Choosing the right VGA cable (or the right adapter cable to VGA) still matters: older monitors, projectors in classrooms, legacy AV gear, and some budget displays still rely on VGA. The right cable gives you stable 1080p video without noise or connection headaches. These recommendations come from hands-on testing, technical spec comparisons, and consumer feedback to identify reliable, compatible options for different budgets and setups.
How we tested and chose these cables
What we looked for:
- Signal fidelity at common resolutions (primarily 1920x1080@60Hz).
- Build quality: connector plating, strain relief, and (where relevant) latch mechanisms.
- Real-world compatibility across platforms (Windows laptops, Mac Mini/MacBook with Mini DP, DisplayPort desktops, HDMI-only sources).
- Important technical behavior: whether the cable/adapter is unidirectional, whether it converts digital-to-analog (HDMI/DP→VGA) and whether it carries audio (VGA does not transmit audio).
- User feedback: durability reports, plug/unplug convenience, and warranty/support.
Testing approach:
- Physical inspection for connectors, screws/latches, and cable jacket.
- Verification of stated resolutions and modes (mirror/extend) on representative devices — a Windows laptop with DisplayPort, a Mac with Mini DisplayPort, and an HDMI source (set-top box / PC).
- Practical checks for compatibility with low-power HDMI ports (noted limitations) and behavior on MacBooks/Surface where applicable.
The final list balances price, reliability, and real-world compatibility so you can pick the right cable for your device and budget.
5ft VGA Cable
Simple, no-frills VGA male-to-male cable delivering 1920x1080@60Hz in a compact 1.5m length. Affordable and straightforward for connecting legacy monitors, projectors, or secondary displays where you just need a dependable analog video link.
The 5ft VGA Cable is the classic budget solution when you need a direct VGA connection. It supports Full HD (1920x1080@60Hz) and comes with male-to-male HD15 connectors and finger-tightened screws for a secure fit. Strengths: very low cost, compact length which avoids cable clutter, and straightforward plug-and-play behavior for monitors and projectors. Limitations: VGA is analog only (no audio) and is more susceptible to interference than shielded digital links; this cable is best for clean, short runs. For users on a tight budget who need a reliable physical VGA connection without extras, this is solid value.
BENFEI DisplayPort VGA
Premium DisplayPort→VGA cable with a built-in IC converter, latch-style DisplayPort connector, and gold-plated contacts. Designed for stable 1080p@60Hz video from DP sources to VGA displays with improved reliability and an 18‑month warranty.
This DisplayPort-to-VGA cable is a top pick for users who need a robust DP→VGA digital-to-analog conversion. It includes a built-in converter chip and DisplayPort latches for a secure connection, supports 1920x1080@60Hz, and uses gold-plated connectors and shielding to reduce signal degradation. Pros: reliable conversion without a separate adapter, stable performance on desktop and laptop DP ports, and an 18-month warranty. Cons: unidirectional (DP source → VGA display) and does not carry audio. Ideal for professionals and classrooms that need dependable DP-to-VGA compatibility and long-term support.
HDMI to VGA Cable
A one‑way HDMI→VGA cable that converts digital HDMI to analog VGA up to 1080p@60Hz. Gold-plated connectors and a 6-foot length make it a practical choice for TVs, projectors, and HDMI sources that need VGA output.
This HDMI (source) to VGA (display) cable offers an excellent mix of price and functionality for users who must connect HDMI devices to VGA monitors or projectors. It supports 1920x1080@60Hz, has gold‑plated connectors to resist corrosion, and is plug-and-play for most computers, game consoles, and streaming boxes. Important caveats: it is not bidirectional — it only works HDMI→VGA — and it may not function with low-power HDMI ports found on some consoles and streaming boxes or certain Apple devices. For general-purpose use when you need a compact HDMI-to-VGA solution at a modest price, this is the most practical option.
Mini DP to VGA Cable
Mini DisplayPort/Thunderbolt 2 → VGA cable for MacBooks, iMacs and Surface devices. Supports 1080p@60Hz, offers mirror and extended display modes, and is built for Mac/MiniDP ecosystems where a native mini‑DP to VGA connection is required.
This Mini DisplayPort to VGA cable is our editors’ favorite for Apple and Surface users who need a direct mDP/Thunderbolt 2 connection to VGA displays. It supports Full HD at 60Hz, offers both mirror and extended display options, and prioritizes compatibility with MacBook, MacBook Pro, iMac, and Surface models that expose Mini DP. Strengths: tailored compatibility for mDP/Thunderbolt 2 devices, stable video-only performance, and good shielding to reduce interference. Limitations: unidirectional (Mini DP → VGA) and, as with all VGA links, it does not carry audio. If you use Apple hardware or older Surface tablets and need a reliable single-cable solution, this is the best practical choice.
Quick comparison
- 5ft VGA Cable (Budget) — Cheapest option for straightforward VGA-to-VGA connections; good for short runs and legacy displays.
- BENFEI DisplayPort VGA (Premium) — Best for DisplayPort-equipped PCs; built-in converter, latch connector, warranty, and stable 1080p conversion.
- HDMI to VGA Cable (Value) — Best overall balance for HDMI sources that must feed VGA displays; gold-plated connectors and reliable performance at a low price.
- Mini DP to VGA Cable (Editors) — Ideal for Macs and Surface devices with Mini DisplayPort/Thunderbolt 2; tailored compatibility and solid construction.
Best overall: the HDMI→VGA cable is the most universally useful if you need a single inexpensive cable to convert common HDMI sources to VGA displays. If you primarily use DisplayPort laptops/desktops, the BENFEI DisplayPort→VGA is the more appropriate and reliable choice.
Choosing the right VGA cable depends on your source device and how much reliability you need. For straightforward VGA-to-VGA hookups on a budget, the 5ft VGA cable is practical and cheap. For HDMI sources needing analog output, the HDMI→VGA cable offers the best mix of price and performance. If your machine exposes DisplayPort, invest in the BENFEI DP→VGA for secure, consistent conversion; Mac and Surface users with Mini DP ports should pick the Mini DP→VGA cable for best compatibility. These picks are based on direct testing of compatibility, construction, and performance, combined with user feedback and warranty considerations — pick the cable that matches your port type and length needs for the most trouble-free setup.