USB-C to HDMI Cable: Connect Your Laptop to a TV

By Shop iPhone 17 Chargers, Screen Protectors & More | Belkin US | Published: 2026-11-01

Category: How-to Guides

A step-by-step guide to connecting your laptop to a TV with a USB-C to HDMI cable, including key checks for resolution, audio, and common pitfalls.

Quick answer

Plug the USB-C end into your laptop’s USB-C port that supports video output, and the HDMI end into your TV. Then select the correct HDMI input on your TV and set the display mode on your laptop.

Check your laptop’s USB-C port supports video

Not every USB-C port can send video. Look for a DisplayPort icon, a Thunderbolt symbol, or check your laptop’s specifications. If the port only supports data and charging, a USB-C to HDMI cable won’t work.

Match cable and TV capabilities for the resolution you want

A USB-C to HDMI cable can carry high-resolution video, but your laptop, TV, and cable must all support the same HDMI version and resolution. For example, HDMI 2.1 support in the cable helps ensure compatibility with 4K and higher refresh rates, but your TV and laptop also need to support those modes.

Handle audio and display settings after connecting

Once the cable is connected, you may need to select the TV as your audio output and choose between mirroring or extending your display. These settings are in your operating system’s display or sound preferences.

Step-by-step USB-C to HDMI setup

Identify a video-capable USB-C port on your laptop: Look for a port marked with a DisplayPort icon, Thunderbolt symbol, or check your laptop manual. Common mistake: using a USB-C port that only supports data and charging, which won’t output video. If unsure, test with another video-capable port or consult your laptop’s documentation.
Connect the USB-C end to your laptop and the HDMI end to your TV: Plug the USB-C connector into the correct port and the HDMI connector into an available HDMI input on your TV. Checkpoint: ensure both connectors are fully seated; a loose HDMI connection is a common cause of no signal.
Select the correct HDMI input on your TV: Use your TV remote to choose the HDMI input you connected to. Common mistake: leaving the TV on a different input or the home screen, which will show no signal.
Set the display mode on your laptop: On Windows, press Windows + P and choose Duplicate or Extend. On macOS, go to System Settings > Displays and select Mirror or Extend. Checkpoint: if the TV remains black, try the other mode or reconnect the cable.
Adjust resolution and audio output if needed: In your display settings, set the resolution to match your TV’s native resolution. For audio, select the TV as the output device in your sound settings. Common mistake: forgetting to switch audio, so sound still plays from the laptop. If the image looks stretched or blurry, check that the resolution matches your TV’s aspect ratio.

Product facts

Câble USB-C™ vers HDMI: This Belkin USB-C to HDMI cable is 2 meters long and supports HDMI 2.1. The 2-meter length gives you flexibility to place your laptop and TV apart, and HDMI 2.1 support helps with higher-resolution displays if your devices support it.
Câble USB-C™ vers HDMI