How recommendations are determined

Inputs

• Source — device you have (laptop, phone, iPad, Deck, PS5, Xbox, …).
• Destination — monitor, HDMI display, DP monitor, dock, portable panel, PD charger.
• Intents — toggleable chips: Video, Highest refresh, Charging, Data, One cable, Record/capture (off by default).

Outcome categories

Every result shows exactly one badge:

• KEEP YOURS — existing cable/charger/direct path is adequate for stated intents.
• DIRECT CONNECTION — native path (e.g. HDMI console→TV, TB/USB-C laptop→compatible monitor) without needing a dock.
• ADAPTER/CABLE REQUIRED — conversion needed (USB-C→HDMI, USB-C→DP, video-rated cable).
• DOCK REQUIRED — multi-port / multi-display / aggregated PD+data when direct path is insufficient.
• CAPTURE HARDWARE REQUIRED — only when Record/capture intent is on; never forced for play-only console→TV.

Evidence posture

Copy is framed as standards-backed (USB-IF USB-C / DP Alt Mode, HDMI Forum Ultra High Speed, Thunderbolt 4 one-cable patterns, USB PD) plus manufacturer-documented patterns where cited. Exact model specs must be verified—we do not invent them.

Charge-only cable diagnostic

USB-C connector shape is not video capability. If a cable fits but there is no picture, treat “charge-only vs video-rated” as the first check—before buying hubs or docks.

• KEEP the charge cable for charging when it already meets your USB Power Delivery / phone or laptop power needs.
• Use a separate video-rated path (Alt Mode / Thunderbolt / USB4 display, or HDMI adapter path) for the monitor.
• NO PURCHASE if a known-good video cable or hub you already own restores the picture.

See also: USB-C → HDMI adapter path · USB-C phone → monitor · USB-C laptop → 4K monitor · iPad USB-C → monitor / HDMI.