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Is Target Display Mode Available With Plugable Docks and Adapters?

Last Update: April 7th, 2026
Article ID: 3754899

No, target display mode generally requires a direct Thunderbolt connection from a compatible MacBook or Mac Mini to a compatible iMac. Graphics adapters and docking stations do not pass the required Thunderbolt video data.

Why Target Display Mode Is Not Compatible With Docks or Adapters

Target Display Mode is a legacy feature that allows certain older Mac systems to use an older model iMac as an external display via a Mini DisplayPort or Thunderbolt data cable. Most Plugable docking stations and graphics adapters are USB devices that do not meet the specific Thunderbolt data requirements for 2011 through mid-2014 iMac systems. While Thunderbolt 3 or newer docks may provide video capability, they are generally recommended for Apple M-Series systems which do not support this feature.

iMac Models as Display

Apple provides system compatibility here but we can summarize it in the following:

24-inch and 27-inch iMac (2009 and 2010)

  • macOS 10.13 “High Sierra” or earlier
  • Compatible with Macs from 2019 or earlier with macOS 10.15 “Catalina” or earlier
    • NOTE: some MacBooks in this range do not include a Mini DisplayPort output and may not be compatible
  • Connected with a Mini DisplayPort cable

iMac models (2011 through mid-2014)

  • macOS 10.13 “High Sierra” or earlier
  • Compatible with Macs from 2019 or earlier with macOS 10.15 “Catalina” or earlier
    • NOTE: some MacBooks in this range do not include a Mini DisplayPort output and may not be compatible
  • Connected with a Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 cable - these use the Mini DisplayPort connector
    • NOTE: This is not compatible with Thunderbolt 3 (USB Type-C) cables

Alternative Options

For earlier 2009-2010 iMacs, it may be possible to use a USB Type-C to DisplayPort adapter paired with a DisplayPort to Mini DisplayPort cable. However, this configuration is untested and we do not support this configuration.

Our research has shown mixed results using these early model iMac systems with adapters, modern unsupported Apple hosts, or Windows computers. Because Target Display Mode is no longer supported by modern Apple hardware and software, there is no guaranteed workaround for newer systems.

Modern displays offer higher resolutions, multiple connection options: both DisplayPort and HDMI, and newer features like High Dynamic Range (HDR) and higher refresh rates than iMac systems. Many modern displays can support multiple host computers either by switching between inputs or with picture-by-picture or picture-in-picture modes.

Applicable To

  • 24-inch and 27-inch iMac (2009 and 2010)
  • iMac models (2011 through mid-2014)
  • macOS 10.13 “High Sierra” or earlier

If you have any questions please feel free to contact us at support@plugable.com and we'll be happy to help!