OWC has launched a new DisplayPort adapter allowing users to connect two 4K displays or a single 8K display to their Intel-based Mac devices using a single Thunderbolt port.
Credit: OWC
The Thunderbolt Dual DisplayPort Adapter uses DisplayPort 1.4, which brings better performance and higher resolution to multi-monitor setups. The adapter also supports Thunderbolt compatibility and is bus-powered, so no additional power adapters are needed.
OWC's new display adapter can support a single 8K display at 30Hz or 8K at greater than 30Hz with display stream compression (DSC). Additionally, it can drive up to two 4K displays at 60Hz, 4K at 144Hz with DSC, or 8K with DSC.
Additionally, the DisplayPort adapter supports HDR content and multichannel digital audio formats. It weights about 55.5 grams and sports a single Thunderbolt 3 port and a pair of DisplayPort 1.4 ports.
Designed to be portable and compact, the accessory could handy for users who need to bring their own devices to an office or classroom. And, in addition to supporting Mac devices, it can also connect Thunderbolt-equipped iPads to external displays.
Importantly, the Thunderbolt Dual DisplayPort Adapter won't be able to add dual-monitors to an M1 Mac. Although macOS can support multiple monitors, the M1 is only compatible with a single external display on the MacBook Air and MacBook pro, and one HDMI display, plus one display connected through the USB-C Thunderbolt ports.
The adapter retails for $78 and is available on OWC's website.