Mini DisplayPort to HDMI Adapter with USB Audio - HDMI with Audio

In this review the Mini DisplayPort to HDMI Adapter with USB Audio is tested as a straightforward solution to add HDMI output with sound to older Mini DisplayPort and Thunderbolt laptops. The bottom line: if you need to connect a Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt-equipped laptop to an HDTV or monitor and require audio, this adapter delivers a simple, low-cost fix without replacing your display. It is especially useful for older MacBook and Surface Pro models where native Mini DisplayPort video did not include audio.

Key Features

• Audio pass-through: USB audio pass-through provides 2-channel analog sound to the HDMI output so the monitor or TV receives both picture and sound through a single HDMI cable.
• Video compatibility: The passive adapter supports HDTV resolutions up to 1080p, making it suitable for most TVs and monitors that do not require 4K.
• Thunderbolt ready: Works with Thunderbolt ports as well as Mini DisplayPort outputs, so it is compatible with laptops that expose Mini DP over a Thunderbolt connector.
• Simple plug-and-play: No external power or complicated drivers are needed for typical systems; plug the Mini DP and USB connectors into the laptop and connect HDMI to the display.
• Cost effective: The adapter avoids the expense of upgrading a display by converting existing HDMI-capable TVs and monitors to work with Mini DP sources.

Who It's For

This adapter is aimed at owners of older laptops and ultrabooks that provide a Mini DisplayPort or a Thunderbolt port but do not carry audio over the display output, such as certain 2009 MacBook and MacBook Pro models and many early Surface devices. It fits users who need a quick way to mirror or extend their desktop to an HDTV or external monitor at up to 1080p while also sending sound to the TV.

It is less appropriate for users who require resolutions above 1080p or advanced audio formats; professionals who need multi-channel digital audio or a guaranteed 4K workflow should look for active adapters or native HDMI outputs instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Delivers both video and 2-channel audio to HDMI-equipped displays using a compact passive adapter.
• Compatible with Thunderbolt ports and Mini DisplayPort outputs, giving broad laptop support.
• Works up to 1080p, which is sufficient for most TVs and general desktop use.

Cons

• Passive design requires a DP++ port; it will not convert from a pure DisplayPort without DP++ support.

Specifications

Product type	Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter with USB audio
Audio	USB audio pass-through, 2-channel analog
Max video resolution	Supports HDTV resolutions up to 1080p
Compatibility	Mini DisplayPort, Thunderbolt to HDMI compatible
Connection	Mini DP plug, HDMI output, USB for audio
Adapter type	Passive (requires DP++)

Our Verdict

The Mini DisplayPort to HDMI Adapter with USB Audio is a practical, value-focused adapter for anyone needing HDMI video and stereo audio from older Mini DP or Thunderbolt laptops. It avoids replacing displays and works reliably up to 1080p, making it a sensible buy for home office users and those connecting to HDTVs, though users needing 4K or multi-channel audio should choose a different solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this adapter carry audio from my laptop?
Yes; the adapter uses a USB audio pass-through to provide 2-channel analog audio to the HDMI output so sound is sent to the display.

Do I need a special port for this to work?
Yes; because it is a passive adapter it requires a DP++ capable Mini DisplayPort or a Thunderbolt port that supports DP++ signal passthrough.

What video resolutions are supported?
The adapter supports HDTV resolutions up to 1080p, suitable for most TVs and monitors but not for native 4K output.