An HDMI to VGA adapter is needed to connect a laptop, computer, or TV box with an HDMI output to a monitor or projector with a VGA input. For the opposite case — an old computer with a VGA output to a TV or monitor with HDMI — you need a VGA to HDMI adapter.
How to choose. Direction matters: HDMI to VGA and VGA to HDMI are different devices, and they do not work in reverse. VGA only transmits video, so if you need sound for speakers or headphones, choose a model with a 3.5 mm audio output. VGA to HDMI adapters usually require additional USB power. The maximum resolution via VGA is 1080p (1920×1080).