Looking Beyond the Plugable 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 Hub? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look

How these hubs compare to Plugable

Dell Pro Thunderbolt 4 Dock with 130W Charging

The Dell Pro Thunderbolt 4 Dock replaces the Plugable’s compact adapter design with a full desktop station. It weighs 1.28 pounds, which is lighter than the Plugable’s 1.92 pounds, but its footprint is larger. The Dell model supports 130W power delivery, significantly higher than the Plugable’s 15W charging capability. It includes DisplayPort and HDMI connectivity alongside Thunderbolt 4, offering more versatile display options for multi-monitor setups. You should choose this if you need a stationary workstation with robust power delivery rather than a portable dongle. The Dell dock prioritizes extensive connectivity and high-wattage charging over the Plugable’s portability and certified EVO compatibility.

WAVLINK Thunderbolt 4 Dual HDMI Dock

The WAVLINK Thunderbolt 4 Dual HDMI Dock focuses on dual-screen output for Windows users. Unlike the Plugable, which includes a specific HDMI adapter and supports up to two 4K screens, the WAVLINK model is built specifically for dual 4K UHD displays. It lacks the detailed weight and dimension data provided for the Plugable, but its design targets professionals needing reliable multi-monitor support. The WAVLINK dock offers fast data transfer and networking features suitable for office environments. You should pick this alternative if you require a dedicated dual-monitor solution for Windows systems rather than the Plugable’s flexible Thunderbolt 4 expansion for laptops or mixed Mac/PC setups.

Anker 332 5-in-1 USB-C Hub

The Anker 332 5-in-1 USB-C Hub drops Thunderbolt 4 support entirely in favor of standard USB-C connectivity. It weighs only 1.44 ounces, making it far more portable than the Plugable’s 1.92 pounds. The Anker model supports 4K@30Hz resolution, which is lower than the Plugable’s ability to drive 4K@60Hz or 8K displays. It provides 85W power delivery, exceeding the Plugable’s 15W charging limit. This hub is ideal for Mac and Windows users who prioritize charging speed and low weight over high-speed data transfer and advanced display refresh rates. You should choose this budget option if you do not need Thunderbolt 4 speeds or Intel EVO certification.

UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 100W PD

The UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 100W PD emphasizes charging power over data bandwidth. It weighs just 3.21 ounces, significantly lighter than the Plugable’s 1.92 pounds. The UGREEN model supports 100W power delivery, which is much higher than the Plugable’s 15W charging capability. However, it lacks Thunderbolt 4 support and the associated 40Gbps data speeds. It provides 4K UHD video output via HDMI. You should select this alternative if you need a simple, lightweight hub for charging and basic display expansion without the need for Thunderbolt 4 connectivity or high-speed storage transfers. It fits users who prioritize moderate USB-A expansion and high-wattage charging.

Acer 5-in-1 4K 60Hz USB-C Hub

The Acer 5-in-1 4K 60Hz USB-C Hub offers 4K@60Hz display performance, matching the Plugable’s high refresh rate capabilities on compatible displays. It provides 90W charging, which is substantially higher than the Plugable’s 15W limit. The Acer model uses standard USB-C connectivity rather than Thunderbolt 4, meaning it lacks the 40Gbps data bandwidth and Intel EVO certification found in the Plugable. It is designed for users who prioritize visual smoothness and portability over Thunderbolt speeds. You should choose this option if you need a reliable 4K@60Hz link and fast charging without the bulk or cost associated with Thunderbolt 4 certified devices. It is a solid choice for general productivity.

Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 4K HDMI

The Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 4K HDMI is a travel-focused alternative that weighs 2.03 ounces, much lighter than the Plugable’s 1.92 pounds. It supports 90W power delivery, far exceeding the Plugable’s 15W charging capacity. Like other USB-C hubs, it lacks Thunderbolt 4 support and the associated high-speed data transfer capabilities. It provides 4K UHD resolution via HDMI. This model is ideal for travelers who need reliable charging and basic display expansion without the bulk of a Thunderbolt dock. You should pick this alternative if you prioritize portability and charging speed over high refresh rates, Linux support, or Thunderbolt 4 connectivity. It is a practical choice for simple laptop setups.

Quick picks

Our 7 picks

1 Best overall

Plugable 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 Hub

Best for: Thunderbolt 4 users needing multiple high-speed ports

Host Interface

Thunderbolt 4, USB4

Display Support

Dual

Max Resolution

8K

Power Delivery

15W

Port Count

5

Video Ports

Thunderbolt 4, HDMI

View on Amazon: Plugable 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 Hub Affiliate link

This is a certified Intel Engineered for EVO hub built on the Goshen Ridge chipset. It offers 40Gbps data bandwidth and supports up to two 4K displays or one 8K screen. You get three Thunderbolt 4 ports and one 10Gbps USB-A port. It includes a USB-C to HDMI adapter. The unit weighs 1.92 pounds and measures 8.35 inches long.

Pros

• Intel Engineered for EVO certification ensures broad compatibility
• Three Thunderbolt 4 ports for high-speed data and displays
• Supports up to 8K resolution on compatible systems
• Includes one USB-C to HDMI video adapter

Cons

• Heavier build at 1.92 pounds reduces portability
• Larger footprint with 8.35-inch length
• Only one 10Gbps USB-A port for legacy devices

Good fit if

• You need certified Thunderbolt 4 compatibility for Mac or Windows
• You want to connect multiple high-resolution displays
• You require three dedicated Thunderbolt 4 ports

Skip if

• You prioritize a lightweight and compact travel design
• You need more than one legacy USB-A port
• You are using a Thunderbolt 3 Windows system

Verdict: Plugable Thunderbolt 4 5-in-1 Hub is the right choice for users who need certified EVO compatibility and multiple high-speed ports. It suits those who value display expansion over minimal weight.

2 Best premium

Dell Pro Thunderbolt 4 Dock with 130W Charging

Best for: multi-monitor workstations requiring high power

Host Interface

Thunderbolt 4

Display Support

Up to 4

Max Resolution

4K

Power Delivery

Up to 130W

Video Ports

HDMI 2.1, DP 1.4, USB-C, Thunderbolt 4

Ethernet Speed

2.5GbE

View on Amazon: Dell Pro Thunderbolt 4 Dock with 130W Charging Affiliate link

This Dell dock supports up to four 4K displays via HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, and Thunderbolt 4. It delivers 130W of power delivery for compatible devices and includes 2.5GbE Ethernet. The unit features remote Wi-Fi management and business-level security. It suits users needing multi-monitor setups and high-speed data transfer in a compact, sustainable design.

Pros

• Supports up to 4 displays at 4K resolution
• 130W power delivery for fast device charging
• 2.5GbE Ethernet for high-speed networking
• Remote Wi-Fi management capabilities
• Compact and ambidextrous physical design

Cons

• Heavier and bulkier than standard 5-in-1 hubs
• Requires Thunderbolt 4 host for full functionality
• Higher price point than basic adapters

Good fit if

• You need to drive four 4K monitors simultaneously
• You require 130W charging for high-power laptops
• You want remote management for IT deployments

Skip if

• You only need a single external display
• You use a non-Thunderbolt laptop
• You prioritize a lightweight, pocketable design

Verdict: Dell SD25TB4 Thunderbolt 4 Smart Dock fits professionals who need extensive display connectivity and robust power delivery in a single station rather than a simple adapter.

3 Best ethernet

WAVLINK Thunderbolt 4 Dual HDMI Dock

Best for: Windows users needing dual 4K displays

Host Interface

Thunderbolt 4

Display Support

Dual

Max Resolution

8K@60Hz

Power Delivery

96W

Video Ports

HDMI, Thunderbolt 4

Max Data Speed

40Gbps

View on Amazon: WAVLINK Thunderbolt 4 Dual HDMI Dock Affiliate link

This WAVLINK dock supports dual 4K 60Hz displays on Windows systems via its two HDMI ports. It connects through a Thunderbolt 4 upstream link with 40 Gbps data speeds. The unit includes a 2.5G Ethernet port for faster wired networking and an SD card reader. It delivers up to 96W of power to your host laptop. This setup suits users needing multiple screens and high-speed data transfer.

Pros

• Dual 4K 60Hz HDMI outputs for extended displays on Windows
• Thunderbolt 4 interface with 40 Gbps data transfer speed
• 2.5G Ethernet port for faster wired networking than standard 1Gbps
• SD/MicroSD V4.0 card reader with 312MB/s transfer rates
• 96W power delivery to charge your laptop while working

Cons

• Dual display extension is limited on macOS M1/M2/M3 base models
• Mac Pro/Max models require one HDMI and one Thunderbolt 4 port for extension
• Single display support only on Thunderbolt 3 or non-Thunderbolt USB-C ports

Good fit if

• You need two 4K monitors for a Windows laptop setup
• You require fast 2.5G wired networking for large file transfers
• You want a single dock for video, data, and charging

Skip if

• You use a base M1, M2, or M3 Mac and need dual extended displays
• You need more than two external monitors
• Your laptop only supports Thunderbolt 3 or standard USB-C

Verdict: WAVLINK Thunderbolt 4 Dual 4K Dock provides a robust dual-screen solution for Windows users with fast data and networking. It is ideal for professionals who need reliable multi-monitor support and high-speed connectivity.

4 Also great

Anker 332 5-in-1 USB-C Hub

Best for: Mac and Windows users needing 4K@30Hz and 85W charging

Host Interface

USB-C

Display Support

1

Max Resolution

4K@30Hz

Power Delivery

85W

Port Count

5

Video Ports

HDMI

View on Amazon: Anker 332 5-in-1 USB-C Hub Affiliate link

The Anker 5-in-1 hub offers a 4K HDMI port, two USB-A ports, and one USB-C data port. It supports 85W pass-through charging and 5 Gbps data transfer. The HDMI output is limited to 4K@30Hz. It connects via USB-C to laptops with DP Alt Mode. This compact drive is suitable for users needing basic display and charging expansion without high refresh rates.

Pros

• 4K HDMI display output
• 85W pass-through charging
• 5 Gbps data transfer speeds
• Compact 1.44 oz weight

Cons

• HDMI limited to 4K@30Hz
• USB-C port does not support video
• Not compatible with Linux

Good fit if

• You need 4K display support at 30Hz
• You want 85W charging for your laptop
• You use macOS or Windows laptops

Skip if

• You require 4K@60Hz video output
• You use a Linux operating system
• You need video output from the USB-C port

Verdict: Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub 4K HDMI is a solid choice for Mac or Windows users who need 4K@30Hz display and 85W charging. It is not suitable for Linux users or those requiring higher refresh rates.

5 Best budget

UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 100W PD

Best for: Users needing 100W charging and 4K video

Host Interface

USB-C

Max Resolution

4K

Power Delivery

100W

Port Count

5

Video Ports

HDMI

Max Data Speed

5Gbps

View on Amazon: UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 100W PD Affiliate link

The UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub offers a 4K HDMI output and a 100W Power Delivery port. It includes one 5 Gbps USB-A data port and two 480 Mbps USB-A ports. This compact adapter connects to your laptop via USB-C. It suits users who need basic video output and moderate data speeds without requiring Thunderbolt 4 bandwidth.

Pros

• 100W USB-C Power Delivery port for charging
• 4K HDMI video output
• One 5 Gbps USB-A data port
• Compact 3.21 ounce build

Cons

• Two USB-A ports limited to 480 Mbps
• USB-C host interface without Thunderbolt 4 support
• Single HDMI video output

Good fit if

• You need 100W charging for your laptop
• You require a 4K HDMI display connection
• You have devices that only need 480 Mbps speeds

Skip if

• You need Thunderbolt 4 data speeds
• You require multiple high-speed USB-A ports
• You need more than one video output

Verdict: UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 100W PD provides essential connectivity for users prioritizing charging power over high-speed data transfer. It fits those who need a simple 4K HDMI link and moderate USB-A expansion.

6 Best 60hz

Acer 5-in-1 4K 60Hz USB-C Hub

Best for: 4K@60Hz display and 90W charging

Host Interface

USB-C

Max Resolution

4K@60Hz

Power Delivery

90W

Port Count

5

Video Ports

HDMI 2.0

Max Data Speed

5Gbps

View on Amazon: Acer 5-in-1 4K 60Hz USB-C Hub Affiliate link

The Acer 5-in-1 USB-C Hub expands your laptop ports with a 4K@60Hz HDMI output. It supports 100W pass-through charging, delivering up to 90W to your device. Data transfers run at 5Gbps via USB-C 3.0 and USB-A 3.0 ports. This aluminum hub suits users who need smooth 4K visuals and reliable power delivery in a portable form factor.

Pros

• Supports 4K@60Hz HDMI output for smooth video
• 100W PD pass-through charging with 90W output
• 5Gbps data speeds on USB-C and USB-A 3.0 ports
• Aluminum shell for improved heat dissipation

Cons

• Max output is 90W, not 100W
• No Thunderbolt 4 certification
• Does not support ultrawide monitors

Good fit if

• You need 4K@60Hz display support
• You want a lightweight aluminum hub
• You require 90W charging for laptops

Skip if

• You need Thunderbolt 4 speeds
• You require 100W output
• You use ultrawide monitors

Verdict: Acer 5-in-1 USB-C Hub delivers solid 4K@60Hz performance and 90W charging for users who prioritize visual smoothness and portability over Thunderbolt speeds.

7 Also great

Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 4K HDMI

Best for: Travelers needing reliable 90W charging

Host Interface

USB-C

Max Resolution

4K@30Hz

Power Delivery

90W

Port Count

5

Video Ports

HDMI

Max Data Speed

5Gbps

View on Amazon: Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 4K HDMI Affiliate link

The Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub offers a compact gray design with 4K HDMI output at 30Hz. It provides 90W pass-through charging and a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port alongside two USB 2.0 ports. This adapter suits users needing basic display expansion and data transfer without Thunderbolt 4 speeds. It fits well for travelers prioritizing portability over maximum bandwidth.

Pros

• 4K HDMI output at 30Hz for extended display modes
• 90W pass-through charging with 100W total input capacity
• 5Gbps data transfer speed on the USB 3.0 port
• Lightweight build at 2.03 ounces for easy travel

Cons

• HDMI output limited to 30Hz, not 60Hz
• USB-C port supports charging input only, not data
• No Linux operating system compatibility

Good fit if

• You need a lightweight hub for travel
• You require 90W charging for your laptop
• You use Windows or macOS laptops with DP Alt Mode

Skip if

• You need 4K display output at 60Hz
• You require Thunderbolt 4 data speeds
• You use a Linux-based computer

Verdict: Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub 4K HDMI is a solid choice for users who prioritize charging speed and portability over high refresh rate displays or Linux support.

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