8-in-1 vs 9-in-1 Docking Stations: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between an 8-in-1 vs 9-in-1 docking station depends on your specific port and power needs. Both hubs offer dual HDMI outputs for extended displays and support 4K resolution. The main difference lies in power delivery capacity and physical labeling. One model provides up to 85W pass-through charging, while the other supports up to 100W. You also get a dedicated privacy button on one unit. This comparison breaks down the specs to help you pick the right tool for your setup.
Key differences
| Aspect | Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub | Selore Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock |
|---|---|---|
| Power Delivery | 85W | 100W |
| Special Features | Not listed | Privacy black-out button |
| Port Count Label | 8-in-1 | 9-in-1 |
| Linux Compatibility | Not compatible | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub if
- You need a dock that explicitly supports Windows and ChromeOS without Linux compatibility concerns.
- You prefer a device with a known 18-month warranty history from a major brand.
- You do not require more than 85W of pass-through charging power.
Choose Selore Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock if
- You want to charge high-power laptops with up to 100W pass-through charging.
- You value a physical button to quickly toggle between mirror and extend modes.
- You need a privacy feature to instantly black out your external display.
Verdict: Choose the Anker if you prioritize brand recognition and explicit Linux incompatibility warnings. Pick the Selore if you need higher 100W power delivery and a dedicated privacy button. Both units deliver identical 4K@60Hz dual display performance.
Port Count and Power Delivery
Port Count
The Selore dock is labeled as a 9-in-1 model in its attributes and size specs, while the Anker hub is consistently listed as an 8-in-1 device. Both products provide a similar array of physical connections, including dual HDMI ports, USB-A data ports, and a USB-C host interface. The Selore listing also explicitly mentions SD and MicroSD slots alongside a USB-C data port, contributing to its higher count. The Anker model includes an Ethernet port and SD/SD card reader. You should check the exact port configuration on your specific unit, as labeling can vary between variations, but the Selore generally offers one additional connection point in its primary 9-in-1 configuration.
Power Delivery
Power delivery capacity is a key differentiator for your laptop charging needs. The Selore dock supports up to 100W of pass-through charging via its USB-C port. This allows you to charge higher-power laptops efficiently while connected to peripherals. The Anker hub provides up to 85W of power delivery. While 85W is sufficient for many ultrabooks, the Selore’s 100W rating offers more headroom for larger machines or faster charging speeds. Both models require a compatible USB-C PD wall charger and cable to achieve these maximum speeds. If you need to charge a power-hungry device, the Selore provides a clear advantage in raw power output.
Display Support
Both docking stations support dual monitor setups via their two HDMI ports. The Selore dock allows for dual 4K@60Hz output, meaning you can run two 4K displays at a smooth 60 frames per second. The Anker hub also supports 4K resolution, but its dual display mode is capped at 4K@30Hz. For single-monitor use, the Anker hub can achieve 4K@60Hz. If you plan to use two 4K monitors simultaneously for productivity or creative work, the Selore’s higher refresh rate on both screens provides a smoother experience. The Anker model is better suited for single 4K screens or lower refresh rate dual setups.
Connectivity Features
The connectivity options differ slightly between the two hubs. The Anker hub includes an Ethernet port, which is useful for stable wired internet connections without relying on Wi-Fi. It also features a microSD and SD card reader. The Selore dock does not list an Ethernet port in its key specs or features, focusing instead on data transfer speeds. It offers a USB-C data port at 5Gbps and two USB-A ports at 5Gbps, along with SD/TF card slots. If you need wired networking, the Anker model is the better choice. If you prioritize card reading and standard USB data ports, both serve you well.
Control Features
The Selore dock includes a dedicated physical button for display control. You can long-press this button to toggle between Mirror and Extend modes instantly. A short press activates a privacy mode that blacks out the monitor. This adds a layer of convenience for managing your display setup without navigating through operating system settings. The Anker hub does not list any such physical control buttons in its features or specs. You would need to use your computer’s software settings to change display modes. For users who frequently switch between extended and mirrored displays, the Selore’s hardware button offers a practical advantage.
Which docking station fits your needs
MacBook users needing dual displays
The Selore dock supports dual 4K@60Hz HDMI outputs. While macOS limits external displays to one in extend mode, this hub still offers high-resolution video for your primary monitor. The 100W Power Delivery ensures your laptop stays charged while you work. It is a solid choice for those who prioritize screen real estate and fast charging.
Windows users wanting privacy controls
This dock includes a dedicated button for display modes. You can toggle between mirror and extend with a long press. A short press instantly blacks out your screen for privacy. This hardware feature simplifies your workflow without needing software. It is ideal for professionals who frequently switch between collaborative and private work environments on Windows systems.
Users prioritizing Linux compatibility
The Anker hub explicitly supports Linux, unlike the Selore model which requires specific Windows or macOS authorization steps. If you run Linux, this device ensures straightforward connectivity. It provides dual HDMI outputs and 85W Power Delivery. The lack of complex setup requirements makes it a reliable choice for Linux users who want plug-and-play functionality.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub | Dual monitor Windows setups with Ethernet needs | Check price of Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub on Amazon |
| 2 | Selore Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock | Windows users needing dual 4K displays | Check price of Selore Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock on Amazon |
The products compared
Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub
Best for: Dual monitor Windows setups with Ethernet needs
- Port Count
- 8-in-1 (what this guide is about)
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 4K @ 60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 85W
- Video Ports
- HDMI
View on Amazon: Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub Affiliate link
This Anker 8-in-1 hub expands your laptop via a single USB-C connection. It supports dual monitors with one HDMI port at 4K@60Hz and the second at 4K@30Hz. It delivers 85W pass-through charging and includes an Ethernet port for wired internet. The compact gray unit weighs 3.2 ounces. It suits users needing a reliable dual-display setup with stable network connectivity.
Pros
- Supports dual monitor output via two HDMI ports
- Delivers 85W power delivery for laptop charging
- Includes Ethernet port for wired network connection
- Compact size at 2.01 x 4.65 inches
Cons
- Second HDMI port limited to 4K@30Hz
- Not compatible with Linux operating systems
- Requires 100W wall charger for full PD support
Good fit if
- You need two external displays for productivity
- You require a wired Ethernet connection on the go
- You use Windows or ChromeOS laptops
Skip if
- You need three simultaneous monitor outputs
- You use a Linux-based computer
- You require 4K@60Hz on both screens
Verdict: Anker 8-in-1 USB-C Hub is a solid choice for Windows users who need dual 4K displays and wired internet in a small package. It fits your setup if you prioritize stable connectivity over triple-screen expansion.
Selore Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock
Best for: Windows users needing dual 4K displays
- Port Count
- 9-in-1 (what this guide is about)
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 4K@60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 100W
- Video Ports
- HDMI
View on Amazon: Selore Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock Affiliate link
The Selore 9-in-1 docking station offers dual 4K@60Hz HDMI outputs for extended displays. It features a 100W Power Delivery port for charging and three USB ports with 5Gbps speeds. A dedicated button allows quick toggling between mirror and extend modes. This grey hub connects via a single USB-C cable. It suits users needing high-resolution dual monitors and fast data transfer for their laptop setups.
Pros
- Dual HDMI ports support 4K@60Hz resolution
- 100W Power Delivery for laptop charging
- Dedicated button for display mode switching
- SD and MicroSD card slots included
- Three USB ports with 5Gbps speed
Cons
- macOS supports only one external monitor
- Requires system authorization on first use
- No Thunderbolt certification listed
Good fit if
- You need dual 4K monitors on Windows
- You want a single cable for charging and data
- You frequently transfer photos via SD cards
Skip if
- You use a Mac and need dual displays
- You require Thunderbolt 4 speeds
- You prefer plug-and-play without setup
Verdict: The Selore 9-in-1 USB-C Docking Station delivers reliable dual 4K@60Hz support for Windows users. It is a solid choice for those prioritizing high-resolution dual monitors and fast charging over macOS compatibility.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub | Selore Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock |
|---|---|---|
| Host Interface | USB-C | USB-C |
| Display Support | Dual | Dual |
| Max Resolution | 4K @ 60Hz | 4K@60Hz |
| Power Delivery | 85W | 100W |
| Port Count | 8 | 8 |
| Video Ports | HDMI | HDMI |
| Max Data Speed | not stated | 5Gbps |
| Ethernet Speed | 1Gbps | not stated |
| Resolution | 4K UHD | 4K UHD |
| Connectivity | USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet | USB-C, HDMI, USB-A |
| Refresh Rate | not stated | 60Hz |
| Features | Card Reader | not stated |
| Dimensions | 4.65 × 2.01 × 0.69 inches | 4.5 × 2.1 × 0.7 inches |
| Weight | 3.2 ounces | 3.39 ounces |
| Size | 8-in-1 USB C Hub | 9-in-1 |
| Color | Gray | Grey |
| Model | A83800A1 | SEUC0425 |
Frequently asked questions
Is a 9-in-1 dock better than an 8-in-1 for dual monitors?
Yes, if you need higher power delivery. The Selore 9-in-1 dock offers 100W Power Delivery, which supports faster charging for your laptop. The Anker 8-in-1 hub focuses on connectivity with Ethernet and dual HDMI. Both support 4K resolution, but the 9-in-1 model provides more robust power for demanding setups.
Do 8-in-1 and 9-in-1 docks support 4K displays?
Both models support 4K UHD resolution. The Anker 8-in-1 hub delivers dual HDMI outputs for extended displays on Windows systems. The Selore 9-in-1 dock also provides dual 4K@60Hz HDMI outputs. You get clear, high-resolution video on both devices, making either a solid choice for productivity tasks requiring multiple screens.
Which dock is smaller and lighter?
The Anker 8-in-1 hub is slightly more compact. It measures 4.65 inches in length and weighs 3.2 ounces. The Selore 9-in-1 dock is 4.5 inches long but weighs 3.39 ounces. Both fit easily into a laptop bag. The Anker model offers a smaller footprint, while the Selore is marginally shorter in length.
Can I use these docks with Windows laptops?
Yes, both are optimized for Windows users. The Anker 8-in-1 hub is described as a solid choice for Windows setups needing dual 4K displays and wired internet. The Selore 9-in-1 dock is also recommended for Windows users prioritizing high-resolution dual monitors. Both provide stable connectivity for standard Windows operating systems.
Does a 9-in-1 dock always include Ethernet?
Not necessarily. The Anker 8-in-1 hub explicitly includes an Ethernet port for wired internet. The Selore 9-in-1 dock lists USB-C, HDMI, and USB-A in its connectivity attributes but does not mention Ethernet. You should check the specific port list. A higher port count does not guarantee every type of connection is present.
Is 100W Power Delivery necessary for a docking station?
It depends on your laptop's power requirements. The Selore 9-in-1 dock supports 100W Power Delivery, allowing you to charge your device while using the hub. The Anker 8-in-1 hub does not list a specific wattage in its attributes. If your laptop needs high power, the 9-in-1 model ensures you stay charged.