Add Dual Monitors via USB 2.0: Plugable Adapter Setup

By Plugable #1 in Docking Stations and USB Devices ~ Plugable ... | Published: 2026-10-25

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to add two external monitors to your laptop or desktop using a Plugable USB 2.0 graphics adapter. Step-by-step setup, common pitfalls, and compatibility tips.

Quick answer

Use one Plugable USB 2.0 HDMI/DVI/VGA adapter per monitor. Install the DisplayLink driver, connect the adapter, and configure your displays in Windows or macOS display settings.

Why USB 2.0 works for multiple monitors

USB 2.0 has enough bandwidth to drive a single 1920×1080 display for office tasks, web browsing, and video playback. It is not ideal for gaming or high-frame-rate video editing, but for productivity workflows it is a reliable and affordable way to add screens.

The Plugable UGA-165 adapter uses the DL-165 chipset, which is compatible with Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS. You need one adapter per extra monitor, and you can add up to six on Windows or four on macOS.

Trade-offs to consider

USB 2.0 adapters cannot match the refresh rate or color depth of native video ports. Expect 60 Hz at 1080p, but occasional micro-stutters when moving large windows. For static documents and web apps, this is rarely noticeable.

If your laptop has USB 3.0 or USB-C ports, a USB 3.0 adapter will offer smoother performance. USB 2.0 is best reserved for older machines or when you need to keep USB 3.0 ports free for high-speed storage.

Step-by-step setup for dual monitors

Download and install the DisplayLink driver: Go to the DisplayLink website or the Plugable support page and download the latest driver for your operating system. Install it before connecting the adapter. A reboot is usually required. Installing the driver first avoids the common mistake of plugging in the adapter and getting a 'device not recognized' error.
Connect the first adapter to a USB 2.0 port: Plug the Plugable UGA-165 into a USB 2.0 port on your computer. Use an HDMI, DVI, or VGA cable to connect the adapter to your first monitor. Windows should detect the new display automatically. If the monitor stays black, check that the monitor input source matches the cable type (e.g., HDMI vs VGA).
Configure the display in Windows or macOS: Open Display Settings (Windows: right-click desktop > Display settings; macOS: System Settings > Displays). Choose Extend these displays to use the monitor as additional workspace. Adjust resolution to 1920×1080 for best clarity. Selecting Duplicate instead of Extend is a common mistake—you want Extend to gain extra screen space.
Repeat for the second monitor: Connect the second Plugable adapter to another USB 2.0 port and attach its monitor. The DisplayLink driver will recognize it as a separate display. Configure it in Display Settings the same way. If your computer has limited USB 2.0 ports, use a powered USB hub to avoid power-related disconnects.
Arrange and finalize: In Display Settings, drag the monitor icons to match their physical arrangement on your desk. Click Apply. You can now drag windows across all three screens. If a monitor shows a stretched or wrong resolution, manually set it to 1920×1080 in the display properties.

Product used in this guide

Plugable USB 2.0 HDMI/DVI/VGA Adapter for Multiple Monitors up to 1920x1080: Featuring the DL-165 graphics chipset, the Plugable UGA-165 DisplayLink adapter enables multiple monitors with virtually any Windows laptop, desktop, or tablet, Mac, or ChromeBook. You can add one or two extra screens to almost any computer, even if it lacks dedicated video outputs, as long as it has a USB 2.0 port.
Plugable USB 2.0 HDMI/DVI/VGA Adapter for Multiple Monitors up to 1920x1080