Plugable’s new dock supports five displays from one USB-C port

The Verge - May 14th, 2025

Plugable has unveiled the UD-7400PD, a new USB-C docking solution for Windows and Mac users, priced at $279.95, which supports up to five simultaneous displays, including combinations of 4K and 8K screens. This dock outpaces the recent Thunderbolt 5 docks, which cap at three 4K displays, by utilizing Synaptics’ DisplayLink DL-7400 chipset. It connects via two HDMI and three USB-C ports and requires DisplayLink software for operation. However, it is optimized for productivity applications rather than high-data tasks like gaming, and lacks HDCP support, restricting streaming capabilities from platforms such as Netflix.

The UD-7400PD is versatile, functioning with machines that have a video-capable USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of existing PCs. It features a front-facing 10Gbps USB-C port, two USB-A ports, a 2.5Gbps ethernet port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The dock can deliver up to 140W of power to a laptop, offering a significant advantage for users seeking a multi-screen setup without the need for expensive Thunderbolt 5 upgrades. This positions Plugable’s dock as a cost-effective solution for increasing productivity, despite potential performance trade-offs in high-bandwidth applications.

Productivity Tools Plugable Usb C Dock Display Link Dl 7400 4 K And 8 K Displays Thunderbolt 5 Alternative Windows And Mac Compatibility

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

6.8

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the Plugable UD-7400PD dock, highlighting its technical capabilities and market position. It excels in clarity and accuracy, effectively communicating the product's features and limitations. However, the story could benefit from a broader range of perspectives and independent sources to enhance its balance and source quality. While the article is timely and relevant to tech enthusiasts, its impact and engagement potential are somewhat limited by its niche focus. Overall, the story is a reliable source of information for readers interested in tech products, though further verification of certain claims could strengthen its credibility.

Accuracy

The story accurately presents the capabilities of the Plugable UD-7400PD dock, such as supporting up to five displays with a mix of 4K and 8K resolutions. It correctly mentions the use of Synaptics' DisplayLink DL-7400 chipset and the need for DisplayLink software, which aligns with the cited sources. However, the claim about the dock's performance limitations, especially in gaming scenarios, could be further verified with empirical testing. The absence of HDCP support is correctly noted, which is crucial for streaming content. Overall, the story is precise and well-supported by available data, though some performance aspects could benefit from additional verification.

Balance

The article provides a balanced view by comparing the Plugable UD-7400PD with other docks like the CalDigit TS5 and Thunderbolt 5 docks. It highlights both the advantages, such as cost-effectiveness and display support, and the limitations, like potential performance issues and lack of HDCP support. However, the story could include more perspectives, such as user testimonials or expert opinions on the dock's real-world performance. Including these viewpoints would offer a more comprehensive understanding of the product's market reception.

Clarity

The story is well-written, with clear language and a logical flow. It effectively explains complex technical concepts, such as the functionality of the DisplayLink technology and the dock's compatibility requirements. The use of specific examples, like the comparison with Thunderbolt 5 docks, aids comprehension. However, the inclusion of more technical jargon without explanation could hinder understanding for non-technical readers.

Source quality

The article primarily relies on product specifications and claims from Plugable, which are credible but limited in scope. While the manufacturer's information is authoritative regarding technical specifications, the story lacks independent sources or reviews that could verify these claims from a user perspective. The reliance on a single source type may affect the perceived impartiality and depth of the report.

Transparency

The article clearly states the technical specifications and requirements for the dock, such as the need for DisplayLink software and a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port. However, it lacks transparency regarding the methodology for assessing performance limitations, such as the impact on gaming. Additionally, there is no disclosure of potential conflicts of interest, such as financial ties to Plugable, which could affect the story's impartiality.