The 10 Best Thunderbolt to HDMI Adapters
Special Honors
Apple Digital AV Multiport Adapter Mac users sometimes run into compatibility issues with third-party accessories. If you've had this issue, one surefire way to get around it is to go straight to the source and pick up the Apple-branded model, which will certainly work for anything with a Thunderbolt 3 port. apple.com
Editor's Notes
November 20, 2020:
If you just need something simple, the Uni F01 should get the job done, or the Cable Matters 101001 if you need a Thunderbolt 2 connection. The Cable Matters 201062, ChoeTech 1201BK, and CableCreation 90 Degree are all different models that combine the adapter with the cable itself, so you won't need to get a separate extension. For what it's worth, many of these will also work with USB-C smartphones as long as the phone supports the DisplayPort Alt Mode protocol.
On the other hand, there are quite a few options that can fill broader needs. The Sabrent TH-W3H2 fully utilizes the Thunderbolt 3 standard and thus allows for dual 4K displays at 60 hertz, which is something the CalDigit Mini Dock can also boast. The Anker PowerExpand+ is one of the most reliable hubs from a popular electronics company, and while the Lention Hub isn't as well known, it does promise to work with MacBooks. If you need something that works with legacy devices as well as modern TVs, the Gofanco Adapter should do the trick.
October 20, 2019:
Depending on what kind of connectivity you need in addition to an HDMI connector, there are quite a few options to choose from here. The Uni is the simplest and doesn't actually require Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, but only a USB-C port with video capability. While the Sabrent is pretty costly, it is a big step up, because it uses the HDMI 2.0 standard and can accommodate 2 4k monitors at 60 hertz, something that standard USB-C currently cannot do. The BeEasy and Lention are both capable USB-C hubs with 4K output, but like many others, they only utilize HDMI 1.4 and are therefore limited to 30 hertz. Speaking of hubs, the CalDigit is an especially powerful docking station that has all the capabilities of a high-end dock minus the Power Delivery passthrough.
We've also included a few somewhat specialty items that can come in handy for many users. ChoeTech and CableCreation both make highly capable HDMI cables that streamline the connection process. And the Gofanco and Cable Matters options use the older mini DisplayPort connector used by Thunderbolt 1 and 2, which you'll need if you're using an older MacBook or Microsoft Surface.