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Head-to-head · Best Docking Stations

Anker 555 8-in-1 USB-C Hub vs Anker 563 10-in-1 Docking Station

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

Anker 563 10-in-1 Docking Station comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.5). The gap is mostly about multitasking enthusiasts needing reliable connectivity — read the strengths below before deciding.

Anker 555 8-in-1 USB-C Hub
Ranked #4 in Best Docking Stations
Anker 555 8-in-1 USB-C Hub
$299

The Anker 555 USB-C Hub offers a compact solution for creatives needing multiple connections, with Fstoppers praising its 4K 60Hz HDMI output and PC Tech Bits noting its reliable data transfer speeds. The hub supports pass-through charging up to 85 watts and includes Ethernet, USB-A, USB-C, and card readers. However, reviewers like PC Tech Bits caution that it requires a quality charger to avoid performance issues, and Reddit users reported occasional compatibility quirks. It's ideal for MacBook Air and Pro users but may not suit Linux users or those with older devices.

Strengths
  • — Compact and lightweight design at 4.5 ounces with small footprint
  • — 4K HDMI output at 60 Hz supporting high-definition displays
  • — 85-watt pass-through charging capability for power delivery
Watch-outs
  • — No rubber feet provided, causing potential sliding on surfaces
  • — Requires separate USB-C cable and power adapter for full functionality
  • — Charging performance drops with power-hungry laptops or overloaded ports
$299 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Anker 563 10-in-1 Docking Station
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Docking Stations
Anker 563 10-in-1 Docking Station
$199

The Anker 563 USB-C Docking Station (10-in-1) earns praise for its sleek design and robust functionality, offering triple display support, 100W charging, and a range of connectivity options including dual HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-A, and Ethernet ports. MacSources rated it 95% for its excellent performance, calling it ideal for work and gaming. However, reviewers noted the lack of a sleep mode and fewer ports than some competitors. The dock's large power brick and unremarkable packaging are also drawbacks. This product suits multitasking enthusiasts and professionals needing reliable connectivity but may not meet users seeking maximum portability or advanced features.

Strengths
  • — Sleek and compact design that fits well in office or home workspaces
  • — Triple display support with dual HDMI and DisplayPort for multitasking
  • — 100W charging capability for fast laptop charging including MacBooks
Watch-outs
  • — No sleep mode; continuously supplies power to all devices
  • — Limited port selection compared to competitors in the same price range
  • — Power brick is described as large and bulky
$199 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

How they stack up

Anker 555 8-in-1 USB-C Hub

The Anker 555 8-in-1 Hub is more compact and affordable than the CalDigit TS4, but lacks the 98W power delivery and 18-port configuration that makes the CalDigit a powerhouse for demanding users. Compared to the Plugable USBC-9IN1E, it offers more ports and better charging capabilities, though the Plugable has a more plug-and-play design and doesn't require a separate power adapter. Unlike the Anker 563, it provides better HDMI output and pass-through charging but is less versatile in terms of port variety.

Anker 563 10-in-1 Docking Station

The Anker 563 10-in-1 Docking Station offers triple display support and 100W charging, making it more feature-rich than the Plugable USBC-9IN1E which only supports one video output. It's more affordable than the CalDigit TS4 and provides better port variety, though it lacks the 98W power delivery and 18-port configuration of the CalDigit. Compared to the UGREEN Revodok Max, it offers better port selection and more reliable performance, but lacks the Thunderbolt 4 performance and build quality of the UGREEN.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAnker 555 8-in-1 USB-C HubAnker 563 10-in-1 Docking Station
Power Delivery100-watt input, 85-watt pass-through charging100W PD IN
PortsHDMI, USB-A 3.2, USB-C 3.2, Ethernet, SD, microSD2× USB-A 3.1 Gen 1, 2× USB-A 2.0, 1× USB-C 3.1 Gen 1
Display Support4K at 60 Hz HDMI output2K HDMI, 2K DisplayPort
EthernetGigabit Ethernet1× 1Gbps RJ45
USB Speed10 Gbps USB throughputUSB 3.2 Gen 2
ThunderboltNoNo
Weight4.5 ounces0.45 kg
Audio3.5mm Audio Jack1× 3.5mm Combo Jack
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