With so many docking stations on the market, finding the right one for your setup can feel overwhelming. At Plugable, we've spent over a decade making this choice easier, including pioneering the first triple display docking station that combines USB-C DisplayPort Alternate Mode and DisplayLink USB Graphics Technology.

Today, we’re putting our Plugable UD-6950PDZ USB-C Triple Display Docking Station head-to-head against Dell’s WD19S 130W docking station. While they may seem similar at first glance, key differences could make one a better fit for your needs. Let’s break it down.

Feature Comparison: Plugable UD-6950PDZ vs. Dell WD19S 130W

Feature Plugable UD-6950PDZ Dell WD19S 130W
MSRP (at time of publishing) $189.95 $179.99
Total number of ports 11-in-1 9-in-1
Number of displays supported Up to three Up to three*
Video Connections Three HDMI, three DisplayPort Two DisplayPort, one HDMI, one USB Type-C DisplayPort (MFDP Type-C)
Display Support Up to three displays, up to 4K resolution each Up to three displays, display resolution depends on host capability
USB Ports 6 - USB 3 5Gbps Standard-A 5 - 2x USB 10Gbps Type-C, 3x USB 5Gbps Standard-A
Audio Port 3.5mm TRRS Headset port None
Network Gigabit Ethernet Gigabit Ethernet
Power Delivery 100W 90W
Host Cable 3.3ft USB 3 Type-C Detachable 3.3ft USB 3 Type-C Integrated
Warranty and Support 2-year warranty, lifetime support with Plugable’s US and Canada-based support team 3-year Limited Hardware Warranty

* Technically four, but the fourth display is limited to 1280x720, a resolution not commonly found since the early to mid-2000s.

Where the Plugable UD-6950PDZ Pulls Ahead

More Ports for More Productivity

The UD-6950PDZ offers an extra USB-A port and a 3.5mm TRRS headset jack, which is absent on the Dell WD19S 130W. If you need to connect wired headphones, Dell’s dock would require a USB headset or adapter, taking up another valuable USB port.

More USB ports mean more flexibility for peripherals, external storage, and even charging your phone while you work. No need to play "musical chairs" with your devices.

Higher Power Delivery (100W vs. 90W)

Power delivery matters, especially for high-performance laptops. Both docks can replace a 90W charger, but the UD-6950PDZ provides an extra 10W. That’s a small but important difference when your laptop is under heavy load.

Keep in mind: Some high-powered laptops may require more than 100W to charge and power the system simultaneously. Always check your laptop’s requirements.

Superior Apple Compatibility

Apple’s macOS does not support MST (Multi-Stream Transport), meaning the Dell WD19S 130W is limited to one extended display when connected to a Mac.

The UD-6950PDZ, however, can support three extended 4K displays on a Mac using DisplayLink technology (after installing the DisplayLink Manager App). That’s a game-changer for Mac users needing multi-monitor setups.

Display Capabilities Breakdown

UD-6950PDZ vs. WD19S 130W: How They Handle Multiple Displays

Single display Two displays Three displays
USB Type-C DisplayPort 1.2 (HBR2) - UD-6950PDZ 1x - 4K 30Hz via “Display 1” Alt-Mode, 4K up to 60Hz via DisplayLink 2x - 4K 30Hz or up to 60Hz 3x - 4K 30Hz and two 4K up to 60Hz
USB Type-C DisplayPort 1.2 (HBR2) - WD19S 130W 1x - 4K 30Hz 2x - 1080P 60Hz 1x - 1080P 60Hz, 2x - 1280x720 60Hz
USB Type-C DisplayPort 1.4 (HBR3) - UD-6950PDZ 1x - 4K 60Hz 2x - 4K up to 60Hz 3x - 4K up to 60Hz
USB Type-C DisplayPort 1.4 (HBR3) - WD19S 130W 1x - 4K 60Hz 2x - QHD (2560x1440) 60Hz 3x - 1080P 60Hz
USB Type-C DisplayPort 1.4 (HBR3 + DSC) - UD-6950PDZ 1x - 4K 60Hz 2x - 4K up to 60Hz 3x - 4K up to 60Hz
USB Type-C DisplayPort 1.4 (HBR3 + DSC) - WD19S 130W 1x - 4K 60Hz 2x - 4K 60Hz 3x - QHD (2560x1440) 60Hz

Understanding DisplayLink vs. DisplayPort MST

DisplayLink (Used in UD-6950PDZ)

  • Works across Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS
  • Requires software installation
  • Best for productivity, web browsing, and general office work
  • Not ideal for gaming, full-screen video playback, or video editing
  • Does not support HDCP (DRM-protected content like Netflix in 4K)

DisplayPort MST (Used in WD19S 130W)

  • Native GPU performance for each display
  • No software installation needed
  • Great for GPU-intensive applications
  • Limited to one extended display on macOS
  • Lower resolution when multiple displays are connected

Final Thoughts

Picking the right docking station is a big decision, especially for hot-desk setups, multi-device offices, or power users. The UD-6950PDZ stands out with its broad compatibility, triple 4K display support, extra ports, and higher power delivery, making it a solid all-around choice for professionals and businesses.

While the Dell WD19S 130W offers native GPU performance, it comes with resolution limitations when multiple displays are connected and less flexibility across different operating systems.

For the best balance of performance, compatibility, and connectivity, the Plugable UD-6950PDZ is the clear winner.

Need help finding the perfect docking station? Reach out to Plugable’s US & Canada-based support team—we’re here to help!


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