The 10 Best Thunderbolt to HDMI Adapters
This wiki has been updated 24 times since it was first published in February of 2018. The Thunderbolt connection protocol transmits data significantly faster than USB, so its high bandwidth makes it great for sending video feeds to the newest monitors and TVs. Versions 1 & 2 use a Mini DisplayPort, while the 3rd and fastest iteration takes advantage of the newest USB-C connector. One of these adapters can add HDMI capability to your tablet, 2-in-1, or smartphone quickly and easily. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Uni F01
2. Sabrent TH-W3H2
3. Anker PowerExpand+
Editor's Notes
November 20, 2020:
If you just need something simple, the Uni F01 should get the job done, or the Cable Matters 101001 if you need a Thunderbolt 2 connection. The Cable Matters 201062, ChoeTech 1201BK, and CableCreation 90 Degree are all different models that combine the adapter with the cable itself, so you won't need to get a separate extension. For what it's worth, many of these will also work with USB-C smartphones as long as the phone supports the DisplayPort Alt Mode protocol.
On the other hand, there are quite a few options that can fill broader needs. The Sabrent TH-W3H2 fully utilizes the Thunderbolt 3 standard and thus allows for dual 4K displays at 60 hertz, which is something the CalDigit Mini Dock can also boast. The Anker PowerExpand+ is one of the most reliable hubs from a popular electronics company, and while the Lention Hub isn't as well known, it does promise to work with MacBooks. If you need something that works with legacy devices as well as modern TVs, the Gofanco Adapter should do the trick.
October 20, 2019:
Depending on what kind of connectivity you need in addition to an HDMI connector, there are quite a few options to choose from here. The Uni is the simplest and doesn't actually require Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, but only a USB-C port with video capability. While the Sabrent is pretty costly, it is a big step up, because it uses the HDMI 2.0 standard and can accommodate 2 4k monitors at 60 hertz, something that standard USB-C currently cannot do. The BeEasy and Lention are both capable USB-C hubs with 4K output, but like many others, they only utilize HDMI 1.4 and are therefore limited to 30 hertz. Speaking of hubs, the CalDigit is an especially powerful docking station that has all the capabilities of a high-end dock minus the Power Delivery passthrough.
We've also included a few somewhat specialty items that can come in handy for many users. ChoeTech and CableCreation both make highly capable HDMI cables that streamline the connection process. And the Gofanco and Cable Matters options use the older mini DisplayPort connector used by Thunderbolt 1 and 2, which you'll need if you're using an older MacBook or Microsoft Surface.
Special Honors
Apple Digital AV Multiport Adapter Mac users sometimes run into compatibility issues with third-party accessories. If you've had this issue, one surefire way to get around it is to go straight to the source and pick up the Apple-branded model, which will certainly work for anything with a Thunderbolt 3 port. apple.com
4. Cable Matters 201062
5. CalDigit Mini Dock
6. ChoeTech 1201BK
7. Cable Matters 101001
8. Lention Hub
9. Gofanco Adapter
10. CableCreation 90 Degree
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.