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Traditionally, you’ve had two choices to develop the port capabilities of your laptop computer: a reasonable USB-C dongle or a extra highly effective, dear Thunderbolt docking station. A 3rd choice is quietly rising, making an attempt to separate the distinction. A DisplayLink docking station (generally 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? DisplayLink docking stations works nice for regular day-to-day productiveness, and in my expertise the docks are cheaper and extra secure than older Thunderbolt 3 desktop docks. They’re an improve over our picks for the perfect USB-C hubs dongles, and cheaper than the perfect Thunderbolt docking stations on your laptop computer. They will even help extra shows than a local Thunderbolt dock. They’re simply not fitted to gaming.
When you want a fuller rationalization of how DisplayLink works and what it provides, you’ll discover that straight beneath our two beneficial DisplayLink 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 DisplayLink docking stations.
Why you need to belief me: I’ve labored as a expertise journalist for about 30 years, and at PCWorld for the final decade. I’ve examined dozens of USB-C hubs, Thunderbolt docks, and DisplayLink docking stations. I take advantage of a docking station in my every day work, linked to a number of 4K shows, and I sometimes evaluation a handful of latest merchandise every month.
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
The very best DisplayLink docking stations
Although I’ve examined a lot of DisplayLink docking stations for laptops, I’ve two beneficial docks. They’re the identical picks that seem on PCWorld’s listing of the perfect Thunderbolt desktop docks on your laptop computer.
Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C (Revodok) Docking Station CM615 – Finest USB-C DisplayLink dock
Execs
- Terrific worth and worth
- Glorious stability
- Nice show port flexibility
- Assist for 2 4K60 shows
Cons
- Have to supply your personal energy provide
- Can heat to considerably alarming temperatures
- An absence of naming consistency
Value When Reviewed:
$199.99
Why I appreciated the Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C (Revodok) Docking Station CM615
Like a number of the premium Thunderbolt docks, Ugreen’s DisplayLink 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 DisplayLink docks, this dock was unusually secure, with no flickering between shows — one of many causes I like DisplayLink docks. Another 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
When you’re not fearful 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’d suggest that you just purchase this dock. It provides lots of the options of costlier Thunderbolt docks at an reasonably priced worth.
Learn our full
Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C (Revodok) Docking Station CM615 evaluation
Sonnet Echo 13 Triple 4K Show Dock – Finest USB-C DisplayLink dock runner-up
Execs
- Assist for 3 4K60 shows
- Strong 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
Value When Reviewed:
239.99
Why I appreciated the Sonnet Echo 13 Triple 4K Show Dock
Sonnet’s Echo 13 Triple 4K Show Dock follows the intriguing path different DisplayLink 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 concern that holds it again: spotty audio that basically must be mounted. (When you use your laptop computer’s headphone jack, there’s no concern.)
There was a tiny little bit of instability, however efficiency was wonderful. And with 20W of charging energy on your cellphone and 100W on your laptop computer, you’ll have the ability to energy a wider vary of pocket book choices.
Who can buy the Sonnet Echo 13 Triple 4K Show Dock
The worth differential between the Sonnet and Ugreen docks ought to assist reply that query: The Sonnet purchaser is prepared to pay a bit extra for what can be a well-made and well-documented dock, with clear directions. Actually, with out the worth differential and the audio points, this is able to be the highest dock within the class.
Learn our full
Sonnet Echo 13 Triple 4K Show Dock evaluation
DisplayLink USB-C docks: How DisplayLink works
USB-C hubs, Thunderbolt desktop docks, and now DisplayLink docking stations have emerged due to two elements: the rising ubiquity of do-anything USB-C ports, and the belief by laptop computer makers that they will use these ports to eradicate all of the devoted HDMI, microUSB, SD card slots, and USB-A ports that may litter up their pocket book PCs.
DisplayLink docks present a number of the native capabilities of a Thunderbolt dock, particularly the power to drive a number of high-resolution shows. Due to the inherent bandwidth limitations, DisplayLink docking stations provide a sensible choice for workplace employees, who can use these additional shows for static functions 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. DisplayLink are you able to give some great benefits of a 40Gbps Thunderbolt connection through only a 10Gbps USB-C interface.
How? Information compression. A DisplayLink dock can both use a “conventional” 10Gbps USB-C connection, or make the most of the additional bandwidth offered by an present Thunderbolt 3 or 4 port. Both approach, it makes use of information compression to squeeze extra information throughput over the port. We use information compression day-after-day, in images and streamed video from YouTube and Netflix, and by no means discover. It’s the identical right here; your Home windows desktop and functions will look the identical.
DisplayLink is a expertise owned by Synaptics, which means it’s a proprietary commonplace. Every DisplayLink dock has a particular DisplayLink chip constructed inside it. (DisplayLink docks not often, if ever, publish which Synaptics chip they use, so a DisplayLink dock’s capabilities could range by product.)
DisplayLink USB-C docks: Execs and cons
DisplayLink’s information compression means there are two negatives to the expertise, which we’ll get out of the best way.
Whereas USB-C and Thunderbolt work out of the field, DisplayLink requires a software program driver. With out it, it should operate as a generic USB-C dock. I’ve by no means seen any DisplayLink docks use their very own distinctive drivers (although they might). In any case, you should use Synaptics’ official DisplayLink drivers. Most dock makers publish this info proper up entrance, however not all do. (Remember to reboot after putting in it.)
DisplayLink works completely effectively for e mail, Phrase, Excel, and something static, like an online web page. Nevertheless it does have limitations: 10Gbps is a pleasant chunk of bandwidth. However pushing a ton of knowledge throughout it should trigger photographs to stutter and hitch. In follow, which means that PC gaming on a DisplayLink dock is iffy: A slow-paced recreation like Baldur’s Gate 3 ought to be positive, however a frantic shooter like Battlefield or Helldivers 2 most likely received’t offer you expertise in any respect. Taking part in 4K video from Netflix or YouTube? It shouldn’t be an issue. Taking part in 4K video whereas copying information from a tough drive and downloading a file? Every little thing will work, albeit slowly.
The massive benefit for me is that DisplayLink tends to be actually secure. Older Thunderbolt 3 {hardware} generally is a little glitchy when connecting to a number of shows. In my expertise, DisplayLink docks aren’t. That issues to some folks.
DisplayLink (usually with a DisplayLink 4K brand 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 needs to be able to rendering on 4 shows, and you’ll sometimes want to shut your laptop computer to take action. Which will imply adjusting the Home windows Management Panel to inform your laptop computer to depart it up and operating.
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
Can I get a bit nerdy for a second? While you use a DisplayLink dock to connect with greater than two shows, there’s much more magic occurring behind the scenes. Take a DisplayLink 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. However the DL-6950 solely helps a pair of shows. To allow a 3rd exterior show, the dock is utilizing DisplayLink for 2 shows, and your laptop computer’s personal “regular” DisplayPort connection (referred to as DisplayPort Alt Mode) to drive the third.
That brings up the ultimate level that I at all times must make: Latest {hardware} is finest. A regular DisplayLink docks works finest on, say, a Tenth- or Eleventh-gen Core processor or a complementary AMD Ryzen laptop computer. With something extra superior — Twelfth-, Thirteenth-, and 14th-gen — you need to have a fairly very best expertise.
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
Mark Hachman / IDG
How I take a look at DisplayLink docking stations
I take advantage of the identical methodology to check DisplayLink docks as I do to check Thunderbolt docking stations. Right here’s a synopsis.
First, I take the dock from its packaging and consider its building. I measure the wire size and verify the dock’s bodily dimensions with a ruler.
I’ll then learn the handbook: Does the dock want any drivers? (Sure it should.) Are there hyperlinks? What does the handbook say concerning the dock’s capabilities, by way of energy and velocity?
Subsequent, 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 linked 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 take advantage of a sequence of laptops with numerous generations of AMD and Intel {hardware}, and verify to see if the expertise is similar on each. 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.
Lastly, I verify to see how effectively the dock performs beneath load. I take advantage of a particular take a look at 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 verify with a pre-recorded 4K60 video operating 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.
Lastly, I verify the operation and efficiency of any SD card slots the dock has and hearken to audio by means of the audio jack, to verify it really works.
FAQ
Must you purchase a DisplayLink USB-C dock?
Not all DisplayLink docks are created equal, which is why we take a look at them. However for workplace employees on Home windows, completely. For players, give it a go.
DisplayLink docking station provides an opportunity to develop your PC’s I/O capabilities, even with {hardware} that doesn’t help Thunderbolt. When you aren’t comfy with this, be at liberty to return to the relative security of a both a generic USB-C dongle or a robust Thunderbolt dock: Each provide simplicity and a identified expertise.
How do I do know if my dock is a DisplayLink dock?
It ought to prominently function a DisplayLink brand, which we embrace a photograph of earlier within the story. Not at all times, although.
Looking for a DisplayLink dock generally is a bit complicated, too, because the time period “DisplayLink dock” isn’t actually in vogue. As a substitute, distributors will generally use “USB-C dock” as an alternative. Simply learn the documentation carefully and search for the label.
How a lot ought to a DisplayLink docking station price?
DisplayLink was a less expensive different to Thunderbolt docks throughout the top of the work-from-home years. Then, a Thunderbolt dock would price about $300, and a DisplayLink dock about $150 to $200 or so. Costs for each have come down some, with DisplayLink docks beginning for as little as $125.
What number of units can a DisplayLink dock help?
You’ll often see near as many ports on a DisplayLink dock as you’ll on a Thunderbolt dock, and perhaps extra. Generally, DisplayLink is simply positive for connecting a number of units concurrently. It’s after they’re all in use, transferring information, that the bus could get clogged and switch charges could decelerate.
What’s higher, a DisplayLink dock or a Thunderbolt dock?
For now, there’s a case to be made {that a} DisplayLink dock is a greater worth: They’re usually cheaper, extra secure, and provide the potential for extra shows. However when you’re a gamer, the reply just isn’t the identical. Players can buy 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 connect with 4 4K shows at 144Hz refresh charges and provide improved charging.
Can a DisplayLink dock cost your laptop computer and your smartphone?
If the DisplayLink docking station ships with its personal exterior energy brick, it ought to have the ability to, sure. Most DisplayLink 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 DisplayLink docking station plug and play?
Not likely. 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 DisplayLink.
Show Stream Compression with Excessive Bandwidth Price 3 (DSC with HBR3) is a extra open model of DisplayLink. It doesn’t require a software program driver, however you received’t see this expertise marketed in any respect. Nevertheless, you can see it in merchandise just like the Kensington SD5800T, which makes use of Thunderbolt 4 and DSC to allow 4 exterior 4K shows.
Mainly, the identical guidelines apply. When you personal a latest, fashionable laptop computer, you will have one with DSC inside. However that is completely not a function that laptop computer makers promote, both.
Are DisplayLink 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 will also be routed over a USB-C connection encoded with DisplayLink, too.
Is a DisplayLink dock good for gaming?
Not particularly. It’s finest for productiveness, which makes use of a lot of home windows with static functions. Any time you push gobs and gobs of knowledge over the DisplayLink bus, as you’ll with gaming, you threat the connection being saturated and your recreation lowered to a stuttery mess.
You might be able to “recreation” with a slow-paced recreation or one which doesn’t use quite a lot of fast-paced movement or detailed graphics, but it surely’s dangerous. Purchase a Thunderbolt dock as an alternative.
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