How to tell if a USB-C cable supports video

USB can stand for Universal Serial Bus, indicating that it is a universal port, but that does not mean that all ports and cables are the same. Some USB connections support applications such as data transfers, video, and high-power transmission, while others do not. Either way, to take advantage of these capabilities, including high-resolution video, you need the correct USB ports on your devices and a compatible USB cable. Although not all USB ports support video, those that do are usually labeled.

So how do you know if, for example, a USB-C cable supports video? Most cable manufacturers print the appropriate markings directly on the cable, and if they are not there, they will print the designated symbols on the retail packaging. Look for a small DP logo, which stands for DisplayPort, or the Thunderbolt logo, which looks like a lightning bolt on USB components. If you can’t find these icons on the cable, packaging, or in the documentation, you can also check the speed rating.

Typically, cables rated USB 3.1 Gen 2 or higher are capable of 10Gbps data speeds and will support video output. If the cable is generic and has no markings or documentation, you can physically test it to find out. Connect a laptop and a monitor that both support DisplayPort via USB-C to see if it works. This may not be the easiest method, but it will tell you if the cable supports video.

You can use an adapter, but you still need a cable that can handle high-speed data and video transfers, which means full USB 3.0 or equivalent. Adapters convert the signal and bridge from one connection type to another, such as USB-C to HDMI, but the resulting data stream must still be transmitted via cable between devices.

For example, you can use a USB-C to HDMI adapter to connect your laptop to a monitor, but you’ll still need an HDMI cable – capable of transmitting video – as a replacement for the USB cable. One side of the adapter plugs into the DP-compatible USB-C port, converts video for use via HDMI, and sends it via HDMI cable to the input of your monitor or display. Likewise, you can use a USB-C dock that converts video streams between inputs.

With it, you would plug into a USB-C port with DP capability on your device, then connect an HDMI cable between the dock and your display. To determine whether you should opt for a USB-C or HDMI connection for video output, consider your setup. USB Type-C is ideal for versatile setups such as connecting a laptop to a monitor, while still keeping the device powered. An HDMI connection is best for common multimedia uses, such as connecting to a projector or TV for a presentation.