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The Best DVI to HDMI Cables and Adapters

Written by Edwin Jones / Fact checked by Andrew Wright

best dvi to hdmi cable and adapter

DVI or Digital Visual Interface works with digital-only (DVI-D) or digital and analog (DVI-I) signals. On the other hand, HDMI or High-Definition Media Interface can only work with digital signals. One advantage of HDMI over DVI is that it can also transmit digital audio.

If you have an older screen, you need to have the best DVI to HDMI cable and adapter for your newer HDMI equipped gadgets on it. I see no sense in replacing a perfectly good monitor or projector because it doesn’t have an HDMI port.

In my quest to find a DVI to HDMI converter to use my older screens with my newer gadgets, these twelve items have garnered my interest. Hopefully, these reviews can help you find the best solution to running your new laptops, TV sticks, and gaming consoles on your older TVs.

dvi-d-to-hdmi-adapter

Top 1

AmazonBasics Cable

47-stars

Length 3 ft
Resolution 1920 x 1080
Frequency 60Hz

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Top 2

Rankie R-1102 Cable

45-stars

Length 6 ft
Resolution 4K
Frequency 30Hz

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Top 3

BlueRigger Cable

4-stars

Length 6 ft
Resolution 1920 x 1080
Frequency 60Hz

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Best DVI to HDMI Cable and Adapter Reviews

1. AmazonBasics HDMI to DVI Cable

I have a friend who installs entertainment systems, and he once updated a client’s home theater to make it compatible with newer devices like the Apple TV. He ordered this 10-pack AmazonBasics DVI-D to HDMI adapter. This bundle is perfect because they were affordable for the volume, allowing him to install everything the client needed.

He gave the extras because I was rearranging my room that time, and I needed a 15-foot cable to wire my gaming console beside me to the television on the wall near the foot of my bed. And despite the distance, the low-resistance, high-quality material used for wiring ensures that I get excellent video quality.

I also liked how the wiring itself is protected with an outer PVC jacket, mylar weave, and aluminum foil. Such a solid build gives me confidence that it won’t get damaged, even if it gets squished by my stuff and furniture. This shielding also prevents interference from other devices, like my cellphone and tablet.

The DVI connector head also features copper shielding to prevent the same while adding rigidity to the plug’s structure. Thus, it avoids wear-and-tear and accidental damage to the screen’s DVI port.

The only problem with this is that it’s not compatible with some older devices that only run on analog signals. So before you buy this, read through your monitor’s specifications or manual and figure out if it transmits a digital or an analog signal.
Pros
  • Comes in a convenient 10-piece package to connect multiple devices
  • 15-foot length is perfect for home entertainment systems
  • Low-resistance, high-quality wiring material guarantees excellent video quality
  • Three-layer wiring protection for additional strength and interference prevention
  • Connector head features copper shielding to avoid damage to the DVI port
Cons
  • May not work on monitors that transmit analog signals only
If you’re planning to place some of your devices a bit farther from the TV than usual, this is the perfect solution for your wiring needs.

2. Rankie R-1102 DisplayPort to HDMI Cable

I once bought a laptop with a DisplayPort plug instead of the old DVI. Thus, I had to find a DisplayPort to HDMI cable, which would allow me to use my new gadget with the screens at my office.

While inspecting the cable for the first time, I noticed that the DP plug looks very similar to the HDMI end, except that it has a slightly different shape. Another significant difference is the built-in clip lock, which secures the connector to the port, avoiding accidental disconnections.

The wiring of the cable itself uses tinned-copper material for extra durability while ensuring excellent signal transmission. Rankie also used a double-layer aluminum foil and braid for better strength while avoiding environmental interference.

But what impresses me the most is its capability to carry 4K resolution and transmit uncompressed 7.1 surround-sound audio at the same time. That’s a lot of data for such a small, thin wire. With that, I can expect to enjoy the best quality audio and video with the cable.

However, we should note that this adapter is not bi-directional, so it can only transmit from DP to HDMI, not the other way around. If we need to convert the signal from HDMI to DP, we will have to use a different adapter.
Pros
  • Comes with a built-in clip lock to secure the connector to the port
  • Tinned-copper wire provides additional stability and durability
  • Double-layer aluminum foil and braid prevents environmental interference
  • Transmits 7.1 surround-sound audio
  • Supports various resolutions up to 4K UHD
Cons
  • Not bi-directional; only supports DP to HDMI conversion
If you need a high-resolution converter from DP to HDMI, then this is the solution for you.

3. BlueRigger HDMI to DVI Adapter Cable

The BlueRigger High-Speed DVI to HDMI Adapter Cable is one of the more premium cables available on the market. I’ve tried them out when in need of a long line for work when doing my presentations, and they seemed to have an excellent build quality.

At first glance, buyers can see that the connector heads have multiple protection layers – with PVC and metal mold jackets. The brand also added a molded strain relief boot to prevent the cable from internal fraying due to metal fatigue by bending.

BlueRigger used highly-pure multi-stranded copper conductors for efficient signal transmission and to avoid corrupting the image data. It also supports all HDTV formats, like 720p, 180p, and even WUXGA ultra-wide resolutions.

The best thing that I like about the BlueRigger Cable is that it offers a limited lifetime warranty and US-based customer support. I can rest assured that the makers stand behind their products and provide help if I run into issues that can be solved by their tech support.

One real problem was that the first item I received has misaligned pins. I can’t use it on any of my devices for fear of damaging them, but luckily, the seller replaced it within several days.
Pros
  • Come with multiple protection layers of PVC and metal mold jackets
  • Molded strain relief boot prevents internal fraying due to bending
  • Highly-pure multi-stranded copper wiring for efficient signal transmission
  • Supports all HDTV formats like 720p, 1080p, and WUXGA ultra-wide
  • Comes with a limited lifetime warranty and US-based customer support
Cons
  • Some items have misaligned pins that could be replaced
This adapter is sturdy and dependable; just make sure that you check it immediately upon receipt for any quality control issues.

4. Benfei Bi-directional DVI to HDMI Adapter

A colleague of mine once asked me if I could recommend a DVI to HDMI for the office projector. He said he needed something light, portable, and would comfortably fit in the projector bag. I recommended this product because I knew it met the requirements.

This item is small and easy to carry around. Such a compact design is handy for older, large projectors that weigh a lot. I also knew that it is plug-and-play – no drivers needed, which is crucial for older devices that no longer have manufacturer support.

The adapter comes with high-tightened screws so that it wouldn’t come loose over time and possibly damage the DVI port. This extra layer of safety and security means that you can avoid accidental damage on both the plug and the screen because it wouldn’t come off accidentally.

One more feature that impressed me with this item is its compatibility with 75 Hz monitors. Most adapters can only run at a maximum of 60 Hz, but I can use this for my higher end screens and enjoy the faster refresh rate. It’s also compatible with Full HD and WUXGA display resolutions for the best viewing quality.

My only gripe with this adapter is that it doesn’t transmit audio, so I have to use a different wire, or even an external speaker, to enjoy sounds. Otherwise, this adapter is a handy addition to our office’s projector bag.
Pros
  • Small and easy to carry, perfect for older, large projectors
  • Supports plug-and-play; no drivers needed
  • Comes with hand-tightened screws to avoid accidental damage to the DVI port
  • Compatible with monitors that have 75 Hz refresh rates
  • Works with resolutions up to Full HD and WUXGA
Cons
  • Doesn’t transmit audio
This is another portable adapter that I highly recommend. It’s widely compatible with most screens and can work with more modern, higher performance monitors.

5. Ranie DVI to HDMI Adapter

This converter comes from a well-known brand with good reviews. I bought this set at first because it came in two, which means I can have one at home and another in my laptop bag.

I love how this model supports 1080p Full HD resolutions. Thus, I could enjoy my movies and gaming on my large home TV at a decent quality. The images are sharp and crisp, and I can get the most viewing pleasure without buying a new screen.

The connectors used on this adapter have gold plating, which improves transmission performance. Such a premium construction can avoid corrosion’s deteriorating effects, thus increasing durability and longevity.

They also included hand-tightened screws so that the DVI plug can stay securely in place. Thus, such features could also protect my screen from damage due to accidental unplugging.

When checking the specifications, I also found that it’s compatible with both analog and digital ports, allowing me to use it on even older first-generation DVI devices. This gives me confidence that my new laptop could work on some of the older monitors we use in my office.

In my quest to find a DVI to HDMI converter to use my older screens with my newer gadgets, these twelve items have garnered my interest. Hopefully, these reviews can help you find the best solution to running your new laptops, TV sticks, and gaming consoles on your older TVs.
Pros
  • Comes in a two-pack package, for use at home and on the go
  • Supports 1080p Full HD resolutions with sharp and crisp images
  • Gold-plated connectors improve signal and add durability
  • Built-in hand-tightened screws prevent accidental unplugging
  • Compatible with both DVI-D and DVI-I ports for use even on older screens
Cons
  • Cannot transmit 144 Hz refresh rates
This adapter conveniently comes in a pack of two so you can have a spare ready should you get a new device that requires this as well.

6. Benfei HDMI to DVI Cable

Before I bought the adapter cable I’m using now for work; a colleague lent me this HDMI to DVI adapter to connect my laptop to a projector at the other end of the conference table. It’s a bi-directional cable compatible with both DVI-D and DVI-I ports, as well as all HDMI plugs.

The cable itself is internally protected by an aluminum foil and braid, which insulates it against interference. The connector heads are also plated with 24K gold to improve signal conduction from the device to the wire and extend plug life. These features ensure that you get the best quality on your screen when using it with the Benfei adapter.

It has been tested to support various resolutions, including 800 x 600 (SVGA), 1024 x 768 (XGA), 1280 x 1024 (SXGA), 1600 x 1200 (UXGA), 1920 x 1200 (WUXGA), and 1920 x 1080 (FHD). So no matter how old your device is, it is most likely supported by this adapter cable.

Some examples of the devices you can use include laptops, desktops, gaming consoles, TV boxes, TV sticks, multimedia devices, flat-screen TVs, LCD monitors, and projectors. As long as it has been manufactured after 2002, chances are you can use this adapter on it.

However, I did notice that I sometimes get a purple tinge on dark images (blues/blacks/grays). I’m not sure if it has something to do with the cable, the projector’s age, or my laptop’s color data. I also can’t recreate it every time, and a simple reset would usually fix the issue.
Pros
  • Bi-directional cable compatible with digital & analog ports, and all HDMI plugs
  • An aluminum foil and braid shield for avoiding interference
  • 24K gold-plated connector heads improve signal conduction
  • Supports multiple resolutions: SVGA, XGA, SXA, UXGA, WUXGA, and FHD
  • Can work with laptops, desktops, gaming consoles, flat-screen TVs, etc
Cons
  • Purple tinges in dark areas sometimes appear on the screen (tip: reset)
If you need a cable to use both ways – from DVI to HDMI and vice-versa, this is a recommended solution for you.

7. Rankie R-1107 HDMI to DVI Cable

I opted for this Rankie adapter once since I had a pre-existing HDMI cable. I had the chance to use it a couple of times, and here’s some excellent news about its stable performances.

I noticed that they used multi-strand tinned copper for wiring, not just the usual pure copper design. They claimed that this adds additional durability to the wire and prevents metal fatigue, which can cause fraying while retaining excellent signal transmission characteristics.

The connectors also utilized a strain-relief design to avoid damage on both the wire and the monitor. Plus, there are screw rods to keep the DVI connector secure to the port, thus preventing unwanted unreliable signals due to a loose connection.

The connector pins are also made with gold-plated and bare-copper pins, which give an excellent balance between signal quality and interference resistance. Such premium materials make the cable so reliable that you can use it for multi-monitor setups and increase your computer’s working space.

My friend’s only issue was that a couple of pins had come loose due to the cable’s continuous plugging and unplugging. So, I highly recommend that you keep this cable static at your home and secured with the locking pins to avoid potential damage.
Pros
  • Multi-strand tinned copper adds durability without quality compromise
  • Strain-relief connectors avoid damage to both adapter and port
  • DVI screw-rods keep the connector in place when in use
  • Gold-plated and bare-copper pins provide interference resistance
  • Reliable for multi-monitor workspace setups
Cons
  • Some pins came loose due to wear-and-tear over time
This adapter cable has one of the more robust wiring designs on the market. You just need to watch out for the connectors, but otherwise, they’re a good buy.

8. Capshi jp-466 HDMI to DVI Cable

I tried Capshi jp-466 cable to lug around in my luggage for work trips. I need reliable and can stand up to the rigors of almost daily packing and unpacking, and this one suffices.

What caught my eye is that the cable has an outer reinforced nylon braid instead of the usual PVC jacket. According to the maker, they’ve tested the wire, and it’s capable of withstanding being bent over 20,000 times.

The connectors are also covered with an aluminum alloy shell, allowing it to withstand multiple plug/unplug cycles over its lifetime. The contacts themselves are plated with 24K gold, and the internal wiring utilizes oxygen-free copper to ensure excellent signal quality from source to screen.

I can also use this cable for both HDMI-to-DVI and DVI-to-HDMI applications, as it is bi-directional and supports the signal transmission on either end. More than that, it transmits resolutions up to 1080p Full HD, so I’m sure that I can get the most quality out of my equipment.

The downside to this is that it’s one of the pricier adapters on the market. But if you’re looking for the best quality without worrying about the cost, then I highly recommend this item for you.
Pros
  • A reinforced nylon braid for added durability,
  • Designed to be bent over 20,000 times
  • Outer aluminum shell to withstand multiple plug/unplug cycles
  • 24k gold-plated connectors and oxygen-free copper wiring
  • Bi-directional application – can be used for HDMI-to-DVI and vice-versa
  • Transmits resolutions up to 1080p Full HD
Cons
  • One of the pricier options available on the market
If the price is no object, this is the best cable available out there. It’s sturdy, well-built, and will last you a lifetime of use.

9. CableCreation DVI to HDMI Cable

I once helped a friend set this cable up at his home when he bought a new laptop. This adapter has allowed him to use his TV as an extended monitor when working and as a duplicate monitor when he’s gaming.

When I inspected the cable, I saw a thick anti-pull design that protects the wire and the connector from accidental damage. It also prevents you from accidentally pulling the screen and potentially damaging the plug.

Its construction is solid as it comes with two shielding layers of 24k Gold-plate and oxygen-free copper. Thus, you should not worry about its signal stability.

The DVI connector itself is compatible with both DVI-D (24+1) and DVI-I (24+5), so you could use it with multiple devices. This adapter works with laptops, desktops, gaming consoles, and TV boxes, allowing your newer tech to be viewed on older screens and projectors.

But what impressed me the most about this cable is that it comes with a 24-month replacement warranty and lifetime technical support. It’s rare for companies to offer this guarantee for cables and accessories, so I’m delighted when I found out about this.

The only concern I have for this item is that a static signal would sometimes come up when plugged, but a simple plug/unplug would usually solve it.
Pros
  • Supports both mirror and extend mode for desktops and laptops
  • Thick anti-pull cable design protects the wire and the connector
  • Double shiedling layers: 24k Gold-plate and oxygen-free copper for stable signal
  • Compatible with both DVI-D (24+1) and DVI-I (24+5) ports
  • Allows newer tech to connect to older screens and projectors
  • Comes with a 24-month replacement warranty and lifetime technical support
Cons
  • Static signal appears sometimes, requires a plug/unplug cycle to fix
If you want to use a screen as a secondary or duplicate monitor, I recommend this item. It comes at a great price and is compatible with multiple models.

10. Startech.com HDMI to DVI Adapter

A friend damaged his HDMI port once because he accidentally put weight on it. That’s why he recommended this short adapter from Startech. It is a small, portable gadget that doesn’t apply as much stress and weight as other small, direct adapters.

The 8-inch cable length provides slack, reducing the risk of damage via straining on your ports. And since it’s light, it’s easy to carry around and store in any pocket in your laptop bag. This convenient model is an excellent solution for people who are always moving around.

Furthermore, this adapter is bi-directional, meaning you can use it whether you have a DVI-to-DVI or HDMI-to-HDMI cable on hand. So whatever equipment is available, this adapter will let you use it without you worrying if it will work or not.

The maximum tested resolution for this device is 1080p Full HD, so you can fully enjoy maximum image quality, whether in screen mirroring or extended screen modes. This will allow you to be more productive by giving you extra screen.

If there’s one thing that I must warn you about, this adapter didn’t work with my 30” Apple Cinema LCD Monitor.
Pros
  • 8-inch cable length allows for some slack and reduces strain on the ports
  • Small, light, and easy to carry around in your laptop or projector bag
  • Bi-directional cable allows for use with DVI-to-HDMI conversions and vice-versa
  • Maximum tested resolution of 1080p Full HD
  • Can be used for both screen mirroring or extended screen modes
Cons
  • Does not work with my 30” Apple Cinema LCD Monitor
All in all, this adapter is small and portable, and the design helps prevent accidental damage to your devices.

11. UGreen 30116 3-foot HDMI to DVI Cable

This cable has made it to my shortlist of the HDMI to DVI Cable because it is among UGreen’s best products yet. I have several UGreen accessories, and I can attest that they make quality gear.

The DVI connector on this adapter supports both 24+1 (DVI-D) and 24+5 (DVI-I), so you’re sure that it will work even with older screens and devices. It also has triple-layer protection for both the cable and the plugs, thereby avoiding ghosting and screen flashing caused by interference.

The maximum resolution transmission is WUXGA, which is a bit wider than 1080p Full HD. Therefore, you can use this on various devices like PCs, Macs, gaming consoles, and even TV boxes. The sharp and crisp image output of this device will let you maximize your viewing enjoyment.

But what I appreciate from the well-established brand their offer of a lifetime warranty and customer support. Not only do they make excellent products, but they also stand behind the long-lasting quality.

My only concern is that the HDMI connector can be a bit loose on older devices. The DVI port, on the other hand, poses no problems because I can use the screw locks to secure it in place.
Pros
  • Supports both analog and digital DVI signals (DVI-D/DVI-I)
  • Cables have triple-layer protection to avoid ghosting and interference
  • Maximum resolution of WUXGA, a bit wider than the standard 1080p Full HD
  • Compatible with PCs, Macs, gaming consoles, and TV boxes
  • Comes with a lifetime warranty and customer support
Cons
  • HDMI connectors tend to be loose on older devices
I would rate this adapter as one of the best-built ones available on the market. Its broad compatibility is also perfect for those who have multiple devices.

12. Cable Matters HDMI to DVI Cable

If you’re looking for the best HDMI to DVI cable for a permanent, behind-the-wall installation, then this Cable Matters adapter is an option that you should consider. It’s CL 3 fire safety rated, meaning it can resist an electrical surge of up to 300 watts.

The heavy-gauge copper design, with braid shielding, withstands strong electrical currents and offers excellent signal transmission with minimal loss. They also employed gold-plated connectors for extra longevity and an easy-grip surface with a lip edge for easy use.

Since it can work both as an HDMI to DVI and a DVI to HDMI adapter, making the product flexible. You can use it on both your new device and older screen and vice-versa. Furthermore, you don’t have to purchase multiple adapters should you have both older and more recent gadgets.

Cable Matters is also one of the few companies that offer a lifetime warranty with their adapters. At the price they’re offering, this guarantee makes their item one of the best bargains on the market.

However, I cannot enjoy my gaming monitor’s fast refresh rates when I use this cable because it doesn’t support 144 Hz. But for all other instances, like watching a movie or working, this adapter would suffice. If you have such high-end equipment, I recommend that you acquire a device with an HDMI output.
Pros
  • CL 3 fire safety rated – can withstand up to 300 watts
  • Heavy-gauge copper design offers excellent signal transmission with minimal loss
  • Gold-plated connectors for longevity
  • Works both as HDMI-to-DVI and DVI-to-HDMI adapter
  • Lifetime warranty guarantee by Cable Matters
Cons
  • Does not support 144 Hz refresh rates
If you plan to hide your cables behind drywall or through a cord hider, this is the adapter that I’d recommend.

What to Look for When Buying DVI to HDMI Cable and Adapter

best-dvi-to-hdmi-adapter

When connecting the HDMI device to a DVI screen, the first thing to do is finding what cables you have and the distance to cover between the gear and the TV.

With available cables like an HDMI-to-HDMI or DVI-to-DVI one, you can just purchase an adapter and use the existing gear. Otherwise, I suggest you buy an adapter cable to spare the trouble of having multiple connections on a single port.

Furthermore, you should also consider where to use the gear that needs the adapter/cable. If it’s static and designed for the office or at home, it is advisable to go for the direct adapter. But if you travel around a lot, the 8-inch adapter would be more reasonable.

Finally, you might need cables compatible with DVI-D and DVI-I protocols for most screens.

One more thing, you would want to purchase adapters from known brands like Amazon Basics. UGreen, and Cable Matters.

What is a DVI to HDMI Adapter Used for

best-hdmi-to-dvi-cable

This is used to convert the output of a DVI port to a compatible HDMI one. Since technology is advancing rapidly, our older devices tend to be outdated and won’t work with our newer ones. Instead of purchasing a new screen to replace a perfectly good one, I suggest you opt for an adapter to make it work.

This way, you can save both money and the environment by not adding electrical waste to our planet.

Are DVI to HDMI Cables any Good

dvi-d-to-hdmi-adapter

Yes, they’re excellent solutions to connect incompatible devices. Adapters are generally plug-and-play items, but we still have to ensure that they’re compatible with the DVI ports we’re using (either DVI-D or DVI-I), but otherwise, another option you can consider is a VGA to HDMI converter.

Does DVI to HDMI Reduce Quality

The short answer to this question is both yes and no.

DVIs are usually limited to a maximum resolution of 1080p Full HD or WUXGA (1920 x 1200 px). HDMIs, on the other hand, can output as much as 8K. So if you’re using an HDMI port with a higher resolution and converting it to a DVI signal, chances are you cannot enjoy the maximum capability of your HDMI device.

On the other hand, if you’re converting from a DVI port to an HDMI signal, then the HDMI device is definitely capable of carrying the maximum WUXGA resolution of the DVI source. Therefore, the quality will not suffer.

No matter if you’re transmitting from DVI to HDMI or vice versa, as long as the maximum quality you’re putting out is Full HD, then don’t expect any loss of quality.

Conclusion

No one item can be called the best DVI to HDMI adapter – because each product would fit differently, depending on your needs and requirements. For you to find the best DVI to HDMI cable and adapter for your devices, just find out the specifications of each device and then choose from any of the reputable brands we have discussed.

5/5 - (9 votes)