October 2020 Update: see the notes at the end of this article about how DisplayPort 1.4 changes the landscape. If you’re hoping to connect a high-res external display to your USB-C equipped computer, read on. This is the guide to high-resolution video over USB-C that I wish I’d had. Prices range from $20 to over $300 for what look like very similar features. There are mentions of alt mode and dual mode and more.
Some are advertised as “not for gaming use”. Supported resolutions and refresh rates vary widely. USB-C hubs with external monitor support are also common, but understanding their capabilities and limitations can be extremely confusing. USB-C converters to DisplayPort or HDMI are common and inexpensive.
USB-C offers exciting new capabilities, including external monitors connected through the USB port.
