What Is DisplayLink Technology and How Does It Work?

Ever feel like your single monitor just isn’t cutting it? Whether comparing data, managing projects, or multitasking between creative apps, a multi-monitor setup can make your workflow smoother and more efficient. But here’s the catch: many laptops and desktops—like the M1, M2, and M3-based Macs—don’t natively support multiple displays.

That’s where DisplayLink technology comes in. Using USB connections, DisplayLink lets you break through this barrier and connect multiple monitors to your computer without needing built-in video ports. In this post, we’ll break down how DisplayLink works, why it’s a game-changer for multi-monitor setups, and what you need to know before diving in.

What Is DisplayLink Technology?

DisplayLink is like the ultimate multitasking hack. It allows your computer to connect to multiple displays via a USB data connection, skipping the need for extra HDMI or DisplayPort outputs. Here’s the genius part: it compresses video data and sends it through a USB connection to a docking station or adapter, which then outputs the signal to your monitors.

This means even if your computer doesn’t have native video outputs, DisplayLink can make it work. It’s a lifesaver for anyone working on a device with limited display capability.

DisplayLink devices come in a couple of flavors:

• USB Graphics Adapters: These compact devices are perfect if you need to add one or two extra screens. Simple and effective.
• Docking Stations: Want to go big? Docking stations let you connect multiple monitors and add extras like Ethernet, USB ports, audio jacks, and even SD card readers. It’s like a control center for your workspace.

How Does DisplayLink Work?

1. DisplayLink Drivers: Your Software Sidekick

When you install DisplayLink drivers, they integrate with your operating system (OS) to act like standard display hardware. The software detects monitors connected through your DisplayLink device and presents them to the OS as if they were directly connected to your computer via native video ports like HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, or VGA.

Once installed, the OS treats the DisplayLink-connected monitors like any other, allowing you to extend, duplicate, or customize your display setup as needed.

The DisplayLink drivers are free, easy to install, and work on most operating systems.

2. Frame Buffer Creation: Preparing Display Content

The operating system then creates frame buffers for each connected display. These frame buffers store the display content, including all the pixels that make up what you see on the screen. Whether you’re dragging a window across monitors or editing a presentation, the OS continuously updates these buffers to reflect the current screen content.

3. Compression: Fitting Data Through USB

The DisplayLink driver picks up the pixel data from these frame buffers, compresses it, and encodes it for USB transmission. The compression is adaptive, adjusting dynamically based on the content and available USB bandwidth to balance high quality and system performance. For example, a mostly static desktop image requires minimal updates, while a fast-moving video involves frequent changes and higher bandwidth usage. This compression is efficient and ensures that even large amounts of data can be transmitted smoothly without overwhelming the system. 

Older USB 2.0 ports have lower bandwidth, making them suitable for basic functionality and lower resolutions. However, with USB 3.0 or USB-C connections, the increased bandwidth allows for higher resolutions, such as 4K on multiple displays or even 8K with the latest DL7400 chip. Compression helps make all this possible, ensuring smooth performance without sacrificing visual quality.

4. Decoding: Turning Data Into Video

The hardware takes over once the compressed video data reaches your docking station or adapter. A DisplayLink chip decompresses the data and sends it to your monitor through traditional video ports like HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, or VGA. The DisplayLink device also features an onboard frame buffer, which allows it to store the current screen state. This means only changes to the screen content need to be transmitted, reducing the load on your system and improving efficiency.

The result of this seamless process? Crystal-clear visuals with minimal lag for your daily tasks. 

Example Workflow:

• Your computer generates a video signal intended for an external monitor.
• The DisplayLink driver intercepts and compresses the signal for USB transmission
• The signal travels through a USB cable to the docking station or adapter.
• The docking station’s DisplayLink chip decodes and outputs the signal to your monitor.

Why DisplayLink Is Essential for Multi-Monitor Support

Here’s the thing: most computers only have one or two video ports and their graphics processors often have a hard limit on the number of monitors they can support. That’s where DisplayLink saves the day. It connects additional displays through a USB or USB-C port—without counting against your computer’s total display limit.

This means you can add as many as eight monitors on Windows or four on macOS without spending a fortune on new hardware or upgrades. It’s an affordable, flexible way to level up your setup.

Compatibility Requirements

Before you jump in, let’s make sure DisplayLink works for you. Spoiler alert: it probably does.

Supported Operating Systems:

• Windows 10 & 11
• macOS 10.15+ (requires the DisplayLink Manager App)
• ChromeOS 100+

Driver Installation:

• On macOS, you’ll need to install the DisplayLink Manager App manually.
• Windows users can rely on drivers from Windows Update or install them manually.
• ChromeOS has native DisplayLink support, so no downloads are needed.

Hardware Requirements:

• USB 2.0: Works for basic resolutions and functionality.
• USB 3.0 and USB-C: Offers higher bandwidth for multiple displays and resolutions up to 4K.
• USB-C with Power Delivery: Adds features like faster data transfer and charging capabilities when used with docking stations.

For specific requirements, check the product details on Plugable’s website.

Limitations of DisplayLink Technology

As amazing as DisplayLink is, there are tradeoffs that result from its flexibility. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• CPU Usage: DisplayLink relies on your computer’s processor for video processing, which could slow things down during demanding tasks.
• Not for Gaming: It’s great for productivity, but lag might be noticeable in gaming, CAD, or video editing.
• No HDCP Support: DisplayLink can’t play protected content, so content from streaming services or other copy-protected content such as Hulu, Netflix, or Amazon Prime won’t work through DisplayLink devices.
• Refresh Rate Limits: Maximum refresh rate for DisplayLink-connected displays is capped at 60Hz. Higher refresh rates will be supported by DL-7000 series devices in the future.

Addressing Common Myths About DisplayLink

While DisplayLink is a powerful tool for expanding your workspace, there are some common misconceptions about its capabilities.

Let’s debunk some common myths and set the record straight.

DisplayLink is the ultimate productivity booster for anyone who needs more screen real estate without overhauling their setup. From connecting extra monitors to transforming USB ports into multi-display hubs, it’s a versatile solution for professionals and multitaskers alike.

Do you have questions about DisplayLink? Or have you already tried it and want to share your tips? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear from you and help you make the most of this game-changing tech!