Apple states that you can only use one external monitor with an M1-based Mac. Anker, a manufacturer of power banks, chargers, and other accessories, unveiled a dock it claims will increase your M1 Mac’s maximum monitor count to 3.
The $250 Anker 563 USBC docking station was spotted by MacRumors. It connects to your computer’s USB-C port (which doesn’t need to have a Mac) and can charge a laptop up to 100 W. You’ll also need the adapter for 180 W. The dock connects to your system and adds these ports:
- 2x HDMI (version not specified)
- 1x USB-C (3.1 Gen 1): charges devices at up to 30 W
- 1x USB-A (3.1 Gen 1): charges devices at up to 7.5 W
- 2x USB-A (2.0)
- 1x 3.5 mm headphone jack
- Ethernet
Of course, you’ll also need to plug in the dock’s 180 W power adapter. Once connected, the dock adds the following ports to your setup:
Anker 563 can be used to add an additional monitor. A 4K screen running at 30 Hz via HDMI will still work, but the DisplayPort will handle up to 2560×1440 resolution at sixty Hz.
A tri-monitor setup has more problems. You can’t use a 4K monitor that is 30 Hz. However, you can still use a 2560×1440 monitor.
The additional monitors can only be used at 2048×1152 resolution with 60 Hz refresh rates.
Anker states that if the monitor doesn’t support 2048×1152, the monitor will default at 1920×1080.
DisplayLink software must also be downloaded. You must have macOS10.14 installed or Windows 7 installed.
Apple states that docks and daisy-chaining don’t increase the number of display connections you can make to your M1 Mac. So, don’t be surprised when there are some hiccups in operation.
The Verge noted that Anker is not the only one trying to do what Apple doesn’t allow.
Hyper offers two options to add four-core monitors to an M1 MacBook. One at 30 Hz, the other at 60 Hz.
This list also includes a $200 hub that offers a similar port selection as the Anker 563 and a limited two-year warranty (the Anker dock only gives 18 months). You don’t need the DisplayLink driver to use it, but it does require the Hyper app.
Plugable claims to offer docking solutions for M1 Macs at a comparable price to Anker docks. They also limit 4K up to 30 Hz.
Some docks are more restricted than others when it comes to the M1. CalDigit states that users cannot extend their desktops over two displays. Users will have to choose between dual ‘Mirrored” displays or one external display, depending on which dock they are using.
Alternatively, for several hundred more dollars, you can purchase a new MacBook, upgrade to an M1 Pro or M1 Max processor, or M1 U. Apple states that these chips can support up to five external displays depending on the model.
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