Looking Beyond the StarTech.com StarTech USB-A Dual 4K? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
If you are researching startech com startech USB a displaylink dual alternatives, you likely need dual 4K 60Hz displays from a legacy USB-A port. The StarTech model delivers this via DisplayLink, keeping a small footprint and adding Ethernet. It works well for Windows and Chrome OS users who need a compact, bus-powered dock. However, some buyers seek HDMI outputs instead of DisplayPort. Others may prefer a USB-C connection for modern laptops. You might also want higher power delivery or more USB-A ports for peripherals. These needs drive the search for other options that fit different workspace requirements. We selected seven alternatives because their core specifications overlap with the original. Each product supports dual 4K resolution and maintains a similar refresh rate. The list includes docks with HDMI, USB-C, and Ethernet ports. Some offer higher port counts or different form factors. This guide helps you compare the technical details. You can find a device that matches your specific connectivity needs. The following sections break down the specs for each option. Read on to see which alternative suits your setup best.
Our top pick: StarTech USB-A Dual 4K DisplayPort Mini Dock.
How each alternative compares
Selore Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock
The Selore dock shifts from USB-A to USB-C connectivity. You gain a 100W power delivery port and nine total connections, including two HDMI outputs for dual 4K 60Hz displays. It is lighter at 3.39 ounces and smaller in volume than the StarTech unit. You sacrifice the included Ethernet port and the attached cable that reduces strain on your laptop’s port. Choose this if your laptop has USB-C and you need charging capability alongside your dual monitors.
Plugable Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock with Ethernet
The Plugable dock also uses USB-C but adds a built-in Ethernet port, which the StarTech model includes but this Selore alternative lacks. It supports dual 4K 60Hz HDMI outputs for Windows systems. The unit is significantly larger and heavier, weighing 1.52 pounds compared to the StarTech’s 4.48 ounces. It is designed for desk use rather than portability. Pick this if you need wired networking and dual screens but do not need to carry the dock daily.
WAVLINK Dual 4K DisplayLink Docking Station
The WAVLINK dock mirrors the StarTech approach by supporting dual 4K 60Hz displays via USB-A and DisplayLink. It lacks the attached cable and Ethernet port found on the StarTech model. The unit is much larger, measuring 12.6 inches in length and weighing 8.8 ounces. It is a desktop-oriented solution rather than a compact travel accessory. Select this if you need dual 4K output on an older USB-A laptop and prefer a standard docking station form factor over a mini dock.
Baseus 7-in-1 USB-C Hub with 3 USB-A Ports
The Baseus hub differs by supporting only a single 4K display via HDMI, not dual monitors. It uses USB-C connectivity and includes a card reader, which the StarTech dock lacks. It offers 100W power delivery and seven total ports. The footprint is small, but it cannot drive two screens simultaneously. Choose this if you primarily need one high-resolution monitor, SD card access, and fast charging, and do not require the multi-monitor expansion of the StarTech dock.
Tobenone Quad 4K 20-in-1 DisplayLink Dock
The Tobenone dock scales up to support four 4K 60Hz displays via DisplayLink. It requires a Thunderbolt 4 host, unlike the USB-A StarTech model. It weighs 2.27 pounds and includes twenty ports, far exceeding the StarTech’s limited connectivity. It is a high-capacity workstation solution. Opt for this if you need to drive four monitors and have a compatible Thunderbolt laptop, accepting the higher complexity and size compared to the simple dual-display StarTech mini dock.
WAVLINK Triple 4K DisplayLink USB-C Dock
The WAVLINK triple monitor dock supports three 4K 60Hz displays via USB-C and DisplayLink. It includes 100W power delivery, which the StarTech USB-A dock does not offer. The unit weighs 13.3 ounces, making it heavier than the StarTech option. It is designed for users needing three screens rather than two. Pick this if you require a triple-monitor setup and have a USB-C port with sufficient bandwidth, rather than sticking with the dual-display StarTech USB-A solution.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
StarTech USB-A Dual 4K DisplayPort Mini Dock
Best for: dual 4K DisplayPort setups on USB-A laptops
- Host Interface
- USB-A
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 4K @ 60Hz
- Video Ports
- DisplayPort
- Ethernet Speed
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Connectivity
- Ethernet, USB-A
View on Amazon: StarTech USB-A Dual 4K DisplayPort Mini Dock Affiliate link
This bus-powered adapter connects to your laptop using an attached one-foot USB-A cable. It features a DisplayLink DL-6950 chipset that runs dual DisplayPort monitors at up to 4K resolution at 60Hz, alongside a Gigabit Ethernet port. At 4.48 ounces, it suits you if you need two high-resolution DisplayPort screens from a standard USB-A port.
Pros
- Drives dual 4K displays at 60Hz over DisplayPort
- DisplayLink DL 6950 chipset with automatic driver setup
- Integrated Gigabit Ethernet network port
- Compact 4.48-ounce bus-powered build with attached 1-foot cable
Cons
- Offers DisplayPort video out without HDMI connections
- Provides no power delivery to charge the host laptop
- Restricted to USB-A host connections without native USB-C
Good fit if
- You use a USB-A laptop and require two 4K 60Hz DisplayPort screens.
- You need wired Gigabit Ethernet in a bus-powered travel adapter.
Skip if
- You need HDMI monitor inputs without using separate adapters.
- You want a docking station that charges your laptop while connected.
Verdict: StarTech.com USB-A Dual 4K DisplayPort Mini Dock gives Windows and Chrome OS users dual 4K 60Hz DisplayPort connectivity from a single legacy USB-A port.
Selore Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock
Best for: dual 4K HDMI Windows laptop setups
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 4K@60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 100W
- Port Count
- 8
- Video Ports
- HDMI
View on Amazon: Selore Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock Affiliate link
This Selore 9-in-1 USB-C dock connects dual external displays at up to 4K at 60Hz over two HDMI ports. You get 100W Power Delivery passthrough, two 5Gbps USB-A ports, one 5Gbps USB-C data port, and SD/microSD slots. It suits Windows laptop setups needing dual high-resolution displays and physical privacy toggling without carrying a bulky brick.
Pros
- Dual HDMI ports supporting up to 4K resolution at 60Hz
- 100W Power Delivery passthrough charging
- Physical button for quick display mode switching and privacy screen blackout
- Lightweight 3.39-ounce aluminum chassis with SD and microSD slots
Cons
- macOS extends to only one independent external display
- USB data transfer rates cap at 5Gbps
- No built-in Ethernet port
Good fit if
- You use a Windows laptop with a Thunderbolt or video-capable USB-C port.
- You need dual 4K 60Hz HDMI outputs from a lightweight hub.
- You frequently offload photos or media using SD and microSD cards.
Skip if
- You use macOS and need two different extended external desktop displays.
- You need a wired Ethernet connection for internet access.
- You only have a legacy USB-A port on your host laptop.
Verdict: Selore 9-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Dock provides dual 4K 60Hz outputs and 100W power passthrough for Windows users seeking a portable workstation hub.
Plugable Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock with Ethernet
Best for: Windows dual 4K monitor setups with Ethernet
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 4K@60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 65W
- Port Count
- 10
- Video Ports
- HDMI
View on Amazon: Plugable Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock with Ethernet Affiliate link
The Plugable UD-MSTH2 dock connects two HDMI monitors at 4K 60Hz through a single USB-C cable. It includes Gigabit Ethernet, audio jacks, and three USB-A ports for peripherals. The dock supports 65W power delivery to charge your laptop while you work. It is ideal for Windows or Chromebook users who need a clean, multi-monitor setup without driver installations.
Pros
- Supports dual 4K 60Hz displays on compatible systems
- Includes Gigabit Ethernet for wired internet
- Provides 65W power delivery for laptop charging
- Features 10 ports including USB-A and audio jacks
- No drivers required for plug-and-play setup
Cons
- Limited to one external display on macOS
- Requires host system to support DP Alt Mode
- Max data speed for USB ports is 5Gbps
Good fit if
- You use Windows 10 or later with USB-C video support
- You need dual monitors for spreadsheets or multitasking
- You want a single-cable desk setup with Ethernet
Skip if
- You use macOS and need dual extended displays
- Your laptop USB-C port does not support DisplayPort Alt Mode
- You require Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 speeds above 5Gbps
Verdict: Plugable Dual 4K USB-C Dock suits Windows users who need two 4K screens and wired internet in one tidy unit. It is a solid choice for office desks where monitor count and connectivity matter more than macOS compatibility.
WAVLINK Dual 4K DisplayLink Docking Station
Best for: Dual 4K setups on USB-A laptops
- Host Interface
- USB-A, USB-C, USB4, Thunderbolt 3/4/5
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 4K@60Hz
- Video Ports
- HDMI, DisplayPort
- Ethernet Speed
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Connectivity
- USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet
View on Amazon: WAVLINK Dual 4K DisplayLink Docking Station Affiliate link
This WAVLINK docking station supports dual 4K@60Hz displays via DisplayLink technology. It connects to laptops using USB-A, USB-C, or Thunderbolt ports. The unit includes Gigabit Ethernet, six USB 3.0 ports, and audio jacks. It works with Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS. You need to install the DisplayLink driver for video output. This dock does not charge your laptop.
Pros
- Supports dual 4K@60Hz monitors
- Compatible with USB-A and USB-C hosts
- Includes Gigabit Ethernet and six USB 3.0 ports
- Works with macOS and Windows systems
Cons
- Does not provide laptop charging
- Requires DisplayLink driver installation
- Not compatible with Linux systems
Good fit if
- You need dual 4K displays on a USB-A laptop
- You use macOS or Windows for work tasks
- You require Gigabit Ethernet connectivity
Skip if
- You need to charge your laptop through the dock
- You use a Linux operating system
- You want to play games or stream DRM content
Verdict: WAVLINK DisplayLink Dual 4K Dock fits users needing dual 4K screens on older USB-A laptops without charging needs. It offers solid connectivity for office work but requires driver setup.
Baseus 7-in-1 USB-C Hub with 3 USB-A Ports
Best for: Single monitor users with SD card needs
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Max Resolution
- 4K@60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 100W
- Port Count
- 7
- Video Ports
- HDMI
- Max Data Speed
- 5Gbps
View on Amazon: Baseus 7-in-1 USB-C Hub with 3 USB-A Ports Affiliate link
This Baseus hub expands a single USB-C port into seven connections. It includes one HDMI output for 4K@60Hz video, three USB 3.0 ports for data, and SD/TF card slots. The 100W Power Delivery pass-through keeps your laptop charged. It is a compact solution for users who need basic display and storage expansion without the bulk of a full docking station.
Pros
- Supports 4K@60Hz HDMI output for clear extended displays
- 100W Power Delivery pass-through for laptop charging
- Includes SD and TF card readers for media access
- Three USB 3.0 ports with 5Gbps data transfer speeds
Cons
- Single HDMI port limits you to one external monitor
- Requires a compatible USB-C host device for operation
- No Gigabit Ethernet port for wired network connections
Good fit if
- You need to connect a single 4K monitor to a laptop
- You frequently transfer photos from SD or TF cards
- You want a compact hub that charges your laptop
Skip if
- You require dual monitor support for productivity
- You need built-in Ethernet for stable internet
- You use a computer with only USB-A ports
Verdict: Baseus 7-in-1 USB-C Hub is a straightforward expansion tool for users who primarily need one high-resolution display and card reading capabilities. It fits users who prioritize portability and charging over multi-monitor setups.
Tobenone Quad 4K 20-in-1 DisplayLink Dock
Best for: Users needing four 4K displays and many ports
- Host Interface
- Thunderbolt 5/4/3, USB4, USB-C
- Display Support
- Quad
- Max Resolution
- 4K@60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 100W
- Port Count
- 20
- Video Ports
- HDMI, DisplayPort
View on Amazon: Tobenone Quad 4K 20-in-1 DisplayLink Dock Affiliate link
This TobenONE docking station expands your laptop into a quad-monitor setup. It uses DisplayLink technology to support four 4K@60Hz displays via HDMI and DP ports. The unit includes 20 total ports, offering extensive connectivity for peripherals. It delivers 100W of power delivery to your host device. This is a strong option for users needing maximum screen real estate and port variety.
Pros
- Supports four 4K@60Hz displays simultaneously
- Includes 20 ports for broad connectivity
- Provides 100W power delivery for laptops
- Compatible with Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 hosts
Cons
- Requires DisplayLink driver installation
- Does not support HDCP
- M1 MacBooks limited to three monitors
Good fit if
- You need four external monitors for heavy multitasking
- You want a single dock to handle many peripherals
- You use a Windows or Intel Mac with Thunderbolt 4
Skip if
- You require HDCP compliance for media playback
- You use an M1 MacBook and need four screens
- You want a plug-and-play setup without drivers
Verdict: TobenONE 20-in-1 Quad 4K Dock is a high-capacity hub for users who need four 4K displays and extensive port options. It suits those with Thunderbolt 4 hosts who can manage driver installation for maximum productivity.
WAVLINK Triple 4K DisplayLink USB-C Dock
Best for: Users needing three 4K monitors
- Host Interface
- USB-C, USB4, Thunderbolt 3/4
- Display Support
- Triple Display
- Max Resolution
- 4K@60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 100W
- Video Ports
- HDMI, DisplayPort
- Max Data Speed
- 10Gbps
View on Amazon: WAVLINK Triple 4K DisplayLink USB-C Dock Affiliate link
This dock supports three 4K displays at 60Hz via HDMI and DisplayPort. It uses DisplayLink technology to drive triple monitors on compatible laptops. You get 100W power delivery and a Gigabit Ethernet port. All six USB ports offer 10Gbps transfer speeds. It fits users who need extensive screen real estate for work.
Pros
- Supports three 4K monitors at 60Hz
- 100W Power Delivery for laptop charging
- Gigabit Ethernet for stable internet
- 10Gbps data transfer on all USB ports
Cons
- Requires DisplayLink driver on Mac M1-M5
- Does not support USB-A laptops
- Not recommended for gaming or HDCP streaming
Good fit if
- You need three external monitors for work
- You use a USB-C laptop with video output
- You want a single cable for power and data
Skip if
- You use a USB-A only laptop
- You need native gaming support
- You want to stream HDCP protected content
Verdict: WAVLINK Triple 4K USB-C DisplayLink Dock is ideal for professionals needing three screens. It provides a clean setup with 100W charging and fast data transfer for compatible USB-C systems.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | StarTech USB-A Dual 4K DisplayPort Mini Dock | Selore Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock | Plugable Dual 4K HDMI USB-C Dock with Ethernet | WAVLINK Dual 4K DisplayLink Docking Station | Baseus 7-in-1 USB-C Hub with 3 USB-A Ports | Tobenone Quad 4K 20-in-1 DisplayLink Dock | WAVLINK Triple 4K DisplayLink USB-C Dock |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Host Interface | USB-A | USB-C | USB-C | USB-A, USB-C, USB4, Thunderbolt 3/4/5 | USB-C | Thunderbolt 5/4/3, USB4, USB-C | USB-C, USB4, Thunderbolt 3/4 |
| Display Support | Dual | Dual | Dual | Dual | not stated | Quad | Triple Display |
| Max Resolution | 4K @ 60Hz | 4K@60Hz | 4K@60Hz | 4K@60Hz | 4K@60Hz | 4K@60Hz | 4K@60Hz |
| Power Delivery | not stated | 100W | 65W | not stated | 100W | 100W | 100W |
| Port Count | not stated | 8 | 10 | not stated | 7 | 20 | not stated |
| Video Ports | DisplayPort | HDMI | HDMI | HDMI, DisplayPort | HDMI | HDMI, DisplayPort | HDMI, DisplayPort |
| Max Data Speed | not stated | 5Gbps | 5Gbps | not stated | 5Gbps | not stated | 10Gbps |
| Ethernet Speed | Gigabit Ethernet | not stated | Gigabit | Gigabit Ethernet | not stated | not stated | Gigabit Ethernet |
| Resolution | 4K UHD | 4K UHD | 4K UHD | 4K UHD | 4K UHD | 4K UHD | 4K UHD |
| Connectivity | Ethernet, USB-A | USB-C, HDMI, USB-A | USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet, USB-A | USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet | USB-C, HDMI, USB-A | USB-C, Ethernet | USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 60Hz | 60Hz | 60Hz | 60Hz | 60Hz | 60Hz |
| Features | DisplayLink | not stated | not stated | DisplayLink | Card Reader | DisplayLink | DisplayLink |
| Use | not stated | not stated | not stated | Office | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Recommended Use | not stated | not stated | not stated | Home | not stated | not stated | Home |
| Dimensions | 5.1 × 2.3 × 0.8 inches | 4.5 × 2.1 × 0.7 inches | 9.25 × 5.71 × 3 inches | 12.6 × 6.1 × 2.36 inches | 5.31 × 1.93 × 0.63 inches | 11.8 × 3.14 × 0.86 inches | 8.78 × 3.58 × 1.14 inches |
| Weight | 4.48 ounces | 3.39 ounces | 1.52 pounds | 8.8 ounces | not stated | 2.27 pounds | 13.3 ounces |
| Size | 0.8" x 2.3" x 5.1" | 9-in-1 | Dual Display (Pack of 3) | not stated | 7 in 1 | small | 3 Displays (3 4K) |
| Color | Black | Grey | Black | 69DK1 | Black | Grey | Gray |
| Model | USBA2DPGB | SEUC0425 | UD-MSTH2 | 8541562306 | 7 in 1 | not stated | WL-UG63PD25 |
Looking beyond this list? See startech com socket 7 370 bonded fin alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use these USB-A dual 4K docks with a Mac?
Most listed models, including the StarTech and WAVLINK options, are designed for Windows and Chrome OS. The Plugable dock is also noted as a solid choice for Windows users where macOS compatibility is not a priority. You should verify driver support for your specific operating system before purchasing to ensure dual 4K functionality works correctly.
Do I need to install drivers for DisplayLink docks?
Yes, DisplayLink technology requires specific drivers to function. The WAVLINK and Tobenone docks explicitly mention driver setup as part of the process. Without these drivers, the dual 4K output will not activate. You must install the software on your computer before connecting the dock to enable the additional displays.
Which dock is best for a small desk setup?
The StarTech USB-A Dual 4K DisplayPort Mini Dock is the most compact option. It measures 0.8 inches in height and weighs only 4.48 ounces. This small footprint makes it ideal for users who want dual 4K 60Hz connectivity without taking up much desk space. It fits well in tight workspaces.
Can I charge my laptop with these docks?
Only USB-C docks offer power delivery. The Selore and Plugable models provide 100W power passthrough. The StarTech and WAVLINK USB-A docks do not list charging capabilities. If you need to charge your laptop while using dual monitors, you must choose a USB-C model like the Selore or Plugable.
What is the difference between HDMI and DisplayPort outputs?
The StarTech and WAVLINK docks use DisplayPort outputs for dual 4K 60Hz connectivity. The Selore and Plugable docks use HDMI outputs. DisplayPort often offers higher bandwidth for multiple displays, while HDMI is more common on monitors. Your choice depends on the input ports available on your specific monitors.
Are there options for more than two monitors?
Yes, the Tobenone Quad 4K Dock supports four 4K displays. The WAVLINK Triple 4K Dock supports three screens. These options require USB-C or Thunderbolt 4 hosts. They are designed for users who need extensive multi-monitor setups beyond the standard dual display configuration found in most other docks.
Does the Plugable dock include an Ethernet port?
Yes, the Plugable Dual 4K USB-C Dock includes an Ethernet port. It is designed for users who need wired internet connectivity alongside dual 4K monitors. This makes it suitable for office desks where stable network connections are important. It combines display expansion with essential networking features.