If you plan to buy a new laptop in 2026, it's best not to focus only on the processor or memory, but also to take a look at the ports available on the device, especially the HDMI port, which has started to disappear from a growing number of modern laptops.

The HDMI port is used to send video and audio from the computer to an external monitor or TV, and it remains one of the most common ports, yet some companies are phasing it out in favor of newer and more flexible ports.

USB-C: A versatile alternative

One of the main reasons for the disappearance of the HDMI port is the widespread adoption of USB-C, which can perform multiple functions through a single port, according to a report by SlashGear seen by Al Arabiya Business.

Depending on the specifications supported by the device, a USB-C port can transmit video and audio to an external display, along with transferring data and charging the computer simultaneously, giving manufacturers more room to reduce the number of ports without sacrificing essential functions.

For this reason, some companies have preferred to rely on USB-C instead of adding a separate HDMI port.

Thinner devices, but...

Design also plays an important role in this trend, as eliminating the HDMI port helps produce thinner and lighter devices, which has become a key goal for many companies.

However, HDMI has not completely disappeared; many modern laptops still offer it as the primary means of connecting the computer to external monitors or TVs, while some models combine both HDMI and USB-C to provide users with more connectivity options.

What you will lose

Although slim devices look more elegant and are easier to carry, the absence of an HDMI port may force the user to buy adapters or docking stations if they want to use a monitor or device that relies on this port.

The cost may increase if you use more than one external device, especially given the different types of ports across different devices.

What about Thunderbolt?

You may also notice a Thunderbolt logo next to the USB-C port on some devices.

Although Thunderbolt 3 and later versions use the same USB-C port, they offer additional capabilities, such as:

- Support for running multiple external displays simultaneously.

- Higher data transfer speeds.

- Easy connection to docking stations.

This is why Thunderbolt has become a popular option in modern laptops, especially in professional categories.

Thinner design, harder repair

Companies' efforts to reduce device thickness are not limited to removing ports; some companies also solder components such as RAM or other units directly onto the motherboard to save internal space.

Although this design helps produce smaller devices, it makes repair processes more complicated and reduces the possibility of upgrading the device in the future, which may limit its lifespan for users who prefer to upgrade their devices over time.

Therefore, experts recommend reviewing port specifications and upgradeability before purchasing any laptop, and not just looking at the design or weight, especially if you rely on connecting external monitors or plan to use the device for several years.

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