If you’re trying to connect your portable monitor via a USB-C to a Mini DisplayPort cable, up to 20 feet long, you likely already know how uncommon that is for a cable. Most USB-C to Mini DisplayPort cables available are only 3 to 6 feet long. So what if your setup requires a little more distance—say 15 or 20 feet?
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Well, there’s a clever work-around — And in this post, we’ll guide you to the best solution, as well as a few high-quality cables and adapters that can connect your USB-C device to the Mini DisplayPort input on a portable monitor or older display, even at greater distances.
The Challenge: Where to Get a Long USB-C to Mini DisplayPort Cable:
These days, Mini DisplayPort is a bit obsolete, but it’s still used by many monitors, especially those high-end portable ones. And, as USB-C becomes the new standard on laptops, tablets (and, increasingly, smartphones), direct cables from USB-C to Mini DisplayPort longer than 10 feet are unavailable anywhere.
It was there that clever use of high-speed USB-C extension cables combined with a USB-C to Mini DisplayPort adapter saved the day.
Best Overall Alternative: A Long USB-C Cable & USB-C to Mini DisplayPort Adapter:
Here’s the trick:
- A long, good-quality USB-C to USB-C cable that particularly supports video output (this is important).
- THE FIX Pair it with a USB-C to Mini DisplayPort adapter that will act as the heavier lifter of the signal transformation.
However, this not only gives the length solution, but it also provides some flexibility in cable management and compatibility.
Recommended USB C Cables and Adapter Setup:
Below are some highly-rated cables and adapters that will help you build a 15 to 20-foot USB-C to Mini DisplayPort connection with reliable 4K or even 8K video output:
1. UseBean USB C to USB C Cable – 100W, 15FT (2-Pack):
- Power & Speed: Supports 100W fast charging and 4K video
- Length: 15 feet per cable
- Type: USB 3.2 Gen 2X2 – 20Gbps
- Why it works: Great for video output, charging, and long-distance setups
- Bonus: Comes in a 2-pack for added flexibility or backup
Buy Now (affiliate link)- https://amzn.to/4c9WUmB
2. USB C to C 20FT Cable – 240W, 4K@60Hz (USB 3.2 Gen 2X2)
- Power & Video: Supports 240W charging and 4K60Hz video transmission
- Data Speed: USB 3.2 Gen2x2 (20Gbps)
- Perfect For: High-performance setups requiring max length and speed
Buy Now (affiliate link)- https://amzn.to/4c9Kawz
3. USB C Female to Mini DisplayPort Adapter – Xiwai 8K@60Hz / 4K@120Hz
- Type: USB-C (female) source to Mini DisplayPort (male) sink
- Resolution: Supports up to 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 120Hz
- Why it’s essential: Converts the USB-C video signal to Mini DisplayPort reliably
- Compatible with: USB 3.2, USB4.0, and Thunderbolt 3/4 devices that support video output
Buy Now (affiliate link)– https://amzn.to/4j2OkII
Pro Tip: Make Sure Your USB-C Port Supports Video Output:
Before you start plugging things in, double-check that your USB-C port supports video output. Some USB-C ports are only for data and charging. Look for a DisplayPort logo or Thunderbolt symbol near the port, or check the device specs.
How to Set It Up:
- Plug your USB-C device (laptop, tablet, etc.) into the USB-C to C cable.
- On the other end of the cable, plug the USB-C female into the Mini DisplayPort adapter.
- Plug the Mini DisplayPort end into your monitor
- Get excellent video via a long-distance cable!
Final Thoughts:
The most practical and reliable solution is to combine a long, high-quality USB-C cable with a USB-C to Mini DisplayPort (USB-C to DP) adapter.
For when you need this at high performance without sacrificing quality or video resolution (as the adapter should be a 25M-bit-gen), favorites include the UseBean 100W 15FT USB-C Cable, the 240W 20FT USB-C Gen2x2 Cable, and the Xiwai USB-C to Mini DisplayPort adapter.
