DVI and VGA adapters

DVI and VGA adapters connect an older monitor, projector or computer to a different video connection. Our range has over 700 models: DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort and HDMI converters to DVI or VGA, DVI to VGA adapters and connector gender changers. You will find products from DELOCK, INLINE, StarTech.com and ROLINE.

How to choose a DVI or VGA adapter

Connectors at both ends. Start by checking which ports your computer and monitor have. Our range includes adapters from DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort, HDMI, DVI-D and VGA, with DVI-D, VGA, DisplayPort, DVI or DVI-I at the other end.

Analogue or digital signal. VGA carries only an analogue signal, DVI-D only a digital one, and DVI-I can carry both. A simple DVI-D to VGA adapter therefore will not work, while DVI-I to VGA works only if the port actually outputs an analogue signal.

Active or passive. DisplayPort and HDMI are digital, so converting them to VGA needs a converter with a chip that turns the digital signal into an analogue one. Some DisplayPort outputs with DP++ support simpler passive adapters to DVI or HDMI, so check the product description.

Resolution and audio. Single-link DVI usually tops out at 1920 × 1200, and higher resolutions need dual-link DVI. VGA is enough for many office monitors, but the picture can look softer, especially over a longer cable. Neither DVI nor VGA carries sound, so if you convert from HDMI you will need to connect audio separately.

Plug or socket. Many models have a male plug on one side and either a plug or a socket (female) on the other. A short adapter that sits directly on the port suits tight, tidy setups, while one with a cable is easier when the port is hard to reach or would block the neighbouring one.

Brands we carry

• DELOCK: a German manufacturer known for a large catalogue of cables, adapters and converters, including less common connector combinations.
• StarTech.com: a Canadian company whose connectors and converters are aimed at IT professionals and offices.
• LINDY: a company of German origin making cables and connectivity products for IT and audio-visual systems.
• ROLINE and VALUE: brands of the Swiss company Secomp, sold as cables and connection accessories.
• LENOVO and DELL: computer makers whose adapters are often designed for their own laptops and docking stations.

Also in our range: INLINE, SHIVERPEAKS, MICRO CONNECT, ACT and VIVOLINK.

Frequently asked questions

Can I connect HDMI to a VGA monitor with a simple adapter?

Not with a simple passive cable, because HDMI is digital and VGA is analogue. You need a converter with a signal conversion chip, and the audio has to be connected separately since VGA does not carry sound.

What is the difference between DVI-D, DVI-I and VGA?

DVI-D carries only a digital picture, DVI-I carries digital and analogue, and VGA (D-Sub) carries only analogue. This is why DVI-I to VGA usually works with a basic adapter, while DVI-D to VGA does not without a converter.

Does a DVI or VGA adapter carry sound?

No, DVI and VGA carry video only. If you convert HDMI or DisplayPort to one of them, send the audio through a separate 3.5 mm cable or another connection.

How do I connect DisplayPort to a DVI monitor?

Use a DisplayPort to DVI adapter or cable. If your video output supports DP++, a passive model is enough, otherwise you will need an active converter. Also check the monitor's resolution, as single-link DVI may not support it.