Whereas the higher-end MacBooks with M1/M2/M3/M4 Professional and Max chips help a number of exterior shows, nearly all of Apple’s lower-end vary of MacBooks that use an ordinary M1 and M2 processor cannot natively join multiple exterior monitor, and to take action the M3 has to have its lid closed. It is a huge limitation in comparison with the earlier Intel-based era of Mac laptops that would run two shows when related to a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 docking station or hub.
Apple’s M3 MacBook Air fashions help two exterior displays however provided that the MacBook has its lid closed in what is called Clamshell Mode. The M3 MacBook Professional helps an analogous characteristic, however the macOS Sonoma 14.6 replace must be put in. We clarify methods to run twin exterior shows on an M3 MacBook in a separate article.
The options beneath, nevertheless, enable for greater than two exterior shows on plain M1, M2 and M3 Macs with their lids open in order for you it. The plain M4 MacBook Air and Professional fashions do natively help two shows with the lid open however in order for you three shows for these MacBooks, then maintain studying.
There have additionally been stories that the M3 MacBook Air with lid closed suffers important efficiency decline resulting from warmth construct up, so following our recommendation beneath nonetheless has relevance even for M3 MacBook Air and Professional customers who need to hook as much as a number of shows and maintain their Mac purring at full pace.
Later, we listing our examined and beneficial software program and {hardware} options for including multiple show to the plain M1, M2 and M3 Macs. You possibly can leap straight to our listing of the finest DisplayLink docks if you understand all about DisplayLink. If not, learn on some time.
The options we clarify right here will even assist plain M4 customers and M2/M3/M4 Professional MacBook customers prolong to 3 exterior shows.
Listed below are the exterior show specs for Apple’s present laptops:
- M1 MacBook Air: Most one exterior show—learn our workarounds beneath.
- M2 MacBook Air: Most one exterior show—learn our workarounds beneath.
- M3 MacBook Air: Most two exterior shows if MacBook lid is closed. Three utilizing our workarounds.
- M2 MacBook Professional: Most one exterior show—learn our workarounds beneath.
- M2 Professional MacBook Professional: Most two exterior shows. 4 utilizing our workarounds.
- M2 Max MacBook Professional: Most 4 exterior shows.
- M3 MacBook Air: Most two exterior shows if MacBook lid is closed. Two or three with lid closed utilizing our workarounds.
- M3 MacBook Professional: Most two exterior shows if MacBook lid is closed. Two or three with lid closed utilizing our workarounds.
- M3 Professional MacBook Professional: Most two exterior shows. 4 utilizing our workarounds.
- M3 Max MacBook Professional: Most 4 exterior shows. Workarounds enable 4 utilizing only one laptop computer port, plus dock.
- M4 MacBook Air: Most two exterior shows. Three utilizing our workarounds.
- M4 MacBook Professional: Most two exterior shows. Three utilizing our workarounds.
- M4 Professional MacBook Professional: Most two exterior shows. 4 utilizing our workarounds.
- M4 Max MacBook Professional: Most 4 exterior shows. Workarounds enable 4 utilizing only one laptop computer port, plus dock.
Nevertheless, there are methods round these plain M1/M2/M3 limitations, permitting you to run two or extra exterior shows off your MacBook, which we’ll define right here. In every case, there’s a software program obtain and a docking station, hub or adapter required.
The best resolution is to get a USB graphics-enabled docking station or hub, typically referred to as a DisplayLink Dock—and we’ve reviewed the very best ones later on this article. USB graphics is a software-based know-how (DisplayLink or InstantView) that compresses the video alerts from the pc to the monitor, enabling you to attach a number of exterior shows to your M1, M2 or M3 MacBook.
Putting in third-party software program drivers results in a slight threat that these may later be unsupported by future updates of the macOS, however the two drivers we suggest are acknowledged business requirements that we consider will proceed to be supported.
Exterior shows: Large downside for M1, M2 and a few M3 Macs
Apple’s Mac mini, MacBook Air, and 13-inch MacBook Professional have been the primary Macs to characteristic the Apple-designed M1 processor (CPU). They obtained rave critiques for his or her pace enhancements over Intel-based laptops, together with right here on Macworld. Since then Apple has launched M2, M3 and M4 chips, plus Professional and Max variations of the M1, M2, M3 and M4.
But when your MacBook setup consists of operating multiple exterior show, you’ve got a significant downside. Apple’s primary (non-Professional or Max) M1 and M2 chips merely gained’t enable it—at the very least natively. Apple states within the M1 or M2 MacBook Air and M3 MacBook Professional tech specs that they help solely “one exterior show with as much as 6K decision at 60Hz”.
Whereas the M1 and M2 MacBooks natively help only one monitor, the M1 and M2 Mac Mini does natively help as much as two exterior displays—one by way of the HDMI port and a second by way of USB-C. However, the M1 and M2 fashions of the MacBook Air and MacBook Professional (plus the M3 MacBook Professional) help solely a single exterior show over Thunderbolt.
The M3 MacBook Air fashions (13- and 15-inch) have been the primary to help multiple exterior show—so long as you shut the laptop computer’s lid (Clamshell Mode) to permit for the second exterior show. The primary show (permitting an open MacBook lid) has a most 6K decision at 60Hz. The second show (requiring the closed lid) might be as much as 5K at 60Hz.
The 14-inch M3 MacBook Professional additionally helps two exterior show in Clamshell Mode, however the macOS Sonoma 14.6 replace should be put in to do that.
The M4 MacBook Air and 14-inch M4 MacBook Professional escape the single-display restrict even with its lid open, however in order for you greater than two shows for that mannequin, maintain studying.
We cowl the fundamentals of methods to join your Mac to an exterior monitor.
Workaround #1: Set up DisplayLink software program drivers
You need to use a mixture of show applied sciences to get across the M1/M2/M3 MacBooks’ single-monitor limitation. DisplayLink is the most typical software program resolution that you simply pair with a suitable dock: we’ve examined the finest DisplayLink docks additional down. Be aware that the docks must state DisplayLink compatibility—you possibly can’t simply set up DisplayLink drivers and hope they work with common docks and hubs.
A complete new class of docks—many reviewed beneath—has appeared to unravel the M1/M2/M3 Mac one-screen downside. DisplayLink USB-C docks or simply USB-C docks require software program drivers to allow information compression that make them virtually as highly effective as a Thunderbolt dock. You’ll must obtain the suitable DisplayLink software program from the dock producer—full directions in a while.
Many multi-display docks use a mixture of native USB-C Alternate Mode (native “Alt Mode” video output) and DisplayLink know-how. This mixture serves as a workaround to the M1/M2/M3 platform supporting solely a single exterior show by way of USB-C.
Be aware that DisplayLink requires a third-party driver to be put in on the Mac. There are totally different variations of the DisplayLink driver, and a few carry their very own compromises to the celebration. However, basically, setup is simple. Among the docks we evaluation beneath provide the DisplayLink software program once you first join the dock to your Mac.
The DisplayLink macOS app or DisplayLink Supervisor app are methods of enabling DisplayLink know-how on macOS. The app is out there as a standalone installer somewhat than by the mac App Retailer.
1. First, obtain the most recent Mac DisplayLink driver. As said above, some docks, do that for you but it surely’s at all times finest to make use of the most recent model.
DisplayLink Supervisor Graphics Connectivity App v. 1.12 is suitable with macOS Monterey 12, Ventura 13, Sonoma 14 and Sequoia 15. For macOS Large Sur 11, search for model 1.9, and v1.5 for Catalina 10.15. It may be managed by way of the DisplayLink icon within the Apple Menu bar.
The macOS requires the consumer to allow “Display screen Recording” to ensure that DisplayLink units to work correctly. This may be present in System Preferences underneath Privateness in Safety & Privateness; navigate to Display screen Recording within the listing on the left, then tick the Display screen Recording permission for DisplayLink Supervisor after unlocking the padlock utilizing your admin password. It’s possible you’ll must give up and restart DisplayLink Supervisor afterward. Don’t fear, DisplayLink isn’t recording your display—this simply lets it do its magic enabling a number of screens.
Set up is simple. Older variations didn’t help laptops’ closed-display/Clamshell Mode, however 1.8.1 and later do help Clamshell Mode if the MacBook is Intel-based operating macOS 12 or if the MacBook is M1-based operating macOS 11 or later.
The scariest bit is when you should allow “Display screen Recording” to permit the DisplayLink Supervisor app to seize pixels and ship them to your USB peripheral. This entails making some changes within the Mac’s “Privateness” tab; however, you might be walked by it step-by-step. Check out the directions right here.
There’s a possibility in DisplayLink supervisor to “launch at startup”, or you possibly can drag the DisplayLink Supervisor to your Login Objects in Customers & Teams.
2. Then join the MacBook to a docking station.
3. For the primary display you possibly can join by way of the dock’s DisplayPort or HDMI Port, and this will likely be dealt with natively by the M1/M2 MacBook.
You possibly can additionally join the primary exterior show by way of the dock’s different show ports or by way of a Thunderbolt or USB-C to HDMI or DisplayPort adapter.
The HDMI or DisplayPort output makes use of Alternate Mode (Alt Mode), and as it’s mainly a pipeline on to the system’s native GPU, it is going to behave similar to when you connected a USB-C to HDMI dongle to your laptop computer. This requires no consumer driver set up.
The second and third shows will depend on the DisplayLink software program. DisplayLink makes use of an put in driver and the system CPU and GPU to transform graphics information on the system into information packets. That information is then despatched over the cable as information packets and transformed again to video info and output to the displays by way of the DisplayLink chip within the docking station.
Workaround #2: Set up InstantView software program
One other third-party software program resolution is SiliconMotion’s InstantView, which operates in an analogous method to DisplayLink and works with three of the {hardware} hubs and adapters we evaluation beneath. The preliminary setup is less complicated than DisplayLink with the hubs from Hyper however just like the Satechi hub—but it surely suffers the identical problem that Apple’s software program updates might disable it, which is able to entail putting in a more moderen model and permitting the mandatory safety & privateness settings for display recording, simply as with DisplayLink.
You possibly can obtain the newest model of InstantView software program right here. The most recent model helps macOS 15 Sequoia, 14 Sonoma, 13 Ventura and 12 Monterey.
Neither software program resolution is difficult and each labored effectively in our exams as you possibly can learn beneath.
Which docks help DisplayLink and InstantView?
Initially, dock producers didn’t formally help such a DisplayLink setup for Macs. The answer works, however, they rightly warned that this might grow to be unstuck in future variations of the macOS. Each time there’s a new OS replace the drivers could should be up to date every time.
Nevertheless, after some current testing and enhancements Plugable, for instance, has up to date its compatibility to formally help that configuration. For Mac compatibility, it has validated each Apple and Intel platforms operating at the very least macOS 11.
Which dock is finest?
A docking station connects to your MacBook by way of Thunderbolt or USB-C. It then provides a number of ports that your laptop computer now has entry to. These can embody new show ports, reminiscent of HDMI, in addition to Gigabit Ethernet for wired Web entry, USB-C/Thunderbolt/USB-A ports at various speeds, audio plugs, and card readers.
Study extra in regards to the finest Thunderbolt docking stations for extra particulars, or you possibly can join by way of an easier USB-C hub. Search for a dock with two or extra show ports, ideally ones that may hook up with your most well-liked shows without the necessity for an adapter.
Thunderbolt 4 docks or hubs typically haven’t any devoted show port however three accessible TB4 ports that can be utilized to attach on to a USB-C show or by way of adapters to HDMI or DisplayPort displays. Whereas you’ll have to purchase an adapter cable, 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4’s port flexibility and backward compatibility are beneficial for customers of recent Macs such because the M1 and M2 MacBooks.
USB-C docks and hubs are often cheaper, however not at all times so test our critiques beneath.
Docking station and hub producers at the moment are actively advertising and marketing their merchandise as options to the M1/M2/M3 exterior show limitation—docks must help DisplayLink to work with the software program. All of the docks and hubs reviewed beneath help DisplayLink. Every requires both the DisplayLink obtain or one other related software program resolution, reminiscent of InstantView, however no additional {hardware} adapter aside from the dock or hub itself. And naturally, these hubs provide the same old multi-port advantages in addition to the exterior monitor resolution.
The perfect multiscreen hubs and adapters for M1, M2, M3 and M4 MacBooks
Beneath we’ve got gathered the very best devoted hubs and docks for multiscreen M1/M2/M3/M4. Be aware that the majority of those listed (and examined) beneath use USB-C somewhat than Thunderbolt, so don’t profit from the MacBook’s potential 40Gbps information bandwidth. If you happen to require all 40Gbps, go for a Thunderbolt dock and set up DisplayLink as instructed above.
We’ve examined docks that may help 4 exterior shows and a few that max out at two, which we count on will likely be lots for most individuals.
Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station with DisplayLink – three 4K shows at 60Hz for M1/M2, 4 for M3/M4
Execs
- Helps as much as 4 exterior shows at 4K 60Hz
- One show at 6K 60Hz
- 11 ports, inc. three 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4
- 2x HDMI 2.0 video ports
- Speedy SD card reader
- 96W charging and 180W energy provide
Value When Reviewed: $299.99 at amazon.
Whereas plain M1 and M2 MacBooks are restricted to 3 exterior shows utilizing this dock when DisplayLink software program is put in, M3/M4 and M1/M2/M3/M4 Professional/Max MacBooks can hook up with 4 4K at 60Hz.
Different docks reviewed right here additionally enable M1 and M2 Macs to hook up with three shows, however what we actually like in regards to the Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station with DisplayLink is true there in its title: it’s a full Thunderbolt 4 dock somewhat than USB-C. It due to this fact provides 40Gbps data-transfer charges in comparison with the 10Gbps that you simply’ll discover on many of the different docks reviewed right here. The Plugable TBT-6950PD, reviewed beneath, is similar to this Satechi dock.
That Thunderbolt port connection additionally permits one of many three screens to be at 6K decision (60Hz) whereas the opposite two by way of HDMI will likely be 4K at 60Hz.
There are two HDMI 2.0 ports plus a beneficiant three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports (in addition to one upstream TB4 to the laptop computer). It doesn’t host any additional USB-C ports however the three Thunderbolt 4 ports (40Gbps information switch, 15W energy output) are backwards suitable with USB-C. There are two quick 10Gbps USB-A ports, too, plus a UHS-II SD card reader, Gigabit Ethernet and an audio jack.
Non-Professional/Max M3 and M4 Macs can hook up with 4 shows utilizing this dock, so long as the laptop computer’s lid is closed (clamshell mode). It’s additionally a fantastic possibility for M1/M2/M3/M4 Professional customers often restricted to 2 exterior shows.
U.Okay. prospects should buy direct from Satechi (with a small delivery price) however might want to buy a neighborhood energy cable.
Satechi additionally sells a 12-port USB-C-based Triple 4K Show Docking Station that helps three 4K shows at 60Hz utilizing DisplayLink. It’s priced the identical because the Satechi Thunderbolt DisplayLink Dock. Usually, we’d at all times decide a Thunderbolt dock over USB-C however this one hosts a mixture of DisplayPort and HDMI ports that gives a extra versatile monitor selection than the Thunderbolt dock’s two HDMI and three TB4 ports. If you happen to desire DisplayPort in your monitor connection, you must think about this USB-C dock though a easy USB-C to DisplayPort adapter will work the identical magic on the TB dock.
Learn our full Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station with DisplayLink evaluation
Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station (TBT-6950PD) – three 4K shows at 60Hz for M1/M2, 4 for M3/M4
- Helps as much as 4 exterior shows at 4K 60Hz
- One show at 6K 60Hz
- 11 ports, inc. three 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4
- 2x HDMI 2.0 video ports
- Speedy SD card reader
- 96W charging and 180W energy provide
Value When Reviewed: $299.95 at Adorama
This dock is sort of similar to the Satechi Thunderbolt 4 DisplayLink dock reviewed above. M1/M2 Mac homeowners can join as much as three exterior shows, and M3 and M1/M2/M3 Professional and Max customers can connect as much as 4 displays.
The Thunderbolt port means one of many three screens might be at 6K decision (60Hz) whereas the opposite two by way of HDMI will likely be 4K at 60Hz.
The USB ports are at the very least 10Gbps and the SC card reader can also be quick at 312MBps.
The Plugable model has a number of benefits over the Satechi: a barely longer (1m vs 0.8m) Thunderbolt cable, Kensington lock slot and two-year guarantee (vs 1 yr from Satechi).
Learn our full Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station for 4K Quad Screens evaluation
Alogic DX3 Triple 4K Show Common Docking Station – three 4K shows at 60Hz
- Helps three exterior shows at 4K 60Hz
- 12 ports, inc. 10Gbps USB-C
- 3x DisplayPort 1.4 video ports
- Speedy SD and MicroSD card readers
- 100W charging and 135W energy provide
Value When Reviewed: $299.99 at amazon
This Alogic DisplayLink docking station helps as much as three exterior 4K shows at a formidable 60Hz refresh price and has an array of helpful non-display ports. It could actually energy the related laptop computer at 100W and has a good 135W exterior energy provide so doesn’t require an additional USB-C charger.
The DisplayLink obtain hyperlink is clearly proven within the consumer guide, and directions make sense—though you want a magnifying glass to learn them!
The DX3 has three DisplayPort 1.4 ports however no HDMI, so that you’ll want so as to add an adapter between dock and show when you desire HDMI. As you’ll want to purchase video cables anyway, this doesn’t matter as costs for straight cable and adapter cable are shut sufficient.
This dock has two card readers: SD and MicroSD, each at prime 312MBps UHS-II—permitting you so as to add cheap moveable storage to your laptop computer setup.
It additionally has Gigabit Ethernet, 4 USB-A (one with 7.5W charging) and two 10Gbps USB-C (one 100W PD upstream to the laptop computer, and one 7.5W smaller system charging).
Reviewed beneath is Alogic’s DX2, which helps two 4K shows at 60Hz and lacks a number of the different ports discovered on the DX3. when you simply want two exterior displays in your M1/M2/M3 MacBook this can be a less expensive possibility.
Wavlink Twin 4K DisplayPort & HDMI Adapter – two 5K shows at 60Hz
- Helps two exterior shows at 5K 60Hz
- 2x DisplayPort 1.4 video ports
- 2x HDMI 2.0 video ports
This easy, moveable and reasonably priced adapter doesn’t provide you with a great deal of additional USB ports, Ethernet or card readers like a hub or docking station would, but it surely provides 4 highly effective video ports: two DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.0.
When you’ve put in the DisplayLink drivers, this implies an M1/M2/M3 MacBook can run two prolonged shows at as much as 5K (5120-x-1440) at 60Hz utilizing a mixture of those video ports. You’d want to make use of each DisplayPort 1.4 ports for the utmost 5K decision—the HDMI 2.0 ports max out at 4096-x-2160 at 60Hz.
There’s no passthrough charging so that you’ll want to make use of one other of the MacBook’s Thunderbolt ports to maintain the laptop computer powered up in use.
Plugable USB-C Twin 4K Show Docking Station (UD-6950PDH) – two 4K shows at 60Hz
- Twin 4K monitor help for M1/M2/M3 Macs
- 13 ports
- 100W PD to laptop computer
- Quick SD card reader
Cons
- Not for quick information switch
- North America solely
Value When Reviewed: $199.95 at amazon
If you happen to don’t require full 40Gbps Thunderbolt, Plugable’s redesigned USB-C -based UD-6950PDH docking station plus free-to-download DisplayLink software program can join two additional 4K/60Hz shows to M1, M2 and M3 Macs. Whereas plain M3 MacBooks can already join to 2 exterior shows, this DisplayLink dock permits plain M3 MacBooks to stay open with the 2 further shows hooked up (in any other case the M3 laptop computer’s lid must be closed). M4 and M4 Professional MacBooks can already run two screens natively however utilizing a dock saves the laptop computer’s built-in ports.
It options a formidable 13 ports together with Gigabit Ethernet, SD and MicroSD card readers and 5 spare USB ports.
You gained’t get information switch any sooner than 5Gbps so when you crave the total 40Gbps Thunderbolt bandwidth you must as a substitute think about the extra highly effective Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station with DisplayLink, reviewed above.
You need to use each of the dock’s HDMI ports or each DisplayPort or a mixture of every, relying in your monitor necessities. Two video ports will at all times be left empty, however the flexibility is welcome.
No availability outdoors of North America has but been introduced.
Learn our full Plugable USB-C Twin 4K Show Docking Station (UD-6950PDH) evaluation
Plugable USB-C Twin HDMI Adapter – two 4K shows at 60Hz
Execs
- Twin 4K monitor help for M1/M2/M3 Macs
Cons
- No USB ports, Ethernet and many others
Value When Reviewed: $89.95 at amazon
Plugable additionally sells a easy one-function adapter that makes use of DisplayLink to allow twin 4K 60Hz shows for M1 and M2 MacBooks with two HDMI ports. It’s no dock but it surely does the job you require with out fuss.
Alogic DX2 Twin 4K Show Common Docking Station – two 4K shows at 60Hz
Execs
- Helps two exterior shows at 4K 60Hz
- 10 ports
- 2x DisplayPort 1.4 video ports
- 65W charging and 100W energy provide
Value When Reviewed: $259.99 at Alogic
We desire Alogic’s DX3 that helps as much as three 4K shows and provides extra ports and sooner charging for not rather more value, however the DX2 is ok if all you require is 2 top-end displays related to your mid-sized M1/M2 MacBook.
It options two DisplayPort 1.4 ports, one 10Gbps USB-C with 7.5W charging, three 5Gbps USB-A ports (one with 7.5W), a 3.5mm audio jack and Gigabit Ethernet.
Ugreen USB-C Revodok Professional 312 Triple Show Docking Station – three 4K shows at 60Hz
Execs
- Helps three exterior shows at 4K 60Hz
- 12 ports, inc. 10Gbps USB-C and USB-A
- Ships with 100W wall charger
Value When Reviewed: $329.99 at Ugreen
The Ugreen USB-C Triple Show Docking Station is a high quality compact vertical dock that helps as much as three exterior shows on a plain (non-Professional or -Max) M1/M2/M3/M4 MacBook when you set up DisplayLink software program.
Priced at $329/£399, it options two HDMI ports and a DisplayPort and might help three 4K shows at 60Hz on a Mac. There are 12 ports in complete, together with Gigabit Ethernet, card readers, and 10Gbps USB-A and USB-C ports. It connects to the MacBook by way of 10Gbps USB-C.
It is advisable set up DisplayLink in your Mac—directions above. Ugreen might make this simpler with a hyperlink on its web site.
Learn our full Ugreen USB-C Triple Show Docking Station evaluation.
Hyperdrive Twin 4K HDMI 10-in-1 USB-C Hub – one 4K show at 60Hz, one 4K show at 30Hz
Execs
- Helps two exterior shows at 4K
- 10 ports, inc. 5Gbps USB-C and USB-A
- 100W passthrough charging
- InstantView simpler than DisplayLink
Cons
- Second 4K show is 30Hz somewhat than 60Hz
- Requires USB-C charger
Value When Reviewed: $199.99 at Hyper
The Hyperdrive Twin 4K HDMI 10-in-1 USB-C Hub doesn’t use DisplayLink and as a substitute makes use of SiliconMotion’s InstantView.
Hyper says that it really works “without having to obtain cumbersome drivers” however there’s some software program set up concerned, and you should enable InstantView entry to your Privateness settings in System Preferences. You join the hub or adapter to your M1/M2 MacBook and discover the HyperDisplay app that seems in a Finder folder sidebar. Double-click the macOS InstantView icon and comply with the System Preferences directions. As soon as this has been accomplished your MacBook will mechanically acknowledge the adapter from then on.
It’s a better resolution than DisplayLink however with the identical skill to permit M1, M2 and M3 Macs to hook up with a number of exterior shows.
This compact hub nonetheless consists of 10 ports, together with the all-important 2x HDMI. The primary show at 60Hz is added by way of HDMI and DP Alt-mode and the second at 4K 30Hz by HDMI and InstantView.
Additionally included are Gigabit Ethernet, MicroSD card reader (UHS-I), 3.5mm audio jack, 2x 5Gbps USB-A, and one 5Gbps USB-C. An extra USB-C PD port lets you cost the related laptop computer at as much as 100W—useful because the hub itself makes use of up one in all your laptop computer’s Thunderbolt ports.
Hyperdrive Twin 4K HDMI Adapter – one 4K show at 60Hz, one 4K show at 30Hz
Execs
- Helps two exterior shows at 4K
- 100W passthrough charging
- InstantView simpler than DisplayLink
Cons
- Second 4K show is 30Hz somewhat than 60Hz
- Requires USB-C charger
Value When Reviewed: $129.99 at B&H
This double-function hub is designed to offer two HDMI show ports for a MacBook M1/M2/M3, plus passthrough charging for the laptop computer. It doesn’t provide a bunch of different ports like its massive brother, the Hyperdrive Twin 4K HDMI 10-in-1 USB-C Hub reviewed above. In consequence, it’s cheaper and is among the most cost-effective options for including a number of displays to the restricted plain M1/M2/M3 Macs.
Just like the 10-in-1, it makes use of SiliconMotion’s InstantView somewhat than DisplayLink software program to get previous the limitation.
The primary show at 60Hz is added by way of HDMI and DP Alt-mode and the second at 4K 30Hz by HDMI and InstantView.
If you happen to require extra ports, reminiscent of Gigabit Ethernet, card readers and USB ports, think about the Hyperdrive 10-in-1 or one of many different hubs or docks reviewed right here..
Plugable USB-C to Quad HDMI Adapter (USBC-768H4) – 4 HD shows at 60Hz
Execs
- Helps 4 exterior shows
- InstantView simpler than DisplayLink
Cons
- HD, not 4K
- Doesn’t cost your MacBook
- No card reader
Value When Reviewed: $119 at Newegg
Do you really want 4 screens? If you happen to do, and you are able to do without 4K decision, the Plugable USB-C to Quad HDMI Adapter helps 4 HD shows even on an M1, M2, M3 or M4 MacBook utilizing the Silicon Movement InstantView software program (requires obtain and set up).
The adapter options simply the 4 HDMI ports so doesn’t provide any Gigabit Ethernet or additional USB-C ports, however does what it says on the field. All 4 shows can help HD (1920-x-1080) at 60Hz photos.
The USB-C cable tucks neatly into the adapter’s case when not in use, making this a nimbly moveable resolution… so long as you don’t additionally carry the 4 screens round with you.
Learn our full Plugable USB-C to Quad HDMI Adapter evaluation
Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C Docking Station – two 4K shows at 60Hz
Execs
- Helps two exterior shows at 4K 60Hz
- 9 ports, inc. 10Gbps USB-C and USB-A
- 100W charging
- DisplayLink file on dock connection
Cons
- Requires USB-C charger
- No card reader
Value When Reviewed: $199.99 at amazon
If you happen to don’t want three exterior screens, we like this USB-C dock for its two HDMI and two DisplayPorts, which you’ll be able to select between when including two shows to your M1, M2 or M3 MacBook. This could go well with most displays, except you like direct USB-C shows.
Its spare USB ports (2x USB-A and 1x USB-C) are quick (10Gbps) for information switch, and one other USB-C port might be plugged right into a USB-C charger (not included, which is frequent with the docks reviewed right here) and provide as much as 100W of charging energy to the related laptop computer.
There’s additionally a Gigabit Ethernet port for quick, secure wired Web entry.
It is advisable set up DisplayLink in your Mac—directions above—and Ugreen has made this simple by including the obtain recordsdata to your Mac once you first join the dock.
Learn a full Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C dock evaluation.
Alogic DV4 Common Quad Show Docking Station – one 4K show at 60Hz, two HD shows
Execs
- Helps three exterior shows, one at 4K 60Hz
- 14 ports, inc. 5Gbps USB-C and USB-A
- 3x HDMI 2.0 and 1x DisplayPort 1.4 video ports
- 12W USB-C charging
- 85W PD charging
Cons
- 2 shows at HD, not 4K
- Requires USB-C charger
Value When Reviewed: $239.99 at Alogic
With third-party DisplayLink drivers, this dock will help as much as three shows on a Mac. You possibly can join one 4K at 60Hz show (3840×2160 pixels) by way of both the DisplayPort or one of many HDMI ports. The opposite two shows by way of HDMI, nevertheless, are at a lesser HD (1920×1080) decision, each at 60Hz.
There’s a hyperlink to the DisplayLink obtain printed within the consumer guide, though the kind within the guide is the smallest we’ve ever seen!
The specs aren’t fairly as spectacular because the Satechi Triple 4K Show Docking Station, with 5Gbps a most data-transfer price, though charging wattage for USB-A (3.0) is as much as 7.5W every and USB-C is as much as 12W, which beats the Satechi..
Nevertheless, it does boast each SD and MicroSD card readers for reasonably priced moveable storage choices, though UHS-I somewhat than super-fast UHS-II. And, crucially, it’s cheaper, though you’ll need so as to add your personal USB-C 100W PD charger, in contrast to the Satechi Triple 4K Dock.
Execs
- Helps two exterior shows at 4K
- 6 ports, inc. 5Gbps USB-C and 2x 5Gbps USB-A
Cons
- Second 4K show is 30Hz somewhat than 60Hz
- Requires USB-C charger
- No card reader
Value When Reviewed: $149.99 at Satechi
The Satechi USB-C Multimedia M1 Adapter makes use of InstantView somewhat than DisplayLink however the setup course of is virtually the identical once you comply with the guide.
It consists of 2x HDMI ports: one in all which may help a 4K show at 60Hz and the opposite at 30Hz.
It’s greater than a mere show adapter, although, because it additionally boasts USB-C PD passthrough charging at as much as 85W, one 5Gbps USB-C port, and two 5Gbps USB-A ports.
Though named after the M1 processor it’s fixing on the a number of show entrance, it is going to additionally work with equally restricted M2 and M3 MacBooks.
Hyperdrive Twin 4K HDMI Adapter – one 4K show at 60Hz, one 4K show at 30Hz
Execs
- Helps two exterior shows at 4K
- InstantView simpler than DisplayLink
Cons
- Second 4K show is 30Hz somewhat than 60Hz
- No different ports besides passthrough charging
- Requires USB-C charger
- No card reader
Value When Reviewed: $129.99 at amazon
Just like the Hyperdrive Twin 4K HDMI 10-in-1 USB-C Hub, Hyper’s cheaper Twin 4K HDMI Adapter makes use of the less complicated InstantView software program somewhat than DisplayLink.
Missing another ports, it’s not a hub and so simply facilitates the dual-display perform on M1 and M2 Macs. Whereas it’s cheaper than its 10-port sibling, we’d suggest the extra in a position hub—except you want three shows, wherein case you’d want to take a look at the opposite hubs and docks reviewed right here.
One HDMI port helps 4K shows at 60Hz, however the different on the slower 30Hz.
A passthrough USB-C port requires a USB-C charger however can provide 100W to the related laptop computer.
If you happen to’re based mostly outdoors the US, beware as Hyper prices $80 worldwide delivery, making this adapter costlier than its 10-port sibling.
Alogic Twin 4K Common Compact Docking Station – two 4K shows at 60Hz
Execs
- Helps two exterior shows at 4K 60Hz
- 7 ports, inc. 10Gbps USB-C and USB-A
- HDMI and DisplayPort variations
The Alogic Twin 4K Common Compact Docking Station is available in two fashions—the CH2, which options two HDMI 2.0 ports; and the CD2, with two DisplayPort ports—so you possibly can select which most accurately fits the exterior shows you already personal.
Two exterior screens are in all probability sufficient for most individuals. If you happen to require three, see the opposite hubs and docks reviewed right here. Each screens might be as much as 4K at 60Hz. Primary directions are given on putting in the DisplayLink software program for M1, M2 and M3 Macs.
This neat, compact dock doesn’t characteristic as many ports as others talked about right here however what it has are top-rated: each the USB-A and USB-C ports help 10Gbps information switch. There’s additionally a Gigabit Ethernet port and a UHS-II SD card reader.
A passthrough USB-C port—you should add a suitably highly effective charger—can deal with 100W, though 22W is required by the dock so leaving 78W for laptop computer and system charging. The dock should be related to the laptop computer to permit system charging.
Execs
- Helps three exterior shows (2x 4K; 1x HD)
- VGA when you want it
- 12 ports, inc 4x 5Gbps USB-A
Cons
- Requires USB-C charger
- Second 4K show is 30Hz somewhat than 60Hz
- Third show is HD not 4K
Value When Reviewed: $169.99 at EZQuest
The EZQuest Final Plus USB-C Multimedia Hub has two HDMI ports and a VGA port and helps one 4K at 60Hz and one 4K at 30Hz by way of HDMI and 1080p HD by way of VGA. In order for you three 4K shows, look as a substitute on the Ugreen Triple Show Dock.
It additionally options 5Gbps USB-A ports, Gigabit Ethernet and card readers.
Just like the Ugreen dock, it requires a USB-C charger for energy and might move by as much as 85W to the related MacBook, however, connects by way of slower 5Gbps USB-C.
Baseus 17-in-1 Docking Station – three 4K shows at 30Hz
Execs
- Helps three exterior shows at 4K 30Hz
- 15 (precise) ports
- 85W PD
Cons
- Requires USB-C charger for laptop computer
- 30Hz 4K not 60Hz
- Solely mirrors laptop computer show
The Baseus 17-in-1 Docking Station has three HDMI ports, every of which may hook up with an exterior 4K show at 30Hz. If you happen to require three 4K exterior shows at 60Hz, the Ugreen Triple Show Dock will fulfill your wants higher. If 30Hz is ok, the Baseus will prevent cash. 60Hz is best for avid gamers because it provides smoother video.
One massive limitation for Macs, although, is that the exterior shows can solely mirror and never prolong the Mac’s display.
Its declare to have 17 ports is exaggerated barely as one is for the exterior energy provide that powers simply the dock at 12W. and one other so as to add energy the dock by way of a USB-C charger after which onto the laptop computer. However, it has 15 different ports together with the upstream 5Gbps USB-C connection to the MacBook, plus Gigabit Ethernet, card readers and 5Gbps USB-A and USB-C ports.
Execs
- Helps three exterior shows at 4K 60Hz
- 15 ports, inc. 10Gbps USB-C and USB-A
- 85W passthrough charging
Cons
- No card reader
- DisplayPort didn’t work on our take a look at Mac
Value When Reviewed: $293.99 at amazon
This triple-monitor DisplayLink-based docking station is positively bristling with ports: 15 in complete.
Most attention-grabbing to us listed here are the six video ports: 3x DisplayPort 1.4 and 3x HDMI 2.0. This doesn’t imply you possibly can join six shows but it surely does ought to provide you with versatile choices for the kind of connection that suit your shows. Nevertheless, in testing we had no success linking by way of DisplayPort, which makes the additional choices somewhat nugatory. As such, we desire the opposite docks and hubs reviewed above.
It is advisable obtain the DisplayLink drivers in your M1/M2/M3 Mac. StarTech.com has a hyperlink and a video, or simply comply with our information above.
In addition to the half-dozen video ports are six USB ports: 2x USB-C (one at 10Gbps and one 5Gbps), plus 4x USB-A (one 10Gbps and three 5Gbps). The 5Gbps USB-C port can cost a related system at 18W, sufficient to fast-charge an iPhone. One of many 5Gbps USB-A ports can cost at 7.5W.
Rounding off the numerous ports are Gigabit Ethernet and a 3.5mm Audio In-Out.
There’s no card reader so as to add moveable storage however you would join an adapter to one of many USB ports.
Workaround caveats
Each time there’s a new OS replace DisplayLink and InstantView drivers could should be up to date every time.
Plugable doesn’t suggest the workaround for gaming, video modifying, digital audio workstations (DAWs), and guarded content material (HDCP) playback. For these workloads, customers will need the total throughput of a “bare-metal” native GPU connection—reminiscent of supplied by the DisplayPort or HDMI port on the dock utilizing Alt Mode.
Caldigit actively recommends in opposition to utilizing DisplayLink, because it finds it unreliable and there could be no synergy between the motive force and the dock. As a result of it requires a third-party driver, customers are on the mercy of Apple and the third-party developer to help later variations, the corporate informed Macworld.
Nevertheless, this mix of show applied sciences does enable M1 and M2 MacBooks to run multiple exterior monitor, and the M1 and M2 Mac mini to run greater than two. And extra producers are popping out with docks and hubs that help it.
The one threat is that it might cease working at any time, though it wouldn’t hurt your system if it did, and you would merely uninstall DisplayLink.
DisplayLink and InstantView are workarounds with a doubtlessly restricted timespan however the chances are high that compatibility could be restored at some stage if the worst occurred and you’d get again your multi-monitor setup.
Learn our M1 MacBook Air evaluation, M2 MacBook Air evaluation, and M3 MacBook Air evaluation.
If you’re wanting to make use of a second show along with your Mac and never have your Mac’s display on, learn our characteristic The best way to flip a Mac’s display off. Wish to use an 8K monitor? Learn The best way to join an 8K show to your Mac.
What you should find out about DisplayLink and InstantView
FAQ
1.Does DisplayLink and InstantView block Netflix or different streaming content material?
DisplayLink and InstantView are nice at including a number of displays to M1, M2 and M3 Macs, however there’s a catch.
Some protected content material in Netflix, AppleTV, Amazon Prime, Disney+ or YouTube TV and different streaming functions could not play. The video stays black whereas audio retains taking part in.
That is all all the way down to how the macOS interfaces the DisplayLink driver used to entry graphics content material. As quickly as one DisplayLink-enabled display is related, protected content material turns into unavailable on all screens.
That is all the way down to the streaming platforms utilizing Excessive-bandwidth Digital Content material Safety (HDCP), which is Intel-developed digital copy safety that stops copying of digital audio and video content material because it travels throughout connections.
As a result of macOS requires DisplayLink and InstantView to allow Display screen Recording, HDCP strikes in as a result of it thinks you might be really making an attempt to file the content material somewhat than simply show it on display.
2.The best way to allow streaming content material when utilizing DisplayLink or InstantView
To get spherical HDCP stopping your DisplayLink or InstantView setup exhibiting Netflix, Amazon Prime and different streaming companies, chances are you’ll must disconnect all of the DisplayLink or InstantView screens, or change to a browser apart from Safari or Chrome (for instance Opera or Firefox).
You possibly can disable {hardware} acceleration in your browser to entry the protected content material.
On Google Chrome, go to Google Chrome settings, and click on on “Superior” after which choose “System”. Right here you possibly can disable “Use {hardware} acceleration when accessible”.
Choose “Relaunch” to activate the brand new setting.
If that doesn’t clear up the black subject, disconnect the docking station, and check out utilizing the laptop computer’s build-in show or the direct video ports of the laptop computer.
Uninstalling the software program is the final word resolution.
