Mini DisplayPort (MDP) / Thunderbolt
Mini DisplayPort is the current digital standard on all current Macs to transfer video to an external display or TV. It has been introduced in 10/2008 with the release of the Unibody MacBook and MacBook Pros and has gradually been adopted on all other Macs.
MDP is capable of transmitting video, and since 2010, audio too. MDP is a miniaturised version of DisplayPort. It is also license free and can support resolutions of up to 2560 x 1600, which Mini DVI and Micro DVI are not able to do.
Since 2011, all Macs come with a Thunderbolt port, which is meant for fast data transfer and also as means to connect to an external display device to mirror or extend the Mac's screen.
To learn more about Thunderbolt (TB) and its compatibility with Mini DisplayPort (MDP): Introducing ThunderboltMDP adapters and cables can be bought online from:
Apple Online Store (or the physical Apple Store)
Monoprice
- Mini DisplayPort + USB to Dual-Link DVI adapter
- Mini DisplayPort to DVI adapter
- Mini DisplayPort to VGA adapter
- Mini DisplayPort to HDMI adapter
- Mini Displayport Male and USB Male/Toslink Audio to HDMI Female Converting adapter
- Mini Displayport Male and USB Male Audio to HDMI Female Converting adapter - *NOTE* Will only support 2 channel stereo. Will not support 5.1 Dolby Surround like the above adapter.
Also of interest: "What is "Mini DisplayPort"? Is it an industry-standard? How is it different from or better than Mini-DVI and Micro-DVI?"
So basically the Thunderbolt port is the same as the Mini DisplayPort? I didn't know that at all. My iMac only says that I have 4x USB3, 2 ThunderBolt and 1 Giga...
I want to connect a 1080p display to my 2013 iMac, but I can't find any Thunderbolt to HDMI cable on Apple Store (online). Is there any other way to do it? If I use an Apple TV, will there be lags when gaming?