UGREEN or Anker? Docking Stations Compared in 2026
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This UGREEN vs anker docking station comparison looks at two USB-C hubs for laptop expansion. Both devices offer 4K video output and pass-through charging from a single connection. The UGREEN model provides a compact 5-port setup with high-speed data options. The Anker unit expands further with eight ports, including dual HDMI displays and built-in Ethernet. You need to decide which feature set matches your specific workflow needs.
Key differences
| Aspect | UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 100W PD | Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub |
|---|---|---|
| Port Count | 5 ports | 8 ports |
| Display Support | Single HDMI | Dual HDMI |
| Power Delivery | 100W | 85W |
| Ethernet | Not listed | Included |
| Data Speed | 5 Gbps (USB-A) | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 100W PD if
- You need maximum charging speed for a high-power laptop
- You prefer a smaller, lighter device for travel
- You require a 5 Gbps USB-A port for fast data transfer
Choose Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub if
- You want to connect two external monitors simultaneously
- You need a wired Ethernet connection for stable internet
- You want more total ports for peripherals
Verdict: Choose the UGREEN hub if you prioritize a compact form factor, higher charging wattage, and faster data transfer speeds. The Anker option is better if you need to drive two displays at once or require a built-in Ethernet port for your network setup.
UGREEN vs Anker Hub Specs
Port Count
The UGREEN CM478 provides five total ports. These include one HDMI output, one USB-C power delivery port, one high-speed USB-A data port, and two standard USB-A ports. The Anker A83800A1 offers eight ports. It includes two HDMI outputs, an Ethernet port, a microSD and SD card reader, two USB-A data ports, and one USB-C power delivery input. The Anker unit adds network and storage options that the UGREEN model lacks. The UGREEN setup is simpler but sufficient for basic connectivity needs.
Display Support
The UGREEN adapter supports a single external display via its HDMI port. It outputs video at up to 4K resolution. The Anker dock features dual HDMI ports. You can mirror content to one screen at 4K@60Hz. Alternatively, you can connect two monitors simultaneously. This dual setup runs at 4K@30Hz per screen. macOS users will see identical images on both external displays. The Anker unit clearly supports more complex multi-monitor workflows than the single-port UGREEN device.
Power Delivery
The UGREEN hub supports up to 100W of pass-through charging through its USB-C port. This allows you to charge larger laptops while using the hub. The Anker dock provides up to 85W of power delivery. It requires a 100W wall charger and a USB-C to USB-C cable to reach maximum speeds. The UGREEN model offers higher charging capacity for power-hungry devices. The Anker unit still delivers substantial power for most ultrabooks and tablets.
Connectivity
The UGREEN model connects via USB-C. It provides data speeds of up to 5Gbps on its primary USB-A port. The other two USB-A ports run at 480Mbps. The Anker dock also uses a USB-C host interface. It supports USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt connections. This broader compatibility covers more modern laptop standards. The Anker unit also includes an Ethernet port for wired internet. The UGREEN device relies on wireless or separate adapters for network access.
Compatibility
The UGREEN adapter works with devices featuring USB-C and DisplayPort Alt Mode. Specific operating system support is not detailed in the provided specifications. The Anker dock explicitly supports Windows 10 and 11, as well as ChromeOS. It also works with laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. The Anker documentation notes that the device is not compatible with Linux operating systems. You should verify your specific laptop model before purchasing the Anker unit for Linux use.
Which USB-C Hub Should You Buy
You need dual external displays
The Anker A83800A1 supports dual HDMI outputs. You can mirror content on both screens at 4K@30Hz. This model connects two monitors from one port. The UGREEN hub only has a single HDMI port. If you require a second display for productivity, the Anker design fits your workflow better.
You want higher power delivery
The UGREEN CM478 offers 100W Power Delivery. This allows you to charge laptops with higher power requirements. The Anker unit limits pass-through charging to 85W. If your laptop needs more than 85W for optimal performance, the UGREEN hub provides the necessary power capacity through its USB-C PD port.
You need Ethernet connectivity
The Anker A83800A1 includes a dedicated Ethernet port. This provides a stable wired connection for your laptop. The UGREEN CM478 lacks any network port in its five-port configuration. If you prefer a reliable wired internet connection over Wi-Fi, the Anker hub includes the necessary hardware for that setup.
The products compared
UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 100W PD
Best for: Basic charging and single 4K display setups
- 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
This UGREEN adapter expands a single USB-C port into five connections. It includes a 4K HDMI output for video, a 100W Power Delivery port for charging, and three USB-A ports for data transfer. The 5 Gbps speed on the primary data port ensures fast file transfers. Its compact grey design fits easily into a laptop bag. It suits users who need basic display and charging capabilities without complex setup.
Pros
- 100W Power Delivery support for laptop charging
- 4K HDMI video output
- 5 Gbps USB-A data port
- Compact 3.21-ounce weight
Cons
- Only one USB-A port supports high-speed 5 Gbps transfer
- Two USB-A ports are limited to 480 Mbps speeds
- No Ethernet or additional USB-C data ports included
Good fit if
- You need a single HDMI display connection
- You want to charge your laptop through the hub
- You have devices that use standard USB-A connectors
Skip if
- You require high-speed data transfer on all ports
- You need wired Ethernet connectivity
- You must connect multiple 4K monitors simultaneously
Verdict: UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 100W PD provides essential connectivity for travelers who prioritize charging and a single external display. It is a practical solution for users with basic docking needs.
Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub
Best for: Dual 4K display setups with Ethernet needs
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 4K @ 60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 85W
- Port Count
- 8
- Video Ports
- HDMI
View on Amazon: Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub Affiliate link
This Anker docking station expands a single USB-C port into eight connections. It supports dual 4K HDMI displays at 30Hz or a single 4K@60Hz screen. The hub delivers 85W pass-through charging for your laptop. It includes Ethernet, SD card slots, and two USB-A ports. This setup suits users who need dual monitors and wired networking without buying multiple adapters.
Pros
- Supports dual 4K HDMI displays simultaneously
- Provides 85W power delivery pass-through charging
- Includes Gigabit Ethernet and SD card reader
- Connects via single USB-C cable
- Compatible with Windows 10/11 and ChromeOS
Cons
- Dual monitor mode is limited to 4K@30Hz
- Not compatible with Linux operating systems
- Requires 100W PD wall charger for full power
Good fit if
- You need two external 4K displays for productivity
- You require a wired Ethernet connection for stability
- You use Windows or ChromeOS laptops with USB-C
Skip if
- You use a Linux-based computer
- You need 60Hz refresh rate on both screens
- You prefer a simpler 5-in-1 hub configuration
Verdict: Anker 8-in-1 USB-C Dual HDMI Dock is ideal for professionals needing dual 4K screens and wired networking. It fits users who prioritize display count over higher refresh rates on secondary monitors.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 100W PD | Anker PowerExpand 8-in-1 Dual HDMI USB-C Hub |
|---|---|---|
| Host Interface | USB-C | USB-C |
| Display Support | not stated | Dual |
| Max Resolution | 4K | 4K @ 60Hz |
| Power Delivery | 100W | 85W |
| Port Count | 5 | 8 |
| Video Ports | HDMI | HDMI |
| Max Data Speed | 5Gbps | not stated |
| Ethernet Speed | not stated | 1Gbps |
| Resolution | 4K UHD | 4K UHD |
| Connectivity | USB-C, HDMI, USB-A | USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet |
| Features | not stated | Card Reader |
| Dimensions | 4.79 × 1.09 × 0.47 inches | 4.65 × 2.01 × 0.69 inches |
| Weight | 3.21 ounces | 3.2 ounces |
| Size | 0.65 feet | 8-in-1 USB C Hub |
| Color | grey | Gray |
| Model | CM478 | A83800A1 |
Frequently asked questions
Does the UGREEN hub support dual monitors?
No, the UGREEN CM478 does not support dual monitors. It features only one HDMI port. This design limits you to a single external 4K UHD display. You must use your laptop screen for the second monitor. This setup is best for travelers who need one extra screen and basic connectivity.
Can the Anker hub run two 4K displays?
Yes, the Anker A83800A1 supports two 4K UHD displays simultaneously. It includes two HDMI ports for this purpose. You can mirror content on both screens at 4K resolution. This makes it suitable for professionals who need expanded workspace without buying additional adapters.
Which docking station has more ports?
The Anker A83800A1 has more ports. It is an 8-in-1 hub with eight total connections. The UGREEN CM478 is a 5-in-1 hub with only five ports. The Anker model adds Ethernet and extra USB slots for users needing more peripheral connections.
Does the Anker hub include an Ethernet port?
Yes, the Anker A83800A1 includes an Ethernet port. This allows for a wired network connection. The UGREEN CM478 does not list Ethernet connectivity in its specs. If you need stable wired internet, the Anker unit is the better choice.
Is the UGREEN hub compact for travel?
Yes, the UGREEN CM478 is designed for portability. It weighs 3.21 ounces and measures 4.79 inches in length. Its small size fits easily into laptop bags. It is ideal for users who prioritize a lightweight setup for mobile work.
What is the power delivery on the UGREEN hub?
The UGREEN CM478 supports 100W Power Delivery. This allows you to charge your laptop while using the hub. It provides sufficient power for most laptops. The hub connects via a single USB-C port for both data and power.