Apple announced Mini DisplayPort in 2008, and it later appeared on many Macs.
Its history links display connections with broader computer I/O: the first two Thunderbolt versions used the Mini DisplayPort connector while carrying data, before Thunderbolt 3 adopted USB-C.
The key compatibility detail today is that USB-C ports can carry DisplayPort signals only when they support the relevant mode; not all USB-C ports offer the same functions.
Why Mini DisplayPort became rare
Apple introduced Mini DisplayPort in 2008 and used it on many Macs for several years. It then removed it from its newer models, while computer manufacturers quickly switched to USB-C or HDMI.
Thunderbolt was also changing around the same time. Its first two versions used the same connector as Mini DisplayPort, but could also carry data. Thunderbolt 3 appeared in late 2015 and 2016 and adopted the USB-C connector.
USB-C can carry video, audio, and data, and on compatible devices, it also supports Thunderbolt. Some USB-C ports and cables can also carry a DisplayPort signal. However, capabilities vary from port to port.
DisplayPort remains useful
The regular DisplayPort is still found on many high-end monitors and graphics cards. Both the regular and Mini versions can carry video and audio with a single cable. So an older computer or graphics card with a Mini DisplayPort can be connected to a newer monitor with a Mini DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable.
Depending on the version, DisplayPort can support resolutions up to 8K and high refresh rates, i.e. many images per second. It is suitable, for example, for 4K display at 240 Hz.
DisplayPort 2.1 can carry up to 80 Gbps of data, while HDMI 2.1 can carry up to 48 Gbps. The newer HDMI 2.2 version can carry up to 96 Gbps and could close the gap once compatible devices become widely available.
Some devices may not work properly with adapters. For example, some virtual reality headsets may not work properly when connected via a Mini DisplayPort adapter. Also, according to Apple, the older Cinema Display does not work via a Thunderbolt adapter.
Mini DisplayPort is now rare, but may still be needed to connect older devices. Regular DisplayPort remains important for those using high-performance monitors and graphics cards.
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