Adapter vs. Converter — What's the Difference?

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.

A furnace in which pig iron is converted into steel by the Bessemer process.

A device for connecting pieces of equipment that cannot be connected directly

A machine that converts electric current from one kind to another.

A person who adapts a text to make it suitable for filming, broadcasting, or the stage.

An electronic device that converts one frequency of a radio signal to another.

One that adapts, such as a device used to effect operative compatibility between different parts of one or more pieces of apparatus.

A device that converts data from one code to another.

See expansion card.

One that is employed in converting raw products into finished products.

One who is capable of adapting to differing situations.

A person or thing that converts.

One who adapts a thing, e.g. a play.

(electrical engineering) A device that changes voltage or frequency, for example one that converts alternating current to direct current.

A device or application used to achieve operative compatibility between devices that otherwise are incompatible.

(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.

Specifically, a device that permits two, three, or more plugs to be used at a single electrical power point.

A reaction chamber in which exhaust gases are catalytically converted to carbon dioxide

Specifically, a device that allows one format of plug to be used with a different format of socket.

(computing) A program that converts one file format to another one, or which converts between different units of measurement, such as miles to meters.

Specifically, an AC adapter: a device that reduces voltage and converts AC to DC to allow a battery-powered device to use mains power.

(medicine) A patient with a certain condition that subsequently develops into another condition.

One who adapts.

A device that converts an analogue to a digital signal, or vice versa.

A connecting tube; an adopter.

One who converts; one who makes converts.

A musician who adapts a composition for particular voices or instruments or for another style of performance

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.

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

A device for changing one substance or form or state into another