Some TVs let you connect a laptop to them using a USB connection.

HDMI ports resemble a 3/4 inch pentogonal-shaped port with the bottom corners rounded inward. This can be used to connect to a TV without an adapter.

Some MacBook models have an HDMI port on the side.

Check the label next to the port to know what cable you need to use. Mini DisplayPorts are the same size and shape as Thunderbolt and Thunderbolt 2 ports, but they are not the same. It also has a label that resembles a TV screen with two lines on both sides. It has a rectangle-shaped port with the bottom corners cut out.

If you have a MacBook Pro or MacBook Air produced between 20, your MacBook uses a Mini DisplayPort.

Pay attention to the label next to the port to know what cable you need to purchase. Thunderbolt and Thunderbolt 2 output ports are the same shape and size as a Mini DisplayPort, but they are not the same as a Mini DisplayPort. They also have a label that resembles a lightning bolt next to them. These ports are rectangle-shaped with the corners cut out of the bottom.

If you have a MacBook Pro produced between 20, or a MacBook Air produced between 20, your MacBook may have a Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 output port.

Be sure to purchase a USB-C cable and not a Thunderbolt 3.

If you have a MacBook produced after 2015 and it has a single pill-shaped port on the side, your MacBook supports a USB-C connection, but not Thunderbolt 3 connection.

You can use a Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C cable in any one of the output ports. MacBooks that support Thunderbolt 3 have multiple output ports on them. Both Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C ports have a small pill-shaped port.

If you have a MacBook Pro or MacBook Air produced in 2016 or later, your MacBook supports both Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C output ports.Depending on the year your MacBook was produced and its make and model, your MacBook may use either a Thunderbolt 3, USB-C, Thunderbolt, Thunderbolt 2, Mini DisplayPort, HDMI port, or USB-A port. Determine which video outputs your MacBook has.

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