2. Understanding MST: Multi-Display ...

Understanding MST: Multi-Display Setups with Windows, macOS, and DisplayPort

Last Update: March 26th, 2025
Article ID: 3180579

Multi-Stream Transport (MST) is a feature of DisplayPort 1.2 and later that enables multiple displays from a single video output. MST is commonly used through daisy-chaining (DisplayPort Multi-Stream) or MST hubs for flexible multi-monitor configurations.

Operating System Compatibility

Windows and ChromeOS that support DP 1.2 (or higher) over USB-C

  • Fully support MST for extended desktop configurations.
  • MST hubs and daisy-chaining function as expected without additional software.

macOS

*Important: MST is not supported on macOS for extended displays. For Mac users, consider DisplayLink-based solutions.

  • MST-connected displays are mirrored, not extended.
  • Performance may vary in high-resolution or video-intensive applications.

How MST Works

Multi-Stream Transport (MST) is a core feature of DisplayPort 1.2 and later that allows a single video output to transmit multiple independent video streams simultaneously. Instead of requiring one dedicated video output per monitor, MST enables a more efficient setup by splitting one output into multiple display signals.

For systems that support DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB-C, MST hubs provide a straightforward way to connect multiple displays—especially useful when your monitors don’t support MST daisy-chaining. An MST hub, like the Plugable USBC-MSTH2 or USBC-MSTH3, acts as a video signal splitter. These hubs take a single DisplayPort signal and route it to two or more independent display outputs.

It’s important to note that MST functionality depends not just on the hub, but also on the capabilities of the host system. The computer or docking station must support DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB-C, and the GPU must be capable of handling multiple displays through a single port. Without this support, MST hubs will not function as intended.

Display Stream Compression (DSC)

Display Stream Compression (DSC) is a visually lossless compression technology introduced with the DisplayPort 1.4 standard. It allows for the transmission of ultra-high-resolution video, such as 4K, 5K, or even 8K, at high refresh rates over connections with limited bandwidth, like USB-C or older DisplayPort implementations.

For MST setups, DSC is especially important when using a USB-C or DisplayPort connection to drive multiple high-resolution monitors. Without DSC, the available bandwidth may limit you to lower resolutions or refresh rates. To take full advantage of DSC in an MST setup, the host GPU must support DSC, and the MST hub must be compatible to pass or handle the compressed signal without limiting performance.

Key Benefits:

  • Enables high-resolution setups like dual or triple 4K at 60Hz over a single video output—ideal for MST hubs.
  • Visually lossless compression maintains image quality while reducing bandwidth usage.
  • Prevents resolution and refresh rate limits in multi-display configurations.
  • Requires DSC support on both the host GPU and the MST hub to function properly.

Without DSC, users may be limited to:

  • Lower resolutions (e.g., 1080p or 4K at 30Hz)
  • Fewer monitors at high refresh rates

Plugable MST Solutions

Product

Description

USBC-MSTH2

Dual-display MST hub. Ideal for two 1080p displays or dual 4K at 60Hz with DSC.

USBC-MSTH3

Triple-display MST hub. Supports three 1080p displays or up to three 4K 60Hz with DSC and a capable host.

UD-MSTH2

Docking station with dual MST display support, USB expansion, Ethernet, and up to 100W charging.

UD-MSTHDC

Full-featured USB-C dock with MST, 100W charging, Ethernet, and multiple display outputs.

Final Thoughts 

MST is a powerful feature for users who want to expand their desktop real estate without needing multiple video outputs. When paired with the right hardware—such as a DisplayPort Alt Mode-capable USB-C port, a compatible MST hub, and support for DSC—it unlocks efficient, high-performance multi-monitor setups using a single connection.

Windows and ChromeOS users will see the most seamless experience with MST, while macOS users should explore DisplayLink-based alternatives for extended displays.

To get the most from your MST setup:

  • Confirm your system supports DisplayPort Alt Mode over USB-C.
  • Use a DSC-capable MST hub if you're connecting high-resolution monitors.
  • Check GPU compatibility for both MST and DSC to avoid performance or resolution limitations.
  • Mac users: Use DisplayLink adapters or docks for true extended desktop functionality.

Need More Help?

For additional support, and troubleshooting guides or to browse Plugable’s full line of MST-compatible products, visit plugable.com or contact our support team.