Best Docking Station for Dual 4K Monitor

Using dual 4K monitors can greatly improve productivity with the additional screen real estate. However, most laptops only have a limited number of ports available to connect two high-resolution displays. This is where a docking station comes in handy – allowing you to transform your laptop into a full workstation setup. But with many options on the market, choosing the right docking station can be tricky. In this article, we evaluate and compare the top docking stations for powering dual 4K 60Hz displays.
Key Factors to Consider

When selecting a docking station for dual 4K 60Hz displays, there are a few key factors to take into account:

• Ports: The dock needs to have at least two DisplayPort or HDMI ports to connect two 4K displays. USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 ports are also useful for flexibility.
• Display Resolution & Refresh Rate: Ensure the docking station supports 3840 x 2160 resolution at 60Hz refresh rate over both display outputs to get the most out of your 4K panels.
• Power Delivery: Opt for a dock with at least 60W power delivery for directly powering laptops via USB-C PD. Higher wattages up to 100W are even better for more demanding laptops.
• Connectivity: Look for options with additional USB ports, Ethernet, SD card readers, and other ports you may need to connect peripherals.

With these aspects in mind, let’s take a look at some of the top contending docking stations for powering dual 4K 60Hz displays.

1. CalDigit TS3 Plus Thunderbolt 3 Dock

The CalDigit TS3 Plus is one of the best Thunderbolt 3 docking stations available, making it a fantastic choice for dual 4K 60Hz monitor connectivity. It offers an impressive 15 ports, including:

• 2 x DisplayPort 1.2
• 1 x HDMI 2.0
• 5 x USB-A (10Gbps)
• 1 x USB-C (10Gbps)
• 1 x USB-C Thunderbolt 3 upstream (integrated cable)
• 1 x UHS-II SD Card Reader
• 1 x S/PDIF Audio Out
• 1 x Gigabit Ethernet

This flexible selection of video outputs and high-speed data ports provide plenty of connectivity for dual 4K displays, peripherals, wired networking, and more. Both DisplayPort and HDMI outputs support 4K 60Hz, so you can directly connect two monitors with no issue.

It’s also one of the most powerful docks out there with 85W of power delivery for laptop charging. The slim aluminum unibody design can neatly sit under your external monitors. Overall an excellent Thunderbolt 3 docking station for productivity with dual 4K screens.

2. Plugable USB 3.0 and USB-C Universal Laptop Docking Station

For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, the Plugable UD-ULTCDL is a great choice supporting dual displays. Key ports include:

• 2 x DisplayPort
• 2 x HDMI
• 1 x Gigabit Ethernet
• 4 x USB 3.0 Type-A
• 2 x USB 2.0 Type-A
• 2 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C
• 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C upstream

The Plugable dock provides great versatility with triple video output options to connect two 4K 60Hz displays along with fast USB ports. This dock can be used with both USB-C and USB 3.0 laptops making it handy for mixed environments. It delivers power up to 60W, so it can directly power and charge many 13” to 15” laptop models during use.

There are some nice extras as well like an audio jack, Ethernet networking, and two legacy USB 2.0 ports. Considering the affordable price, Plugable’s docking station punches well above its weight for unleashing dual 4K workspaces.

3. Anker USB C Docking Station (10-in-1)

Here’s a great USB-C option from trusted accessories maker Anker. It packs 10 ports including:

• 2 x HDMI 2.0
• 1 x DisplayPort 1.4
• 2 x USB-C 3.1 Gen 1
• 2 x USB 3.0 Type-A
• Gigabit Ethernet, 60W PD Charging

With HDMI, DP 1.4 and 60W USB-C power delivery, you can comfortably run two 4K 60Hz monitors. There’s enough USB 3.0 connectivity for peripherals along with wired Gigabit networking. The compact design with foldable ports makes this Anker dock highly portable.

It’s also very affordable given the 4K dual display capabilities and USB-C integration. For a portable, versatile USB-C dock to unlock dual 4K workspaces, the Anker 10-in-1 is a leading choice without breaking the bank.

4. Dell D3100 USB 3.0 Triple Display Docking Station

For those wanting a tried and trusted brand, Dell’s D3100 universal dock is a leading pick. Standout features consist of:

• 2 x HDMI
• 1 x Mini DisplayPort
• 4 x USB 3.0 down
• 2 x USB3.0 up
• 2 x USB 2.0
• Gigabit Ethernet and Audio out.

With triple video outputs, you can run dual monitors up to 4K 30Hz or full 4K 60Hz on one display. There’s also extensive USB connectivity and wired networking. While max resolution is slightly limited compared to other picks, the Dell Dock is very reliable and compatible with many Dell and non-Dell laptops.

This dock includes Dell’s DisplayLink technology to conveniently power multiple monitors over USB. For easy universal docking with trusted Dell quality, the D3100 is a very solid choice.

Bottom Line

When selecting the best docking stations for powering dual 4K 60Hz displays, the CalDigit TS3 Plus leads the pack with exceptional connectivity, versatile video ports and ample charging power. For budget options, the Plugable UD-ULTCDL or Anker 10-in-1 USB-C dock are both fantastic affordable choices to unlock extra productivity. And for trusted universal compatibility, the Dell D3100 leverages proven DisplayLink functionality.

With quadrupled screen space over 1080p duals, investing in a good docking station to harness the pixel power of dual 4K allows your workflow to reach new heights. Any of these top options will serve you well at home or the office.