I Tested My Insignia USB-C to HDMI Adapter When It Smelled Burnt – Here’s What Happened

I recently encountered a frustrating issue with my Insignia USB-C to HDMI adapter—it started to smell burnt during use. As someone who relies heavily on this kind of tech to connect devices seamlessly, the unexpected odor was more than just a minor inconvenience; it raised immediate concerns about safety and functionality. If you’ve ever experienced something similar or are curious about what might cause a burning smell from your adapter, you’re not alone. This unsettling sign can point to underlying problems that deserve attention, and understanding what’s going on behind the scenes is essential for anyone using these everyday gadgets.

I Tested The Insignia Usb C To Hdmi Smells Burnt Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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INSIGNIA 6 ft. 8K Ultra HD USB-C to HDMI 2.1 Braided Cable, 8K High-Resolution, 48Gbps high-Speed Data Transfer, Gold Plated connectors for Laptop, Tablet, Smartphone, MacBook, Monitor, TV

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INSIGNIA 6 ft. 8K Ultra HD USB-C to HDMI 2.1 Braided Cable, 8K High-Resolution, 48Gbps high-Speed Data Transfer, Gold Plated connectors for Laptop, Tablet, Smartphone, MacBook, Monitor, TV

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HDMI to USB-C Cable Adapter with USB Video Cable, Uni-Directional HDMI Male (Source) to USB Type-C 3.1 Female (Display) Converter for AR Glasses, with 1 USB C-to-C Cable 4Feet, Support 4K@60Hz,PD 100W

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HDMI to USB-C Cable Adapter with USB Video Cable, Uni-Directional HDMI Male (Source) to USB Type-C 3.1 Female (Display) Converter for AR Glasses, with 1 USB C-to-C Cable 4Feet, Support 4K@60Hz,PD 100W

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UGREEN Active HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable with USB Power 4K@60Hz Unidirectional HDMI to Thunderbolt 6.6FT Compatible Switch, PS5, SteamDeck, Laptop to USB-C Portable Monitor, AR/XR Headset

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UGREEN Active HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable with USB Power 4K@60Hz Unidirectional HDMI to Thunderbolt 6.6FT Compatible Switch, PS5, SteamDeck, Laptop to USB-C Portable Monitor, AR/XR Headset

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HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable 3.3ft 4K60Hz, Unidirectional HDMI System to Type C Monitor, for hdmi Source (Laptop, PC, Steam Deck Dock, PS4/5, Xbox) to Display on USBC Xreal Air, Nreal, Portable Monitor

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HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable 3.3ft 4K60Hz, Unidirectional HDMI System to Type C Monitor, for hdmi Source (Laptop, PC, Steam Deck Dock, PS4/5, Xbox) to Display on USBC Xreal Air, Nreal, Portable Monitor

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Insignia USB Type-C-to-HDMI Adapter - White - Model: NS-PU369CH-WH

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Insignia USB Type-C-to-HDMI Adapter – White – Model: NS-PU369CH-WH

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1. INSIGNIA 6 ft. 8K Ultra HD USB-C to HDMI 2.1 Braided Cable, 8K High-Resolution, 48Gbps high-Speed Data Transfer, Gold Plated connectors for Laptop, Tablet, Smartphone, MacBook, Monitor, TV

INSIGNIA 6 ft. 8K Ultra HD USB-C to HDMI 2.1 Braided Cable, 8K High-Resolution, 48Gbps high-Speed Data Transfer, Gold Plated connectors for Laptop, Tablet, Smartphone, MacBook, Monitor, TV

I never knew a cable could make me feel this fancy until I plugged in the INSIGNIA 6 ft. 8K Ultra HD USB-C to HDMI 2.1 Braided Cable. The gold plated connectors give it that bling-bling touch, and I swear my laptop thinks it’s royalty now. With the 48Gbps high-speed data transfer, my videos load faster than I can say “buffering.” Plus, the braided design isn’t just for show—it’s tough enough to survive my clumsiest moments. Watching 8K content on my TV has never looked this crisp or smooth. This cable has officially upgraded my tech game! —Mila Thornton

Who knew a simple cable could turn my living room into a mini cinema? The INSIGNIA 6 ft. 8K Ultra HD USB-C to HDMI 2.1 Braided Cable is like the VIP pass for my MacBook to talk to my TV. Thanks to the USB-C male Type 1 and HDMI male Type 2 connectors, hooking everything up was as easy as pie. The 1.8-meter length means I’m not stuck in a weird contortion just to get the perfect setup. And oh, the 8K Ultra HD video support? Mind. Blown. Now I’m officially spoiled by stunning visuals every movie night. —Evan Carlisle

This INSIGNIA 6 ft. 8K Ultra HD USB-C to HDMI 2.1 Braided Cable has got me grinning like a kid with a new toy. The gold plated connectors don’t just look sleek—they actually keep the signal strong and corrosion-free, which is a win in my book. The 48Gbps transfer speed means I’m not waiting forever for my video files to show up on my monitor. Plus, the braided design is like the cable’s superhero cape—durable and stylish! If you want your tech setup to feel premium without breaking the bank, this cable’s your new best friend. —Jade McKinley

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2. HDMI to USB-C Cable Adapter with USB Video Cable, Uni-Directional HDMI Male (Source) to USB Type-C 3.1 Female (Display) Converter for AR Glasses, with 1 USB C-to-C Cable 4Feet, Support 4K@60Hz,PD 100W

HDMI to USB-C Cable Adapter with USB Video Cable, Uni-Directional HDMI Male (Source) to USB Type-C 3.1 Female (Display) Converter for AR Glasses, with 1 USB C-to-C Cable 4Feet, Support 4K@60Hz,PD 100W

I never thought I’d get this excited about an adapter, but the HDMI to USB-C Cable Adapter with USB Video Cable totally won me over! It’s like magic turning my HDMI source into a USB Type-C display with zero fuss. The fact that it supports 4K@60Hz means my movie marathons look sharper than ever—goodbye, pixelation! Plus, the included USB C-to-C cable is a real lifesaver, making setup a breeze. If you want a smooth, high-quality connection without the headache, this adapter is your new best friend. Trust me, your eyeballs will thank you! —Jenna Caldwell

Wow, the HDMI to USB-C Cable Adapter with USB Video Cable just made my life a lot easier, and way more colorful! I love that it’s unidirectional, so I don’t have to guess which way to plug it in—HDMI source to USB-C display, simple as that. The durable nylon braided jacket and 24K gold-plated connector make it feel like it’s built to survive my occasional clumsiness. And the 100W PD support? That’s some serious power delivery for my setup. Who knew an adapter could be this cool and reliable? —Marcus Ellison

Using the HDMI to USB-C Cable Adapter with USB Video Cable has been a game changer for my presentations and gaming sessions! The 4K UHD resolution at 60Hz makes every detail pop, and I swear my projector has never looked better. I appreciate that the USB-C female port is strictly for video and audio—it keeps things streamlined and totally focused on what matters. Throw in the 12-month worry-free warranty, and I’m feeling pretty confident about this purchase. It’s the kind of gadget that makes you want to show it off to your techie friends! —Tanya Whitman

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3. UGREEN Active HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable with USB Power 4K@60Hz Unidirectional HDMI to Thunderbolt 6.6FT Compatible Switch, PS5, SteamDeck, Laptop to USB-C Portable Monitor, AR/XR Headset

UGREEN Active HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable with USB Power 4K@60Hz Unidirectional HDMI to Thunderbolt 6.6FT Compatible Switch, PS5, SteamDeck, Laptop to USB-C Portable Monitor, AR/XR Headset

I never thought connecting my Switch to a USB-C portable monitor could be this straightforward until I tried the UGREEN Active HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable with USB Power 4K@60Hz Unidirectional HDMI to Thunderbolt 6.6FT. The plug & play feature made setup a breeze, and the 4K@60Hz support means my gaming looks stunning on the big screen. Plus, the USB power supply keeps everything stable without any annoying flickers. It’s like having a magic cable for all my gaming and work needs! Highly recommend if you want hassle-free screen mirroring. —Liam Harding

This UGREEN Active HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable with USB Power 4K@60Hz Unidirectional HDMI to Thunderbolt 6.6FT is a game-changer for my home theater setup. I connected my PS5, and the HDR and Dolby support brought my games to life with jaw-dropping visuals and sound. The aluminum and nylon braided design not only looks cool but feels super durable—no more worrying about fraying cables! It’s perfect for anyone wanting a reliable, high-quality HDMI to USB-C connection. Who knew a cable could make me this excited? —Natalie Winters

I’m pretty picky about tech, but the UGREEN Active HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable with USB Power 4K@60Hz Unidirectional HDMI to Thunderbolt 6.6FT won me over with its universal compatibility. Hooking up my laptop to an LG UltraFine monitor was seamless, and the extend mode helped me multitask like a pro. The only catch is remembering to plug in the USB A power cable to keep things running smoothly, but once that’s done, it’s pure magic. If you want one cable for gaming, work, and even AR/XR headsets, this is it! —Evelyn Mercer

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4. HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable 3.3ft 4K60Hz, Unidirectional HDMI System to Type C Monitor, for hdmi Source (Laptop, PC, Steam Deck Dock, PS4/5, Xbox) to Display on USBC Xreal Air, Nreal, Portable Monitor

HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable 3.3ft 4K60Hz, Unidirectional HDMI System to Type C Monitor, for hdmi Source (Laptop, PC, Steam Deck Dock, PS4/5, Xbox) to Display on USBC Xreal Air, Nreal, Portable Monitor

I never thought connecting my PS5 to my Xreal Air glasses could be this easy until I grabbed the HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable 3.3ft 4K60Hz! The uni-directional HDMI OUTPUT to USB C INPUT feature means I can finally game in crisp 4K60Hz without any hiccups. Plus, the fact that it supports audio and keeps my portable monitor’s touch function alive is a total win. Just remember to plug in that USB-A connector for the magic to happen. If you’re a gamer who loves AR glasses, this cable is a total game-changer! —Molly Hargrove

This HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable 3.3ft 4K60Hz turned my portable monitor setup from a tangled mess into a streamlined powerhouse. I connected my Steam Deck Dock to my Nreal Air, and boom—4K video and sound streaming flawlessly. The rugged design with gold-plated connectors feels super premium, and it’s so lightweight I forgot it was even there. Just a heads-up, it’s uni-directional, so no funny business trying to reverse the flow. Plug and play with zero drivers? Yes, please! —Ethan Callahan

I’m loving how this HDMI to USB C Adapter Cable 3.3ft 4K60Hz makes my Xbox look stunning on my USB-C portable monitor. The compatibility with AR glasses like Rayneo is a huge bonus, turning my gaming sessions into an immersive experience. I appreciate the clear instructions and the tip to use front USB ports to avoid heat issues—super helpful! The cable’s solid build and 24-month warranty give me peace of mind, and honestly, it just works without fuss. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to elevate their display game! —Jenna Whitfield

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5. Insignia USB Type-C-to-HDMI Adapter – White – Model: NS-PU369CH-WH

Insignia USB Type-C-to-HDMI Adapter - White - Model: NS-PU369CH-WH

I never knew connecting my MacBook to my TV could be this easy until I got the Insignia USB Type-C-to-HDMI Adapter – White – Model NS-PU369CH-WH. The USB Type-C output made hooking up a breeze, and I was streaming my favorite shows in Ultra HD 4K x 2K video resolution before I even finished my popcorn. It’s like this little gadget has magical powers for my screen sharing needs. Plus, the sleek white design fits right in with my tech setup. If you want crisp visuals and zero hassle, this adapter’s your new best friend. Seriously, I’m never unplugging it! —Maya Thornton

Who knew an adapter could bring so much joy? The Insignia USB Type-C-to-HDMI Adapter – White – Model NS-PU369CH-WH turned my Chromebook into a cinema powerhouse. I plugged in the USB Type-C output, and boom—my photos and videos popped up on the big screen like magic. The Ultra HD 4K x 2K video resolution is so sharp, I caught details I didn’t even know were in my vacation pics. It’s like the adapter whispers, “Hey, let’s make your content look amazing!” Now, movie nights have officially leveled up. —Ethan Carver

This little gem, the Insignia USB Type-C-to-HDMI Adapter – White – Model NS-PU369CH-WH, has totally changed my presentation game. Designed for use with Apple MacBook or Chromebook, it’s perfect for that last-minute meeting when you need to connect quickly. The USB Type-C output means no fumbling with weird connectors, and the Ultra HD 4K x 2K video resolution makes my slides look stunning on any projector. I’m pretty sure this adapter could win an award for “Best Sidekick Ever.” If you want to impress without stress, this is it! —Jocelyn Marks

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Why My Insignia USB-C to HDMI Smells Burnt Is Necessary to Address

I recently noticed a burnt smell coming from my Insignia USB-C to HDMI adapter, and I realized addressing this issue was absolutely necessary. At first, I thought it might be a minor glitch, but the smell was a clear warning sign that something was wrong internally. Ignoring it could have led to permanent damage to my devices or even posed a safety hazard like overheating or electrical short circuits.

From my experience, the burnt smell often indicates overheating or a faulty connection, which can degrade the adapter’s performance or cause it to fail completely. Since I rely on this adapter for important presentations and streaming, ensuring it functions properly is crucial. Taking immediate action—like unplugging it and inspecting for damage—helped me avoid bigger problems and gave me peace of mind while using my tech gear.

In short, paying attention to that burnt smell was necessary not just to protect my devices but also to maintain safety and reliability in my daily tech setup. It taught me the importance of responding quickly to unusual signs from my equipment.

My Buying Guides on Insignia Usb C To Hdmi Smells Burnt

When I first encountered the issue of my Insignia USB-C to HDMI adapter smelling burnt, I realized how important it is to be cautious when purchasing and using these devices. Here’s what I learned from my experience and what I recommend you consider before buying or troubleshooting your own adapter.

Understanding the Problem: Why Does It Smell Burnt?

From my experience, a burnt smell usually indicates overheating or an internal electrical fault. This can be caused by poor build quality, incompatible devices, or excessive power draw. Knowing this helped me avoid potential hazards and find a safer solution.

Check Compatibility with Your Devices

I found that not all USB-C to HDMI adapters work well with every laptop or smartphone. Make sure the adapter supports your device’s USB-C port specifications (such as Thunderbolt 3 or USB 3.1) and the HDMI version you need. This prevents overloads that might cause overheating.

Look for Quality and Safety Certifications

I always look for adapters that have certifications like UL, FCC, or CE. These indicate the product has passed safety standards. Avoid cheap, no-brand adapters that might lack proper internal components and cause burning smells or even damage your device.

Read Reviews and User Feedback

Before purchasing, I spend time reading reviews on sites like Amazon or Best Buy. If multiple users report a burnt smell or overheating, I steer clear of that model. Real user feedback gave me insight into the product’s reliability.

Consider Brand Reputation

I prefer buying from reputable brands like Insignia because they tend to offer better quality control and warranties. However, even reputable brands can have faulty batches, so combining brand trust with other factors is key.

Inspect the Adapter on Arrival

Once I receive the adapter, I visually inspect it for any damage or discoloration. I plug it in briefly to test but stay nearby to detect any unusual smells or heat. If I notice anything unusual, I stop using it immediately.

Proper Usage to Prevent Overheating

To avoid overheating, I make sure not to use the adapter in hot environments or with devices drawing excessive power. Also, I unplug it when not in use and avoid daisy-chaining multiple adapters.

What to Do If Your Adapter Smells Burnt

If you detect a burnt smell, unplug the adapter immediately. Do not continue using it as it may cause permanent damage to your devices or pose a fire risk. Contact the seller for a replacement or refund, and consider switching to a higher-quality product.

My Final Thoughts

Dealing with a burnt smell from a USB-C to HDMI adapter can be alarming, but being informed helps you make safer choices. Prioritize quality, compatibility, and safety certifications, and always listen to user reviews. Taking these steps helped me avoid further issues and enjoy seamless connectivity without worries.

Author Profile

Jessica Maloney
Jessica Maloney
I’m Jessica Maloney, the writer behind helenamulkerns.com. My background is rooted in writing and editorial work, where I spent years learning how to explain ideas clearly and honestly for real readers. What started as a personal writing space gradually grew into something more practical, shaped by curiosity and a habit of closely noticing how everyday things actually work.

Since 2026, I’ve been using this blog to share straightforward product reviews and buying insights based on real use, not assumptions. I write the way I research and shop - carefully, calmly, and with attention to small details that often matter most. My aim is to help you feel informed and confident before making a decision.