Anker 563 USB-C Hub (10-in-1) Review: Dual 4K HDMI for MacBook

MacBook users know the struggle: limited ports mean constant dongle juggling. The Anker 563 USB-C Hub (10-in-1) promises to solve that with a comprehensive port selection and dual 4K HDMI output. In this review, we dive deep into its build, performance, and real-world usability to see if it lives up to the hype.

Whether you're a creative professional needing multiple displays or a productivity enthusiast who wants everything plugged in at once, the Anker 563 aims to be your one-stop docking solution. We've tested it with various MacBook models to give you an honest verdict.

Design and Build Quality

The Anker 563 sports a sleek, aluminum alloy body that matches the premium aesthetic of Apple laptops. Its compact footprint (about the size of a deck of cards) makes it easy to slip into a laptop bag, yet it feels sturdy enough for desk use. The hub's cable is a fixed 20cm USB-C connector, which is conveniently short to minimize clutter.

Port placement is thoughtful: two HDMI ports are on one side, while USB-A and USB-C ports are on the opposite, allowing for clean cable management. The LED indicator is subtle and not distracting. Overall, the build quality is typical Anker – solid, durable, and designed to last.

• Aluminum alloy body with premium finish
• Compact and portable design
• Fixed 20cm USB-C cable

Port Selection and Connectivity

The 10-in-1 configuration includes two HDMI ports (up to 4K@60Hz), one USB-C data port (10Gbps), two USB-A ports (one 10Gbps, one 480Mbps), an SD/TF card reader, and a 100W USB-C PD pass-through charging port. This array covers most needs: external displays, high-speed storage, memory cards, and simultaneous charging.

For MacBook users, the dual HDMI output is a game-changer. You can connect two 4K monitors at 60Hz, effectively tripling your screen real estate when combined with the laptop's built-in display. This is particularly beneficial for video editors, financial analysts, or anyone who juggles multiple applications.

• Dual HDMI supports 4K@60Hz for crisp, smooth visuals
• 10Gbps USB-C and USB-A ports for fast data transfer
• 100W pass-through charging keeps your MacBook powered

Performance in Real-World Use

We connected the Anker 563 to a MacBook Pro M1 Pro and ran a series of tests. Dual 4K displays at 60Hz worked flawlessly, with no flickering or lag. Data transfer to an external SSD hit speeds close to the rated 10Gbps, making file backups quick and painless. The SD card reader easily handled 4K video files from a camera.

The pass-through charging delivered a stable 90W to the laptop (the hub itself consumes some power), which is sufficient for most tasks, though heavy loads might drain the battery slowly. We also appreciated that the hub remained cool even after hours of use, thanks to efficient heat dissipation.

• Stable dual 4K output with no dropped frames
• Fast data transfer speeds for large files
• Reliable pass-through charging

Compatibility and Driver Support

The Anker 563 is plug-and-play with macOS, Windows, and Chrome OS. We tested it on macOS Sonoma and Windows 11; both recognized all ports instantly without needing additional drivers. However, note that dual 4K@60Hz output requires a host device that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB-C, which is standard on most modern MacBooks and Windows laptops.

For MacBook users specifically, the hub works with both Intel and Apple Silicon models, though M1/M2/M3 MacBooks may have a limitation: the second HDMI port caps at 4K@30Hz when both are used simultaneously. This is a macOS limitation, not a flaw of the hub itself.

• No driver installation required
• Works with macOS, Windows, and Chrome OS
• Check your laptop's DisplayPort Alt Mode support for full 4K@60Hz

Comparison with Other Anker Hubs

Anker offers several USB-C hubs, but the 563 stands out for its dual HDMI capability. The 565 USB-C Hub (11-in-1) adds an Ethernet port and a second USB-C data port, making it a better choice for those who need wired networking. On the other hand, the Refurbished Anker 341 USB-C Hub (7-in-1) is a budget-friendly option with fewer ports and only one HDMI output.

If you prioritize dual 4K displays and don't need Ethernet, the 563 offers excellent value. For network-dependent users, the 565 might be worth the extra cost. Our review focuses on the 563, but these alternatives are worth considering based on your specific needs.

• Anker 565 adds Ethernet and an extra USB-C data port
• Anker 341 is a more affordable 7-in-1 alternative
• Choose based on your port and connectivity requirements

Who Should Buy the Anker 563?

This hub is ideal for MacBook users who need to connect multiple displays for productivity or creative work. It's also great for photographers and videographers who frequently offload SD cards. The 100W pass-through charging means you can leave your laptop's charger at home and rely on the hub to power your device.

However, if you only need a single HDMI output and don't require dual displays, a simpler hub like the Anker 341 might be more cost-effective. The 563 is a premium product, and its price reflects that. But for those who need its capabilities, it's a worthwhile investment.

• Perfect for multi-display setups
• Great for SD card heavy workflows
• Consider simpler hubs if you don't need dual HDMI

The Anker 563 USB-C Hub (10-in-1) is a powerful, well-built accessory that transforms your MacBook into a desktop powerhouse. Its dual 4K HDMI support, fast data ports, and reliable pass-through charging make it a top choice for professionals. If you're ready to expand your setup, check out the Anker 563 USB-C Hub (10-in-1) today.