How to Choose a Computer Monitor (2025): Buying Guide
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Monitor Ports Explained: HDMI,DisplayPort,USB,and More
Table of Contents
Connecting a monitor to a computer might seem simple, but the world of ports can be surprisingly complex. Beyond the basic HDMI and DisplayPort, monitors now offer USB hubs, Ethernet jacks, and even KVM switches. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about monitor ports, helping you choose the right monitor and connect it effectively.
The Basics: HDMI and DisplayPort
All monitors have HDMI and DisplayPort to connect to a PC (or even VGA if it’s a really old one). Those are the basics. If you want the latest of these port standards in monitors, you’re looking for HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.1.
| Port | Common Uses | Key Features | Latest Version (as of Feb 2024) |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI | connecting to TVs, gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, PCs | Audio and video transmission, widely compatible | HDMI 2.1 |
| DisplayPort | Connecting to PCs, high-refresh-rate gaming monitors | High bandwidth, supports multiple monitors, adaptive sync (FreeSync/G-Sync) | DisplayPort 2.1 |
| VGA | Older PCs and monitors | Analog signal, limited resolution and refresh rate | Obsolete |
USB Hubs and Beyond
More and more monitors nowadays include a built-in USB hubwhich can sometimes include USB-A ports, an Ethernet jack, and more.Once you connect over the upstream USB-C (or USB-B if the monitor’s a bit older), you can plug accessories and peripherals directly into the monitor. That’s particularly useful if your laptop doesn’t have many ports, or if you frequently move your laptop and like to keep it as cable-free as possible. Many monitors also include Power Delivery over USB-C, letting you connect and charge your laptop through a single cable.
- USB-A: The standard USB port for connecting peripherals like keyboards, mice, and flash drives.
- USB-C: A versatile port that supports data transfer, video output (DisplayPort Alt Mode), and Power Delivery.
- Ethernet: Provides a wired network connection.
- Power delivery (PD): Allows the monitor to charge a connected laptop via USB-C.
KVM Switches
Some workstation-level monitors take this a step further and also include a KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) switch, which allows you to switch between multiple laptops or PCs, all plugged into the same monitor. Most people don’t need this, but if you run multiple PCs for any reason, it’s a must.
Port Placement and Cable Management
The placement of these ports is also vital. Ideally, you won’t have to reach the back of your monitor too frequently enough, as let’s be real, it’s a huge pain. Down-firing ports are the hardest to reach and see, but give you the cleanest look. Back-facing ports, meanwhile, are easier to plug in. Some of the new Dell monitors even include a pop-down, forward-facing port module for rapid access to USB-C or a headphone jack. Some monitor stands include some built-in cable management to route your cords