Laptop Ports

S-Video

This circular seven-pin connector outputs your laptop’s video signal to a television, projector, DVD player, or other external source. While S-Video is on the way out, those looking to connect a laptop to an older television or projector will be best suited by a laptop with this connector.

USB 2.0

Most laptops come with three to four USB 2.0 ports. They’re the easiest and most ubiquitous means of connecting a peripheral (mouse, scanner, printer, digital camera) to your notebook. USB ports can also distribute electrical power and charge many peripherals, including cell phones. Look for well-spaced USB ports that allow you to use them simultaneously without blocking a neighboring space. 

VGA

Standard on most laptops, the Video Graphics Array port connects your PC to an external monitor or projector. Unlike HDMI, VGA connections do not carry audio signals and they do not support high-definition Blu-ray playback.