Looking Beyond the Plugable Dual 1080p HDMI Universal? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Plugable Dual HDMI Universal Docking Station handles office productivity well by supporting dual 1080p displays across Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS. It offers ten ports and gigabit Ethernet for mixed device fleets. However, you might seek plugable dual 1080p hdmi universal alternatives if you need higher resolution outputs, triple monitor support, or faster charging speeds. This list covers 6 options that share core connectivity specs while expanding on those limits.
The selected alternatives overlap with the original by providing multi-monitor expansion and essential I/O ports. Some models prioritize 4K UHD resolution for sharper text and video. Others offer more USB ports or higher wattage charging for compatible laptops. You can compare port counts, display support, and host interfaces to find a unit that fits your specific workflow. Each option here addresses a different need, whether you require triple displays for complex tasks or a more compact design for a smaller desk.
How these alternatives differ
Anker 14-in-1 USB-C Triple Display Dock
The Anker 14-in-1 dock supports triple displays instead of the Plugable’s dual setup. It targets Windows users needing three 4K monitors for complex workflows. You gain extensive connectivity with 14 ports, though macOS compatibility is limited compared to the Plugable’s universal driver support. This unit is heavier and larger, making it less portable. It sacrifices broad OS compatibility for higher resolution output and more ports. Choose this if you run Windows and need three high-res screens. You give up ChromeOS support and the Plugable’s Mac M-series compatibility.
Acer 9-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Dock
The Acer 9-in-1 dock offers dual 4K@60Hz output, a significant upgrade from the Plugable’s 1080p limit. It provides 90W charging for compatible laptops, which the Plugable lacks entirely. This model is designed primarily for Windows users, dropping the Plugable’s macOS and ChromeOS support. You get SD card access and a more compact form factor. The trade-off is the loss of universal driver support. Pick this Acer unit if you need higher resolution and laptop charging on Windows. You lose the cross-platform flexibility and network port found on the Plugable.
Plugable Dual HDMI Universal Docking Station
The Plugable UD-3900 uses USB 3.0 instead of the newer USB-C or USB-A hybrid host interface. It remains a dual HDMI dock but relies on older connectivity standards. This model is slightly larger and heavier than the UD-3900Z. It offers similar dual 1080p display support for office tasks. You gain a potentially lower cost option, though price data is not provided here. The main difference is the host connection type. Choose this if your laptop only has USB 3.0 ports. You give up the flexibility of including both USB-C and USB-A cables with the newer model.
TobenONE 18-in-1 Triple Display Dock
The TobenONE 18-in-1 dock supports triple 4K displays, far exceeding the Plugable’s dual 1080p capability. It offers 18 ports for maximum connectivity, ideal for Windows users with extensive peripheral needs. This unit is heavier and lacks the Plugable’s universal driver support for Mac and ChromeOS. You get high-resolution triple screens but lose cross-platform compatibility. The compact design helps reduce desk clutter, but the weight increases. Select this if you need three 4K monitors on Windows. You sacrifice the Plugable’s ability to work seamlessly across mixed operating system fleets.
Acer 13-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Dock
The Acer 13-in-1 dock provides triple display support with 100W charging, surpassing the Plugable’s dual 1080p and zero charging. It features a durable aluminum build and includes DisplayPort outputs alongside HDMI. This unit is Windows-only, unlike the Plugable’s universal approach. You gain higher resolution, more power delivery, and a premium build. The trade-off is the lack of Mac and ChromeOS support. Choose this Acer dock for stationary Windows setups requiring three screens. You give up the Plugable’s broad OS compatibility and compact vertical design.
MOKiN 13-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Dock
The MOKiN 13-in-1 dock supports triple displays and includes a 1Gbps Ethernet port for stable wired networking. It weighs over two pounds, making it significantly heavier than the Plugable. This unit targets stationary setups where portability is not a concern. You gain high refresh rates and extensive connectivity for Windows users. However, it lacks the Plugable’s universal driver support for Mac and ChromeOS. The larger size and weight reduce desk space efficiency. Pick this MOKiN dock for fixed workstations needing triple screens and wired internet. You lose the Plugable’s cross-platform flexibility and lighter footprint.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Plugable Dual HDMI Universal Docking Station
Best for: Office productivity on mixed Windows and Mac fleets
- Host Interface
- USB-C, USB-A
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 1920x1200
- Port Count
- 10
- Video Ports
- HDMI
- Max Data Speed
- 5Gbps
View on Amazon: Plugable Dual HDMI Universal Docking Station
The Plugable UD-3900Z expands a single laptop connection into two HDMI displays up to 1920x1200. It includes both USB-C and USB-A host cables, making it compatible with older and newer machines. The dock features ten ports, including Gigabit Ethernet and multiple USB slots. It works with Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS, though macOS requires DisplayLink software. It is designed for office productivity rather than media consumption.
Pros
- Supports dual HDMI displays at 1920x1200 resolution
- Includes both USB-C and USB-A host cables
- Ten total ports including Gigabit Ethernet
- Compatible with Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS
Cons
- Does not support HDCP, blocking Netflix and Hulu
- Not recommended for gaming or full-screen video
- Does not charge the connected laptop
Good fit if
- You need dual monitors on a mixed fleet of Windows and Mac laptops
- You require Gigabit Ethernet alongside extra USB ports
- You use ChromeOS or Windows without needing driver installation
Skip if
- You want to play copy-protected streaming content like Netflix
- You need to charge your laptop through the dock
- You require 4K resolution or DisplayPort monitors
Verdict: Plugable Dual HDMI USB-C Dock is a solid choice for office workers who need reliable dual displays and network connectivity on a mix of older and newer laptops. It fits teams standardizing workstations across different operating systems.
Anker 14-in-1 USB-C Triple Display Dock
Best for: Windows users needing triple 4K displays
- Host Interface
- USB-C, USB4, Thunderbolt
- Display Support
- Triple
- Max Resolution
- 4K
- Power Delivery
- 80W
- Port Count
- 14
- Video Ports
- HDMI, VGA
This Anker hub offers 14 connectivity options for laptops with USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt ports. It supports triple displays via two 4K HDMI outputs and one 1080p VGA port. The device includes 80W pass-through charging and 5 Gbps data transfer speeds. It features five USB-A ports, an Ethernet port, and SD card slots. This setup suits users who need extensive peripheral support and multiple screens for multitasking.
Pros
- Supports triple displays with two 4K HDMI and one 1080p VGA port
- Provides 14 total connectivity options including USB-C, USB-A, and Ethernet
- Offers 80W pass-through charging to keep your laptop powered
- Features 5 Gbps data transfer speeds on USB ports
Cons
- Not compatible with Linux operating systems
- macOS users get identical displays on external monitors
- Wall charger is not included for the 80W charging
Good fit if
- You need three screens for heavy multitasking
- You require a 1 Gbps Ethernet connection
- You use a Windows or macOS laptop with USB-C
Skip if
- You use a Linux-based laptop
- You need independent displays on macOS
- You want a wall charger included
Verdict: Anker 14-in-1 USB-C Hub Triple Display provides robust multi-monitor support and connectivity for Windows and macOS users. It is ideal for professionals who need extensive ports and stable 4K video output without Linux compatibility.
Acer 9-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Dock
Best for: Windows users needing dual 4K displays
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 4K@60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 90W
- Port Count
- 9
- Video Ports
- HDMI
This Acer docking station offers dual 4K@60Hz HDMI output for extended displays. It includes three USB-A ports, one USB-C port, and SD card slots for data access. The unit supports up to 90W power delivery to keep your laptop charged. It features a built-in 0.65-foot cable and an aluminum alloy body. You get two units in this pack, making it suitable for multi-device setups.
Pros
- Dual HDMI ports support 4K@60Hz resolution
- 90W Power Delivery charges your laptop
- Includes SD and MicroSD card slots
- Aluminum alloy body with security lock button
Cons
- Mac users can only mirror displays, not extend
- Built-in cable is only 0.65 feet long
- Requires a 100W+ power adapter not included
Good fit if
- You need dual 4K monitors at 60Hz
- You want to charge your laptop through the dock
- You need SD card access on your desk
Skip if
- You use a Mac and need extended desktop mode
- Your laptop lacks USB-C video output support
- You require a longer built-in cable than 0.65 feet
Verdict: Acer 9-in-1 USB-C Dock Dual HDMI provides reliable dual 4K@60Hz output and 90W charging for compatible laptops. It is a solid choice for Windows users who need dual monitors and SD card access.
Plugable Dual HDMI Universal Docking Station
Best for: Office productivity and dual monitors
- Host Interface
- USB 3.0, USB-C
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 2560x1440 @ 50Hz
- Video Ports
- HDMI
- Ethernet Speed
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Dimensions
- 6.45 × 3.22 × 4.02 inches
View on Amazon: Plugable Dual HDMI Universal Docking Station
This Plugable docking station connects two monitors via HDMI using a hybrid USB 3.0 or USB-C link. It supports dual displays at 1920x1200 @ 60Hz or a single screen at 2560x1440 @ 50Hz. The unit includes Gigabit Ethernet, audio jacks, and five USB ports. It works with Windows, ChromeOS, and macOS with manual driver setup. This dock does not charge your laptop.
Pros
- Dual HDMI outputs for two monitors
- Hybrid USB 3.0 and USB-C host cable
- Built-in Gigabit Ethernet port
- Includes five USB ports total
Cons
- Does not support 4K resolution
- No power delivery for host laptops
- Requires DisplayLink driver on macOS
Good fit if
- You need two screens for productivity
- You use Windows or ChromeOS
- You want a wired Ethernet connection
Skip if
- You need 4K display support
- You require laptop charging
- You use Linux systems
Verdict: Plugable Dual HDMI USB 3.0 Docking Station provides reliable dual-monitor expansion for office tasks. It suits users who prioritize wired connectivity and multi-screen setups over high-resolution gaming.
TobenONE 18-in-1 Triple Display Dock
Best for: Windows users needing triple 4K displays
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Triple
- Max Resolution
- 4K@60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 100W
- Port Count
- 18
- Video Ports
- HDMI
The TobenONE 18-in-1 docking station connects three monitors via HDMI to a single USB-C port. It supports 4K resolution at 60Hz on each display, providing clear visuals for video editing or spreadsheets. The unit includes nine USB ports for peripherals and offers 100W Power Delivery to charge your laptop. It is designed for Windows and Chrome OS laptops with full-featured USB-C ports, helping you maintain a clean desk setup.
Pros
- Supports triple 4K@60Hz displays via HDMI
- 100W Power Delivery for laptop charging
- 18 ports including 9 USB connections
- Compact dimensions of 4.9 x 3.5 x 1.6 inches
Cons
- Not recommended for Mac users
- Power adapter is not included
- Requires a power supply over 65W for stable usage
Good fit if
- You need three 4K monitors for multitasking
- You use a Windows or Chrome OS laptop
- You want to reduce cable clutter with one dock
Skip if
- You use a Mac laptop
- You already have a sufficient number of ports
- You need a power adapter included in the box
Verdict: TobenONE 18-in-1 USB-C Dock 4K Triple is a solid option for Windows users who require three high-resolution displays and extensive connectivity in a single compact unit.
Acer 13-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Dock
Best for: Windows triple-monitor setups with 100W charging
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Triple
- Max Resolution
- 4K@30Hz
- Power Delivery
- 100W
- Port Count
- 13
- Video Ports
- HDMI, DisplayPort
This Acer docking station offers 13 ports, including two HDMI and one DisplayPort for triple monitor setups. It delivers 100W Power Delivery to your laptop and includes Gigabit Ethernet. The aluminum body helps dissipate heat during long sessions. You get extended desktops on Windows via MST, but macOS only supports mirroring. It is a solid choice for Windows users needing multiple screens and stable connectivity.
Pros
- Supports triple displays with 2 HDMI and 1 DisplayPort
- Includes 100W Power Delivery for host laptop charging
- Gigabit Ethernet port for stable wired networking
- Built-in security slot for physical desk locking
Cons
- macOS only supports screen mirroring, not extended desktops
- Rear USB-C port is data-only, no video output
- Triple 4K output requires host laptop to support DSC
Good fit if
- You use a Windows laptop and need three monitors
- You want a single dock for power, data, and video
- You need a security slot to lock your workstation
Skip if
- You use a Mac and need extended desktop mode
- You need video output from every USB-C port
- Your laptop does not support Display Stream Compression
Verdict: Acer 13-in-1 USB-C Triple Display Dock fits Windows users who need three screens and 100W charging in one aluminum unit. It works well for desk-bound productivity, but Mac users should look elsewhere.
MOKiN 13-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Dock
Best for: Stationary setups needing wired Ethernet and triple displays
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Triple
- Max Resolution
- 4K@144Hz
- Power Delivery
- 100W
- Port Count
- 13
- Video Ports
- HDMI, DisplayPort
This MOKiN dock offers triple display support via two HDMI ports and one DisplayPort. It includes a 1Gbps Ethernet port for stable wired connections. The device delivers 100W power delivery to your laptop and supports up to 4K resolution at 144Hz on a single screen. It weighs 2.03 pounds and features multiple USB-A and USB-C ports for peripherals.
Pros
- 1Gbps Ethernet port for reliable wired networking
- Triple display support with 2 HDMI and 1 DisplayPort
- 100W power delivery for laptop charging
- Supports 4K resolution at 144Hz on single display
Cons
- Heavier at 2.03 pounds compared to compact hubs
- Requires a separate 150W DC power supply for operation
- MacOS does not support extending different content across monitors
Good fit if
- You need a dedicated wired Ethernet connection for your laptop
- You want to run three monitors simultaneously from one dock
- You require high-speed data transfer up to 10Gbps
Skip if
- You need a lightweight, portable solution under one pound
- You want a single cable solution without an external power brick
- You require macOS to show different content on each screen
Verdict: MOKiN 13-in-1 USB-C Docking Station fits users who prioritize wired networking and triple-screen productivity over portability. It is a solid choice for stationary setups where a 1Gbps connection and high refresh rates matter.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Plugable Dual HDMI Universal Docking Station | Anker 14-in-1 USB-C Triple Display Dock | Acer 9-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Dock | Plugable Dual HDMI Universal Docking Station | TobenONE 18-in-1 Triple Display Dock | Acer 13-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Dock | MOKiN 13-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Dock |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Host Interface | USB-C, USB-A | USB-C, USB4, Thunderbolt | USB-C | USB 3.0, USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C |
| Display Support | Dual | Triple | Dual | Dual | Triple | Triple | Triple |
| Max Resolution | 1920x1200 | 4K | 4K@60Hz | 2560x1440 @ 50Hz | 4K@60Hz | 4K@30Hz | 4K@144Hz |
| Power Delivery | not specified | 80W | 90W | not specified | 100W | 100W | 100W |
| Port Count | 10 | 14 | 9 | not specified | 18 | 13 | 13 |
| Video Ports | HDMI | HDMI, VGA | HDMI | HDMI | HDMI | HDMI, DisplayPort | HDMI, DisplayPort |
| Max Data Speed | 5Gbps | 5 Gbps | 5Gbps | not specified | not specified | not specified | 10Gbps |
| Ethernet Speed | Gigabit | 1 Gbps | not specified | Gigabit Ethernet | not specified | Gigabit | 1Gbps |
| Resolution | 1080p FHD | 1080p FHD | not specified | not specified | 4K UHD | not specified | not specified |
| Connectivity | HDMI | USB-C, HDMI, USB-A, VGA | USB-C, HDMI | HDMI | USB-C, HDMI | USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort | USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, USB-A |
| Dimensions | 5.31 × 2.76 × 7.48 inches | 5.91 × 2.13 × 0.67 inches | not specified | 6.45 × 3.22 × 4.02 inches | 4.9 × 3.5 × 1.6 inches | 7.89 × 3.25 × 0.94 inches | not specified |
| Weight | 11.7 ounces | 9.45 ounces | not specified | 13 ounces | 10.9 ounces | not specified | 2.03 pounds |
| Size | 7.5" × 2.8" × 5.3 | 14 in 1 USB C Hub (Pack of 2) | 0.65FT (Pack of 2) | Dual Display | Without power supply | not specified | 10 in 1 USB C Hub |
| Color | Black | Grey | Grey | Black | Grey-docking station for Windows | Space Gray | Black |
| Model | UD-3900Z | A8389 | ODK4K0 | UD-3900 | not specified | not specified | MODK1407 |
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Frequently asked questions
Which alternative supports three 4K monitors?
The TobenONE 18-in-1 Triple Display Dock supports three 4K UHD screens. It is designed for Windows users who need high-resolution output across multiple displays. The unit measures 4.9 by 1.6 by 3.5 inches and weighs 10.9 ounces. This setup is ideal for complex workflows requiring extensive visual real estate.
Can I use these docks with Mac computers?
Compatibility varies by model. The Plugable UD-3900Z works with macOS, Windows, and ChromeOS. The Anker A8389 supports macOS but has limited compatibility. The Acer 13-in-1 dock is explicitly for Windows users. You should verify your operating system requirements before purchasing to ensure your laptop is supported.
Which dock provides the most ports?
The TobenONE 18-in-1 dock offers the highest port count with 18 connections. The Anker 14-in-1 and MOKiN 13-in-1 docks follow closely with 14 and 13 ports respectively. These high port counts allow you to connect peripherals like keyboards, mice, and storage devices without needing additional hubs.
Is there a dock with wired Ethernet?
The MOKiN 13-in-1 dock includes a 1Gbps Ethernet port. It is designed for stationary setups where a stable wired connection is important. This dock supports triple displays and connects via USB-C and HDMI. It is a solid choice for users who prioritize network reliability over wireless connections.
Which alternative is best for dual 4K displays?
The Acer 9-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Dock supports dual 4K@60Hz output. It provides 90W charging for compatible laptops. This model is ideal for Windows users who need two high-resolution screens and SD card access. It offers a compact solution for dual monitor productivity without requiring triple display support.
Do any docks support DisplayPort output?
The Acer 13-in-1 Triple Display USB-C Dock includes DisplayPort connectivity. It also features HDMI and USB-C ports. This dock is built for Windows users needing three screens and 100W charging. The aluminum unit measures 7.89 by 3.25 by 0.94 inches, making it suitable for desk-bound productivity.