Do all USB-C Cables Support Video?

Have you ever tried plugging your laptop into a monitor or TV with a USB-C cable and nothing showed up? You might have asked yourself, do all USB-C cables support video? The truth is, they don’t.

Some cables are only made for charging your devices, some move files quickly, and only certain ones can actually send video. Those are the ones that work with things like DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt. Knowing this ahead of time can save you the headache of staring at a blank screen.

alt: Do all USB-C cables support video

What Is USB-C

USB-C was designed with a big promise - to be a small, versatile cable that could replace the tangle of different connectors we’ve used over the years. Its reversible design means you no longer have to struggle to plug it in the right way, and it can handle multiple jobs, including charging devices, transferring data, and even outputting video. All these are done through a single port.

Now, in its most advanced form, such as Thunderbolt 4, USB-C can transfer data at blazing speeds of up to 40 Gbps and deliver up to 100W of power, making it powerful enough to run a laptop or transfer large files in seconds. It also supports different protocols like USB, DisplayPort, HDMI, and Thunderbolt. That’s incredibly flexible.

Do All USB-C Cables Support Video

USB-C is super convenient—it can charge devices, transfer data, and even send video—but not every USB-C cable can actually display your screen on a monitor or TV. To do that, the cable needs a special feature, like Alternate Mode (Alt Mode) or Thunderbolt.

Alt Mode

Alt Mode allows the cable to carry video signals, like DisplayPort or HDMI, alongside normal USB data. With Alt Mode, your USB-C cable can work like a regular video cable. That means you can connect a laptop, tablet, or phone directly to a monitor or TV without needing bulky adapters. It works by using some of the tiny pins inside the connector to send video signals instead of just power or data.

Thunderbolt 3/4

There’s also Thunderbolt 3/4, which is a step up from Alt Mode. Thunderbolt cables can carry video, data, and power at higher speeds. They can handle multiple 4K displays or a single 8K display while still transferring files quickly. Basically, all Thunderbolt cables support video, but not every Alt Mode cable is Thunderbolt.

But if video output isn’t something you need, and you just want a reliable cable for charging or fast data transfer, Anker has some excellent options to consider:

Anker Prime USB-C to USB-C Cable (240W, Upcycled-Braided) is presented as capable of offering an ultra-powerful 240W charging capacity. This can charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro to 50% in just 26 minutes. So, there’s high charging and data transfer. The cable is also built to withstand over 300,000 bends without breaking. It is tough enough to stay in your setup for decades.

alt: Anker Prime USB-C to USB-C Cable (240W, Upcycled-Braided)

The same goes for Anker USB-C to USB-C Cable (240W, Upcycled-Braided). It’s primarily designed for both comfort and durability. Due to its soft-touch material, it can easily coil up for storage, so you don’t deal with tangled cords. Best of all, it’s strong enough to hold up to 220 lbs without snapping.

alt: Anker USB-C to USB-C Cable (240W, Upcycled-Braided)

How to Tell If a Cable Supports Video?

Now that you know not all USB-C cables can send video, the next step is figuring out which ones actually can. Thankfully, it’s not as complicated as it sounds. You just need to know what to look for, and here they are:

1. The Manufacturer’s Specifications

The easiest and most reliable way is to see what the brand says about the cable. Look for keywords like “Supports DisplayPort Alt Mode” or “HDMI Alt Mode Compatible.” If these aren’t listed, chances are the cable doesn’t support video.

2. Cable Markings

Many quality USB-C cables have small symbols printed on the connector or cable itself. A tiny DisplayPort logo means the cable can carry DisplayPort signals, while a lightning-bolt icon means it supports Thunderbolt 3 or 4, which also handles video.

3. Reviews and User Feedback

Before you buy, check what other users say about the cable. Reviews often mention whether the cable successfully connected to monitors, TVs, or projectors, which is a good sign of video support. It will also help you see if other functionalities like power delivery and data transfer speeds are active.

4. Understand the Alt Modes

Different Alt Modes mean different video capabilities. The DisplayPort Alt Mode supports very high resolutions, even up to 8K, and smooth refresh rates. HDMI Alt Mode, on the other hand, works with HDMI ports and typically supports up to 4K at 60Hz, and Thunderbolt Mode is a high-speed, high-performance mode that can handle demanding video tasks, including 8K output.

Now, if a cable ticks these boxes like correct specs, proper markings, and the right Alt Mode, then you can be confident it will handle video output.

Troubleshooting Common USB-C Video Issues

Sometimes you might think you have the right USB-C cable for video output and yet have nothing pop up on your screen when you plug it in. What could be the problem? Here are a few and how you can fix them:

1. Your cable isn’t made for video: Only certain USB-C cables can send video. If yours doesn’t support the right “Alt Mode”, like DisplayPort or HDMI, your screen will stay black.
2. Your devices don’t speak the same language: Even with the right cable, your laptop and display need to use the same video protocol. For example, if your laptop outputs DisplayPort but your monitor only accepts HDMI, you’ll need an adapter.
3. You’re asking too much from your cable:If you’re trying to push 4K or 8K video but your cable only supports 1080p, you’ll either lose signal or see downgraded quality.
4. The cable is too long with weak materials:Video signals weaken over distance, especially at higher resolutions. A shorter cable usually delivers a sharper, more stable picture. Materials matter too. So, cheap, unshielded cables may charge fine, but often struggle with high-res video.

So, how can you solve these problems?

1. First, check the cable and ensure to use a high-quality version that’s clearly labeled for video. Look for Alt Mode or DisplayPort/HDMI markings.
2. Update your drivers, as outdated ones can cause connection failures. Or you can restart your device.
3. Also, adjust Display Settings and make sure your device is set to “extend” or “duplicate” the display.
4. Perhaps your hand shook while plugging it in. Simply unplug and wait 5 - 10 seconds before plugging it back in.
5. Finally, clean the USB-C port with compressed air.

Conclusion

You might be wondering, Do all USB-C Cables Support Video? The answer is no. Not every cable can handle video, so double-check the specs and make sure they match your devices to avoid blank screens. For a reliable option with ultra-fast charging and data transfer functionality, Anker’s USB-C cables are a great choice.

FAQs

How do I know if my USB-C supports video?

The easiest way to check is to look for a small DisplayPort logo or a Thunderbolt lightning bolt symbol next to the port. These symbols mean your USB-C likely supports video output. You can also check your device’s manual or online specs for “DisplayPort Alt Mode” or “Thunderbolt” support.

Can any USB-C cable display video?

Not every USB-C port is built to send video signals. Some are only made for charging or data transfer. To stream video, the cable must support DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt 3/4. These are designed to handle the high-resolution and refresh rate video needs. Even if your device’s USB-C port supports video, you’ll still need a compatible cable.

How to make USB-C support video output?

USB-C can only send video if the port supports DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt. If it does, use a cable that’s compatible with these modes and connect it to your monitor. You can plug directly into a USB-C display or use a USB-C to HDMI/DisplayPort adapter. With the right port, cable, and adapter, you’ll get smooth video output.

Does USB-C 3.2 support video?

USB-C 3.2 can support video, but it’s not guaranteed for every device. The port must also have DisplayPort Alt Mode to send video signals. Many laptops and tablets with USB 3.2 use DP Alt Mode to connect to monitors or TVs.