If you are planning to connect your MacBook to an external monitor TV or projector you might be wondering whether MacBooks have a HDMI port. The answer depends on the model and the year it was released. Apple has made various design changes over the years and not all MacBooks include a built-in HDMI port.
In this article we will explain which MacBook models come with a HDMI port what alternatives are available and how to connect your MacBook to HDMI displays even if it does not have a dedicated port.
MacBook Models That Include a HDMI Port
Some recent MacBook Pro models do include a HDMI port. Starting with the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models released in 2021 Apple brought back the HDMI port after several years of removing it in favour of USB-C. These models also feature MagSafe charging an SD card slot and several Thunderbolt 4 ports.
The 2023 and 2024 MacBook Pro models also have a HDMI port which makes it easy to connect to external displays without needing an adapter. These ports support up to 4K at 60Hz or higher depending on the model and the version of HDMI used.
However the MacBook Air models including the M1 and M2 versions do not have a built-in HDMI port. Instead they come with two USB-C ports and a headphone jack. If you own a MacBook Air or an older MacBook Pro you will likely need a USB-C to HDMI adapter to connect to an external screen.
Using an Adapter for HDMI Output
If your MacBook does not include a HDMI port you can still connect to a HDMI display using an adapter. USB-C to HDMI adapters are widely available and relatively inexpensive. Simply plug the adapter into one of your MacBook’s USB-C ports then connect the HDMI cable from your display to the adapter.
Some adapters include multiple ports for HDMI USB-A and card readers which can be useful if you need to connect more than one device. You can also use a USB-C hub or docking station which provides HDMI along with Ethernet USB and SD card slots.
These adapters are compatible with both Intel-based and Apple Silicon MacBooks as long as they support video output through USB-C which nearly all recent MacBooks do.
Configuring the Display Settings
Once your MacBook is connected to a HDMI display it should detect the external monitor automatically. If the screen does not show anything go to System Settings > Displays on macOS Ventura or newer or System Preferences > Displays on older versions of macOS.
Here you can adjust the resolution choose to mirror the display or use the external monitor as an extended desktop. You can also change the arrangement by dragging the display icons into the desired order.
If sound is not coming through the HDMI cable go to System Settings > Sound and select the HDMI device as the output option.
Benefits of a Built-in HDMI Port
Having a built-in HDMI port offers a simple plug-and-play experience without needing extra accessories. It reduces cable clutter and is especially helpful for professionals who regularly present or connect to multiple displays.
It is also more reliable for high-resolution output since direct connections can be more stable than some adapters. However the lack of a HDMI port on some models does not limit your ability to connect. It just adds a small extra step.
Final Thoughts
Not all MacBooks have a HDMI port but it is making a return on selected MacBook Pro models. If you have a MacBook Air or an older Pro model you can still use HDMI with a USB-C adapter. The overall experience is smooth and macOS offers good support for external displays.
Whether you are setting up a second monitor at your desk or connecting to a TV for streaming you can use HDMI with your MacBook easily with or without a built-in port.