USB-C Hubs: Choosing Between 4K@30Hz, 4K@60Hz and 8K@30Hz
When shopping for a USB-C hub, terms like 4K@30Hz, 4K@60Hz, and 8K@30Hz can seem a little baffling to the unfamiliar. What specification is best and what do you actually need? This guide will walk you through the basics of screen resolution and refresh rates, help you decide what’s best for your use case, and highlight some excellent USB-C hub options to consider.
What Do 4K and 8K Mean?
The “K” in 4K and 8K refers to the horizontal resolution of the video output in thousands of pixels (K representing “thousand”).
- 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels). Four times the resolution of Full HD (1920 x 1080), providing significantly sharper images and more detail. This is ideal for most modern monitors, TVs, and projectors.
- 8K resolution (7680 x 4320 pixels). An ultra-high-definition standard offering four times the pixel count of 4K. It’s designed for large screens and future-proofed devices but requires substantial hardware support to handle such data-intensive output.
Refresh Rate: 30Hz vs. 60Hz
The refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to how many times the screen refreshes its image per second.
- 30Hz: Displays 30 frames per second. It works fine for static content like documents, presentations, or regular video streaming. However, it may feel less smooth when used for gaming, fast-paced movies, or multitasking.
- 60Hz: Displays 60 frames per second. This provides smoother visuals and is better suited for gaming, video editing, and other high-performance tasks where responsiveness matters.
Choosing Between 4K@30Hz vs. 4K@60Hz vs. 8K@30Hz USB-C Hubs
You can refer to the simple guidelines that follow:
- For basic tasks like spreadsheets, documents, and presentations, 4K@30Hz is more than enough. It balances performance and affordability, making hubs like the UGREEN Revodok Pro 107 a practical choice.
{{UGPRODUCT}} - When watching movies or streaming content, higher refresh rates aren’t always necessary. However, for smoother visuals and better clarity, 4K@60Hz can enhance your experience. A hub like the UGREEN Revodok Pro 109 meets this requirement without overloading your budget.
{{UGPRODUCT}} - Gamers and video editors benefit significantly from 4K@60Hz, as the higher refresh rate delivers smoother performance and a more immersive experience. Consider hubs like the UGREEN Revodok Pro 211, which not only support 4K@60Hz but also 8K@30Hz, offering future-proof options.
- For tasks involving large-scale displays, multiple monitors, or ultra-high-resolution requirements, 8K@30Hz becomes relevant. Designers, engineers, and content creators will appreciate the detail and clarity that UGREEN Revodok Pro 211 offers, as it combines versatility with cutting-edge output.
A Closer Look at UGREEN’s USB-C Hubs
USB C hubs act as intermediaries, enabling devices like laptops, tablets, and smartphones to connect to external displays. However, not all USB-C hubs are created equal. Their ability to handle specific resolutions and refresh rates depends on their design and compatibility with DisplayPort Alternate Mode.
UGREEN’s USB-C hubs support a range of output options:
| Model | Key Feature | Best For | Extra Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| UGREEN Revodok Pro 107 (7-in-1) | Outputs 4K@30Hz via HDMI | Office users and general-purpose tasks | Includes USB-A ports, SD/TF card readers, and 100W power delivery for charging. |
| UGREEN Revodok Pro 109 (9-in-1) | Outputs 4K@60Hz | Streaming, gaming, and light editing | Adds Ethernet connectivity and more USB-A ports for expanded functionality. |
| UGREEN Revodok Pro 211 (11-in-1) | Supports 8K@30Hz and 4K@60Hz | High-end workstations, professional creators, and future-proofing | Includes DisplayPort support, Ethernet, and advanced audio/mic ports. |
Things to Consider When Selecting the Right Hub
Wait, don’t rush to any purchase decision until you figure out:
- Ensure your laptop, tablet, or phone supports DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB-C. Without this feature, video output through USB-C won’t be possible.
- Match the hub’s output resolution and refresh rate with your monitor or TV. Buying an 8K-capable hub won’t benefit you if your display only supports 4K.
- If you anticipate upgrading to an 8K display or a multi-monitor setup, investing in a hub with advanced features like the UGREEN Revodok Pro 211 can save money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between 4K@30Hz, 4K@60Hz, and 8K@30Hz USB-C Hubs depends largely on your specific needs. General users can stick with 4K@30Hz hubs, professionals will appreciate the fluidity of 4K@60Hz, and enthusiasts aiming for the pinnacle of resolution should consider 8K@30Hz options. With UGREEN’s diverse lineup of USB-C hubs, finding the right balance between performance, features, and budget has never been easier.
FAQs
What’s the difference between HDMI and DisplayPort outputs on a USB-C hub?
HDMI is more common and widely supported by most TVs and monitors, making it the go-to choice for general users. DisplayPort, on the other hand, often supports higher refresh rates and resolutions, making it ideal for professional or gaming monitors.
Can a USB-C hub with 4K support work with multiple monitors?
Yes, some USB-C hubs, like the UGREEN Revodok Pro 209, support multiple 4K monitors simultaneously. Check the hub’s specifications to confirm it can handle multi-monitor setups and ensure your device can output video to more than one display.
What’s the best USB-C hub for video editing?
For video editing, prioritize a hub that supports at least 4K@60Hz or 8K@30Hz. The UGREEN Revodok Pro 211 (11-in-1) is a great option as it provides advanced resolution support, including DisplayPort output, and multiple additional features for professional workflows.
Do I need a high refresh rate for watching movies?
Movies and standard video content typically run at 24-30 frames per second, so 4K@30Hz is sufficient. However, if you prefer smoother visuals or plan to game on the same monitor, opting for 4K@60Hz is a better choice.
Will 8K video output work on my current 4K monitor?
No, an 8K-capable hub will only output at the maximum resolution supported by your monitor. If your monitor is limited to 4K, it will display 4K content even if your hub supports 8K.
Does using 8K@30Hz require special cables?
Yes, for 8K@30Hz, you need high-speed HDMI 2.1 or DisplayPort 1.4 cables that can handle the higher bandwidth. Standard cables may not support this resolution and refresh rate.
Are all USB-C hubs compatible with MacBooks and Windows laptops?
Most USB-C hubs, including UGREEN models, are compatible with both MacBooks and Windows laptops. However, features like dual monitor output may vary depending on the operating system. For example, macOS has limitations for extended display setups.
Can a USB-C hub charge my laptop while outputting video?
Yes, many USB-C hubs, like the UGREEN Revodok Pro series, support Power Delivery (PD) up to 100W, allowing you to charge your laptop while simultaneously outputting video and using other peripherals. Click to read more: How to Charge Laptop with HDMI Cable Easily?
Can I use my USB-C hub with a smartphone or tablet?
Yes, many USB-C hubs are compatible with smartphones and tablets. Take the UGREEN Revodok Pro 107 (7-in-1), which works well with these devices. It connects your device to external displays via its 4K HDMI port and keeps it charged with 100W Power Delivery. Quite ideal for presentations, streaming, or gaming.
