With the Anker 563 USB-C Docking Station, a MacBook with an Apple M1 processor can handle three external monitors – two more than Apple designed the notebook to support.
And the hub can do more than that. It also packs three USB-A ports and an Ethernet connection.
Yes, an M1 MacBook with 3 external monitors
Apple says its M1 MacBooks can only use one external display, but workarounds have been found. Most offer dual external monitors, but Anker went all in by adding up to three monitors.
“Thanks to the dual HDMI ports and the DisplayPort, you can now connect up to 3 monitors to your M1 MacBook, and each monitor can display different content to make multitasking a breeze,” says Anker.
The HDMI ports in the Anker 563 USB-C Docking Station support either 4K at 30Hz or 2K at 60H. The DisplayPort offers 2K at 60Hz.
There’s a small catch, though. Unlike most USB-C hubs, this one requires a software driver to provide the three-monitor trick. The Mac must be running DisplayLink software.
Other ports on the Anker 563 USB-C Docking Station
The hub can handle more than monitors. It includes one USB-C port to connect to your Mac, and it can provide up to 100W to recharge a MacBook. A second USB-C port is for accessories. It offers up to 30W.
A USB-A port with USB-A 3.1 Gen 1 can provide 5 Gbps data transfers and 7.5W of power. Two more USB-A 2.0 ports are for accessories like keyboards and mice.
The docking station also comes with an Ethernet port and a 3.5mm headphone/headset port. It runs off a DC power adapter.
The Anker 563 USB-C Docking Station for an M1 MacBook is available now on the Anker website for $249.99.
Those looking to shop around can consider the HyperDrive Dual 4K HDMI 3-in-1 USB-C Adapter. It doesn’t have as many ports but costs less: $129.99.
