The final type of adapter you might need, and this typically only applies to laptops, is one that converts to a mini or micro version of the same type of cable. For instance, if you use a VGA cable and use an adapter to plug it into the HDMI port, it will still only be able to transmit a VGA signal, which is much inferior. When you are using an adapter, the quality of your connection will be limited to the strength of the weakest link in the chain. Some adapters are very small, some are longer and called dongles, and some replace the entire cable and simply have different plugs on either end. If you use DisplayPort instead, you would instead search for a USB-C to DisplayPort adapter, and so forth.

You can find the correct adapter or dongle by looking for one which contains the two types of connections you need, and the word 'adapter.' For instance, one of the most common is a USB-C to HDMI adapter for Macs and laptops. If the port on the monitor and the port on your PC, Mac, or laptop do not match, then you will need an adapter or dongle in order to connect the two. Other than that exception, you will get the best experience by using the least amount of adapters possible and by using the latest and best type of cable possible. (This is typically either HDMI or DisplayPort depending on the model. For instance, some monitors can only perform at their maximum settings (like refresh rate) when connected with a specific type of cable. Which cable you use to connect to the monitor will determine how well it is able to perform.

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