DVI-DVI or DVI-HDMI?

December 22, 2010 11:00 AM

Should I go for DVI-DVI or DVI-HDMI for connecting my new monitor to my computer?

I'd just keep it simple and go with a DVI to DVI cable, but it seems like DVI to HDMI cables are cheaper. Are there any disadvantages to one type over another, or can I focus on price alone?

Computer has 2 HDMI, 2 DVI & 1 VGA outputs (1 HDMI, 1 DVI and 1 VGA from the video card, an ATI Radeon HD 5760). The monitor has both DVI and VGA inputs and shipped with a VGA cable which I am using for now, but I'd eventually like to set up dual screens with my old monitor which has only VGA input. System is Windows 7 if that matters at all, and the new monitor is HDCP-compliant.

posted by luftmensch to technology (5 answers total)

DVI is essentially HDMI without the audio stream. You should be able to use either one to drive your monitors.
posted by SweetJesus at 11:08 AM on December 22, 2010 [1 favorite]

monoprice.com
posted by thejoshu at 11:28 AM on December 22, 2010

SweetJesus is correct. It doesn't matter. You will get the same frame rates and resolution through either.
Get the cheaper one, whichever that is. Go through monoprice like thejoshu mentioned, or cables unlimited, or newegg, or Amazon. And for the love of all that is holy do not buy Monster brand cables.
posted by Mister Fabulous at 11:58 AM on December 22, 2010

Small consideration, in case you are planning to (or ever may in the future plan to) run the cable through a desk hole, wall or any other tight passage, keep in mind that the hdmi head is a lot smaller than the DVI head.
posted by jameslavelle3 at 12:25 PM on December 22, 2010 [2 favorites]

Even if you weren't planning on using the second VGA-only monitor, you should switch to HDMI or DVI because VGA is analog and lossy.
posted by Rhomboid at 1:56 PM on December 22, 2010