DisplayPort is the latest and greatest audio/video cable available today. While it does have many similarities with HDMI, DisplayPort is even more powerful. Whereas HDMI was designed as a multi-purpose cable capable of working with any and all electronics, DisplayPort was specifically created with computer monitors in mind. Capable of supporting HD video at even higher resolutions than HDMI, there is no better choice than DisplayPort when cable quality is your primary concern.

DisplayPort Specifications

The original DisplayPort cable, version 1.0, was developed by VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) and introduced in May 2006. Since then, several newer versions with various improvements have been developed and replaced their older counterparts. Many DisplayPort cables on the market are not marked with a version number, so knowing the age of the cable is the best way to tell how well it performs. These days, users would be unlikely to come across a cable older than version 1.2. This was the first version of DisplayPort to fully outshine HDMI, being capable of supporting higher maximum bandwidth.

Like HDMI, DisplayPort is capable of supporting audio/video instead of being video-only like many of its competitors. Despite these differences, DisplayPort connections can be adapted to other video formats including HDMI, DVI, and VGA. This can be done with an adapter cable or independent adapters can be used to convert existing cables to other formats. Keep in mind that when going between two different video formats, the video signal will only be as strong as the weakest link. For example, even if an old, analog VGA connection is adapted to a newer, digital format like DisplayPort, the image quality will only be on par with VGA specs.

DisplayPort vs. Mini DisplayPort vs. Thunderbolt

Along with standard DisplayPort, there is a downsized version called Mini DisplayPort. The two are functionally the same but Mini Displayport’s smaller size allows it to be used on electronics without enough room for a full-sized DisplayPort connection. Originally, Mini DisplayPort was created by Apple for use on the MacBook. To this day, MacBooks and other Apple products are the most likely place to spot a Mini DisplayPort connection. However, Apple did not stop there.

Mini DisplayPort, like the full-sized version, has seen some upgrades over the years. Apple eventually developed Mini DisplayPort into the Thunderbolt connection, which looks the same on the outside but is different on the inside. Whereas Mini DisplayPort sees use on non-Apple devices, Thunderbolt is proprietary to Apple and only used on their products. If a cable or port features a lightning bolt symbol (left in the image above), it is Thunderbolt. Mini DisplayPort cables are forward compatible with Thunderbolt ports. However, Thunderbolt cables are not backward compatible with Mini DisplayPort connections.

Upgrade to DisplayPort Today

Being designed for monitors, DisplayPort connections can commonly be found on computers as well as the monitors themselves. While DisplayPort is still new compared to many other video cables, it continues to see more and more use as older technologies like VGA and DVI are phased out. Whether it is DisplayPort or any other audio/video cable, ShowMeCables has it available and is ready to ship today. This includes the cables themselves as well as adapters for converting over existing cables, monitors, and other technology. 

Have questions about DisplayPort or any of our other products? You can reach our Sales team at 1-888-519-9505 or Sales@ShowMeCables.com