Anker 14-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Review: Who It Fits and Who Should Skip It
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This anker laptop docking station 3 review covers a hub built for heavy multitasking. The Anker 14-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Hub offers fourteen connectivity options in a compact grey chassis. It supports triple monitor setups, allowing you to connect two 4K HDMI displays and one 1080p VGA screen simultaneously. This configuration is ideal for users who need extensive screen real estate without cluttering their desk. The device weighs just 4.73 ounces and measures 5.91 inches long, making it portable enough for travel while providing a stable base for multiple peripherals and high-speed data transfers.
What stands out
- Triple display support with two 4K HDMI ports and one 1080p VGA port
- 14-in-1 connectivity including five USB-A ports and an SD/micro SD slot
- 80W pass-through charging keeps your laptop powered during use
- 5 Gbps data transfer speeds on the USB-C port for fast file moves
- Compatible with USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt hosts on Windows and macOS
Who it fits
Good fit for
This hub suits professionals who rely on multiple screens for coding, trading, or content creation. If you use a Windows 10/11 or macOS 12+ laptop with USB-C or Thunderbolt, you can expand your workspace significantly. The inclusion of an Ethernet port helps users who need stable wired internet instead of Wi-Fi. It also benefits photographers or writers who frequently transfer large files via the SD slots or move data at 5 Gbps. The 80W charging capability ensures your device stays powered during long work sessions.
Who should skip it
Users running Linux should look elsewhere, as the data explicitly states this device is not compatible with Linux systems. If you need more than three displays, this hub cannot support additional screens beyond its triple output limit. macOS users should note that external monitors will mirror the laptop display rather than extending the desktop. Those requiring higher data speeds than 5 Gbps may find this hub insufficient for their workflow. Additionally, the lack of included wall chargers means you must supply your own power adapter for the pass-through charging feature.
Verdict: The Anker 14-in-1 hub is a solid choice for Windows and macOS users needing a triple-display setup with robust connectivity. It delivers on its promise of expanding your workspace, provided your system supports its specific requirements.
Key specs explained
Display Support: Triple
This hub allows you to connect three external monitors simultaneously. You can use two HDMI ports for 4K screens and one VGA port for a 1080p display. This setup is ideal for multitaskers who need separate windows for work, communication, and reference. Note that macOS users will see mirrored displays on external monitors rather than extended desktops.
Max Resolution: 4K
The device supports output resolutions up to 4K on its HDMI ports. This ensures sharp, detailed images for text-heavy tasks, video editing, or graphic design work. When comparing this to portable monitors, check if your laptop can drive multiple 4K screens. This spec is crucial if you prioritize visual clarity over simple productivity tasks.
Power Delivery: 80W
The hub provides up to 80W of pass-through charging to your laptop. This keeps your device powered while you use the dock, reducing cable clutter. Ensure your laptop charger supports this wattage. This feature is practical for users who want a single cable connection for both data and power, streamlining their desk setup significantly.
Max Data Speed: 5Gbps
Data transfers via the USB-C and USB-A ports operate at 5 Gbps. This speed is suitable for moving large files, such as videos or archives, between your computer and external drives. It is faster than standard USB 2.0 but slower than USB 3.2 Gen 2. This is useful for general productivity and media storage management.
Ethernet Speed: 1Gbps
The built-in Ethernet port offers 1 Gbps wired internet connectivity. This provides a stable, low-latency connection compared to Wi-Fi, which is beneficial for video calls, online gaming, or large downloads. If you rely on a consistent connection for remote work, this wired option ensures you stay connected without wireless interference or signal drops.
Design and build overview
According to the listing, the Anker 14-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Hub is housed in a grey chassis. The unit measures 5.91 inches in length, 2.13 inches in width, and 0.67 inches in height. It weighs 4.73 ounces. These dimensions suggest a compact footprint that fits easily on a desk or in a laptop bag. The low profile means it sits flat without taking up much vertical space. You can place it near your laptop without blocking other ports.
The model number is A8389. The finish is described simply as grey. This neutral color helps it blend into most workspaces. The design prioritizes connectivity over aesthetics. You get fourteen ports in this small package. The layout includes two HDMI ports, one VGA port, one USB-C port, one USB-C PD-IN port, five USB-A ports, an Ethernet port, SD slots, and an AUX jack. This density allows you to connect many devices at once.
The compact size makes it portable. You can carry it between home and office. The sturdy build supports heavy multitasking. You do not need to unpack multiple adapters. Everything connects through this single hub. The design keeps your desk organized. You can access all your peripherals from one central point. This reduces cable clutter on your workspace. The build supports your daily workflow efficiently.
Setup and everyday use details
Setting up this hub is straightforward if your laptop supports the required protocols. You need a device with USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt connectivity. The listing confirms compatibility with macOS 12 and newer, Windows 10 and 11, and ChromeOS. It also works with any laptop that supports DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note that Linux systems are not supported. For Mac users, be aware that the external displays will mirror each other rather than extending the desktop. This limits the triple-display benefit on Apple devices. For Windows or ChromeOS users, you can stream across three monitors simultaneously. You will connect two screens via the HDMI ports for 4K resolution and one screen via the VGA port for 1080p. Daily use involves plugging in peripherals through the five USB-A ports and the 5 Gbps USB-C port. You can transfer files at high speeds using these data ports. The 1 Gbps Ethernet port provides a stable wired connection for work. You also have access to SD and micro SD slots for media cards. The AUX port allows for audio output. Power is managed through the 100W USB-C PD-IN port. The hub delivers up to 80W of pass-through charging to your laptop. This ensures your device stays powered while you work. You do not need a separate wall charger for the hub itself. The setup relies entirely on your laptop’s single USB-C or Thunderbolt port. This keeps your workspace tidy. The compact size helps it fit easily on a desk. You simply connect your monitors and peripherals, and the system handles the rest. It is designed for users who need multiple screens and many ports in one place.
Before you buy this hub
You need a laptop with USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt support. The listing confirms it works with macOS 12+, Windows 10/11, and ChromeOS. It does not support Linux. Check your device for DisplayPort Alt Mode and Power Delivery. You must buy a separate wall charger for the 80W pass-through charging. The unit is small and light, fitting easily in most bags. Keep the ports clean from dust. This hub suits heavy multitaskers who need three screens. It does not replace portable monitors for mobile use. You will need external displays to complete the setup. Verify your laptop’s video output limits before purchasing. This option fits users who stay at one desk. It is less ideal for travelers needing built-in screens.
Check before you buy
- Check for USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt ports on your laptop.
- Confirm your laptop supports DisplayPort Alt Mode and Power Delivery.
- Verify macOS version is 12 or newer if using Apple Silicon.
- Buy a separate wall charger for 80W pass-through charging.
- Ensure you have three external displays ready for connection.
The product at a glance
Anker 14-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Hub
Best for: Windows users needing three screens and many ports
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Triple
- Max Resolution
- 4K
- Power Delivery
- 80W
- Port Count
- 14
- Video Ports
- HDMI, VGA
View on Amazon: Anker 14-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Hub Affiliate link
This Anker hub expands your laptop into a triple-monitor setup via two HDMI and one VGA port. It supports 4K resolution on the HDMI outputs and offers 14 total connectivity options, including five USB-A ports and a 1 Gbps Ethernet jack. The 80W pass-through charging keeps your device powered while you work. It fits users needing extensive peripheral connections and multi-screen productivity on Windows or macOS systems.
Pros
- Supports triple display output via two HDMI and one VGA port
- Provides 14 total connectivity options including SD card slots and AUX
- Delivers 80W pass-through charging for connected laptops
- Includes 1 Gbps Ethernet for stable wired internet connections
Cons
- VGA port is limited to 1080p resolution
- macOS users get mirrored displays rather than extended desktops
- Not compatible with Linux operating systems
Good fit if
- You need to connect three monitors simultaneously for multitasking
- You require multiple USB-A devices and an SD card reader
- You want a single cable solution for data, video, and power
Skip if
- You use a Linux-based laptop
- You need extended desktop support on macOS
- You require 4K resolution on all three connected displays
Verdict: Anker 14-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Hub is a solid choice for Windows users who need three screens and extensive port variety. It suits those prioritizing connectivity over advanced macOS display features or Linux compatibility.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Anker 14-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Hub |
|---|---|
| Host Interface | USB-C |
| Display Support | Triple |
| Max Resolution | 4K |
| Power Delivery | 80W |
| Port Count | 14 |
| Video Ports | HDMI, VGA |
| Max Data Speed | 5Gbps |
| Ethernet Speed | 1Gbps |
| Resolution | 4K UHD |
| Connectivity | USB-C, HDMI, USB-A, VGA |
| Dimensions | 5.91 × 2.13 × 0.67 inches |
| Weight | 4.73 ounces |
| Size | 14 in 1 USB C Hub |
| Color | Grey |
| Model | A8389 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Anker 14-in-1 hub support three 4K monitors?
No. The listing specifies support for triple monitors with two HDMI ports for 4K displays and one VGA port for 1080p output. You cannot drive three screens at 4K resolution simultaneously. This configuration is designed for mixed-resolution setups rather than uniform high-definition triple displays.
Is this docking station compatible with Linux operating systems?
No. The provided data states that the hub does not support Linux. It is confirmed to work with macOS 12 and newer, Windows 10 and 11, and ChromeOS. If you rely on Linux, this device is not suitable for your setup requirements.
What laptop ports are required to use this hub?
You need a laptop with USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt connectivity. The device connects via USB-C and requires your host device to support the necessary display and data protocols. Without one of these specific connection types, the hub will not function correctly with your computer.
How large is the Anker A8389 docking station?
The unit measures 5.91 inches in length, 2.13 inches in width, and 0.67 inches in height. It weighs 4.73 ounces. These compact dimensions allow it to fit easily on a desk or in a laptop bag without taking up excessive space during travel or daily use.
Can Mac users run three displays with this hub?
Yes, but with limitations. The hub supports triple monitor setups, which is useful for macOS users needing multiple screens. However, the listing notes it suits those prioritizing connectivity over advanced macOS display features. You can connect two 4K HDMI displays and one VGA monitor simultaneously.
What color is the Anker 14-in-1 Triple Display Hub?
The chassis is grey. The product listing identifies the color as grey for the A8389 model. This neutral finish helps it blend into most office environments. The compact size and grey design make it a discreet addition to your workspace setup.