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Older GPUs With Native DVI-I Ports Can Solve VGA Compatibility Problems

A VGA monitor needs an analog signal: check whether a card’s DVI port is DVI-I, or use a compatible DisplayPort-to-VGA adapter.
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If your monitor has VGA, the DVI marking on a graphics card is not enough: the port must carry analog video. DVI-I does; DVI-D is digital-only. A graphics card with DVI-I can often connect to a VGA display through a DVI-to-VGA adapter, while a DVI-D port cannot do so with a passive adapter. For the GeForce GTX 1080, GTX 1070, and GTX 1060, NVIDIA names a DisplayPort-to-VGA adapter as an option.

Why an older graphics card can help

Some older graphics cards were sold with native DVI-I connectors, which can provide the analog signal a VGA monitor needs. ASUS’s 2016 product guide, for example, lists representative cards with both dual-link DVI-I and DVI-D connectors. That is evidence that such boards existed—not proof that every older card has DVI-I, or that a particular board will fit or work in a given computer.

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The key is the signal carried by the port, not simply its shape. DVI-I supports digital and analog signals; DVI-D supports digital only, according to NVIDIA’s explanation of DVI connector types.

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Can I use a VGA monitor with a GeForce GTX 1080, 1070, or 1060?

Yes, if you use a compatible DisplayPort-to-VGA adapter on a card with an available DisplayPort output. NVIDIA lists this as an option for the GTX 1080, GTX 1070, and GTX 1060. Check the adapter’s supported resolution and refresh rate against your monitor’s requirements; the fact that an adapter fits does not establish support for every display mode. See NVIDIA’s VGA-adapter guidance for these GeForce cards.

#1 Best Overall
StarTech DVI to VGA Adapter Cable, Male to Female, 1 Pack (DVIVGAMF)
  • This adapter connects your VGA Display to a DVI-I source
  • DVI to VGA Adapter / DVI to VGA Connection / DVI to VGA Cable Adapter
  • Converts a DVI Male connector to a VGA female connector making it the perfect solution for connecting your DVI-I desktop or laptop computer to a VGA monitor or projector
  • Molded Connector with thumbscrews
  • Guaranteed reliability

If you are considering a DVI-to-VGA adapter instead, first verify that the card’s DVI port is DVI-I. A passive adapter uses DVI-I’s analog pins; it cannot turn a DVI-D digital-only output into VGA’s analog signal.

Check the exact card and port before buying

  1. Identify the monitor input. Confirm that the display actually needs VGA, rather than a digital DVI, HDMI, or DisplayPort connection.
  2. Look up the exact graphics card model. Check its manufacturer specifications or manual for the connector type. Do not rely on a listing that says only “DVI.” NVIDIA explains standard connectors for specified reference or Founders Edition designs, while partner-board versions may differ; its graphics-card comparison page provides that qualification.
  3. Match the adapter to the output signal. For VGA, use DVI-to-VGA only with DVI-I analog output, or choose a supported DisplayPort-to-VGA adapter. A passive adapter on DVI-D will not supply VGA.
  4. Confirm display modes and system fit separately. Verify the card and adapter support the monitor’s resolution and refresh rate. Also check card dimensions, power requirements, and operating-system driver availability; connector information alone does not establish those details.

For AMD cards, the manufacturer’s product specifications include output fields such as Dual Link DVI, VGA, HDMI, and DisplayPort. Check the specification for the precise board or product rather than assuming a connector configuration from the GPU family.

Rank #2
Sale
StarTech 8in DVI to VGA Adapter Cable, Male to Female (DVIVGAMF8IN)
  • Connect your VGA Display to a DVI-I source
  • 8" DVI Male to VGA Female Cable
  • DVI-I Male to VGA Adapter
  • DVI Male to VGA Female
  • 8in DVI to VGA Adapter
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Choosing between an older DVI-I card and an adapter

What to compare Older card with DVI-I Adapter from a newer card
VGA connection DVI-I carries analog pins that a DVI-to-VGA adapter may use. NVIDIA documents DisplayPort-to-VGA for the named GTX 1080, 1070, and 1060 cards.
Digital DVI display Check the card’s DVI mode and the monitor’s requirements. Check the exact output and adapter; a VGA converter does not address a digital DVI connection.
Resolution and refresh rate Verify support for the specific card, port, and display combination. Verify the adapter’s stated supported modes; NVIDIA specifically advises checking resolution and refresh rate for its VGA-adapter option.
PC compatibility Check board dimensions, power, and operating-system drivers independently. Check adapter support and confirm the graphics card has the required output.

The ASUS guide is a 2016 document, so its examples do not establish current stock, current driver support, or suitability for your PC. No specific card model can be recommended on connector type alone.

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Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1
StarTech DVI to VGA Adapter Cable, Male to Female, 1 Pack (DVIVGAMF)
StarTech DVI to VGA Adapter Cable, Male to Female, 1 Pack (DVIVGAMF)
This adapter connects your VGA Display to a DVI-I source; DVI to VGA Adapter / DVI to VGA Connection / DVI to VGA Cable Adapter
$5.44
SaleBestseller No. 2
StarTech 8in DVI to VGA Adapter Cable, Male to Female (DVIVGAMF8IN)
StarTech 8in DVI to VGA Adapter Cable, Male to Female (DVIVGAMF8IN)
Connect your VGA Display to a DVI-I source; 8" DVI Male to VGA Female Cable; DVI-I Male to VGA Adapter
$13.99
Bestseller No. 5
BENFEI Active DVI-D to VGA, DVI-D 24+1 to VGA 6 Feet Cable Male to Male Gold-Plated Cord
BENFEI Active DVI-D to VGA, DVI-D 24+1 to VGA 6 Feet Cable Male to Male Gold-Plated Cord
EASY PLUG & PLAY installation - No driver or software installation required!
$10.99
Best Value
BENFEI Active DVI-D to VGA, DVI-D 24+1 to VGA 6 Feet Cable Male to Male Gold-Plated Cord
  • HIGH PERFORMANCE ADAPTER - Connects DVI-D enabled desktops and laptops (Lenovo, Dell, HP, ASUS and other major branded systems) to VGA displays.
  • HIGH QUALITY VIDEO - Supports HDTV resolution up to 1080p @60Hz and PC graphics resolutions up to 1920 x 1200 @60Hz
  • RELIABLE CONNECTION - Features Quad-shielded cable with PVC jacket for maximum video performance & prevention of signal loss
  • EASY PLUG & PLAY installation - No driver or software installation required!
  • 18 MONTH WARRANTY - Exclusive Benfei Unconditional 18-month Warranty ensures long-time protection of your purchase; Friendly and easy-to-reach customer service to solve your problems timely
Rank #4
Ruhza DTech DVI Male to VGA Female Adapter High Speed DVI-I24+5 Port Converter for HDTV, Plasma, DVD and Projector
  • ( pls be noted it was DVI -I not DVI -D) It's a DVI-I 24+5 pin DVI to VGA video adapter (m/f) is a great simple accessory between DVI-I and VGA device
  • DVI-I male to VGA female adaptor is designed with gold plated connector resists corrosion and increases durability
  • DVI-VGA converter supports high resolutions up to 1080p Full HD; audio must be transmitted separately (VGA not natively support audio)
  • Small conversion coupler with grip treads and screws makes an easy hook-up and a secure connection
  • For DVI computer to monitor, HDTV or projector with VGA port; an VGA cable is required (sold separately)
Rank #3
DTECH DVI to VGA Adapter DVI-D Male to VGA Female Converter 1080P Video Connector 24+1 Pin for Monitor Computer Projector
  • DVI to VGA converter is a great simple accessory between DVI source and VGA display device (One way conversion: digital DVI input to analog VGA ouput , NOT Bi-directional plug)
  • 24+1 pin DVI male to VGA female adaptor is designed with gold plated connector resists corrosion and increases durability
  • DVI-VGA adapter (m-f) for monitor supports high resolution up to 1080p Full HD video; audio must be transmitted separately (VGA do not handle audio)
  • Small DVI-D coupler dongle with grip treads and screws makes an easy hook-up and a secure connection (fit in 24+5 DVI-I socket and 24+1 DVI-D female receptacle)
  • Passive DVID video connector for DVI laptop, PC computer to monitor, TV or projector with VGA port; an VGA cable is required (sold separately)

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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