Can Surface Pro X power dual 4K external displays?
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Can Surface Pro X power dual 4K external displays?
Dual USB-C ports set the Pro X up for the future
TheSurface Pro Xis a thinner, more portable version from the Pro lineup that’s ARM-powered thanks to a custom Microsoft SQ1 processor. For connectivity, it includes two USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 ports, as well as Surface Connect and a Nano-SIM slot for LTE.
As we saw in aMicrosoft Mechanics video, the Pro X is capable of powering two 4K displays at a 60Hz refresh rate from one USB-C port, leaving the other open for a hub, dock, or other accessories.
Like thePro 7andLaptop 3, driving two 4K displays at a 60Hz refresh rate from a single USB-C port requires some additional hardware. The easiest solution for a one-port output is to add an adapter. While we’re still waiting for the release ofPlugable’s USB-C DisplayPort 1.4 MST adapterannounced at CES 2020, you can pick up a Cable Matters USB-C 4K adapter forabout $60. It has the right DisplayPort 1.4 Multi-Stream Transport (MST) support to handle dual 4K displays at a 60Hz refresh rate; all you have to do is plug it into the USB-C port on your Pro X and plug your monitors into the adapter.
You can also invest in a monitor that natively supports DP 1.4 MST up (through DisplayPort or USB-C) and DP 1.2 or 1.4 down to start a daisy chain. The second monitor only needs to run DP 1.2 or DP 1.4 to connect back to the first display. Unfortunately, monitors that can act as the first in a daisy chain are currently tough to find, especially at a 4K resolution.
A top option is BenQ’s PD2700U professional-grade 4K monitor, which goes forabout $476. It has plenty of features and accurate color reproduction for design work, but it can also be used for more standard purposes. Bottom line? It’s going to look great on your desk.
If you do decide to go this route, note that you will need to invest in a small USB-C to DisplayPort adapter to connect the monitor to your Pro X and get the daisy chain started. Cable Matters has the solution, with an adapter costingabout $20.
Thin and light Pro with LTE
Thanks to USB-C connectivity, you can add dual 4K external displays with a 60Hz refresh rate to the Pro X, resulting in a formidable workstation.
The right adapter for the job
This adapter connects to your Pro X with USB-C and provides support for dual 4K displays at a 60Hz refresh rate.
Professional-grade 4K display
BenQ’s PD2700U supports daisy-chaining, allowing you to connect your Pro X to a couple of displays with just a small adapter.
With this affordable adapter, you can connect BenQ’s monitor to the USB-C port on your Pro X. From there, you’re free to daisy chain to a second display.
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
Cale Hunt brings to Windows Central more than eight years of experience writing about laptops, PCs, accessories, games, and beyond. If it runs Windows or in some way complements the hardware, there’s a good chance he knows about it, has written about it, or is already busy testing it.
