AtoZRanking

USB4 vs Thunderbolt 4 vs DisplayLink: Which Docking Tech Should You Choose?

2/10/2026 · Docking Stations · 8 min

USB4 vs Thunderbolt 4 vs DisplayLink: Which Docking Tech Should You Choose?

TL;DR

  • USB4: Affordable and widely compatible but limited in bandwidth for high-performance setups.
  • Thunderbolt 4: Premium choice with superior speed and multi-display support, ideal for power users.
  • DisplayLink: Budget-friendly and versatile but relies on software, which may limit performance.

What Are These Docking Technologies?

Docking technologies allow you to connect multiple peripherals, monitors, and accessories to your laptop or desktop with a single cable. Here's a quick breakdown:

  • USB4: The latest evolution of USB, offering up to 40 Gbps bandwidth and backward compatibility with USB 3.2 and USB-C.
  • Thunderbolt 4: Built on USB4 standards but adds stricter requirements, such as dual 4K monitor support and full 40 Gbps bandwidth at all times.
  • DisplayLink: A software-based solution for connecting multiple monitors using USB-A or USB-C, suitable for laptops without high-speed ports.

Key Differences

1. **Performance and Bandwidth**

  • USB4: Offers up to 40 Gbps, enough for a single 4K 60Hz monitor and multiple peripherals. However, real-world speeds may vary based on the host device.
  • Thunderbolt 4: Guarantees 40 Gbps consistently, supporting dual 4K monitors or a single 8K display, along with high-speed data transfer.
  • DisplayLink: Limited by the USB interface (USB 3.0 or 3.2), with performance depending on the CPU and software. Best for office work rather than gaming or video editing.

2. **Display Support**

  • USB4: Typically supports one 4K 60Hz monitor, depending on the laptop's GPU and port configuration.
  • Thunderbolt 4: Supports two 4K monitors at 60Hz or a single 8K monitor, making it ideal for multitasking and creative work.
  • DisplayLink: Can support multiple monitors (up to six), but refresh rates and resolutions may be capped depending on the host's USB bandwidth.

3. **Compatibility**

  • USB4: Works with USB-C devices and is backward-compatible with USB 3.2 and USB 2.0. However, features like display output depend on the host device.
  • Thunderbolt 4: Compatible with USB4 and Thunderbolt 3 devices but requires Thunderbolt-certified hardware for full functionality.
  • DisplayLink: Compatible with almost any USB port but requires driver installation, which can be a hurdle for some users.

4. **Cost**

  • USB4: Most affordable option, with docks starting around $50-$80.
  • Thunderbolt 4: Premium pricing, with docks ranging from $200-$400.
  • DisplayLink: Budget-friendly, with docks available for $60-$100.

5. **Use Cases**

  • USB4: Best for general users who need basic docking features like charging, data transfer, and single-monitor support.
  • Thunderbolt 4: Ideal for professionals requiring high-speed data transfer, dual-monitor setups, or external GPU support.
  • DisplayLink: Perfect for office users who need to connect multiple monitors on older or less powerful laptops.

Pros and Cons

USB4:

  • Pros:
  • Affordable and widely supported.
  • Backward compatibility with older USB standards.
  • Supports charging alongside data and video.
  • Cons:
  • Limited multi-display support.
  • Bandwidth shared between data and video streams.

Thunderbolt 4:

  • Pros:
  • Superior speed and display capabilities.
  • Best for demanding workloads like video editing or 3D rendering.
  • Compatible with USB4 and Thunderbolt 3.
  • Cons:
  • High cost of docks and certified cables.
  • Requires Thunderbolt-enabled devices for full functionality.

DisplayLink:

  • Pros:
  • Works with almost any USB port.
  • Budget-friendly and easy to set up.
  • Supports multiple monitors even on older laptops.
  • Cons:
  • Relies on software, which can cause lag or glitches.
  • Limited resolution and refresh rate options.

Bottom Line

Which Should You Choose?

  • Opt for USB4 if you're looking for an affordable and simple docking solution for light to moderate use.
  • Choose Thunderbolt 4 if you're a professional needing top-tier performance, dual-monitor support, and high-speed data transfer.
  • Go with DisplayLink for budget setups or older laptops where USB4 or Thunderbolt aren't available.

Each technology has its strengths. The right choice depends on your budget, performance needs, and the ports on your device.

Found this helpful? Check our curated picks on the home page.