Cutting the Cords: Exploring Wireless Display Transmitter Options between HDMI and USB-C
In the world of wireless display solutions, the emergence of innovative point-to-point transmitters and receivers is revolutionizing how we connect and stream content, and the choice between HDMI and USB-C transmitters can make a significant impact on your device choice and viewing habits. Whether you're looking to stream content from your phone, laptop, or other devices, understanding the differences and the user scenarios between these two options is key. Let's dive in!
HDMI Transmitter vs. USB-C (DisplayPort) Transmitter
When comparing HDMI transmitters with USB-C transmitters for wireless display solutions, several key differences come into play:
Compatibility:
HDMI Transmitter: HDMI transmitters are compatible with devices that have HDMI output ports, such as laptops, gaming consoles, Blu-ray players, and cameras.
USB-C Transmitter: USB-C transmitters are compatible with devices that have a USB Type-C port with DisplayPort Alternate Mode support. This includes many modern laptops, tablets, and smartphones that use USB-C for both data and display output. As USB-C ports are becoming more common on devices, such as iPhone 15 Series, USB-C transmitters offer great versatility.
2. Power Requirements and Mobility:
HDMI Transmitter: Even though HDMI transmitters are widely used as HDMI outputs are common in many devices, they require external power supply by additional cables or adapters, limiting the mobility in certain user scenarios where the device needs to be around power plugs.
USB-C Transmitter: USB-C transmitters power themselves through the USB-C port, transmitting not only video and audio but also power and data, potentially reducing the number of cables needed for connectivity. Therefore, users are able to move more freely with their mobile devices and USB-C transmitters.
(EZCast Pocket HDMI transmitter connected to a laptop.)
(EZCast Pocket USB-C transmitter connected to a tablet.)
3. Use Scenarios:
HDMI to HDMI Transmitter and Receiver:
Home Entertainment: Use an HDMI transmitter to stream movies, videos, and photos from your laptop or media player to your TV or projector.
Business Presentations: Switch between speakers with efficiency by plugging and playing with the transmitter without worrying about traditional HDMI cable length limitations.
USB-C (DisplayPort) to HDMI Transmitter and Receiver:
Business Presentations: Connect your laptop, tablet or phone to a projector using a USB-C transmitter for professional presentations. In addition, the USB-C transmitter helps you move freely in the room.
Mobile Gaming: Use a USB-C transmitter to connect your smartphone to a monitor for a more immersive gaming experience.
Traveling: During hotel stays, instead of using potentially compromised public smart TVs, you can mirror your content from your phone or tablet to the hotel room's TV, ensuring the security of your personal information.
(Using HDMI to HDMI transmitter and receiver during a business presentation.)
Why Not All Phones with a USB-C Port Support DisplayPort?
While many modern smartphones come equipped with a USB-C port, not all of them support DisplayPort functionality. It was because the USB-C port can support different protocols and features, and manufacturers decide which ones to include based on cost, design considerations, and target market. DisplayPort requires additional hardware and software support to function, including the use of DisplayPort alternate mode (Alt mode), which allows the USB-C port to carry DisplayPort signals alongside USB data and power. Phones that support DisplayPort typically advertise this capability, as it can be a valuable feature for users who want to connect their phones to external displays or monitors.
Also learn more about: List of Smartphones with DisplayPort Alt Mode and How do I know if my USB-C supports DP Alt mode?
EZCast's Wireless Display Transmitter and Receiver Products
As a display technology provider, EZCast has been introducing innovative products of point-to-point transmitters and receivers, including EZCast Pocket and Compact Mate series, enhancing the convenience and efficiency of the wireless display to seamlessly integrate into various aspects of life.
EZCast Pocket:
EZCast Pocket is a feature-rich wireless display transmitter that comes in both HDMI and USB-C (DisplayPort) versions. Aside from the regular 1080p resolution, it also comes with another 4K version, which is ideal for users who demand top-notch image quality. Moreover, EZCast Pocket features an exclusive cooling design to ensure greater stability during extended periods of use.
For more information of EZCast Pocket: https://www.ezcast.com/blog/14007/eliminate-the-need-for-hdmi-cables-simplify-your-life-with-the-brand-new-ezcast-pocket
Compact Mate Series:
Compact Mate is a compact and portable wireless display transmitter that offers both HDMI and USB-C (DisplayPort) versions. It is designed to be lightweight and easy to use, which is perfect for users who need a versatile solution for streaming content on the go.
For more information of Compact Mate: https://www.ezcast.com/blog/15091/introducing-compact-mate-unleashing-the-simplest-wireless-display-solution
Mini Pocket (upcoming release):
Also available in both HDMI and USB-C (DisplayPort) versions, Mini Pocket represents a significant evolution from the EZCast Pocket, emphasizing a more compact design for enhanced portability. In contrast to the EZCast Pocket USB-C transmitter, which relies on connected devices like phones and tablets for power and doesn't allow for charging the device while in use, the USB-C transmitter of Mini Pocket is equipped with a Type-C PD 60W fast charge feature. This innovation enables users to use the Mini Pocket while simultaneously charging their devices, effectively addressing the issue of power depletion during extended activities such as movie watching and presentation delivery.
In conclusion, the choice between HDMI and Type-C transmitters depends on the specific needs of the devices being used, considering factors such as compatibility, power requirements, and the need for different user scenarios . While HDMI transmitters work with devices with an HDMI output, the power requirement may limit your mobility in some cases; however, if you are going for a USB-C transmitter, you need to ensure that your USB-C device is compatible with DisplayPort Alternate Mode before purchasing a USB-C transmitter.
Whether you prioritize compatibility or interface versatility, EZCast's range of wireless display transmitter and receiver kits has you covered.
About Us
Actions Microelectronics Co., Ltd. is a leading provider of wireless display solutions, offering OEM/ODM services from chip ICs and modules to end products. EZCast is the technical brand of Actions Microelectronics Co., Ltd. and is known for its popular app. Leveraging Actions Micro's chipsets and EZCast's transmission technology, the company provides wireless display chip platforms and related services for consumer, educational, commercial, and industrial applications.
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