An impressive adapter for Thunderbolt 3 computers.
As we tumble farther and farther into the world of USB-C and Thunderbolt 3, more accessories tend to emerge. You do have to be a bit cautious about what companies you work with since there are a lot of substandard products out there. One company that I’ve been able to rely on as I slowly switch my main devices over to the newest connections is IOGEAR. They make remarkable products that are not only functional but also complimentary in style to my 2016 MacBook Pro. The latest accessory I’ve been able to check out is their Thunderbolt 3 to Dual 4K DisplayPort Adapter.
Details
The Thunderbolt 3 to Dual DisplayPort Adapter is designed to allow TB3 users the ability to connect to two DisplayPort driven monitors. The adapter provides a vivid 5K or dual 4K capable connection at a 60Hz refresh rate. With the device, you can have professional-grade video quality and with its aluminum alloy housing, it’s not only durable but stylish as well. The adapter is compatible with Windows 10 or higher and macOS 10.12 or higher. You must have a Thunderbolt 3 port available on your computer. With this adapter, you can connect your Thunderbolt 3 enabled laptop to one 5K display (with the use of two DisplayPort cables) or two 4K monitors. The adapter measures 4 x 0.6 x 2.5 inches and weighs only 90 grams.
Computer Side Connector | Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) |
Video Output Connector | Display Port x 2 |
Video Resolution | Dual 4K (4096 x 2160) or Single 5K (5120 x 2880) @ 60 Hz |
Dimensions | GTC3DDP |
10″ Peg Hook | 9 |
6″ Peg Hook | 6 |
User Experience
The adapter comes in classic IOGEAR packaging with their white and green brand colors. There is a nice photo of the device on the front of the box along with basic details of the product. When you open the box, you will find the adapter wrapped carefully around a cardboard insert that is designed to prevent transportation damage of the adapter. There is also a warranty card and paper insert that gives illustrated instructions on how to plug in the adapter to your computer and displays. One of the first things I noticed and appreciated about the adapter is the rubber feet on the bottom. There are so many adapters and hubs out there that have an aluminum casing, but no feet. This causes the devices to slide around. The rubber feet on the IOGEAR Dual Display adapter really made it a nice tabletop accessory because I didn’t have the hassle of a moving device.
From the base of the adapter to the end of the TB3 connector, the built-in cable is about 12 inches long. For me, this was plenty of length. If it had been much shorter, I would have had some issues getting proper connections. The adapter did wrap around behind my laptop nicely — concealing the connections to the monitors. I didn’t have any issues with connecting to the monitors as they were automatically recognized by my computer. Since there isn’t a data transfer occurring through the DisplayPorts, there really aren’t any other measurements I can take for this review past noting that the displays were functional through the use of the adapter.
Conclusions
I continue to be an advocate for IOGEAR accessories. I believe they make a superior product for all types of users. This adapter is currently listed for $89.99 (Amazon) with an MSRP of $99.99, which would be my only criticism. There are other similar adapters out there that range in price from $70-80, which is quite a bit less than the IOGEAR version, but I know that IOGEAR will work with my systems and that it will not cause any damage to my existing devices.
BUY FROM AMAZON
For more information, visit iogear.com.
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