Adapters and converters

Adapters and converters link devices whose connectors or signal standards do not match. This category covers video adapters (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, DVI), USB and USB-C converters, plus network, audio and storage adapters. Our range includes over 600 products, with brands such as Delock, EXSYS, InLine and StarTech.

How to choose an adapter or converter

Connector type and gender. Start by identifying the connector on the source and the one on the device you are connecting to. Check the gender as well: a plug or a socket decides whether the adapter attaches directly to the device or sits between two cables. Some adapters have a short lead, while others are small plug-in pieces with no cable.

Signal standard and resolution. The HDMI, DisplayPort or USB version sets the maximum resolution, refresh rate and data speed. If your monitor shows 4K at 60 Hz, the adapter must support that too, as older models often limit the picture to 30 Hz. For data adapters, USB 3.x support matters when you connect an external drive.

Passive or active converter. Simple adapters (HDMI to DVI, for example) only change the connector shape, because the signal is digital on both sides. Turning a digital signal into an analogue one (HDMI to VGA, for example) needs electronics, and some of these converters draw power over USB. Check the direction of conversion in the product description, as most converters work one way only.

USB-C and compatibility. A USB-C port does not guarantee video output. For a USB-C to HDMI or DisplayPort adapter to work, the laptop or phone must support DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt, so check the device specification first.

Internal and storage adapters. When connecting an SSD or hard drive, you need to know the exact interface: SATA, M.2 SATA and M.2 NVMe are not interchangeable. Expansion cards (extra USB or serial ports, for example) also depend on a free PCIe slot in the computer.

Brands in our range

• Delock: a German manufacturer known for a very large number of adapters, converters and less common connectors that are hard to find elsewhere.
• StarTech: a Canadian manufacturer focused on professional IT equipment, including video adapters, docking stations and office computer accessories.
• EXSYS: a German manufacturer known for expansion cards and interface controllers, such as extra USB or serial ports.
• InLine: a German brand offering computer cables and adapters with detailed technical descriptions.
• Unitek: a Hong Kong based company known for USB-C hubs and video adapters for laptops.
• Lanberg: a Polish manufacturer popular for network cables and cabling solutions.

Also in our range: ROLINE, SAVIO, SBOX, GEMBIRD, WENTRONIC and MICROCONNECT.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between an adapter and a converter?

An adapter changes the shape of the connector and passes on the same signal, while a converter changes the type of signal itself. HDMI to DVI is usually an adapter, whereas HDMI to VGA is a converter with electronics inside. Shops often use the two names interchangeably, so rely on the product description.

Will a USB-C to HDMI adapter work with any laptop?

No, it only works with devices whose USB-C port supports video output. This is usually listed as DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt. If the manufacturer does not state it, check the device manual.

Can I connect an old VGA monitor to a new computer?

Yes, you need an HDMI or DisplayPort to VGA converter. VGA is an analogue signal, so a plain cable will not work, and the converter must contain a signal conversion chip. The resolution will be whatever the monitor itself supports.

How do I know which adapter an SSD needs?

Look at the drive interface first: a SATA drive has a flat L-shaped connector, while an M.2 drive is a small card. M.2 SATA and M.2 NVMe drives use different protocols, so the adapter must support your exact type.