Head-to-Head: Plugable UD-6950Z vs. Anker 563

Choosing the right docking station can have a major impact on how smoothly your workstation, hotdesk, or managed laptop fleet performs. If you use a Mac with limited native display support (like a base M1, M2, or M3 MacBook) or you need to connect multiple monitors to a Windows machine, you’ve likely encountered DisplayLink technology.

Today, we’re comparing two popular DisplayLink-enabled docks: the Plugable UD-6950Z and the Anker 563 (10-in-1). Both docks bypass native laptop display limits to extend your desktop, but a closer look shows that they are built around different priorities.

The core question is: which dock is better suited for your specific setup, laptop, and budget? Let’s compare the specifications, then look at what those differences mean in day-to-day use.

Feature Comparison: Plugable UD-6950Z vs. Anker 563

Where the Anker 563 May Be a Better Fit

Before looking at where the Plugable UD-6950Z stands out, it’s worth noting where the Anker 563 may be a better fit. If your setup depends on single-cable convenience, the Anker 563 provides up to 100W of host Power Delivery to keep your supported USB-C laptop charged without needing its original power adapter.

Additionally, the Anker 563 can drive up to three external monitors simultaneously. It also features a downstream USB-C port capable of providing 30W of charging, which is excellent for fast-charging a smartphone or tablet directly at your desk.

That said, those advantages come with trade-offs. To support its triple displays, the Anker dock relies on a hybrid architecture that requires a modern laptop with a full-featured USB-C port, and it caps its maximum 4K output at a 30Hz refresh rate. For users who need true universal compatibility and smoother 4K 60Hz performance, the Plugable UD-6950Z offers a more flexible path.

The Plugable UD-6950Z Advantage

Display Support: True 4K 60Hz Performance

When comparing display capabilities, resolution and refresh rate matter as much as monitor count. The Plugable UD-6950Z supports two external 4K monitors at a smooth 60Hz refresh rate. This provides a crisp, fluid experience for multitasking, large spreadsheets, and general office productivity.

By contrast, the Anker 563 limits its primary 4K output to 30Hz, while the other two outputs max out at 2K (2048x1152). A 30Hz refresh rate can cause noticeable cursor lag and window stuttering. If you are using modern 4K monitors, the UD-6950Z ensures you are getting the smooth 60Hz performance those screens were designed for. Furthermore, the UD-6950Z includes two HDMI outputs and two DisplayPort outputs, letting you mix and match monitor connections without buying adapters.

Built for Mixed Fleets and Older Host Systems

In a mixed-device workplace, the best dock is often the one that works with the widest variety of computers. Because the Anker 563 uses a hybrid video design, it requires a laptop with a USB-C port that supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode.

The Plugable UD-6950Z is a pure DisplayLink dock, meaning it passes all video data over standard USB. It includes both USB-C and USB-A host cables in the box. This means it works flawlessly not only with modern USB-C laptops, but also with older legacy laptops, desktop PCs, and budget machines that only feature standard rectangular USB-A 3.0 ports.

A Simpler, Cost-Effective Desk Setup

Host laptop charging is a great feature, but only if you need it. If you already charge your laptop using its included proprietary charger, or if you are connecting to a desktop PC, paying a premium for a docking station with an expensive 100W internal power supply means you are paying for a feature you aren't using. The UD-6950Z omits host charging to provide a streamlined, highly capable dual-display hub.

It also includes six high-speed USB-A 5Gbps ports, compared to the Anker's three mixed-speed ports. This is incredibly useful in workplaces that still rely heavily on legacy peripherals like keyboards, mice, wireless receivers, external drives, and webcams.

Both Docks: What to Know About DisplayLink

Because both of these docks rely on DisplayLink technology, there are a few shared behaviors every buyer should know:

• Drivers are required: While ChromeOS has DisplayLink built-in, you must download the DisplayLink Manager app for macOS, and Windows will typically auto-install the drivers.
• Not for gaming: DisplayLink is perfect for office productivity, web browsing, and multitasking, but neither dock is recommended for high-end gaming or color-critical video editing.
• HDCP Limitations: Because of software architecture, DisplayLink does not support HDCP playback. This means protected streaming content from services like Netflix or Hulu may show a black screen when played on monitors connected through the dock.

Support and Peace of Mind

A docking station is a daily-use part of the workspace, so support matters after the purchase. Plugable backs the UD-6950Z with a two-year limited warranty, adding peace of mind for users who depend on their dock every day. Plugable also provides accessible support resources, including product documentation, knowledge base articles, FAQs, community resources, and direct support options to help users troubleshoot setup questions after purchase.

Final Decision

Both the Plugable UD-6950Z and Anker 563 are capable DisplayLink docking stations, but they are built around different priorities. The Anker 563 may be the better fit if you have a modern USB-C laptop with DisplayPort Alt Mode, value single-cable 100W charging, and want a third external display even at the cost of refresh rate.

For users who want true 4K 60Hz dual-monitor performance, need compatibility with standard USB-A laptops, or simply want an abundance of USB ports for their desktop peripherals without paying for redundant laptop charging, the Plugable UD-6950Z is the stronger choice. It is especially well suited for mixed-device environments and home offices where maximum compatibility and display fluidity matter most.

For dual 4K 60Hz on USB-C or USB-A

Plugable Universal Docking Station for Dual 4K Monitors

View the UD-6950Z

Frequently Asked Questions

Anker is a trademark of Anker Innovations Limited. DisplayLink is a trademark of Synaptics Incorporated. HDMI is a trademark of HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc. DisplayPort is a trademark of the Video Electronics Standards Association (VESA). Mac, MacBook and macOS are trademarks of Apple Inc. Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation. ChromeOS is a trademark of Google LLC. Netflix and Hulu are trademarks of their respective owners. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.