Q: When should you use a longer video cable vs. a video extender?

Video converters and extenders should only be used when necessary. You can often avoid using them by purchasing the correct cable.

The following table lists the maximum length of cable for common video standards:

DisplayPort: 50 ft (15.2 m)

HDMI: 50 ft (15.2 m) [1080p] - 10~15m, [4K30Hz] - 10m, [4K60Hz] - 5m, [8K] - 2m

DVI: 50 ft (15.2 m)

VGA: 200 ft (71 m)

Video extenders convert an input signal to a higher voltage for transmission over longer distances and then convert the input signal back to the original video standard. The input and output signal will match on a video extender, as the same video standard is maintained end-to-end.

However, the signal quality degrades if a cable is extended with adapters or converters. This is because adapters and converters convert the signal use one video standard to another, which can introduce errors and artifacts.

Therefore, if you need to extend a video signal over a long distance, it is best to use a video extender. This will ensure the signal quality is maintained and you do not experience any errors.