Adapter vs. Converter — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on May 15, 2024
An adapter facilitates connectivity between different hardware or software interfaces, while a converter changes the form or type of data or signals.
Difference Between Adapter and Converter
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
An adapter is used to bridge compatibility gaps between different physical or technological interfaces, ensuring that different systems or devices can connect. A converter, on the other hand, changes the actual content or format of data or signals from one type to another.
In the context of electronics, adapters often refer to physical devices that allow, for example, cables with different plug types to connect. Converters, however, are used to transform the type of signal, such as converting analog signals into digital form.
For software, an adapter can be a piece of code that allows different programs to work together by standardizing communication protocols. In contrast, a software converter changes file formats or data structures to be compatible with different applications or processes.
Adapters typically do not alter the data itself but make it possible for data to be transferred from one system to another. Converters fundamentally change the data’s format, making it usable in environments that operate under different standards.
Power adapters and travel adapters are common examples where the adapter adjusts physical interfaces or matches voltage requirements without changing the power's nature. Electrical converters like voltage converters change the actual electricity's characteristics to match device requirements.
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Comparison Chart
Function
Facilitates connectivity or compatibility
Changes form or type of data or signals
Application in Tech
Physical interfaces, software integration
Signal, data format conversion
Change in Data
No change in data content
Alters data content or signal type
Common Types
Plug adapters, software adapters
Voltage converters, file converters
Example Usage
Connecting USB-C to USB-A cable
Converting AC power to DC power
Compare with Definitions
Adapter
A device or software that enables compatibility between different systems or interfaces.
An adapter lets you connect a USB-C device to a USB-A port.
Converter
A device or program that transforms data or signals from one form to another.
A digital-to-analog converter changes digital signals into analog for audio equipment.
Adapter
Used to match different physical or technological standards without altering data.
A travel adapter allows plug compatibility across different countries.
Converter
Alters the fundamental properties or format of its input to produce a compatible output.
A video converter changes file formats from AVI to MP4.
Adapter
Often passive, facilitating a bridge without transforming the fundamental characteristics.
A network adapter connects computers to networks.
Converter
Can be used in both hardware solutions and software applications.
A file format converter for documents.
Adapter
Typically physical but can also be conceptual in software applications.
An API adapter interfaces disparate web services.
Converter
Involves active transformation, impacting the structure or nature of the data.
An electrical converter changes AC power to DC.
Adapter
An adapter or adaptor is a device that converts attributes of one electrical device or system to those of an otherwise incompatible device or system. Some modify power or signal attributes, while others merely adapt the physical form of one connector to another.
Converter
A furnace in which pig iron is converted into steel by the Bessemer process.
Adapter
A device for connecting pieces of equipment that cannot be connected directly
The adapter converts the lens focal length to 5.5 mm
A tube fixed to the cleaner by means of an adapter
Converter
A machine that converts electric current from one kind to another.
Adapter
A person who adapts a text to make it suitable for filming, broadcasting, or the stage.
Converter
An electronic device that converts one frequency of a radio signal to another.
Adapter
One that adapts, such as a device used to effect operative compatibility between different parts of one or more pieces of apparatus.
Converter
A device that converts data from one code to another.
Adapter
See expansion card.
Converter
One that is employed in converting raw products into finished products.
Adapter
One who is capable of adapting to differing situations.
He was an able adapter, and could easily adjust to the differences when the company changed ownership.
Converter
A person or thing that converts.
Adapter
One who adapts a thing, e.g. a play.
The critic gave rave reviews to the adapter of the ancient play, who worked to give the text more relevance to the modern day.
Converter
(electrical engineering) A device that changes voltage or frequency, for example one that converts alternating current to direct current.
Adapter
A device or application used to achieve operative compatibility between devices that otherwise are incompatible.
He had an adapter that let him plug his phone into the car's cigarette lighter for power.
Converter
(metallurgy) A retort or furnace, used e.g. in the Bessemer process, in which molten cast iron is decarburized and converted into steel by a blast of air forced through the liquid metal.
Adapter
Specifically, a device that permits two, three, or more plugs to be used at a single electrical power point.
The wall outlet sprouted an electrical monstrosity of adapters plugged into adapters that sparked ominously.
Converter
A reaction chamber in which exhaust gases are catalytically converted to carbon dioxide
Adapter
Specifically, a device that allows one format of plug to be used with a different format of socket.
We bought adapters to use our three-prong plugs in the two-prong, unpolarized outlets of the old house.
Converter
(computing) A program that converts one file format to another one, or which converts between different units of measurement, such as miles to meters.
Unit convertor
Adapter
Specifically, an AC adapter: a device that reduces voltage and converts AC to DC to allow a battery-powered device to use mains power.
I lost my cellphone's adapter so I couldn't recharge it.
Converter
(medicine) A patient with a certain condition that subsequently develops into another condition.
Adapter
One who adapts.
Converter
A device that converts an analogue to a digital signal, or vice versa.
Adapter
A connecting tube; an adopter.
Converter
One who converts; one who makes converts.
Adapter
A musician who adapts a composition for particular voices or instruments or for another style of performance
Converter
A retort, used in the Bessemer process, in which molten cast iron is decarburized and converted into steel by a blast of air forced through the liquid metal.
Adapter
Device that enables something to be used in a way different from that for which it was intended or makes different pieces of apparatus compatible
Converter
A device for changing one substance or form or state into another
Adapter
Integrates different types of technology by aligning their interfaces.
A software adapter lets different applications communicate effectively.
Converter
Essential for operations requiring data usability across various technologies.
A voltage converter adapts electrical output to match device requirements.
Common Curiosities
What is an adapter used for?
It's used to make one system or device compatible with another.
Are converters necessary for international travel?
Yes, especially for electrical devices, as different countries have different voltage standards.
How do adapters and converters differ in terms of function?
Adapters are for compatibility; converters are for transformation.
What does a converter do?
It changes data or signals from one form to another.
Can adapters convert signals?
No, adapters do not change the signal or data type but merely facilitate connectivity.
Can I use an adapter for any electronic device?
Yes, if the adapter matches the device's interface requirements.
Is a software converter similar to a hardware converter?
Both change the format or type of data, though one is digital and the other physical.
What is a common example of a converter in electronics?
A voltage converter used to adapt between different electrical systems.
What should I use to connect two different cable types?
An adapter is suitable for connecting different types of cables.
How do I choose between an adapter and a converter?
Choose based on whether you need to connect different interfaces or convert the type of data or signal.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
