Historically, you’ve had two choices to increase the port capabilities of your laptop computer: a cheap USB-C dongle or a extra highly effective, expensive Thunderbolt docking station. A 3rd possibility is quietly rising, attempting to separate the distinction. A DisplayHyperlink docking station (typically referred to as a USB-C dock) makes use of knowledge compression to supply the capabilities of a Thunderbolt dock over an ordinary USB-C or Thunderbolt cable.
Why purchase one? DisplayHyperlink docking stations works nice for regular day-to-day productiveness, and in my expertise the docks are cheaper and extra steady than older Thunderbolt 3 desktop docks. They’re an improve over our picks for the best USB-C hubs dongles, and cheaper than the best Thunderbolt docking stations for your laptop. They may even help extra shows than a local Thunderbolt dock. They’re simply not fitted to gaming.
If you want a fuller clarification of how DisplayHyperlink works and what it affords, you’ll discover that instantly underneath our two beneficial DisplayHyperlink docks, under. You’ll additionally discover a FAQ with solutions to questions you may need. I base my suggestions on hands-on testing of the DisplayHyperlink docking stations.
Why you need to belief me: I’ve labored as a know-how journalist for about 30 years, and at PCWorld for the final decade. I’ve examined dozens of USB-C hubs, Thunderbolt docks, and DisplayHyperlink docking stations. I take advantage of a docking station in my day by day work, linked to a number of 4K shows, and I usually evaluation a handful of latest merchandise every month.
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
The greatest DisplayHyperlink docking stations
Though I’ve examined quite a few DisplayHyperlink docking stations for laptops, I’ve two beneficial docks. They’re the identical picks that seem on PCWorld’s listing of the best Thunderbolt desktop docks for your laptop.
Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C (Revodok) Docking Station CM615 – Best USB-C DisplayHyperlink dock
Pros
- Terrific worth and worth
- Excellent stability
- Great show port flexibility
- Support for 2 4K60 shows
Cons
- Have to offer your individual energy provide
- Can heat to considerably alarming temperatures
- A scarcity of naming consistency
Price When Reviewed:
$199.99
Why I appreciated the Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C (Revodok) Docking Station CM615
Like among the premium Thunderbolt docks, Ugreen’s DisplayHyperlink dock gives choices to make use of both HDMI or DisplayPort to attach a show, permitting you to make use of your current show cables and avoid wasting cash.
Like most DisplayHyperlink docks, this dock was unusually steady, with no flickering between shows — one of many causes I like DisplayHyperlink docks. Some different Thunderbolt docks provide the identical flexibility to shift between displays, however not many. Ugreen’s dock does so affordably.
Who can buy the Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C (Revodok) Docking Station CM615
If you’re not frightened about searching down the right software program driver (as a result of Ugreen, bless them, doesn’t make it obvious that it wants one) than I’d suggest that you simply purchase this dock. It affords lots of the options of costlier Thunderbolt docks at an reasonably priced worth.
Read our full
Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C (Revodok) Docking Station CM615 review
Sonnet Echo 13 Triple 4K Display Dock – Best USB-C DisplayHyperlink dock runner-up
Pros
- Support for 3 4K60 shows
- Solid worth
- 20W of charging energy for smartphones, 100W for laptop computer
- Exemplary documentation
Cons
- Direct show connection disconnected as soon as
- Poor, glitchy intermittent audio
Price When Reviewed:
239.99
Why I appreciated the Sonnet Echo 13 Triple 4K Display Dock
Sonnet’s Echo 13 Triple 4K Display Dock follows the intriguing path different DisplayHyperlink docks have blazed: The dock’s built-in compression means you’ll be able to join to a few 4K shows, with out penalty. And sure, it really works as marketed, although with one subject that holds it again: spotty audio that basically must be fastened. (If you employ your laptop computer’s headphone jack, there’s no subject.)
There was a tiny little bit of instability, however efficiency was glorious. And with 20W of charging energy in your telephone and 100W in your laptop computer, you’ll be capable of energy a wider vary of pocket book choices.
Who can buy the Sonnet Echo 13 Triple 4K Display Dock
The worth differential between the Sonnet and Ugreen docks ought to assist reply that query: The Sonnet purchaser is prepared to pay just a little extra for what is known as a well-made and well-documented dock, with clear directions. Really, with out the value differential and the audio points, this is able to be the highest dock within the class.
Read our full
Sonnet Echo 13 Triple 4K Display Dock review
DisplayHyperlink USB-C docks: How DisplayHyperlink works
USB-C hubs, Thunderbolt desktop docks, and now DisplayHyperlink docking stations have emerged due to two components: the rising ubiquity of do-anything USB-C ports, and the conclusion by laptop computer makers that they will use these ports to get rid of all of the devoted HDMI, microUSB, SD card slots, and USB-A ports that may muddle up their pocket book PCs.
DisplayHyperlink docks present among the native features of a Thunderbolt dock, specifically the flexibility to drive multiple high-resolution displays. Because of the inherent bandwidth limitations, DisplayHyperlink docking stations provide a sensible choice for workplace employees, who can use these further shows for static purposes like electronic mail, chat, spreadsheets, or workplace work.
A USB-C port usually gives 10Gbps of bandwidth. Thunderbolt 3/4, which runs over the identical bodily USB-C port, provides 40Gbps. In the true world, that usually signifies that a USB-C dongle can hook up with a single 4K show (at 30Hz) whereas Thunderbolt can join to 2 4K shows, at 60Hz. DisplayHyperlink are you able to give some great benefits of a 40Gbps Thunderbolt connection by way of only a 10Gbps USB-C interface.
How? Data compression. A DisplayHyperlink dock can both use a “traditional” 10Gbps USB-C connection, or make the most of the additional bandwidth supplied by an current Thunderbolt 3 or 4 port. Either means, it makes use of knowledge compression to squeeze extra knowledge throughput over the port. We use knowledge compression day-after-day, in photographs and streamed video from YouTube and Netflix, and by no means discover. It’s the identical right here; your Windows desktop and purposes will look the identical.
DisplayHyperlink is a know-how owned by Synaptics, which means it’s a proprietary customary. Each DisplayHyperlink dock has a particular DisplayHyperlink chip constructed inside it. (DisplayHyperlink docks not often, if ever, publish which Synaptics chip they use, so a DisplayHyperlink dock’s capabilities might differ by product.)
DisplayHyperlink USB-C docks: Pros and cons
DisplayHyperlink’s knowledge compression means there are two negatives to the know-how, which we’ll get out of the way in which.
While USB-C and Thunderbolt work out of the field, DisplayHyperlink requires a software program driver. Without it, it should operate as a generic USB-C dock. I’ve by no means seen any DisplayHyperlink docks use their very own distinctive drivers (although they might). In any case, you should utilize Synaptics’ official DisplayLink drivers. Most dock makers publish this data proper up entrance, however not all do. (Be positive to reboot after putting in it.)
DisplayHyperlink works completely properly for electronic mail, Word, Excel, and something static, like an online web page. But it does have limitations: 10Gbps is a pleasant chunk of bandwidth. But pushing a ton of knowledge throughout it should trigger photos to stutter and hitch. In observe, which means PC gaming on a DisplayHyperlink dock is iffy: A slow-paced recreation like Baldur’s Gate 3 must be advantageous, however a frantic shooter like Battlefield or Helldivers 2 most likely gained’t offer you expertise in any respect. Playing 4K video from Netflix or YouTube? It shouldn’t be an issue. Playing 4K video whereas copying information from a tough drive and downloading a file? Everything will work, albeit slowly.
The huge benefit for me is that DisplayHyperlink tends to be actually steady. Older Thunderbolt 3 {hardware} could be a little glitchy when connecting to a number of shows. In my expertise, DisplayHyperlink docks aren’t. That issues to some folks.
DisplayHyperlink (usually with a DisplayHyperlink 4K emblem on it) may also hook up with a number of shows, much more than Thunderbolt. I don’t have room to neatly exhibit a photograph of three and even 4 shows, however belief me — I’ve tried it on a number of events, and it really works. The hitch is that your laptop computer must be able to rendering on 4 shows, and you’ll usually want to shut your laptop computer to take action. That might imply adjusting the Windows Control Panel to inform your laptop computer to go away it up and working.
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
Can I get a bit nerdy for a second? When you employ a DisplayHyperlink dock to hook up with greater than two shows, there’s much more magic happening behind the scenes. Take a DisplayHyperlink dock just like the Plugable UD-6950PDZ, which helps three 4K shows at 60Hz. It makes use of Synaptics’ most superior chip, the DL-6950. But the DL-6950 solely helps a pair of shows. To allow a 3rd exterior show, the dock is utilizing DisplayHyperlink for 2 shows, and your laptop computer’s personal “normal” DisplayPort connection (referred to as DisplayPort Alt Mode) to drive the third.
That brings up the ultimate level that I all the time need to make: Recent {hardware} is greatest. An ordinary DisplayHyperlink docks works greatest on, say, a 10th- or 11th-gen Core processor or a complementary AMD Ryzen laptop computer. With something extra superior — 12th-, 13th-, and 14th-gen — you need to have a reasonably superb expertise.
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
How I take a look at DisplayHyperlink docking stations
I take advantage of the identical methodology to check DisplayHyperlink docks as I do to test Thunderbolt docking stations. Here’s a synopsis.
First, I take the dock from its packaging and consider its development. I measure the twine size and test the dock’s bodily dimensions with a ruler.
I’ll then learn the handbook: Does the dock want any drivers? (Yes it should.) Are there hyperlinks? What does the handbook say concerning the dock’s capabilities, by way of energy and pace?
Next, I take a USB key or two and join them to the accessible USB ports to find out if they’ve sufficient house to permit a number of to be linked on the identical time. I then look at the show ports, discover the suitable cables, after which join the dock to the laptop computer. I take advantage of a collection of laptops with numerous generations of AMD and Intel {hardware}, and test to see if the expertise is similar on each. If it isn’t, I make notes.
I then measure the facility output of the ports, utilizing a USB multimeter, a smartphone, and a laptop computer to measure how a lot energy the dock delivers to a laptop computer.
Finally, I test to see how properly the dock performs underneath load. I take advantage of a particular take a look at laptop computer for this objective for repeatable outcomes. I stream a 4K60 YouTube video utilizing the Ethernet port on the dock (if it has one) and be aware any dropped frames. I often test with a pre-recorded 4K60 video working from an SSD.
I then run PCMark 10’s SSD storage benchmark off of a take a look at SSD, linked to the dock. I measure the rating, then measure the rating once more whereas streaming a video. I then copy a big, multigigabyte folder of assorted information from my laptop computer throughout the bus and measure the time it takes to take action. I repeat the take a look at whereas streaming video.
Finally, I test the operation and efficiency of any SD card slots the dock has and take heed to audio by means of the audio jack, to ensure it really works.
FAQ
Should you purchase a DisplayHyperlink USB-C dock?
Not all DisplayHyperlink docks are created equal, which is why we take a look at them. But for workplace employees on Windows, completely. For avid gamers, give it a go.
DisplayHyperlink docking station affords an opportunity to increase your PC’s I/O capabilities, even with {hardware} that doesn’t help Thunderbolt. If you aren’t snug with this, be happy to return to the relative security of a both a generic USB-C dongle or a robust Thunderbolt dock: Both provide simplicity and a recognized expertise.
How do I do know if my dock is a DisplayHyperlink dock?
It ought to prominently characteristic a DisplayHyperlink emblem, which we embody a photograph of earlier within the story. Not all the time, although.
Shopping for a DisplayHyperlink dock could be a bit complicated, too, because the time period “DisplayLink dock” isn’t actually in vogue. Instead, distributors will typically use “USB-C dock” as an alternative. Just learn the documentation carefully and search for the label.
How a lot ought to a DisplayHyperlink docking station value?
DisplayHyperlink was a less expensive different to Thunderbolt docks through the peak of the work-from-home years. Then, a Thunderbolt dock would value about $300, and a DisplayHyperlink dock about $150 to $200 or so. Prices for each have come down some, with DisplayHyperlink docks beginning for as little as $125.
How many gadgets can a DisplayHyperlink dock help?
You’ll often see near as many ports on a DisplayHyperlink dock as you’ll on a Thunderbolt dock, and possibly extra. In normal, DisplayHyperlink is simply advantageous for connecting a number of gadgets concurrently. It’s after they’re all in use, transferring knowledge, that the bus might get clogged and switch charges might decelerate.
What’s higher, a DisplayHyperlink dock or a Thunderbolt dock?
For now, there’s a case to be made {that a} DisplayHyperlink dock is a greater worth: They’re typically cheaper, extra steady, and provide the potential for extra shows. But for those who’re a gamer, the reply will not be the identical. Gamers can buy a Thunderbolt dock as an alternative.
The recreation modifications, although, when Thunderbolt 5 debuts later in 2024. Then, Thunderbolt 5 bandwidth will shoot as much as 80Gbps in each instructions, permitting these docks to hook up with 4 4K shows at 144Hz refresh charges and provide improved charging.
Can a DisplayHyperlink dock cost your laptop computer and your smartphone?
If the DisplayHyperlink docking station ships with its personal exterior energy brick, it ought to be capable of, sure. Most DisplayHyperlink docks provide the identical quantity of energy as a Thunderbolt dock (a most of 90 to 95W to your laptop computer, and hopefully sufficient energy to fast-charge a smartphone.)
Is a DisplayHyperlink docking station plug and play?
Not actually. You’ll want a driver from Synaptics or the dock maker to allow the dock’s full performance.
What’s DSC and HBR3? I’ve heard that these are a competitor to DisplayHyperlink.
Display Stream Compression with High Bandwidth Rate 3 (DSC with HBR3) is a extra open model of DisplayHyperlink. It doesn’t require a software program driver, however you gained’t see this know-how marketed in any respect. However, one can find it in merchandise just like the Kensington SD5800T, which makes use of Thunderbolt 4 and DSC to allow 4 exterior 4K shows.
Basically, the identical guidelines apply. If you personal a latest, trendy laptop computer, you’ll have one with DSC inside. But that is completely not a characteristic that laptop computer makers promote, both.
Are DisplayHyperlink and DisplayPort the identical factor?
No, they’re not, although the names are confusingly comparable.
DisplayPort is a bodily show connector in addition to a show protocol. Your laptop computer can route DisplayPort show protocols over Thunderbolt with out ever utilizing the connector itself. DisplayPort may also be routed over a USB-C connection encoded with DisplayHyperlink, too.
Is a DisplayHyperlink dock good for gaming?
Not particularly. It’s greatest for productiveness, which makes use of quite a few home windows with static purposes. Any time you push gobs and gobs of knowledge over the DisplayHyperlink bus, as you’d with gaming, you danger the connection being saturated and your recreation diminished to a stuttery mess.
You could possibly “game” with a slow-paced recreation or one which doesn’t use a whole lot of fast-paced movement or detailed graphics, nevertheless it’s dangerous. Buy a Thunderbolt dock as an alternative.