Plugable USB 2.0 to HDMI
Bottom line: The Plugable USB 2.0 to HDMI ($39.95 on Amazon as of 2026-10-20 22:17 UTC): Adds up to 6 extra 1080p displays on Windows by stacking multiple adapters; main trade-off: USB 2.0 bandwidth caps output at 1920x1080 per adapter.
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*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-20. Price and availability subject to change.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Adds up to 6 extra 1080p displays on Windows by stacking multiple adapters
- ✓ Ships with DVI-to-HDMI and DVI-to-VGA adapters for legacy VGA monitors
- ✓ USB bus-powered, no external power brick or free outlet needed
- ✓ Deck-of-cards footprint fits a laptop bag or backpack pocket
- ✓ Driver support back to Windows XP, plus macOS 10.14+ and ChromeOS
Cons
- ✗ USB 2.0 bandwidth caps output at 1920x1080 per adapter
- ✗ macOS tops out at 4 adapters versus 6 on Windows
- ✗ Requires a DisplayLink driver install, not plug-and-play video
- ✗ USB-C laptops need a USB-C to USB-A adapter, sold separately
Manufacturer description
The Plugable USB 2.0 to HDMI, DVI, or VGA adapter turns a spare USB-A port into a second, third, or sixth display output without opening your PC or swapping a graphics card. Built on DisplayLink, it drives one 1920x1080 screen per adapter, and you can stack multiple adapters for up to six added displays on Windows or up to four on macOS. The package includes a DVI-to-HDMI adapter and a DVI-to-VGA adapter, so it connects to modern HDMI panels and older VGA monitors from the same port -- useful if you are pairing a current laptop with a legacy CRT or 4:3 LCD. It draws power over USB alone…
SpecPicks Verdict
SpecPicks scored Plugable USB 2.0 to HDMI using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the retro graphics & video category. Plugable's retro graphics & video lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.
Common buyer scenarios for retro graphics & video of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum resolution this Plugable adapter supports?
Up to 1920x1080 per adapter. Each USB 2.0 adapter drives one 1080p display over HDMI, DVI, or VGA.
How many monitors can I add with these adapters?
Up to 6 additional 1920x1080 displays on Windows by connecting multiple adapters, one display per adapter. On macOS the ceiling is 4.
Does it work with an old VGA monitor?
Yes. A DVI-to-VGA adapter is included in the box for use with a VGA cable, along with a DVI-to-HDMI adapter for HDMI panels.
Will this work on Windows XP or an older machine?
Plugable lists compatibility with Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 7, and XP, plus macOS 10.14 or later and ChromeOS. It uses DisplayLink drivers rather than your existing GPU.
Can I use it with a USB-C only laptop?
Yes, with a USB-C to USB-A adapter, which is sold separately and not included.
Key Features
- Multiple Displays: Expand your screen space with up to 6 additional 1920x1080 HDMI, DVI, or VGA displays by connecting multiple USB 2.0 display adapters to your computer (one 1080p display per adapter, up to 4 on macOS)
- Boost Productivity: Maximize your productivity and workspace with multiple displays using this DisplayLink Adapter, enabling you to accomplish more in less time, especially when working across multiple windows and tabs
- Compact and Portable: The Plugable USB Display Adapter easily fits in any backpack or laptop bag, similar in size to a pack of playing cards; no external power adapter required; supports various display connections and includes DVI to HDMI adapter and DVI to VGA adapter for VGA cable
- Enhance Compatibility: Compatible with most Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 7, XP, macOS 10.14+, and ChromeOS systems; also works with USB-C with a USB-C to USB-A adapter (sold separately)
- Unleash Your Potential: Transform your workspace and unleash your creativity with seamless multi-display capabilities, ideal for professionals, and multitaskers
Full Specifications
| Brand | Plugable |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Finish | Hdmi |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Connectivity | USB-C |
| Model Number | UGA-165 |
| Compatibility | Mac |
| Input Voltage | 5 Volts |
| Nominal Power | 2.5 Watts |
| Warranty Type | Limited |
| Built-In Media | DVI-VGA adapter, External video adapter, HDMI-DVI adapter, Mini-USB to USB cable |
| Connector Type | HDMI, DVI, VGA |
| Item Type Name | Plugable DisplayLink DL-165 External Video Adapter (UGA-165) |
| Item Dimensions | 3.54 x 1.57 x 0.59 inches |
| Mfr Part Number | UGA-165 |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Number of Ports | 1 |
| Power Plug Type | No Plug |
| Warranty Description | We love our Plugable products and hope you will too. All of our products are backed with a 1-year limited parts and labor warranty and Seattle-based email support. |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Not Smart Home Compatible |
| Full listing title | Plugable USB 2.0 to HDMI, DVI, or VGA I Multi-Monitor External Video Graphics Card Adapter up to 1920x1080 Supports Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 7, XP, Mac, and ChromeOS |
Ready to buy?
Plugable USB 2.0 to HDMI, DVI, or VGA I Multi-Monitor External Video Graphics Card Adapter up to 1920x1080 Supports Windows 11, 10, 8.1, 7, XP, Mac, and ChromeOS is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.
*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-20. Price and availability subject to change.
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