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Cable Matters HDMI to VGA Adapter, VGA to HDMI Converter, Black | Unidirectional, 1080p VGA, HDMI Source to VGA Display, Compact Adapter
Cable Matters

Cable Matters HDMI to VGA Adapter

Bottom line: The Cable Matters HDMI to VGA Adapter: Outputs up to 1920x1080, plus 720p and 1600x1200 for older 4:3 VGA displays; main trade-off: unidirectional: HDMI source to VGA display only, will not run VGA into HDMI.

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By , Founder & Editor-in-Chief · Listing data updated

Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014. For retro PC hardware and period-correct parts, synthesises manufacturer documentation, community compatibility lists and marketplace listings rather than first-hand lab testing. Core beat: GPU performance across gaming, rendering, and local-LLM inference.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Outputs up to 1920x1080, plus 720p and 1600x1200 for older 4:3 VGA displays
  • ✓ Optional USB power boosts signal from Raspberry Pi and Retina MacBook Pro HDMI ports
  • ✓ Built-in IC chip does active conversion, not a passive pin remap
  • ✓ 4-inch cable tail keeps strain off your laptop's HDMI port

Cons

  • ✗ Unidirectional: HDMI source to VGA display only, will not run VGA into HDMI
  • ✗ No audio over VGA; sound has to be routed on a separate cable
  • ✗ HDCP sources like DVD and Blu-ray players will not display
  • ✗ VGA cable is not included and must be bought separately

Manufacturer description

The Cable Matters HDMI to VGA Adapter solves a specific problem: you have a modern HDMI source and an older 4:3 projector, CRT, or VGA monitor that still works fine. This unidirectional adapter takes HDMI in and outputs analog VGA at resolutions up to 1920x1080, including 720p and 1600x1200 for wider compatibility with legacy displays. A built-in IC chip handles the digital-to-analog conversion, and an optional USB power input boosts the signal from low-power HDMI ports like those on a Raspberry Pi or a MacBook Pro with Retina Display. Cable Matters lists compatibility with computers, the…

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SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored Cable Matters HDMI to VGA Adapter using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the retro graphics & video category. Cable Matters's retro graphics & video lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.

Common buyer scenarios for retro graphics & video of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this work in both directions, VGA to HDMI as well?

No. It is unidirectional: HDMI in from your source, VGA out to the display. A VGA source into an HDMI display needs a different adapter.

Will I get sound through this adapter?

No. VGA carries video only, so audio is not supported over the VGA cable and must be transmitted separately, such as through a 3.5mm output or your source device's speakers.

Can I use it with a Raspberry Pi?

Yes. Cable Matters lists Raspberry Pi kits and the Kano Computer Kit as compatible, and the optional USB power input exists specifically to boost the signal from low-power HDMI ports like the Pi's.

What resolutions does it support?

Up to 1920x1080 Full HD, including 720p and 1600x1200, which covers most VGA monitors and 4:3 projectors.

Why won't my Blu-ray player show a picture through it?

Devices that require HDCP for copyrighted content, including DVD and Blu-ray players, are not supported by this adapter. It is built for computers, Raspberry Pi kits, and consoles like the Xbox 360, PS3, and Wii U.

Key Features

  • Portable VGA to HDMI adapter for monitor connects a computer, laptop, or other device with HDMI to a monitor or projector with a VGA port; A VGA cable (sold separately) is required to connect from the adapter to a monitor or projector; Carry this lightweight adapter in your laptop bag for a business presentation from your computer or use it on the desktop to extend your screen to a monitor
  • USB powered active HDMI VGA adapter has built-in IC chip to improve compatibility between equipment and displays; The RGB to HDMI adapter has optional USB power to boost the signal from computers with low power HDMI ports such as the MacBook Pro with Retina Display or Raspberry Pi
  • Legacy companion VGA HDMI adapter for an older 4:3 aspect projector or TV with VGA; Connect to existing monitors or projectors with VGA input from the latest computers or desktop barebones; Audio is not supported over the VGA cable, it must be transmitted separately
  • Full HD video support for resolutions up to 1920x1080 including 720p, 1600x1200 for compatibility with most VGA displays; Gold-plated connectors improve the signal performance, molded strain relief provides durability and the 4 inch cable tail reduces stain on the HDMI port of your computer
  • HDMI to VGA compatible for connecting a computer, Kano Computer Kit, Raspberry Pi Kit, Xbox 360, PS3, Wii U or other device to a monitor or projector; Devices such as DVD or Blu-Ray players that require HDCP for viewing copyrighted content are not supported by this HDMI to VGA adapter

Full Specifications

BrandCable Matters
ColorBlack
FinishHdmi,Projector
Unit Count1 Count
ConnectivityUSB
Model Number113046-BLACK
CompatibilityPS3, Xbox
Warranty TypeLimited
Connector TypeVGA, HDMI
Item Dimensions9.17 x 6.34 x 0.75 inches
Mfr Part Number113046-BLACK
Number of Items1
Number of Ports1
Power Plug TypeNo Plug
Item dimensions L x W x H9.17 x 6.34 x 0.75 inches
Specific Uses For ProductMonitor,Projector,Tv
Global Trade Identification Number00738435982294
Full listing titleCable Matters HDMI to VGA Adapter, VGA to HDMI Converter, Black | Unidirectional, 1080p VGA, HDMI Source to VGA Display, Compact Adapter

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Cable Matters HDMI to VGA Adapter, VGA to HDMI Converter, Black | Unidirectional, 1080p VGA, HDMI Source to VGA Display, Compact Adapter is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.

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Cable Matters HDMI to VGA Adapter, VGA to HDMI Converter, Black | Unidirectional, 1080p VGA, HDMI Source to VGA Display, Compact Adapter
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