My 1st laptop - VGA port suitable or do I need DVI?

Hi,

I'm thinking of getting the ASUS K50IJ-X8, but my computer guru said that the VGA port isn't good for hooking to an external monitor. Can anyone confirm?

 

In terms of looks and quality, you won't notice anything. Some people have claimed that DVI gives better color or refresh rate, or some other BS, but in reality there is no difference whatsoever. DVI is more versatile though as it has the capability to carry both analog (VGA) and digital signals if done right, so perhaps that's what your computer guru is referring to. It is easy to go from HDMI >> DVI or VGA >> DVI (but not HDMI >> VGA).

VGA is fine for everything except the really high resolution monitors (greater than 2053x1536) or monitors that are physically far away (long cables deteriorate signal, so a 15 foot monitor cable is not recommended).

 

Thank you very much - that's a huge help. Well then I can't see any reason not to get this laptop...thank you!!

 

Asus is a great company and makes awesome computers. Best of luck with your purchase!

 

In terms of connectivity, it will be limiting. New flat panels are doing away with VGA, and it's not universal on TV's. It is still the most common connection for projection systems. If you have a monitor, you should be fine. If you are buying one, confirm that it has VGA. If you want to connect to a TV, look for HDMI instead of VGA.