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When you’ve just gotten a new monitor for your PC, finding out that your new toy is incompatible can be disappointing. VGA to DVI connection issues are among the most common, and they can be incredibly frustrating to learn about after you’ve already purchased the monitor. Same problem with HDMI to VGA, for which you need an HDMI to VGA adapter.
Don’t go out and exchange your new monitor for a different model. Instead, buy a VGA to DVI adapter! Doing this is a much easier and cheaper fix than buying a new display. However, there are many different adapters on the market.
Finding the best VGA adapter can be quite a struggle. That is why we did the work of combing through the market and found the best VGA to DVI adapters available. With this list, you will have your display connected to your computer in no time!
What’s the Difference Between VGA and DVI?
The primary difference between these two connectors is the signal they use. DVI (digital visual interface) is a newer type of connection that transfers digital signals. Meanwhile, VGA (video graphics array) is older and transmits analog signals.
Unsure of What VGA to DVI Adapter You Need?
Your first and only step is to identify the type of DVI port your computer has. DVI connectors come in three varieties: DVI-A, DVI-D, and DVI-I. Take a look at these diagrams to help you identify DVI-D 24+1 and DVI-I 24+5 ports.
Thankfully, there is only one type of VGA connector. Once you have identified what kind of DVI connection you have, any appropriate adapter will fit all VGA-supported displays.
What to Look for When Buying VGA to DVI Adapters?
These are some necessary specifications you should be aware of when purchasing a VGA to DVI adapter.
Length
You should consider where you will place your computer and display and the distance between them. Purchase an adapter that is long enough to support your setup. You don’t want to buy a cord that is too long because the signal can degrade.
Adapter “Gender”
To avoid any extra frustration, know what type of connection you need. Adapters are assigned genders depending on the bond. A male connector has pins that plug into the female connector.
Construction
Evaluate the materials used to construct the VGA to DVI adaptor. The industry standard is PVC-jacketed cords. Additionally, if you are using a longer cord, make sure the line is insulated. The signal can degrade on longer cables that are not protected, which can cause poor video quality.
Do VGA to DVI Adapters Work?
Yes, they do! VGA to DVI adapters work by changing the analog VGA signal to the digital signal recognized by the DVI port. VGA to DVI adapters make this signal conversion seamless.
However, the transformation from VGA to DVI results in lower signal quality.
The Best VGA to DVI Adapters
Here are some of the best VGA to DVI adaptors available today.
Benfei DVI-D to VGA Adapter
The Benfei DVI-D to VGA Adapter is a male DVI-D 24+1 to VGA female adapter. The adapter allows you to connect DVI-D-enabled desktops and laptops to VGA displays, TVs, and projectors.
Highlights
- High-quality video adapter
- Signal-loss prevention
- Gold-plated connectors
The adapter converts the DVI-D signal to a VGA signal. However, a separate VGA cord is needed to connect your computer to the display. Additionally, this adaptor does not support audio.
The product is plug-and-play which means no software or drivers are needed, and it comes with an 18-month unconditional warranty.
This DVI-D to VGA adapter supports high-quality video. You can support HDTV resolution at 1080p and 60 HZ and PC graphics up to 1920×1200 at 60 HZ. This Benfei adapter has a quad-shielded cable and a PVC jacket to ensure maximum video performance and prevent signal loss.
Please note that this adapter only works with DVI-D 24+1. If you have a DVI-I 24+5, keep scrolling to find the appropriate adapter.
Cable Matters VGA to DVI-I Adapter
The Cable Matters VGA to DVI-I adapter is an all-in-one DVI-I 24+5 to VGA adapter. It has a DVI-I male end and VGA male end, so you won’t need to purchase an additional VGA cable, helping you keep your workspace clean. Plus, the six-foot cable will give you extra flexibility when setting up your computer and display.
Highlights
- An extensive range of resolution support
- Gold-plated connectors with easy-grip threads
- No need to purchase a second VGA cable
This DVI-I to VGA adapter supports up to 1080p resolution, including 800×600, 1024×764, 1280×1024, 1600×1200 and 1680×1050! However, it does not support audio signals.
This Cable Matters VGA to DVI-I adapter features superior construction design and manufacturing quality. It includes thrumb screws to ensure a secure connection.
Possible Con: Please note that this adapter is incompatible with DVI-D 24+1 and will not transmit from VGA to DVI.
Benfei DVI-I 24+5 to VGA Adapter
The Benfei DVI-I 24+5 to VGA adapter is the smallest adapter on our list. This adapter goes directly from DVI-I male to VGA female without a cord, saving you space and keeping your workspace free of clutter. The package contains two adapters, meaning you can connect a second display at no additional cost.
Highlights
- Works on desktops, laptops, and video cards
- Compatible with any display
- Resolution up to 1080p at 60 HZ
- Two adapters in the package
The slim DVI-I and VGA connectors have screws to ensure a stable and secure connection and allow for easy plugging and unplugging. Additionally, the gold-plated connectors optimize performance and protect your devices from EMI and signal loss.
This adapter is plug and play, so no software or drivers are needed, and it comes with a lifetime warranty.
Please note that you will need a male-to-male VGA cable to connect this adapter to a display, and this adapter does not interface with DVI-D 24+1.
Benfei DVI-D 24+1 to VGA 10 Foot Cable
The Benfei DVI-D 24+1 to VGA 10 foot cable is a high-performance adapter. It connects DVI-D 24+1 to VGA, and its 10-foot length gives you greater flexibility when connecting your computer to your display (it also comes in 6 ft).
Highlights
- Supports high-quality video
- Resolutions up to 1080p at 60 HZ and PC graphics up to 1920×1200 at 60HZ
- Minimized signal loss
The quad shielded cable features a PVC jacket that improves video performance and minimizes signal loss. Not only is the extra coating preferred in most cases, but you also need it if you’re looking for a longer cable.
No drivers or software are needed to use this adapter, and it comes with an 18-month warranty.
Please note that this is an all-in-one adapter and does not need an additional VGA male-to-male cable. Additionally, it does not support DVI-I 24+5 connectors.
UGreen DVI-I 24+5 to VGA Adapter
The UGreen DVI-I 24+5 to VGA adapter is an excellent all-in-one adapter. It comes in 5 and 10-feet lengths, giving you maximum flexibility when connecting your PC and display.
Highlights
- Allows for 1080p at 60 HZ high definition on a TV
- 1920x1080p at 60 HZ for a computer display
This adapter is excellent for connecting a second screen to your PC. A second screen will allow you to mirror or extend your desktop. Mirroring allows you to display your desktop on a second monitor. Extending your desktop gives you additional desktop space.
This UGREEN DVI-I to VGA adapter has excellent construction. It features gold-plated connectors, copper conductors for exceptional connectivity. Like all DVI to VGA adapters, it does not support audio.
The PE foam, twisted copper wires, aluminum and braid insulators, and PVC prevent signal loss and ensure reliable connectivity.
Please note that this adapter is incompatible with DVI-D 24+1 and does not require an additional VGA cord to connect to the display.
CABLEDECONN Active DVI-D 24+1 to VGA Adapter
The Cabledeconn DVI-D 24+1 to VGA adapter is a male-to-male adapter which means you won’t need another VGA cable to connect your computer to your display. This adapter has a 6-foot cord giving you flexibility when setting up your workspace.
Highlights
- Gold-plated connectors to resist corrosion and provide rigidity
- The adapter works with Windows, Mac, and Linux with laptops, desktops, or graphic cards.
- It is plug-and-play, so no drivers or software are needed.
This DVI-D to VGA adapter supports high-quality video with HDTV resolution up to 1080p at 60HZ and PC graphics up to 1920×1200 at 60HZ. However, it does not support audio signals.
Gold-plated connectors resist corrosion and provide rigidity while also improving signal performance. This performance minimizes signal loss over the length of the cable.
Please note that this adapter does not work with DVI-I 24+5 ports. The adapter is an all-in-one product, so you will not need another VGA cable to connect your computer to the display.
VGA to DVI Adapter Conclusion
Finding the best VGA-DVI adapter can be difficult. The varying terms and specifications can make this task quite challenging. And let’s not forget there are a lot of VGA adapters out there like Lightning to VGA adapter, enough adapters to get lost in.
Hopefully, this article has cleared up some of the confusion, and you have found the best VGA to DVI adapter for your needs.