VGA (aka D-Sub 15)
Use it for: Connecting older PCs, monitors, HDTVs, and video projectors
It's similar in performance and use to: Component VGA
It adapts to: Mini-VGA, RGB Component
Add more ports by: Installing a new graphics card; connecting a splitter or adapter
The still-in-use analog classic, a VGA connector carries an RGB signal and can often be found on older or lower-spec PCs and HDTVs; laptops have moved past VGA some time ago due to the push for slimmer form factors. Because the analog design can pick up interference, you're better off choosing a digital cable if your device supports it.
Where to buy: Amazon
DVI (aka Digital Visual Interface)
Use it for: Connecting TVs and computer displays to PCs and other devices
If you have a choice, select it instead of: VGA, component video
It's similar in performance and use to: HDMI
It adapts to: HDMI, VGA, Mini-DVI, Micro-DVI
Add more ports by: Connecting a switchbox, adapter or upgrading your graphics card.
DVI comes in a few versions, having evolved as needs have grown.
DVI-I (integrated) supplies an analog and digital signal, which means that you can connect an old VGA monitor to it with a simple adapter. DVI-D (digital) carries only the digital signal.
Both types also offer single-link and dual-link versions; single-link has fewer pins and can't support the massive resolutions of dual-link, but you can connect a single-link monitor to a dual-link port. HDCP, the copy-protection technology used for streaming and other HD sources, works with the digital signal in DVI.
While the market has advanced over time DVI is still capable of pushing out a 144hz refresh rate on 1080p monitors, keeping it relevant for gamers on a budget.
Where to buy: Amazon.
Mini-DVI
Use it for: Connecting small devices to DVI displays
It's similar in performance and use to: DVI, HDMI
It adapts to: DVI, HDMI, Micro-DVI
Add more ports by: Connecting a switchbox
Most often found on older Apple laptops, this connector is essentially just a scaled-down DVI design.
Where to buy: Amazon
Micro-DVI
Use it for: Connecting small devices to DVI displays
It's similar in performance and use to: DVI, HDMI
It adapts to: DVI, HDMI, Mini-DVI
Add more ports by: Connecting a switchbox
Even smaller than Mini-DVI, this port is most often found on tiny devices.
A few Apple laptops have used it, although Apple moved on to Mini DisplayPort before the switch to USB-C in their most recent generation of laptops and computers.
This article was updated by Michael Serban in October 2019.
