Historically, you’ve had two choices to increase the port capabilities of your laptop computer: a reasonable 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 information compression to supply the capabilities of a Thunderbolt dock over a normal USB-C or Thunderbolt cable.
Why purchase one? DisplayHyperlink docking stations work nice for regular day-to-day productiveness, and traditionally 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 assist extra shows than a local Thunderbolt dock. They’re simply not fitted to gaming.
If you want a fuller rationalization of how DisplayHyperlink works and what it affords, you’ll discover that straight underneath our two really useful DisplayHyperlink docks, beneath. 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 it is best 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 exploit a docking station in my every day work, related to a number of 4K shows, and I sometimes assessment a handful of latest merchandise every month.
Updated Nov. 24, 2025 with some further particulars from Synaptics.
Mark Hachman / IDG
The finest DisplayHyperlink docking stations
Though I’ve examined quite a few DisplayHyperlink docking stations for laptops, I’ve two really useful docks. They’re the identical picks that seem on PCWorld’s record 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 personal energy provide
- Can heat to considerably alarming temperatures
- A scarcity of naming consistency
Price When Reviewed:
$169.99
Who should purchase the Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C (Revodok) Docking Station CM615
Like a few of 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 present 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 supply the identical flexibility to shift between displays, however not many. Ugreen’s dock does so affordably.
Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C (Revodok) Docking Station CM615: different issues
If you’re not nervous about looking down the correct software program driver (as a result of Ugreen, bless them, doesn’t make it obvious that it wants one) than I might suggest that you just purchase this dock. It affords lots of the options of dearer Thunderbolt docks at an reasonably priced worth.
Read our full
Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C (Revodok) Docking Station CM615 review
Plugable USB-C Dual 4K Display Horizontal Docking Station (UD-6950PDH) – Best USB-C DisplayHyperlink dock runner-up
Pros
- Terrific worth for workplace staff
- Great show flexibility
- Plenty of USB-A ports
- SD/microSD card slots, too
- 100W of charging energy
Cons
- No USB-C ports
- No devoted charging ports
Price When Reviewed:
$199.00
Who should purchase the Plugable USB-C Dual 4K Display Horizontal Docking Station
If you’re a house workplace employee who doesn’t need or must sport, this dock will go well with you simply superb. Plugable’s USB-C Dual 4K Display dock takes Plugable’s conventional strategy: present devoted show interfaces, and let the person select between which cables they’ll want to hook up with their show. The dock is a reasonably easy affair, with a pair of legacy USB-A ports and normal gigabit Ethernet connection.
Interestingly, Plugable has recast this dock as a Mac-dedicated system, with a grayish tint besides. (That’s what you’ll see on the Amazon web page.) It’s actually not — it’s going to work on Macs and Windows PCs simply superb, although you’ll want the Windows driver for it as an alternative.
Plugable USB-C Dual 4K Display Horizontal Docking Station: additional issues
For no matter cause (perhaps the bandwidth {that a} 10Gbps port consumes?) USB-C ports aren’t frequent on DisplayHyperlink docks. (The Ugreen dock that we’ve picked as our favourite has one; this dock doesn’t.) This goes to sound redundant, however simply needless to say these docks are terrific for video playback or workplace work, however gaming is past them.
Read our full
Plugable USB-C Dual 4K Display Horizontal Docking Station (UD-6950PDH) review
Other DisplayHyperlink opinions and options
- Laptop docking stations may evolve into “AI Docks”: Synaptics believes its high-speed signaling finesse can provide it a leg up in future units.
- DisplayLink goes ‘Pro’ to highlight even faster speeds: Synaptics’ DL-7000 chip will probably be rolling out in new DisplayHyperlink docks.
- Plugable Thunderbolt Docking Station with DisplayLink (TBT-6950PD) review: Add as much as 4 exterior shows and quick ports with this high quality DisplayHyperlink Thunderbolt 4 dock.
- It’s time to start docking phones again, DisplayLink says: Modern smartphones are highly effective sufficient to check out this know-how once more, DisplayHyperlink thinks.
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 belief 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 litter up their pocket book PCs.
DisplayHyperlink docks present a few of the native features of a Thunderbolt dock, particularly the power to drive multiple high-resolution displays. Because of the inherent bandwidth limitations, DisplayHyperlink docking stations supply a sensible choice for workplace staff, who can use these additional shows for static purposes like e-mail, chat, spreadsheets, or workplace work.
A USB-C port sometimes gives 10Gbps of bandwidth. Thunderbolt 3/4, which runs over the identical bodily USB-C port, provides 40Gbps. In the true world, that sometimes implies 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 the 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 present Thunderbolt 3 or 4 port. Either means, it makes use of information compression to squeeze extra information throughput over the port. We use information compression on daily basis, in images 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 normal. 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 information compression means there are two negatives to the know-how, which we’ll get out of the best way.
While USB-C and Thunderbolt work out of the field, DisplayHyperlink requires a software program driver. Without it, it’s going to perform 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 need to use 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 effectively for e-mail, Word, Excel, and something static, like an internet web page. But it does have limitations: 10Gbps is a pleasant chunk of bandwidth. But pushing a ton of knowledge throughout it’s going to trigger photographs to stutter and hitch. In apply, because of this PC gaming on a DisplayHyperlink dock is iffy: A slow-paced sport like Baldur’s Gate 3 needs to be superb, however a frantic shooter like Battlefield or Helldivers 2 most likely received’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 recordsdata from a tough drive and downloading a file? Everything will work, albeit slowly.
The massive benefit for me is that DisplayHyperlink tends to be actually steady. Older Thunderbolt 3 {hardware} generally is a little glitchy when connecting to a number of shows. In my expertise, DisplayHyperlink docks aren’t. That issues to some individuals.
DisplayHyperlink (typically with a DisplayHyperlink 4K emblem on it) may 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 sometimes 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 operating.
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 should make: Recent {hardware} is finest. An ordinary DisplayHyperlink docks works finest 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 — it is best to have a reasonably very best expertise.
To be honest, Synaptics feels that it is best to be capable to use older {hardware} with DisplayPort, and it ought to simply work. “Regardless of your PC’s specs or age, DisplayLink docks will efficiently allocate bandwidth to handle your network connection and other peripherals, ensuring optimal performance,” a Synaptics consultant says.
That’s a good objection. But I’m nonetheless extra snug recommending extra fashionable {hardware}, maybe as a result of I’m a bit gun-shy after utilizing different USB-C {hardware}.
Mark Hachman / IDG
How I check DisplayHyperlink docking stations
I exploit 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 examine the dock’s bodily dimensions with a ruler.
I’ll then learn the handbook: Does the dock want any drivers? (Yes it’s going to.) Are there hyperlinks? What does the handbook say concerning the dock’s capabilities, when it comes to 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 area to permit a number of to be related on the similar time. I then look at the show ports, discover the suitable cables, after which join the dock to the laptop computer. I exploit a sequence of laptops with varied generations of AMD and Intel {hardware}, and examine to see if the expertise is identical on every one. If it isn’t, I make notes.
I then measure the ability 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 examine to see how effectively the dock performs underneath load. I exploit a particular check laptop computer for this function for repeatable outcomes. I stream a 4K60 YouTube video utilizing the Ethernet port on the dock (if it has one) and word any dropped frames. I often examine with a pre-recorded 4K60 video operating from an SSD.
I then run PCMark 10’s SSD storage benchmark off of a check SSD, related 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 varied recordsdata from my laptop computer throughout the bus and measure the time it takes to take action. I repeat the check whereas streaming video.
Finally, I examine the operation and efficiency of any SD card slots the dock has and hearken to audio by way 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 check them. But for workplace staff on Windows, completely. For players, give it a go.
DisplayHyperlink docking station affords an opportunity to increase your PC’s I/O capabilities, even with {hardware} that doesn’t assist Thunderbolt. If you aren’t snug with this, be at liberty to return to the relative security of a both a generic USB-C dongle or a strong Thunderbolt dock: Both supply simplicity and a identified expertise.
How do I do know if my dock is a DisplayHyperlink dock?
It ought to prominently function a DisplayHyperlink emblem, which we embrace a photograph of earlier within the story. Not all the time, although.
Shopping for a DisplayHyperlink dock generally is 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 intently and search for the label.
How a lot ought to a DisplayHyperlink docking station price?
DisplayHyperlink was a less expensive different to Thunderbolt docks in the course of the top of the work-from-home years. Then, a Thunderbolt dock would price 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 units can a DisplayHyperlink dock assist?
You’ll often see near as many ports on a DisplayHyperlink dock as you’ll on a Thunderbolt dock, and perhaps extra. In common, DisplayHyperlink is simply superb for connecting a number of units concurrently. It’s once they’re all in use, transferring information, 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 usually cheaper, extra steady, and supply the potential for extra shows. But in case you’re a gamer, the reply isn’t the identical. Gamers should purchase a Thunderbolt dock as an alternative.
The sport 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 supply improved charging. Again, Synaptics is aggressive; its most up-to-date DL-7000 chip permits 4 4K shows to be related at 120Hz.
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 to, 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 received’t see this know-how marketed in any respect. However, you will discover 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 current, fashionable laptop computer, you will have one with DSC inside: It’s discovered inside laptops with an Nvidia GeForce RTX graphics chip, or as a part of Intel’s “Tiger Lake” platform, aka the 11th-gen Core chips. But that is completely not a function that laptop computer makers promote, both.
Are DisplayHyperlink and DisplayPort the identical factor?
No, they’re not, although the names are confusingly related.
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 finest 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’ll with gaming, you danger the connection being saturated and your sport decreased to a stuttery mess.
You could possibly “game” with a slow-paced sport or one which doesn’t use quite a lot of fast-paced movement or detailed graphics, nevertheless it’s dangerous. Buy a Thunderbolt dock as an alternative.