DVI and HDMI share the same digital video signaling (TMDS), allowing passive DVI↔HDMI cables or adapters to transmit video without conversion. DVI typically does not carry audio, while HDMI supports multichannel audio and additional features such as CEC, ARC/eARC, and higher bandwidth modes across HDMI revisions. For video-only use a passive adapter; for audio or modern HDMI features use HDMI-equipped devices or active converters.

Quick overview

DVI (Digital Visual Interface) and HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) both carry digital video. HDMI also carries multichannel audio and newer features such as CEC, ARC/eARC, and higher bandwidth modes. Because HDMI's digital video signaling is compatible with DVI's TMDS video, you can often use a simple DVI↔HDMI cable or passive adapter for video-only connections.

How the compatibility works

HDMI's video layer is based on DVI's TMDS signaling. A DVI-D (digital) output will present the same digital video signal an HDMI input expects, so a passive cable or adapter simply remaps pins and passes the video through. No active conversion is required for standard digital video.

Note: DVI comes in several connector types (DVI-D, DVI-I, DVI-A). Only DVI-D and the digital part of DVI-I carry the digital TMDS video used with HDMI.

Audio and other feature differences

DVI generally does not carry audio. If you connect an HDMI source to a DVI monitor with a DVI input using a passive adapter, you will get video but not audio. To get sound you must either use a separate audio cable or an active converter that extracts audio from HDMI and outputs it to analog or digital audio outputs.

HDMI also supports features DVI does not, such as:


  • Multichannel audio and eARC/ARC (in newer HDMI versions)


  • Consumer Electronics Control (CEC)


  • Higher bandwidth modes and HDR signaling introduced across HDMI 1.x-2.1


  • Built-in support for EDID and common HDCP content protection


Resolution and bandwidth notes


DVI single-link supports up to roughly 1920×1200. Dual-link DVI raises that limit (useful for older displays at 2560×1600). HDMI versions and cable types determine available resolutions and refresh rates. For 4K at 60 Hz or higher (and features like variable refresh or 4K120), you need a compatible HDMI version (and cable or certified HDMI 2.1 equipment) - passive DVI↔HDMI adapters cannot add those HDMI-only features.

Practical tips

  • For most video-only connections between a PC and a display, a passive DVI↔HDMI cable or adapter works fine. You will get the same picture quality as the source and display support.
  • If you need sound, buy an HDMI display, use a separate audio connection, or use an active HDMI audio extractor.
  • Watch for HDCP/content-protection mismatches if you see a blank screen or reduced quality.
  • For long cable runs, high resolutions, or 4K/120Hz use, use active cables or certified HDMI cables and confirm both devices support the target HDMI version.

Bottom line

DVI and HDMI share compatible digital video signaling, so passive DVI↔HDMI cables are an easy way to connect video. But HDMI adds audio and modern AV features that DVI does not provide. Choose adapters or upgrades based on whether you need audio, high bandwidth, or HDMI-specific features.

FAQs about Dvi To Hdmi Cable

Will a DVI-to-HDMI cable carry audio?
No. Passive DVI↔HDMI cables pass digital video only. DVI typically does not carry audio. To get sound you must use a separate audio connection or an active HDMI audio extractor/converter.
Can I use a passive adapter for any resolution?
Not always. Passive adapters pass the native digital video signal, but resolution and refresh-rate limits depend on the devices and the DVI mode (single-link vs dual-link) or HDMI version. For high-bandwidth modes (4K@60+, 4K120) you may need HDMI 2.0/2.1 equipment and certified cables rather than a passive adapter.
Do DVI and HDMI offer the same picture quality?
For the same resolution and color settings, yes: digital video quality is comparable because HDMI uses the same TMDS-based signaling as DVI. Differences arise from device capabilities, bandwidth limits, or content protection.
When do I need an active converter?
Use an active converter when you need to extract audio from HDMI for a DVI display, convert analog audio, or when signal boosting is required for long runs or incompatible standards (e.g., converting HDMI formats to legacy DVI with audio).
Will a DVI-to-HDMI cable work with HDCP-protected content?
Often yes for video, but HDCP handshake issues can occur between older DVI devices and newer HDMI sources. If a protected stream fails, check device HDCP support and try using a different input or an active converter.