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Cable Matters Dual Monitor USB C Hub (USB C Dock) with Dual 4K HDMI, 2X USB 2.0, Ethernet, and 100W Charging - Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 / Thunderbolt 3 Port Compatible with Windows?
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Same thing here but different setup. I found one that will support usb-c video out through a usb-c to DP cable (which suits my setup) but I haven't purchased and tested yet. It's the only one I can find that advertises more than just "data" out.
https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0746P6LPP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
I use this with 2 Pixel Slates and a Pixelbook. Can't verify the 4Ks but can confirm it'll output to a 1900x1200 and a 2560x1400. They have a display port variant too but I didn't have much luck with it.
Just try a dock and find out. I have this one for my Pixelbook and Slate. It just auto-connects so it'll either work or it won't. You'll know as soon as you plug it in. It also support external power and USB (keyboard, mouse).
Thank you. For a situation like this where you may not have full control, you may want to consider purchasing the Cable Matters dock limited to USB2.0 speeds, as it may best handle the "lowest common denominator" case (that is, laptops with DisplayPort 1.2 outputs). I believe this dock will support up do dual 4k @ 30 Hz on DP1.2 systems and dual 4k @ 60 Hz on DP1.4 systems.
You also have the Dell WD19S, but it also seems to support USB3 and halve DisplayPort data rates, like the Wavlink.
In the future, more laptops will support DP1.4 (DP2.0 too) and Thunderbolt 3/4, so by the time you upgrade your monitors, perhaps it might be time to revisit the dock.
two 2560 x 1440 @ 60Hz? Doesn't fit the half DP 1.2 budget but it does fit the DP 1.2 budget aplenty.
Depends what you need the Ethernet for. If ~330mbps is enough, I'd simply run https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP/ with maybe a USB 2.0 w/ built in Gigabit Ethernet. (The adapter is even cheaper on eBay) and just move the adapter between the laptops as needed.
I got one of these last year, works like a charm for me. Not exactly the profile you wanted from what I can tell, but if both your monitors support HDMI it works in a pinch. There's also a dual Displayport one if that's more worth it for you.
ok thx, I wanted to know if I update for 3840x1600 144hz screen will it work with Amazon.com: Cable Matters Dual Monitor USB C Hub (USB C Dock) with Dual 4K HDMI, 2X USB 2.0, Ethernet, and 60W Charging - Thunderbolt 3 Port Compatible with Windows: Computers & Accessories
Agree with c1n3ma: WD19TB is not going to help since no TB3 on Inspiron 5580. it's either HDMI on the laptop for the second monitor or something like https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP (that provides 4 lanes of DP1.2 bandwidth + USB*2* only, limited charging capabilities as well). 1440p + 1080p 60Hz doesn't fit in 2 lanes of DP1.2, so most USB-C-only docks won't be able to help.
We are reaching a point where I need to stop visiting this sub because I am seriously losing patience for all this, repeatedly, people don't read back on this sub when I answer this question practically daily.
- There's no such thing as USB 3.0 Type-C. This doesn't exist. Just because LG uses the phrase it doesn't will it into existence.
- Why are people so insistent on buying random noname crap with confusing marketing text so heavy with buzzwords noone can make heads or tails WTF it is.
Now listen, if your hub already produces video somehow then your USB C port must support DisplayPort alternate mode. What you then need is a USB C to dual HDMI MST hub.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0746P6LPP
Look at how crystal clear the description is.
If 100Mbit Ethernet is enough for you and 4K @60hz desirable this dock is the best on the market IMO
Do you think this might work:
Cable Matters USB C Multiport Adapter (USB-C Dock) with 4K Dual HDMI, 2X USB 2.0, Ethernet, and 60W PD - Thunderbolt 3 Port Compatible for Windows, Support One External Display with MacBook Pro https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0746P6LPP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_VzcdCbXHNM7P5
have been writing this solution out over the last week since the software KVM appeared, this is I think the third time someone wants something like this?
- For the Mac, it's a huge problem since Macs do not support MST. You need a genuine TB dock with dual display support. Whatever you get , make sure the get the opposite below. Ie if you bought dual DP get dual HDM and vica versa. One of the cheapest right https://www.ebay.com/itm/StarTech-TB3DKDPMAW-Thunderbolt-3-Dual-4K-Docking-Station-Windows-MacOS/184431418497 this has one DP output and the downstream TB3 port can be used to run a cheap USB C to DP cable. Of course you need the TB3 to TB2 adapter as well, no way around that really. If you can find a cheap dual display Thunderbolt 2 on eBay that's better but good luck.
- For the X1C: either Dual HDMI or Dual DP.
- Get a USB switch eg https://www.ebay.com/itm/USB-3-0-Sharing-Switch-Selector-2-Computer-Sharing-4-USB-3-0-Device-KVM/392526106599
- Use the software KVM at https://github.com/haimgel/display-switch
Ask away.
> One USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C port with DisplayPort Alt Mode/Thunderbolt 3 (optional)
That's quite cryptic. Anyways
https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08VDT3YGK or https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08B3H8NGN
Alright, so, for proper dual HDMI support, you basically need Thunderbolt. You will find many non-Thunderbolt options out there, but they will either (1) support mirrored displays only or (2) rely on DisplayLink which comes with some annoying limitations.
Here is an example of what NOT to buy:
https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP?
Looks good, right? Dual HDMI, two USB-A ports, and pass-through charging. But if you scroll down, you’ll see the macOS display limitation.
Here is a product from the same brand that will work:
The main issue here is that there’s no charging.
If you want to add charging, that’s when things start getting expensive. I’m also not aware of any Thunderbolt hubs/docks that support pass-through USB-C charging. Basically, you’re looking at stuff like this:
http://shop.caldigit.com/us/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=203
Not without chroma subsampling or the sort of compression hackery that DisplayLink does. There just isn't enough bandwidth, and DisplayPort 1.2 doesn't have Display Stream Compression.
There is enough bandwidth for 2x 4K60 at 4:2:2, so a USB 2 only DP altmode adapter like https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP, which uses all four superspeed lanes for DisplayPort, may work if you're willing to deal with chroma subsampling. At the very least you could get dual 4K30, which would certainly be better than DisplayLink for most usecases.
With that said, you have the separate question of whether your laptop GPU will drive three external monitors in the first place.
>Seems like that got fixed in kernel 5.14. I'm running 5.15.10 so it should be fine.
That's the hope, but would be nice to verify.
>I got a temporary windows 10 install on my T480 to use the Lenovo firmware update tool for the TB4 dock but that didn't work.
Slightly unexpected. Did you connect to TB3 port on T480? (there is one USB-C DP and one TB3 on those) Did Windows / Vantage has update everything?
>Also the T14s Gen1 Intel ThinkPad didn't detect anything anymore yesterday. But i got too tired at this point. Maybe I bricked it somehow.
>This is all I need. I only want 2x 1440p@60Hz and some USB 2 devices
If it starts to look like TB4 dock is bricked/damaged, you could return and in the meantime try https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP or others from https://dancharblog.wordpress.com/2021/01/03/4k60-monitor-plus-usb-devices-from-single-usb-c-laptop-port/ "4K60 USB-C HUBS FOR LAPTOPS WITH DP 1.2" that have multiple non-mirrored video outputs (availability of CableMatters USB2-only docks is really weird for a while now). Does have pass-through charging, but it is rarely a problem on 14" Thinkpads (they don't need much power, even if you connect 60-65W charger to the dock - remaining power should be enough)
There are also cheaper USB2-only alternatives that can do 3440x1440 60Hz + 1920x1080 60Hz + USB2 - e.g., https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0746P6LPP/ (also they had dual DP versions but out of stock currently). Other similar cheaper options - https://dancharblog.wordpress.com/2021/01/03/4k60-monitor-plus-usb-devices-from-single-usb-c-laptop-port/ look at "4K60 USB-C HUBS FOR LAPTOPS WITH DP 1.2" options with multiple not mirrored video outputs (not so many options, really).
Ok. DP Alt Mode only.
Ttry this one: https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP
Only USB 2.0 for the USB-A and 10/100 for the Ethernet, but that reserves all of the bandwidth for display, so you're likely to have a better experience driving dual displays.
Yeah, your laptop can't handle all that, unfortunately. It doesn't matter if you have devices plugged into the dock, it's still negotiating down the video stream.
You can try a USB 2.0 and dual video output like this. Notice it's not USB 3.0 speeds (5.0gbps) and instead it's 480mbps. That MAY work, but note the limitations for displays:
- 1920x1080@60Hz = 2 displays
- 2560x1440@60Hz = 2 displays
- 3840x2160@30Hz = 2 displays
- 3840x2160@60Hz = 1 display
For reference, this is what I use on my 11th-gen laptop. It's USB-C Gen 2 with DisplayPort 1.4. You'll also see it's a gigabit ethernet because there's more bandwidth available. You can use it as a comparison. There's a graph that shows the limitations of DisplayPort 1.2
Last last question. Appreciate your patience.
How bad is to use usb c extension? Example if I were buy https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP + https://www.amazon.com/Faracent-Extension-Charging-Nintendo-Touchbar/dp/B071DMMW4J/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?crid=2NZ01WRU18CXP&keywords=usb+c+extension+cable&qid=1637033115&sprefix=usb+c+ex%2Caps%2C89&sr=8-3 ?
For the record - https://dancharblog.wordpress.com/ is made by u/SurfaceDockGuy and u/SurfaceDockGuy did a lot of work to put this useful info together and update it, I'm very happy to have a place to point people to. So far I personally at best document some notes in https://www.reddit.com/user/hubsdocks/posts/ when it seems useful for certain cases.
> Wavlink the only non-big brand name you'd be comfortable recommending or have you tried others on the cheaper side?
Cable Matters can be very cheap too (USB2-only https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP). I don't track super-cheap no-namish devices, it's hard to make recommendations work for those really - IMO there is some inherent risk dealing with those, even if technically it's a relatively high chance it will work "good enough".
Are you talking about this one?
Cable Matters Dual Monitor USB C Hub: https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP/
Wow, are you me?
I have a ThinkPad for work, gaming pc and C1 48 on my desk for all purposes. My ThinkPad E15 is only giving me 4k30hz option. I did some digging on r/ThinkPad and found this cable recommendation.
Apparently, the single usb-c on the ThinkPad is also display port alternate. The product I linked has usb-c power through.
It's arriving today so I haven't tested it, but once I do, I'll let you know.
Single-cable solution:
Not possible, as you'll need to keep the 230W AC adapter connected (USB-C docks limited to 100W Power Delivery). Best case we minimize number of cables.
​
Multi-cable solution:
Triple display with Lenovo Legion 5 15ARH05H requires using both HDMI and USB-C DisplayPort ports.
Note on adaptive sync: I know you said you didn't plan to use adaptive sync, so just sharing this as an aside/FYI for awareness. G-SYCNC requires DisplayPort connection to the monitor--and if dock sits in between the laptop and monitor, to ensure it supports G-SYNC, it will likely need to limit to just the one display (no Multi-Stream Support (MST) hub) and to USB2.0 speeds, so the dock doesn't interfere with G-SYNC. So, basically you're limited to dual displays since just the HDMI port left (can only mirror HDMI, not split into independent displays).
If 120 Hz a hard requirement for all three displays, you'll need to limit the dock to USB2.0 speeds.
- Portable dock:
- Cable Matters Dual Monitor USB C Hub (USB C Dock) with Dual 4K HDMI, 2X USB 2.0, Ethernet, and 60W Charging - https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP/
- Desktop-class full-size docks supporting all 4 lanes to DisplayPort (i.e., limited to USB2.0 speeds):
- Kensington SD4800P USB-C 10Gbps Scalable Video Docking Station w/ 135W adapter - DP/DP/HDMI - https://www.amazon.com/SD4800P-Scalable-Docking-Station-Adapter/dp/B07JC5T3Q9/
- Cable Matters USB C Dock for Windows - Dual 4K DisplayPort, 80W Charging, SD Card Slot, 10Gbps USB-A/USB-C Gigabit Ethernet - https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Docking-DisplayPort-Charging/dp/B07F2VRRJ9
For details on pros/cons of portable vs. full-size docks, see Dan Charlton's table "Why Choose A Portable Hub Vs A Desktop-Class Dock?" (near bottom of post).
If you can limit refresh rate to 75 Hz for the second and third displays, you can get a dock supporting USB3.0 speeds.
So, opportunity to "get creative" here--if you have to use a USB2.0 dock, you can still attach the USB3 external storage directly to the laptop USB3 port.
Or you can compromise on refresh rate and attach it to a USB3 port on a dock.
Whatever you do, buy from a vendor with a good return policy 😜
If you like, follow-up once you've decided on what monitors to buy and we can confirm.
​
REFERENCE
Docks
- USB-C docks supporting USB3 speeds (5-10 Gbit/s) halve the DisplayPort data rate:
- DP1.4: 25.92 Gbit/s × 0.5 = 12.96 Gbit/s
- DP1.2: 17.28 Gbit/s × 0.5 = 8.64 Gbit/s
- USB-C docks limited to USB2.0 speeds (480 Mbit/s) use the full DP signal, at the cost of no USB3 speeds (5-10 Gbit/s)
​
3 Displays (Monitor make/model = ???):
- All at 120 Hz:
- 19.77 Gbit/s total data rate required: 6.59 Gbit/s data rate per display
- Setup: 1 display @ 120 Hz on HDMI2.0 port, 2 displays @ 120 Hz on DP1.2 port, with dock limited to USB2.0 speeds
- All at 100 Hz:
- 16.32 Gbit/s data rate required: 5.44 Gbit/s data rate per display
- Setup: 1 display @ 100 Hz on HDMI 2.0 port, 2 displays @ 100 Hz on DP 1.2 port, with dock limited to USB2.0 speeds
- All at 75 Hz:
- 12.09 Gbit/s data rate required: 4.03 Gbit/s data rate per display
- Setup: 1 display @ 75 Hz on HDMI2.0 port, 2 displays @ 75 Hz on DP1.2 port, with dock supporting USB3.0 speeds
- All at 60 Hz:
- 9.60 Gbit/s data rate required: 3.20 Gbit/s data rate per display
- Setup: 1 display @ 60 Hz on HDMI2.0 port, 2 displays @ 60 Hz on DP1.2 port, with dock supporting USB3.0 speeds
- Mixed refresh rate option #1 (1 display @ 120 Hz, 2 displays @ 60 Hz):
- Display #1: 1920 × 1080 (16∶9 ratio) at 120 Hz = 6.59 Gbit/s data rate required
- Display #2 and #3: 1920 × 1080 (16∶9 ratio) at 60 Hz = 2 display x 3.20 Gbit/s data rate per display = 6.40 Gbit/s data rate required
- Total: 6.59 Gbit/s + 6.40 Gbit/s = 12.99 Gbit/s total data rate required
- Setup:
- * Note: all data rates shown calculated with 8 bpc (24 bit/px) RGB color Uncompressed CVT-R2 timing format
​
Lenovo Legion 5 15ARH05H Product Specifications (c. 2021)
Processor
- AMD Ryzen 5 / 7 Processor
Chipset
- AMD SoC (System on Chip) platform
Graphics
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Discrete 6GB GDDR6 VR ready, DirectX 12
Monitor Support
- Supports up to 3 independent displays via native display and 2 external monitors
- Supports external monitors via HDMI (up to 4096 × 2160 @ 60Hz) or USB-C (up to 3840 × 2160 @ 60Hz)
Ports
- 3 × USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 (1x Always On)
- 1 × USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 (support data transfer and DisplayPort 1.2)
- Up to 17.28 Gbit/s max data rate
- 1 × HDMI 2.0
- Up to 14.40 Gbit/s max data rate
- 1 × Power connector for AC adapter
Power Adapter
- 230W slim tip (3-pin) AC adapter
Thank you. Regrettably in this case, a USB-C dock supporting usb3 speeds halves the displayport 1.2 signal (17.28 Gbit/s becomes 8.64 Gbit/s), so not enough left for 4k at 60 Hz (12.54 Gbit/s).
A USB-C dock limited to usb2 speeds will work though, as it gives all 4 lanes of high speed data to video. Usb2 works for keyboard, mouse, and most likely web camera.
E.g.:
USD$66 - Cable Matters Dual Monitor USB C Hub (USB C Dock) with Dual 4K HDMI, 2X USB 2.0, Ethernet, and 60W Charging - Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 / Thunderbolt 3 Port Compatible with Windows -
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0746P6LPP/
If you need a charger:
USD$36 - Nekteck 100W USB C Charger [GaN Tech & USB-IF Certified], PD 3.0 Adapter -
https://www.amazon.com/Nekteck-Certified-Foldable-Charging-Compatible/dp/B089FC1TRF/
If more USB ports needed, you might attach a simple USB hub to the dock.
Then attach a cable from the laptop to the second display and you're done.
Buying a first party dock most of the time is a colossal waste of money -- except of course if you want to spend a few hundred dollars on the power button capability. That's proprietary and you won't get that from another dock.
You didn't mention what speed of USB you would need.
For one HDMI monitor, https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=15758 is by far the cheapest. Add a USB 3.0 hub to taste. The Xiaomi XMFXQ01QM (the name just rolls of the tongue!) has a USB C port to add more power. I am unaware of any other such. Makes for a good travel companion with a USB C multiport charger of your choice.
Also note https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0746P6LPP/ if USB 2.0 is enough -- that's two monitors.
Questions arising:
- What is the third laptop (e.g., another 5411 / 5590)?
- What video outputs does the desktop have (e.g., DisplayPort)?
- USB2 data transfer rate (480 Mbps) enough or need USB3? (10 Gbps)
- Do you game on any of the laptops and need G-SYNC/FreeSync?
The Wavlink WL-UMD501 USB-C dock supports USB3 speeds. However, to do so, it halves the DisplayPort (DP) signal:
- Latitude 5590 output:
- DP1.2 signal:
- 8.64 Gbit/s data rate available (DP1.2 = 17.28 Gbit/s * 0.5 = 8.64 Gbit/s)
- Latitude 5411 output:
- DP1.4 signal:
- 12.96 Gbit/s data rate available (DP1.4 = 25.92 Gbit/s * 0.5 = 12.96 Gbit/s)
The displays you use seem to require the following data rates for their resolution and refresh rates (for more specifics, please share the exact model monitors):
- iiyama
- 1440p (2560 × 1440 (16∶9 ratio) at 60 Hz 8 bpc (24 bit/px) RGB color Uncompressed CVT-R2 timing format)
- 5.63 Gbit/s
- Philips
- 1080p (1920 × 1080 (16∶9 ratio) at 60 Hz 8 bpc (24 bit/px) RGB color Uncompressed CVT-R2 timing format)
- 3.20 Gbit/s
- Hypothetical dual 1440p (2560 × 1440 (16∶9 ratio) at 60 Hz 8 bpc (24 bit/px) RGB color Uncompressed CVT-R2 timing format):
- 2 displays x 5.63 Gbit/s = 11.26 Gbit/s
- Total data rate required:
- 5.63 Gbit/s + 3.20 Gbit/s =
- 8.83 Gbit/s
8.83 Gbit/s just exceeds the halved DP1.2 max data rate of 8.64 Gbit/s. 😛
I'm guessing the Wavlink works with the Latitude 5411 though, since it has DP1.4 and even halved it still has 12.96 Gbit/s >= 8.83 Gbit/s. That's enough for dual 1440p as well, as 12.96 Gbit/s >= 11.26 Gbit/s.
For dual 1440p on the Latitude 5590 and its DP1.2 signal, you'll need a dock that limits speeds to USB2.0:
Cable Matters Dual Monitor USB C Hub (USB C Dock) with Dual 4K HDMI, 2X USB 2.0, Ethernet, and 60W Charging
https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP/
With this dock you get the full DP1.2 signal (17.28 Gbit/s) or DP1.4 signal (25.92 Gbit/s). However, it has 2 x USB2.0 ports and 60W Power Delivery.
​
REFERENCE
Dell Latitude 5411 Product Specifications (c. 2020)
Processor
- 10th Generation Intel Core i5/i7
- 10th Generation Intel Core i5-10300H
- 10th Generation Intel Core i5-10400H
- 10th Generation Intel Core i7-10850H
Chipset
- Intel® WM490 Chipset
Graphics
- Intel UHD Graphics 630
- Nvidia GeForce MX250 NV N17S-G2
Ports
- 3 × USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 (1 × with PowerShare)
- 1 × USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (DisplayPort 1.4, Thunderbolt 3, Power Delivery)
- 1 × HDMI 2.0
Power
- E5 90 W barrel
- E5 90 W USB-C
- E5 130 W USB-C
Dell Latitude 5590 Product Specifications (c. 2018)
Processor
- 8th Gen Intel® Core™ Processors up to i7, U Quad Core
- 7th Gen Intel® Core™ Processors up to i5, U Dual Core
Graphics
- Intel® HD Graphics 620 (Integrated in Intel 7th core processors)
- Intel® UHD Graphics 620 (Integrated in Intel 8th core processors)
- NVIDIA GeForce® MX130, 2GB GDDR5
Ports
- HDMI 1.4 (UMA) / HDMI 2.0 (Discrete)
- 15 pin VGA
- 3 × USB-A 3.1 Gen 1 (1 × PowerShare always on)
- 1 × USB-C DisplayPort 1.2
Power
- AC Adapter 65 W / 90 W
Wavlink WL-UMD501 USB C Hub/Mini Docking Station, 12-in-1 Product Specifications
- USB3 ports
- Halves DP signal
I use this one - cheap, portable, works great.
What model MSI displays?
What make/model dock?
GENERAL PROCEDURE
First, calculate data rate required.
Assuming FHD (1920 × 1080) @ 144 Hz, bandwidth calculator:
>Data Rate Required: 8.00 Gbit/s
>
>Video Format:
1920 × 1080 (16∶9 ratio) at 144 Hz
8 bpc (24 bit/px) RGB color
Uncompressed
CVT-R2 timing format
8.00 Gbit/s x 3 = 24.00 Gbit/s data rate required (uncompressed) for all three displays.
​
Second, look at laptop port bottlenecks.
The MSI GE75 has two display ports:
- 1 × mini-DisplayPort 1.2 = max data rate 17.28 Gbit/s
- 1 × HDMI 2.0 = max data rate 14.40 Gbit/s
Combined this equals 17.28 Gbit/s + 14.40 Gbit/s = 31.68 Gbit/s max data rate.
31.68 Gbit/s >= 24.00 Gbit/s. 👍
​
Third, allocate the data rate to each display.
OPTION #1: USB-C DP DOCK LIMITED TO USB 2.0 SPEEDS
This should work, as long as the dock also supports Multi-Stream Transport (MST), which can share the DP1.2 output to multiple displays.
See docks listed in section "4K60 USB-C HUBS FOR LAPTOPS WITH DP 1.2" here:
E.g., Cable Matters Dual Monitor USB C Hub (USB C Dock) with Dual 4K HDMI, 2X USB 2.0, Ethernet, and 60W Charging
https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP/
These docks allocate all data rate to DP video, so you have access to full DP1.2 17.28 Gbit/s. Ensure it also supports MST as the 201056 model does.
Connect two displays to the dock. Connect remaining display to laptop HDMI.
You will need cables to connect dock outputs to the displays--so if you can, buy a dock matching display input ports (HDMI or DP).
OPTION #2: DAISY-CHAIN DISPLAYS
If the displays have DP output ports, this might represent an option. Directly connect laptop DP1.2 to the first display DP input port, then daisy chain from display #1 DP output port to display #2 input DP port. You don't need a dock in this case.
Connect laptop HDMI port to display #3 input port.
​
Things that won't generally work, and why.
OPTION #WONT-WORK-1: WITH A USB-C DP CONVENTIONAL DOCK
Assuming you have a USB-C DP dock which halves the DP max data rate to support USB3 (5-10 Gbit/s) data rate, you can can drive 17.28 Gbit/s × 0.5 = 8.64 Gbit/s, or one display.
That leaves the HDMI 2.0 14.40 Gbit/s for the remaining 2 × displays < 16.00 Gbit/s data rate required--not enough.
OPTION #WONT-WORK-2: WITH A MST HUB (SPLITTER)
For gaming, these have limited use. These do not offer USB, power delivery (PD), ethernet, and will interfere with G-SYNC/FreeSync, if gaming.
​
OPTION #WONT-WORK-2: DISPLAYLINK
Not recommended for the first 1-2 displays:
>DisplayLink inserts an additional layer of software and hardware between the GPU and the monitor which *always* compromises performance to some degree. DisplayLink and similar technologies should only be used when all direct connections to the GPU have been exhausted or when those connections offer limited resolution/refresh rate capabilities that are unsuitable for the intended monitors.
https://dancharblog.wordpress.com/2020/09/16/run-4-monitors-from-a-laptop/
​
REFERENCE
MSI GE75 Product Specifications
Ports
- 1 × mini-DisplayPort 1.2 = max data rate 17.28 Gbit/s
- 1 × HDMI 2.0 = max data rate 14.40 Gbit/s
- 2 × Type-A USB3.1 Gen1
- 1 × Type-C USB3.1 Gen2
- 1 × Type-A USB3.1 Gen2
Thanks!
Try this:
- Directly connect laptop HDMI port to LG 22M38D-B DVI port, using the HDMI-to-DVI cable
- Connect 40AS dock to laptop USB-C charging port (reference USB-C port #5 in PSREF overview)
- Connect 40AS dock HDMI port to either of the Samsung U32J59x HDMI ports, using the HDMI-to-HDMI cable
If this does not work, try connecting the 40AS dock to the other USB-C port (reference USB-C port #6 in PSREF overview).
One of these should work 😊
​
Several things in play:
First, as you probably know the ThinkPad USB-C Dock Gen 2 (40AS) represents a USB-C DisplayPort (DP) 1.4-capable dock, not a TB dock. When connected to it, the laptop switches to DP Alt-Mode, not TB-mode.
Second, the ThinkPad T14 Gen 1 (Intel) outputs DP 1.2 display data rates in DP Alt Mode--max data rate = 17.28 Gbit/s, per port.
Third, the laptop may disable one of the laptop USB-C DP ports--I'm not sure which--when HDMI port cable connected.
I'm guessing the laptop behavior you see represents the laptop disabling the USB-C DP port when you connect the HDMI cable to the laptop, and re-activating it when you remove it. So switching the dock to the other USB-C port should work.
The dock does Power Delivery (PD) of 60W to the laptop, so that may represent enough for standard office tasks, but not quite the 65W power adapter. Something to experiment with and see if the laptop drains under load, possibly. The T14 also has a 45W adapter option, so I'm guessing you're OK.
A single-cable solution is possible (PD, video outputs)--but not with the 40AS dock, unfortunately, as it halves the DP1.2 video data rate to support USB3 data rates, and I'm not aware of any way to change that hardware limitation. If you're interested, see table "4K60 USB-C HUBS FOR LAPTOPS WITH DP 1.2" here:
E.g., Cable Matters Dual Monitor USB C Hub (USB C Dock) with Dual 4K HDMI, 2X USB 2.0, Ethernet, and 60W Charging, USD$60:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0746P6LPP/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_J9YKM2BG4BMGSPEEJ0ZY
​
REFERENCE
ThinkPad T14 Gen 1 (Intel) Product Specifications
As background, in the event you get a TB3/TB4 dock--you won't get a single-cable solution when in TB-mode. The T14 Gen 1 Intel had Comet Lake U-series (Medium power) mobile processors, which uses a discrete Alpine Ridge JHL6240 Thunderbolt (TB) 3 host controller, as Comet Lake didn't have on-chip TB3 support like Ice Lake series. Normally, TB3 and TB4 send two full DisplayPort (DP) signals when in TB-mode (that is, connected to a TB dock). However, the JHL6240 only sends one full DP1.2 signal, limiting overall data rate to 17.28 Gbit/s.
- 10th Generation Intel® Core™ i5 / i7 Processor
- Intel Core i5-10310U Processor 1.7GHz Intel
Intel UHD Graphics
Supports up to 3 independent displays via native display and 2 external monitors; supports external monitors via HDMI (up to 4096x2160@24Hz), USB-C (up to 4096x2304@60Hz) or Thunderbolt (up to 4096x2304@60Hz)
- 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1
- 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Always On)
- 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 (support data transfer, Power Delivery and DisplayPort 1.2)
- 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 / Thunderbolt 3 (support data transfer, Power Delivery and DisplayPort 1.2)
- 1x HDMI 1.4b
​
Samsung U32J59x Product Specifications
- Model Number: LU32J590UQNXZA
- Max Resolution and refresh rate: 3,840 × 2,160 @ 60 Hz = 12.54 Gbit/s data rate required
- AMD FreeSync
- Ports:
- 2 x HDMI:
- 1x HDMI 2.0
- 1x HDMI 1.4
- 1 x DisplayPort 1.2
- 2 x HDMI:
​
LG 22M38D-B Product Specifications
- Max Resolution and refresh rate: 1920 × 1080 @ 75 Hz = 4.03 Gbit/s data rate required
- Ports:
- D-Sub VGA
- DVI-D
- Dynamic Action Sync
Manual:
https://gscs-b2c.lge.com/downloadFile?fileId=ADLmuwGZW2QaELv34eqA
​
ThinkPad USB-C Dock Gen 2 (40AS) Product Specifications
Display and Video Output Configurations - Docking Stations:
SubReddit dock wiki entry:
https://www.reddit.com/r/thinkpad/wiki/newdocks#wiki_40as
​
Sabrent TH-W3H2 Thunderbolt to HDMI Product Specifications
- Thunderbolt 3 Dual HDMI 2.0 Display Adapter
- Video output: Two HDMI female connectors, up to dual 4K@60Hz resolution
Thanks!
For USB-C DisplayPort (DP) docks, please review section "4K60 USB-C HUBS FOR LAPTOPS WITH DP 1.2" of Dan Charlton's guide:
>These hubs limit USB peripheral speeds to USB 2.0 (480Mb/s) to ensure that a single monitor will run at 4K60 over DP1.2 alt mode.
E.g., the Cable Matters Dual Monitor USB C Hub (USB C Dock) with Dual 4K HDMI, 2X USB 2.0, Ethernet, and 60W Charging, which costs ~£43 ($USD60)--but I don't know about availability in your region, though their web site serves the UK market:
https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP/
​
REFERENCE
In data rate terms, 4k @ 60 Hz requires 12.54 Gbit/s (uncompressed). DP 1.2 max data rate is 17.28 Gbit/s. As Dan says above, you need a dock that allocates 100% of its data rate to DP output, and 0% to USB3 data rate. Most split the data rate 50/50 between DP and USB3, halving the 17.28 Gbit/s DP1.2 bandwidth to 8.64 Gbit/s--not enough for 4k @ 60 Hz (12.54 Gbit/s).
Thunderbolt (TB) 3 and TB 4 docks represent a better fit for your laptop--if you want a single cable solution--as you have the TB3 port, and you get 2 x DP1.2 signals over one TB cable, when in TB-mode (laptop connected to TB3 or TB4 dock). However, they cost much more (~£145+).
Dell XPS 13 9350 Product Specifications (c. 2015)
Processor
- 6th Generation Intel Core i3
- 6th Generation Intel Core i5
- 6th Generation Intel Core i7
Chipset
- Integrated in processor
Graphics
- Intel HD Graphics 520
- Intel HD Graphics 540
Ports
- 1 x Barrel plug (power): Connect a power adapter to provide power to your computer and charge the battery
- 1 x USB-C Thunderbolt 3 (USB Type-C) port supporting:
- USB 3.1 Gen 2 (up to 10 Gbps)
- DisplayPort 1.2
- Thunderbolt 3
- DSL6340 TB3 Alpine Ridge controller
- Single Port (SP) uses a PCIe 3.0 ×4 link to provide one Thunderbolt 3 port
- Allows you to connect to external display using dongles
- Data transfer rates up to 10 Gbps for USB 3.1 Gen 2 and up to 40 Gbps for Thunderbolt 3
- 1 x USB-A 3.0 port (up to 5 Gbps)
- 1 x USB-A 3.0 port (up to 5 Gbps) with PowerShare (PowerShare allows you to charge your USB devices even when your computer is turned off)
Power
- 4-cell 56 WHr smart lithium ion
- Power adapter: 45 W
​
SHARP 50" 4K Ultra HD Android TV 50BL3KA Product Specifications
Display
- Max resolution and refresh: 3840 x 2160 @ 60 Hz
- Other:
- HDR (High Dynamic Range): HDR10, HLG
Ports
- 4 x HDMI2.0
- 2 x USB2.0
- 1 x Micro USB 2.0
Documents:
For TB3/TB4 docks I meant pretty much any TB3 or TB4 dock that supports at least one DP1.2 or HDMI2.0 output. WD19TB/WD19TBS is the official recommendation and supports proprietary 130W charging over USB-C that other non-Dell docks won't have. TB4 docks - https://dancharblog.wordpress.com/2021/02/05/usb4-tb4-docks/ that could work with USB-C to DP/HDMI cables/adapters (some have DP/HDMI right away). TB3 docks can be found cheaper on eBay used (but make sure enough accessories are included like power brick, cable; and ideally return option is available). Thunderbolt docks are slightly more expensive when new in general, there are some slightly cheaper options from Monoprice (e.g., with no charging - https://www.monoprice.com/product?p_id=31262), Wavlink, but depends on the region and availability is weird these days.
To reiterate - other categories of products exist that could work (some not true Thunderbolt, but USB-C DP docks that can still support the required bandwidth). For the cheapest options - look through the 2nd table in https://dancharblog.wordpress.com/2021/01/03/4k60-monitor-plus-usb-devices-from-single-usb-c-laptop-port/ - e.g., https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP USB2-only dock is 60$. (there is also a dual DP output variation of the dock)
>https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP
I got this https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP docking station today and it works great. The only catch is that it's not powering my laptop.
I'm using https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08YNSR6MD/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 as a base and https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B094YDZQ1C/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 as a cord.
Any suggestions?
HDMI2.0 can handle 1920x1080 240Hz (pretty much the limit - 14.00Gbit/s out of 14.40Gbit/s). With https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP and your laptop - 2nd monitor may not have enough bandwidth even for 1080p 60Hz though.
DisplayPort 1.2 directly is not much better in practice - 240Hz 2560x1440 won't fit.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0746P6LPP?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
That's what I have, love it.
> Is it possible to run 2 external displays (non 4k) in addition to the T490s built in display?
It depends on the exact refresh rate and resolution. Dual 2560x1440 60Hz can be done via cheaper USB-C-only docks + USB2 (https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP or https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-DisplayPort-Ethernet/dp/B0746NKVBN), or more expensive TB3 docks can do USB3 as well (Lenovo 40AN, 40AC as examples). Dual 1080p 60Hz can be combined with USB3.
> What dock or USB-C dongle would you recommend using?
Hard to recommend unless the refresh rate and resolution of each monitor are known + what peripherals do you want to connect (USB2 enough, or USB3?). Lenovo 40AN0135** is a standard TB3 recommendation but expensive.
PS: wiki (T490s does have Alpine Ridge LP), article on USB-C docks
thx for the help buddy. both help screens will work perfectly that way with https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP but with 60Hz. right?
Yes, 60Hz on both monitors should work with https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP at full resolution 5120x1440 + 1920x1080. Intel GPU may act up a bit on a non-standard resolution, but definitely worth a try. (this looks like NVIDIA Optimus laptop - Intel GPU drives monitors, while GeForce is used to render for more heavy workloads)
This post has been temporarily locked until OP posts monitor resolutions, refresh rates and USB speed.
Also, it's very likely they need https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0746P6LPP/ but below $40 MST hub is unrealistic.
tl;dr https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP for 60$ should fit (on cheaper side among new options) for single cable dual HDMI 1440p 60Hz on t480s
USB-C DP1.2 4 lanes for video with dual DP/HDMI ports would work https://www.bigmessowires.com/2019/05/19/explaining-4k-60hz-video-through-usb-c-hub/ and likely the cheapest new option for you but gives only USB2. e.g. https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP HDMI or https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-DisplayPort-Ethernet/dp/B0746NKVBN DP (will need adapters for your use case). If you end up by mistake buying something that works only with 2 lanes to video on USB-C DP1.2 (like probably most docks that claim 4K and really mean at most 4K 30Hz) - only single 1440p ~60Hz will fit in bandwidth. Afaik this applies unfortunately to 40AS (that is more useful for Ryzen 4000 thinkpads with DP1.4) and most dual HDMI Anker docks (which is a real shame...)
40AN TB3 dock works, but only adds USB3 in practice versus ^ on T480s, cost new is high.
also look at 40AJ (or 40AH which is usually the same price nowadays but if you find it cheaper...) - dual USB-C connection provides enough bandwidth for your monitor setup + USB3, also fixes laptop in a nice position
There are inexpensive USB-C docks that have dual video outputs. Here's an example, you can choose either HDMI or Displayport.
https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP
https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-DisplayPort-Ethernet/dp/B0746NKVBN
Just be aware that you can't run dual 4k monitors @ 60 Hz on USB-C. For that you would need a Thunderbolt dock.
What is the model of your USB-C monitor? It probably also has a HDMI and/or Displayport input. If so, you could use an inexpensive USB-C dock that has dual HDMI, or HDMI + DP outputs.
Example:
If USB 2.0 and 100 Mbit Ethernet are enough for you the following adapter is about half as expensive as the Surface Dock and comes with two HDMI ports:
https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP
You can do this pretty easily on docks, but for dongles that's a different story. As far as I know, the dongles that support dual HDMI and PD only do it on PCs (e.g. [Cable Matters Multiport Adapter Ethernet](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0746P6LPP/)), when plugged into Apple products, they only mirror displays.
​
But there are a couple of dongles that will provide dual HDMI:
​
- https://www.caldigit.com/mini-dock
- https://www.sonnettech.com/product/thunderbolt3-to-dual-hdmi-adapter.html
- If you didn't mind going through a DP to HDMI adapter, then there's also https://www.elgato.com/en/dock/thunderbolt-3-mini
​
And although not as clean as a single dongle, you can get a Thunderbolt 3 hub for HDMI and PD, then get a secondary USB-C to HDMI adapter (or cable) and that would let you get dual HDMI and power delivery.
​
- https://www.hypershop.com/collections/usb-c-hubs/products/hyperdrive-duo-hub-for-usb-c-macbook-pro-13-and-15-2016-2017-2018?variant=41421336460
- https://www.hypershop.com/collections/usb-c-hubs/products/hyperdrive-net-6-in-2-hub-for-usb-c-macbook-pro-2016-2017-2018?variant=1555781812249
- https://satechi.net/collections/usb-type-c/products/aluminum-type-c-pro-hub-adapter-for-2016-macbook-pro-13-and-15-40gbs-thunderbolt-3-4k-hdmi-pass-through-charging-sd-micro-card-reader-and-2-usb-3-0-ports?variant=34900214729
in order to drive your 4K display at 60Hz you need a new USB-C dock that supports 4K @60Hz, and as I've written in the original post the Matedock 2 doesn't support that
You can get a USB C to dual HDMI mini dock wouldn't that help?
/u/Nayre_Trawe /u/redcarpet26
Buy this, update the firmware, and "Vaya con Dios".
USBC isn't wonky. It's shoddy dongles. You won't believe the dumb mistakes some make.
You asked for a recommendation. I can give you word of god. Get this MST HDMIx2 dock, and then use a Windows computer to apply the firmware updates from the manufacturer. Follow the PDF they provide to the letter.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0746P6LPP/
https://www.cablematters.com/download/201055_201046/201055_201046_Firmware.zip
Your monitor link is incorrect, so can't see what connections they have.
The short answer is that you should be able to use any USB-C dock that has the ports that you need.
The Lenovo-branded docks are a bit pricey, but have the benefit of having a power that can be used to turn on the laptop when the lid is closed. If you use a third-party dock, you will give up the power button, but can save money. For example, here are some inexpensive USB-C docks with dual HDMI or displayport.
https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-Adapter-Ethernet/dp/B0746P6LPP
https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Multiport-DisplayPort-Ethernet/dp/B0746NKVBN
If your monitors are 4k, then I think you'll be limited to 30 Hz. If they are lower resolution, then you should be able to run them at 60 Hz.
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