Should I replace my monitor when buying a new computer?
If you plan on not using or selling your old computer and have an extra monitor, it can usually be used on a newer computer. To determine if it can be used, verify that the connector type for the monitor matches the available connectors on the new computer.
The most common types of monitor cables and connections are VGA (video graphics adapter), HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), and DVI (digital visual interface). Most older computers use a VGA style connector, and most newer computers and video cards use a DVI or HDMI cable. If you have an older VGA monitor that you want to work with DVI or HDMI, a VGA-to-DVI or VGA-to-HDMI converter can be used.
Connecting a PC monitor to an Apple computer
You may experience issues when using a PC monitor on an Apple Macintosh. However, an Apple cable converter can be purchased to resolve this issue. This cable converter can be purchased through the monitor manufacturer or Apple.
Before using an Apple monitor with a non-Apple computer, verify the monitor's video connector type is supported. For example, if the Apple monitor uses a Thunderbolt connection, verify your motherboard supports a Thunderbolt connection. If not, purchase a converter that converts Thunderbolt to a connection type supported by your computer.