I'm trying to connect my 2021 HP laptop to my TV for gaming and movies, but I can't figure out what kind of port it has. The port looks almost like an HDMI, just smaller by about 20%, but I know it's not mini HDMI. I checked stores like Walmart, Target, and Best Buy, but no one seems to have anything that matches. It's definitely not the display port, mini display port, or any mini HDMI connectors I've seen. The edges are a bit rounded, and it has the data wafer in the middle. What is this connection, and where can I find the right cable?
4 Answers
I saw that you posted a picture in the comments! It does look like a mini HDMI, but if the stores don't have it, maybe double-check that you're not comparing it to a regular HDMI size. Some devices have slightly different ports, like a USB-C that mimics HDMI.
From your description, it might actually be a USB-C port, which can look like HDMI but is used for video output on some newer laptops. If that's the case, you could also consider getting a USB-C to HDMI adapter if you want to connect to the TV directly!
It sounds like you're dealing with a mini DisplayPort! It can be tricky because it looks a lot like HDMI. Lots of people mix them up. You can usually find mini DisplayPort cables online or at tech shops. Just double-check that it’s not a USB-C port instead!
Yeah, mini DisplayPort is a good guess. Just make sure to look for the shape—it's a long rectangle with one corner cut off.
Make sure you're looking at the right specs—the mix-up between mini HDMI and the two types of DisplayPort is common. Your laptop’s manual or manufacturer’s site usually has a clear diagram of the ports. Check that out before making a purchase!
Thanks for that! I really thought it was mini HDMI, but the stores keep confusing me with the sizes.