDMI signal; It is NOT...
- INCREDIBLE PERFORMANCE: This converter supports up to [email protected] (1080p) including 720p,...
Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
Passive adapters are a more pocket-friendly option as they do not require additional chips. You can check whether you can use a passive adapter by looking for the DP++ symbol.
One other thing you will need is an HDMI cord.
If you’re not sure which one to buy, choose the strongest or latest model. In this case, it’s the HDMI 2.0 or higher.
This cord will be the one you use to connect with your active/passive adapter to your DisplayPort.
That’s it? Yep, that’s it!
Now let’s talk about how you’re going to make the connection.
How Do You Connect HDMI to DisplayPort?
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While you can easily connect DisplayPort to HDMI, the same can’t be said for the other way around.
HDMI does not support signal transition onto the GPU. So you will need an adapter that comes with some computing power. Your best bet here is to use an Active Adapter .
Luckily, it’s easy to find all the gear you need to connect your HDMI to DP correctly. Plus, they don’t dig holes in your pockets.
Just follow the steps we’re about to give, and you’ll be good to go!
Let’s start:
- Take your HDMI cord and active adapter.
- Connect the HDMI end of your adapter with your HDMI.
- Now use the DisplayPort end of your active adapter to connect to the DP outlet.
Here’s a short video summing up how to connect your HDMI monitor to your DisplayPort.
Some things to keep in mind:
Make sure that you push in the DP end, as the small spikes make it a bit hard to plug completely.
Not plugging it in properly will result in errors or your DisplayPort connection not working altogether.
Pro-tip: make sure that your HDMI cord is not only compatible with your adapters, but is the right length. Nothing is worse than getting ready to connect your monitor or TV to your DP, only to find out that your chord is way too short.
Reasons Why You Should Not Use an Adapter to Connect HDMI to DisplayPort
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We discourage using the same adapter you used to connect DP to HDMI when connecting HDMI to DP because:
- HDMI specifications don’t support the signal type of DisplayPort LVDS.
You can check it for yourself by plugging your HDMI TMDS into your DP monitor. It’s not going to work!
- DP receptacles on monitors only accept LVDS 3.3v DP signal type.
- You will need an active adapter that is made to convert the HDMI TMDS signal to DisplayPort LVDS.
Did you try to force DisplayPort to HDMI connection before you read this article?
If you did, don’t worry.
Just follow the steps we mentioned above, and you’ll be able to enjoy your monitor at its highest refresh rate!
Conclusion
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So, does HDMI to DisplayPort adapters work? Yes, they do.
Should you do it? Not unless you have the right equipment to pull it off.
As we have mentioned, you have to use the right converters or else it won’t work. It might even cause your attachments to short-circuit and damage your equipment.
We highly recommend that you pick up a few active adapters on Amazon to help with your HDMI to DP connections.
FAQs
Now that you know how to connect HDMI monitors to your DisplayPort, let’s talk about a few FAQs.
How Do I Tell If My DisplayPort Adapter is Active or Passive?
Active DisplayPort adapters have a semiconductor or chip built-in that helps boost the performance of the device.
If there is no chip or if the adapter cable is the same size as a “normal” plug, then it’s passive.
What Type of Adapters Do I Need to Connect Multiple Monitors?
If you are planning to connect multiple monitors, you will want to use active adapters, simply because these are able to support the DP++ output on multiple monitors.
You can also make use of a DisplayPort Multi-Stream Transport (MST) hub.
A quick tip: if you want to take full advantage of MST’s features, make sure your graphics card supports DisplayPort 1.2 standards.
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How Much Do HDMI to DisplayPort Adapters Typically Cost?
It depends on which types you’re buying.
Active adapters typically cost a bit more than passive adapters.
Last update on 2023-03-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.
Why Can’t I Just Connect HDMI to My DisplayPort Without Adapters?
DisplayPort and HDMI don’t run the same signal type. DP uses LVDS, while HDMI uses TMDS.
Why Isn’t My DisplayPort Working?
Check where you plugged each end and see if you’ve connected all the spikes to the outlets. They’re really small, thus, easier to miss.
Try wiggling the plug and pushing it in, just in case it wasn’t connected properly.
Vance is a dad, former software engineer, and tech lover. Knowing how a computer works becomes handy when he builds Pointer Clicker. His quest is to make tech more accessible for non-techie users. When not working with his team, you can find him caring for his son and gaming.