In this guide
Mini HDMI (Type C) is a smaller version of the standard HDMI connector, measuring 10.42 mm × 2.42 mm with 19 pins, used on portable devices like DSLR cameras and tablets to carry the same uncompressed HD video and audio as full-size HDMI.
- You use a Mini HDMI-to-standard HDMI cable or adapter
- Both ends share a compatible HDMI version (e.g., 1.4 or 2.0)
- The connector seats firmly with no wobble
- You plug it directly into a standard HDMI port without an adapter
- You confuse it with Micro HDMI (Type D), which is a different, smaller connector
- Cable length is excessive or cable quality is poor, causing signal loss
Mini HDMI vs Standard HDMI vs Micro HDMI
HDMI comes in three main connector sizes. Getting them mixed up is the most common mistake.
| Type | Name | Size | Common Devices |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type A | Standard HDMI | 13.9 mm × 4.45 mm | TVs, monitors, consoles |
| Type C | Mini HDMI | 10.42 mm × 2.42 mm | DSLRs, tablets, camcorders |
| Type D | Micro HDMI | 6.4 mm × 2.8 mm | Smartphones, action cameras |
Mini HDMI and Micro HDMI are not interchangeable. Their connectors are physically different sizes, so a cable for one will not fit the other.
What Devices Use Mini HDMI?
Mini HDMI is most common on devices where a full-size port would take up too much space but Micro HDMI would be too fragile for repeated use.
- DSLR and mirrorless cameras
- Older tablets and compact laptops
- Portable camcorders and field monitors
- Some Raspberry Pi models
Check your device manual or measure the port if you are unsure which type you have. The Intel HDMI connector guide has clear size diagrams to help you identify the correct type.
How to Connect Mini HDMI to a TV or Monitor
Your TV or monitor almost certainly has a full-size (Type A) HDMI port. You have two options to bridge the size difference.
- Mini HDMI to HDMI cable: One end is Mini HDMI (Type C), the other is standard HDMI (Type A). This is the simplest and most reliable option.
- Mini HDMI adapter: Plugs into your device and converts to a standard HDMI socket so you can use a regular HDMI cable.
If your laptop only has USB-C ports, you may need a different solution entirely. See how USB-C connects to HDMI for that setup.
Resolution and Version Support
Mini HDMI carries the same signal as standard HDMI, so resolution depends on the HDMI version, not the connector size.
- HDMI 1.4: Up to 4K at 30 Hz
- HDMI 2.0: Up to 4K at 60 Hz
- HDMI 2.1: Up to 8K, though rare on Mini HDMI devices
Most cameras and older tablets with Mini HDMI ports use version 1.4, so 1080p is the typical practical output. If you need higher bandwidth from a modern device, check whether USB-C video output is an option instead.
Bottom line: Mini HDMI is a compact but fully capable HDMI connector. Use a Mini HDMI-to-HDMI cable or adapter to connect your camera or tablet to a display, make sure you have the right connector type (not Micro HDMI), and match HDMI versions for the resolution you need.