OWC has released two USB-C display adapters: the USB-C Quad HDMI 4K Adapter and a redesigned Dual HDMI 4K Adapter. Both target people who need more external displays than their computer supports natively.
OWC says the Quad model can connect up to four 4K HDMI displays through one USB-C, Thunderbolt, or USB4 port. It supports macOS, Windows, and ChromeOS, and it may appeal to Apple Silicon users whose Macs have stricter native display limits.
For example, base MacBook Air models with M1 or M2 chips officially support one external display. OWC works around that limit through DisplayLink Pro software. This is not the same as adding native display outputs, so buyers should confirm software support, administrator permissions, and compatibility with protected video before relying on it.
The Quad adapter supports up to 90 watts of pass-through charging, according to OWC. It is bus-powered, includes an 11.8-inch USB-C cable, and was listed for $149.99 when this article was published.
The Dual HDMI 4K Adapter connects two HDMI displays through one USB-C port. It costs less and may be enough for classrooms, bring-your-own-device setups, or everyday multitasking. Like the Quad model, it relies on DisplayLink to work around the one-display limit on some base Apple Silicon Macs.
The Dual model includes HDMI audio pass-through and a built-in 9-inch USB-C cable. OWC listed it at $69.99 when this article was published.
OWC says both models support Extended and Mirror modes with HDMI displays and projectors. They are bus-powered and include a one-year limited warranty. A USB-C hub with HDMI and additional ports may be a better fit for someone who needs Ethernet, card readers, or device connections as well as video output.
These adapters solve a narrow problem, and that is useful. People who only need two displays should not pay for four outputs, while anyone avoiding DisplayLink software should consider a driverless dual-display dock and verify that it supports the exact computer and monitor combination.
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