Anker 565 11-in-1 Dual Display Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
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This anker 565 11 in 1 dual display review covers the A8388 hub, a gray docking station that turns a single USB-C port into eleven connections. It supports dual monitor setups via HDMI and DisplayPort, allowing you to extend your workspace. The hub offers high-speed data transfer with 10 Gbps ports and provides up to 85W of pass-through charging for your laptop. It weighs 4.8 ounces and measures 5.39 inches long, making it a compact addition to any desk. This device is designed for users needing significant port expansion and multi-screen capability without sacrificing charging speed.
What stands out
- Connects to two external displays simultaneously via HDMI and DisplayPort
- Offers two 10 Gbps data ports for fast file transfers
- Supports up to 85W pass-through charging for connected laptops
- Includes an Ethernet port for stable wired internet connections
- Features microSD and SD card slots for direct media access
Who it fits
Good fit for
This hub suits professionals using Windows 10/11, ChromeOS, or macOS 12+ laptops with USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt ports. It is ideal for users who need to connect two monitors, especially those with DP 1.4 or DP 1.2 laptops. You will benefit if you frequently move large files using the 10 Gbps ports or require stable Ethernet connectivity. It also fits users who want to charge their laptop while using multiple peripherals, provided they have a compatible power adapter.
Who should skip it
Skip this option if you use Linux, as the hub is not compatible with that operating system. Users needing display output through USB-C ports will find this device unsuitable, as it only supports video through HDMI and DisplayPort. If your laptop lacks DP Alt Mode or Power Delivery, the hub will not function correctly. Additionally, if you require a remote control or built-in speakers, this hub does not include those features. You must provide your own charger for pass-through charging.
Verdict: The Anker 565 is a robust expansion hub for users needing dual displays and high-speed data on compatible laptops. It delivers on its promise of port multiplication and stable connectivity for supported Windows and macOS systems.
Key specs explained for this hub
Port Count: 11
This hub provides eleven distinct connection points from a single USB-C input. You get two USB-A ports for 480 Mbps devices, one 10 Gbps USB-C port, and one 10 Gbps USB-A port for fast data. There are also HDMI and DisplayPort outputs for screens, plus Ethernet, audio, and card slots. This count reduces the need for multiple adapters on your desk.
Video Ports: HDMI, DisplayPort
The device includes one HDMI port and one DisplayPort for video output. These allow you to connect two external monitors simultaneously. Note that display signals do not pass through the USB-C ports themselves. You must use these specific video ports to drive your screens. This setup supports dual monitor configurations for extended desktop real estate.
Max Data Speed: 10 Gbps
Two of the data ports support speeds up to 10 Gbps. This allows for faster file transfers compared to standard USB 3.0 ports. You benefit if you move large video files or backup drives frequently. This speed is significantly higher than the 480 Mbps ports included, ensuring your high-speed peripherals do not become a bottleneck.
Power Delivery: 85W
The hub supports up to 85W of pass-through charging. This lets you power your laptop while using the hub. You need a compatible charger connected to the hub to enable this function. This feature keeps your desk tidy by using one cable for both power and data, reducing clutter around your laptop.
Design and Build Analysis
The listing describes the Anker 565 as a gray docking station with the model number A8388. Its physical dimensions are 5.39 inches in length, 2.24 inches in width, and 0.55 inches in height. The unit weighs 4.8 ounces. This compact form factor allows it to sit neatly beside your laptop without taking up excessive desk space. The low profile ensures it does not obstruct other devices when plugged in.
According to the listing, the hub features a dense layout of eleven ports. You get a 10 Gbps USB-C port, a 10 Gbps USB-A port, and two 480 Mbps USB-A ports for data transfer. Video output is handled by separate HDMI and DisplayPort connections. A 100W USB-C Power Delivery input port allows for pass-through charging up to 85W. An Ethernet port, an AUX port, and combined microSD/SD card slots complete the array. This variety lets you connect multiple peripherals without needing additional adapters.
The finish appears to be a standard gray plastic construction typical for this category. The design prioritizes function over aesthetics. You get an 18-month warranty with the device. The layout is fixed, meaning you cannot rearrange the ports. This means you must plan your cable management in advance. The specific placement of the Ethernet and video ports determines how cables route away from your laptop.
Setup And Everyday Use Guide
You connect this hub to a single USB-C port on your laptop. The listing confirms compatibility with USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt connections. You need a laptop equipped with DisplayPort Alt Mode and Power Delivery for full functionality. The device supports macOS 12 and newer, Windows 10 and 11, and ChromeOS. It is not compatible with Linux systems. For display output, you must use the HDMI and DisplayPort ports. The hub does not support display outputs through USB-C ports. You can connect two external monitors to extend your workspace. The maximum resolution is 4K, but dual monitor performance depends on your laptop’s DisplayPort version. A DP 1.4 laptop allows dual 2K@60Hz displays. A DP 1.2 laptop limits you to 1080p@60Hz. Note that macOS mirrors the display on both external monitors rather than extending them. You can power your laptop through the hub using the 100W USB-C Power Delivery input port. This supports up to 85W pass-through charging. You must provide your own charger, as it is not included. Data transfer speeds reach 10 Gbps on the dedicated USB-C and USB-A ports. The SD card slots offer 104 MB/s speeds. You also get an Ethernet port for wired internet and an AUX port for audio devices. The hub measures 5.39 inches in length and weighs 4.8 ounces. This compact size fits easily on a desk. You get an 18-month warranty with the device.
Before You Buy This Hub
You need a compatible laptop to use this hub effectively. Check that your device supports DisplayPort Alt Mode and Power Delivery. The listing confirms support for macOS 12 and newer, Windows 10 and 11, and ChromeOS. Linux is not compatible. You must provide your own charger for pass-through charging. The hub supports up to 85W, so ensure your adapter meets this requirement. For dual monitor setups, verify your laptop’s DisplayPort version. DP 1.4 allows 2K@60Hz on both screens, while DP 1.2 limits output to 1080p@60Hz. macOS users should note that external displays will mirror rather than extend. Keep the unit clean and dry. This hub fits well if you need multiple ports and dual displays. It complements portable monitors by expanding your laptop’s connectivity. Compare it against other docking stations if you require Thunderbolt 4 speeds or more than two video outputs.
Check before you buy
- Confirm your laptop supports DisplayPort Alt Mode and Power Delivery.
- Check if your macOS version is 12 or newer.
- Ensure you have an 85W charger for pass-through charging.
- Verify your laptop's DisplayPort version for dual monitor resolution.
The product at a glance
Anker 565 11-in-1 Dual Display USB-C Hub
Best for: Windows users needing dual 4K displays
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 4K
- Power Delivery
- 85W
- Port Count
- 11
- Video Ports
- HDMI, DisplayPort
View on Amazon: Anker 565 11-in-1 Dual Display USB-C Hub Affiliate link
This Anker hub expands one USB-C port into 11 connections, including dual video outputs. You can drive two monitors at 4K resolution, provided your laptop supports DP 1.4 for 2K@60Hz or DP 1.2 for 1080p@60Hz. It offers 10 Gbps data transfer speeds and 85W pass-through charging. The compact gray unit weighs 4.8 ounces. It suits users needing extensive connectivity and dual-screen setups on compatible Windows or macOS systems.
Pros
- 11 ports including HDMI and DisplayPort for dual monitors
- 10 Gbps data transfer on USB-C and USB-A ports
- 85W pass-through charging for laptop power
- Compact dimensions at 5.39 inches long
Cons
- Dual display output limited to 2K@60Hz or 1080p@60Hz
- macOS mirrors both external monitors instead of extending
- No display output support through USB-C ports
Good fit if
- You need to connect two external displays to a single port
- You require fast 10 Gbps data transfer speeds
- You want to charge your laptop while using the hub
Skip if
- You use a Linux operating system
- You need independent extended displays on a Mac
- You require display output via USB-C ports
Verdict: Anker 565 11-in-1 Dual Display Hub is a solid choice for Windows users needing dual monitors and high-speed data, but Mac users should expect mirrored screens.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Anker 565 11-in-1 Dual Display USB-C Hub |
|---|---|
| Host Interface | USB-C |
| Display Support | Dual |
| Max Resolution | 4K |
| Power Delivery | 85W |
| Port Count | 11 |
| Video Ports | HDMI, DisplayPort |
| Max Data Speed | 10 Gbps |
| Resolution | 4K UHD |
| Connectivity | USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, USB-A |
| Dimensions | 5.39 × 2.24 × 0.55 inches |
| Weight | 4.8 ounces |
| Size | 11-in-1 |
| Color | Gray |
| Model | A8388 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Anker 565 support dual 4K monitors simultaneously?
Yes, this hub supports dual monitor setups with 4K UHD resolution. You can connect two displays using the HDMI and DisplayPort outputs. This allows you to extend your workspace across two screens rather than mirroring them. The device is designed to handle high-resolution video output for productivity tasks.
Is this hub compatible with Mac computers?
The product listing confirms support for macOS 12 and newer versions. However, the verdict notes that Mac users should expect mirrored screens rather than extended displays. While the hardware connects, the dual monitor extension feature may not function as intended on Apple devices compared to Windows systems.
What are the physical dimensions of the Anker 565 hub?
The unit measures 5.39 inches in length, 2.24 inches in width, and 0.55 inches in height. It weighs 4.8 ounces. This compact form factor allows it to sit neatly on a desk without taking up excessive space. The gray color matches many modern laptop designs.
Which operating systems are supported by this docking station?
The listing confirms compatibility with Windows 10 and 11, macOS 12 and newer, and ChromeOS. Linux is not listed as a compatible operating system. You need to ensure your computer runs one of the supported OS versions to utilize all features of this hub effectively.
Does this hub require a power adapter for the monitors?
The hub connects to a single USB-C port on your laptop. You need a laptop equipped with DisplayPort Alt Mode and Power Delivery for full functionality. The listing does not mention a separate power adapter for the displays themselves, relying on the host device for video signal transmission.
What is the model number for this Anker hub?
The model number for this device is A8388. It is part of the Anker 565 series and is described as an 11-in-1 dual display USB-C hub. Knowing the model number helps you verify compatibility and find specific driver updates or support documentation from the manufacturer.