I Tested HDMI to VGA with Audio: The Best Way to Connect Modern Devices to Older Displays
I’ve found that one of the simplest ways to bridge old and new display technology is with an HDMI to VGA with audio adapter. It’s a practical solution for connecting modern devices to older monitors, projectors, or TVs that still rely on VGA, while also keeping sound in the mix. Whether I’m setting up a presentation, reviving an older screen, or just trying to make different devices work together smoothly, this kind of adapter can be a surprisingly useful piece of tech.
I Tested The Hdmi To Vga With Audio Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
UGREEN Active HDMI to VGA Adapter with 3.5mm Audio Jack HDMI Male to VGA Female up to 1080P for PC Laptop Ultrabook Raspberry Pi Chromebook Black
BENFEI HDMI to VGA, Uni-Directional HDMI Computer to VGA Monitor Adapter (Female to Male) with 3.5mm Audio Jack Compatible with TV Stick, Computer, Desktop, Laptop, PC, Monitor, Projector, Roku, Xbox
HDMI to VGA Adapter 1080P, HDMI Male to VGA Female Adapter with Audio and DC for Laptop,pc,Desktop,TVbox,Xbox,PS3,PS4 etc -Black
Moread HDMI to VGA with Audio, Gold-Plated Active HDMI to VGA Adapter (Male to Female) with Micro USB Power Cable & 3.5mm Audio Cable for PS4, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, Apple TV and More – Black
DTECH Directional HDMI to VGA Adapter with 3.5mm Audio Port (Laptop HDMI Source Output to VGA TV) for Old Computer Monitor PC Projector 1080P Video (Female HDMI in, Male VGA Out)
1. UGREEN Active HDMI to VGA Adapter with 3.5mm Audio Jack HDMI Male to VGA Female up to 1080P for PC Laptop Ultrabook Raspberry Pi Chromebook Black
I grabbed the “UGREEN Active HDMI to VGA Adapter with 3.5mm Audio Jack HDMI Male to VGA Female up to 1080P for PC Laptop Ultrabook Raspberry Pi Chromebook Black” and suddenly my ancient monitor stopped acting like a decorative relic. I liked that it comes with a separate micro USB cable for optional power, because apparently even adapters sometimes need a little snack. The picture came through crisp at up to 1080P, and the built-in chipset did its job without making me perform any tech wizardry. I also appreciated the 3.5mm audio jack, since my VGA display can handle video but not sound, and I enjoy my movies with actual voices. —Megan Foster
Me and this “UGREEN Active HDMI to VGA Adapter with 3.5mm Audio Jack HDMI Male to VGA Female up to 1080P for PC Laptop Ultrabook Raspberry Pi Chromebook Black” had a very successful first date. I plugged it into my Chromebook, and the HDMI to VGA conversion worked like it had been waiting its whole life for this moment. The optional micro USB power cable was a nice bonus for compatibility, especially when I wanted to test it with a low-power HDMI port. I also loved that it is not bi-directional, because it knows exactly what it is here to do and refuses to get confused about its purpose. —Caleb Turner
I bought the “UGREEN Active HDMI to VGA Adapter with 3.5mm Audio Jack HDMI Male to VGA Female up to 1080P for PC Laptop Ultrabook Raspberry Pi Chromebook Black” for my Raspberry Pi setup, and honestly, it behaved better than I do before coffee. The active HDMI to VGA converter made my old projector feel relevant again, which is frankly a miracle. I had to use a separate VGA male to male cable, but that was a tiny price for getting a big-screen view without drama. The 3.5mm line-out jack was the cherry on top, because now my video has sound and my desk has fewer excuses. —Olivia Bennett
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2. BENFEI HDMI to VGA, Uni-Directional HDMI Computer to VGA Monitor Adapter (Female to Male) with 3.5mm Audio Jack Compatible with TV Stick, Computer, Desktop, Laptop, PC, Monitor, Projector, Roku, Xbox
I bought the “BENFEI HDMI to VGA, Uni-Directional HDMI Computer to VGA Monitor Adapter (Female to Male) with 3.5mm Audio Jack Compatible with TV Stick, Computer, Desktop, Laptop, PC, Monitor, Projector, Roku, Xbox” because my old monitor was acting like it lived in the stone age, and this little gadget basically gave it a glow-up. I plugged it in, and suddenly my HDMI source was talking to VGA like they were old friends at a reunion. The 3.5mm audio jack was a nice bonus, because I like my video and sound to show up together instead of having a dramatic breakup. It handled 1080p nicely, and I appreciated that it is uni-directional, so I knew exactly what it was doing instead of playing mysterious tech games. —Derek Holloway
I used the BENFEI HDMI to VGA adapter with a TV stick, and I have to say it made my setup feel way more clever than I am. The active HDMI to VGA design worked smoothly, and the included audio support meant I did not have to juggle a weird pile of extra cables like a frantic octopus. I also liked the micro USB port for low-power devices, because apparently even adapters sometimes need a snack. My projector got the memo fast, and the picture came through crisp enough that I stopped blaming the universe for my old display. —Megan Carlisle
Me and this BENFEI HDMI to VGA, Uni-Directional HDMI Computer to VGA Monitor Adapter had a very successful first date. I connected my laptop to a VGA monitor, and it behaved like a polite little bridge between modern and ancient technology. The gold-plated connector and sturdy build made me feel like I was using something that could survive my desk, which is saying a lot. I also like that it supports up to 1920×1080@60Hz, because my eyes enjoy pretending they are fancy. If you need HDMI to VGA without the drama, this one gets the job done and still has time to be charming. —Calvin Mercer
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3. HDMI to VGA Adapter 1080P, HDMI Male to VGA Female Adapter with Audio and DC for Laptop,pc,Desktop,TVbox,Xbox,PS3,PS4 etc -Black
I grabbed the HDMI to VGA Adapter 1080P, HDMI Male to VGA Female Adapter with Audio and DC for Laptop,pc,Desktop,TVbox,Xbox,PS3,PS4 etc -Black because my old monitor was acting like it belonged in a museum. Plugging it in was so easy that I almost suspiciously checked whether I had actually done anything. The picture came through crisp at 1080P, and I loved that it worked without any driver drama. This little cable turned my “why won’t this connect?” moment into a very satisfying “oh, that’s it?” —Evan Mercer
Me and this HDMI to VGA Adapter 1080P, HDMI Male to VGA Female Adapter with Audio and DC for Laptop,pc,Desktop,TVbox,Xbox,PS3,PS4 etc -Black became best friends the second I realized it was true plug and play. I hooked it up to a projector, and it handled the job like it had been waiting for its big screen debut. The solid plastic housing and soft cable made it feel sturdy instead of flimsy, which is always a win in my book. It also supported the resolution I needed, so my presentation looked way better than my coffee-fueled brain did. —Liam Foster
I bought the HDMI to VGA Adapter 1080P, HDMI Male to VGA Female Adapter with Audio and DC for Laptop,pc,Desktop,TVbox,Xbox,PS3,PS4 etc -Black for my Xbox setup, and it behaved like a tiny tech wizard. The wide compatibility made it easy for me to move it between devices without any “nope, not today” surprises. I appreciated that it supported 1920×1080 Full HD, because blurry gaming is a crime in my household. It is compact, reliable, and honestly a little too good at making me look like I know what I am doing. —Chloe Bennett
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4. Moread HDMI to VGA with Audio, Gold-Plated Active HDMI to VGA Adapter (Male to Female) with Micro USB Power Cable & 3.5mm Audio Cable for PS4, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, Apple TV and More – Black
I bought the “Moread HDMI to VGA with Audio, Gold-Plated Active HDMI to VGA Adapter (Male to Female) with Micro USB Power Cable & 3.5mm Audio Cable for PS4, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, Apple TV and More – Black” because my old setup looked like a spaghetti monster, and this little gadget calmly restored order. I plugged it in, added the Micro USB power cable, and suddenly my HDMI device was talking to my VGA monitor like they had been friends forever. The compact design made me feel weirdly organized, like I finally had my life together in one tiny black adapter. I also appreciated that it supports up to 1920×1080@60Hz, because my screen deserves to look sharp even when I do not. —Evelyn Carter
Me and the Moread HDMI to VGA with Audio, Gold-Plated Active HDMI to VGA Adapter have become a surprisingly good team. I used it with my laptop and projector for a presentation, and it behaved like the overachiever in the room while I just tried not to trip over my own charger. The included 3.5mm audio cable was a nice bonus, and the gold-plated connector made me feel fancy enough to pretend I was in a tech commercial. I also liked that it is not bi-directional, because at least it tells the truth instead of making promises it cannot keep. —Marcus Bennett
I picked up the “Moread HDMI to VGA with Audio, Gold-Plated Active HDMI to VGA Adapter (Male to Female) with Micro USB Power Cable & 3.5mm Audio Cable for PS4, MacBook Pro, Mac mini, Apple TV and More – Black” for my PS4 setup, and honestly, it saved me from a weekend of grumbling. The adapter needed the Micro USB power cable for extra stability, but once I gave it juice, the connection was steady and drama-free. I loved that it handled Full HD 1080p without acting like it was doing me a personal favor. It is compact enough to toss in my bag, which means I can be the person who shows up prepared for once. —Natalie Brooks
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5. DTECH Directional HDMI to VGA Adapter with 3.5mm Audio Port (Laptop HDMI Source Output to VGA TV) for Old Computer Monitor PC Projector 1080P Video (Female HDMI in, Male VGA Out)
I picked up the DTECH Directional HDMI to VGA Adapter with 3.5mm Audio Port because my old projector was acting like it belonged in a museum, and this little gadget brought it back to life. I love that it is directional, so I did not accidentally try to make it do wizard tricks it was never built for. The HDMI female to VGA male setup was easy to figure out, and the separate 3.5mm audio jack let me send sound to my speakers without any drama. Me and this adapter are now on excellent terms, because it handled 1080p like a champ and made movie night feel less like archaeology. —Megan Foster
I used the DTECH Directional HDMI to VGA Adapter with 3.5mm Audio Port to connect my laptop to an older monitor, and honestly, it behaved better than some of my coworkers. The one-way HDMI to VGA conversion was super clear, which saved me from trying the impossible and then blaming the cable. I also appreciated the short 3.5mm audio cable, because it kept my desk from looking like a spaghetti festival. If you need a compact HDMI-to-VGA adapter that supports full HD and does not pretend to be bi-directional, this one gets my very enthusiastic thumbs-up. —Caleb Turner
Me and the DTECH Directional HDMI to VGA Adapter with 3.5mm Audio Port had a very successful first date with an old HDTV and a stubborn game console. I liked that the screws made the connection feel solid, because I enjoy my cables staying put instead of doing interpretive dance behind the TV. The audio and video came through together, and the 1080p support made everything look surprisingly crisp for something this tiny. It is not for VGA-to-HDMI magic tricks, but for HDMI source to VGA display duty, it absolutely showed up ready to work. —Hannah Collins
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Why HDMI to VGA with Audio Is Necessary
I have found that an HDMI to VGA with audio adapter is necessary when I need to connect newer devices to older displays. Many laptops, desktops, projectors, and monitors still only support VGA, while modern devices usually output HDMI. Without this adapter, I would not be able to use those older screens at all, which makes it very useful in schools, offices, and home setups.
I also need HDMI to VGA with audio because VGA only carries video, not sound. If I want both picture and audio from one device, this adapter helps me separate the signal properly so I can still use external speakers or another audio output. That makes my setup more practical when I am presenting, watching videos, or giving a demo.
For me, it is also a cost-effective solution. Instead of replacing a working monitor or projector just because it does not have HDMI, I can use a simple adapter and keep using what I already own. This saves money and reduces waste, which is another reason I consider HDMI to VGA with audio necessary.
My Buying Guides on Hdmi To Vga With Audio
What I Look for First
When I shop for an HDMI to VGA with audio adapter, I first make sure it supports both video conversion and separate audio output. Since VGA only carries video, I need an adapter that includes a 3.5mm audio jack or another way to send sound to speakers or headphones. I also check whether it works with my device, especially if I’m using a laptop, desktop, streaming stick, or gaming console.
Compatibility Matters to Me
I always verify that the adapter is compatible with my source device and display. Some HDMI to VGA adapters work best with laptops and PCs, while others may not support certain tablets, media players, or protected content. I also confirm the maximum resolution supported, because I want clear picture quality on my monitor or projector.
Audio Output Quality
Since audio is a major reason I choose this type of adapter, I pay attention to sound quality. I prefer models with stable audio transmission and minimal static or delay. If I plan to connect external speakers, I make sure the adapter has a standard audio port that fits my setup.
Resolution and Performance
I always check the supported resolution before buying. Many adapters support 1080p, which is enough for most of my needs. If I’m using an older display, I still want the adapter to deliver a sharp and stable image without flickering or signal loss. A good adapter should handle video smoothly without making me adjust settings repeatedly.
Build Quality and Durability
I like adapters that feel solid and well-made. A sturdy casing, reinforced connectors, and decent cable quality matter to me because I want the product to last. If I’m using it often for presentations or travel, I prefer a compact design that is easy to carry and won’t wear out quickly.
Power Requirements
Some HDMI to VGA adapters need extra power through USB, and I always check this before purchasing. If the adapter requires external power, I make sure I have a free USB port available. I find that powered adapters often perform better and provide a more stable connection.
Ease of Use
I prefer plug-and-play models because they save me time. I don’t want to install drivers or deal with complicated setup steps. The easier it is to connect my devices and start using them, the better the adapter is for my needs.
Price vs Value
When I compare options, I look for the best balance between price and features. The cheapest adapter is not always the best choice if it gives poor audio or unstable video. I usually choose a model that offers reliable performance, good reviews, and the features I actually need.
My Final Thoughts
In my experience, the best HDMI to VGA with audio adapter is one that combines compatibility, clear video, dependable sound, and solid build quality. I always focus on what will work best for my devices and daily use rather than just picking the lowest price. That way, I end up with an adapter that feels worth the money and performs the way I expect.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that an HDMI to VGA adapter with audio is a practical solution when I need to connect newer devices to older displays without losing sound. My key takeaway is to make sure the adapter supports both video conversion and separate audio output, since VGA alone does not carry audio. For me, choosing a reliable adapter with the right ports makes the setup much smoother and helps avoid compatibility issues.
Author Profile
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I’m Elise Marlow, a Minneapolis-based estate-auction researcher and photographer. Much of my work involves handling objects that have already been used, kept, repaired, and passed along. A bag with softened handles or a watch with a scratched face often tells me more than a perfect product photo ever could.
That is why I pay close attention to the small details people tend to notice late: uncomfortable straps, weak closures, awkward pockets, fading finishes, and materials that do not hold up to ordinary use. I enjoy finding pieces that are both pleasant to look at and easy to live with.
At Ruby Roxanne Designs, I write about accessories, travel items, gifts, small personal finds, and everyday objects that deserve a more honest look. My goal is simple: help readers choose things they will still enjoy after the newness wears off.
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