DVI-D (Digital Visual Interface - Digital) is a legacy digital video connector that improved image quality over analog VGA. Single-link DVI-D typically supports up to 1920×1200; dual-link reaches around 2560×1600. It carries video only (no audio) and lacks modern features like HDR and high refresh-rate support. DVI-D remains useful for older monitors and troubleshooting, but HDMI and DisplayPort are recommended for new devices.

What DVI-D is

DVI-D (Digital Visual Interface - Digital) is the digital-only variant of the DVI family of connectors. Introduced in the late 1990s, DVI-D carries a digital video signal from a graphics source (PC GPU, older set-top boxes) to a display. Unlike HDMI and DisplayPort, DVI-D transmits video only - no audio, no modern HDR metadata.

Why DVI-D mattered

When flat panels and higher-resolution computer displays became common, DVI-D replaced older analog-only cables for many users because it delivered a clean digital image with less signal degradation than VGA. Compared with purely analog connections, DVI-D reduced fuzz and color shifts and supported higher resolutions for desktop monitors.

What it supports today

DVI-D single-link commonly supports resolutions up to 1920×1200 at 60 Hz. Dual-link DVI-D extends that range (commonly used for 2560×1600 at 60 Hz). DVI-D does not carry audio, and it lacks some features found in modern connectors: multi-stream transport, adaptive sync, HDR signaling, and built-in HDCP versions used by current content protection schemes.

Where you still see DVI-D

Many desktop monitors, older graphics cards, legacy projectors, and some older flat-panel TVs still include DVI ports. It remains useful for: connecting a PC to a monitor, troubleshooting older hardware, or when a device lacks HDMI/DisplayPort but has DVI. Passive adapters allow a DVI-D to HDMI video connection when both ends use compatible digital signals - but audio will not be carried by the DVI side.

When to use HDMI or DisplayPort instead

For new gear, prefer HDMI or DisplayPort. They support audio, higher bandwidths (higher refresh rates and resolutions like 4K and above), HDR, and modern copy-protection and synchronization features. If you need a single cable for video and sound or want 144 Hz+ gaming at high resolution, choose DisplayPort or a current HDMI standard.

Practical tips

  • Keep a DVI-D cable as a spare if you maintain older PCs or monitors.
  • Use a passive DVI-to-HDMI cable only for video; add a separate audio connection if you need sound.
  • For 144 Hz, 4K, or HDR workflows, use DisplayPort or recent HDMI versions.
  • Check whether your monitor is single-link or dual-link DVI if you need higher-than-Full-HD resolutions.
DVI-D is no longer the leading consumer standard, but it remains a reliable, inexpensive option for many legacy and basic desktop display needs.

FAQs about Dvi D Cable

Does DVI‑D carry audio?
No. DVI-D transmits digital video only. If you need audio, use a separate cable or switch to HDMI/DisplayPort.
Can I connect DVI‑D to HDMI?
Yes. A passive DVI-to-HDMI adapter or cable will pass digital video from DVI-D to HDMI on compatible devices, but it will not carry audio.
Is DVI‑D obsolete?
Not completely. It's largely superseded by HDMI and DisplayPort for new equipment, but DVI-D is still common on older monitors and GPUs and useful for legacy setups.
What's the difference between single‑link and dual‑link DVI‑D?
Single-link DVI-D typically supports up to 1920×1200 at 60 Hz. Dual-link adds more data lanes, commonly allowing resolutions up to 2560×1600 at 60 Hz.
Should I keep spare DVI‑D cables?
Yes, if you work with older PCs, monitors, or projectors. They are inexpensive and handy for troubleshooting or replacing legacy connections.