The Best Docking Stations
Whether you're trying to overcome compatibility issues or double the number of attachments your machine can handle, docking stations are a massive upgrade for mobile computing. While previous models primarily catered to the commercial office community, working from home has made docking stations a necessity for more people than ever. If you're sick of constantly swapping and unplugging accessories or straining to see text on tiny screens, check out our top docking stations for a bulk-free desktop experience.
Dell Triple Display Docking Station
Connect and conquer
If you could use a bit more screen surface and accessibility, Dell’s docking station is a workhorse wonder. This computing station boasts some of the most popular ports for everything from extra keyboards to audio devices. For working professionals that require constant connectivity, the device has ethernet options that supercharge your download and upload speeds. In addition to five USB ports for any accessory you can imagine, Dell will turn your portable product into a towering desktop with monitor hookups and printer ports for all your digital projects.
Pros:
- Not only do the three USB 3.0 ports allow you to connect as many monitors, but they also support one in ultra 4K HD and the other two in full HD.
- In addition to home offices, this model is great for corporate environments with Wake-On-LAN and PXE boot.
- The performance is reliable and powerful, so you don’t have to worry about connecting too many devices.
Cons:
- The firmware setup can take some time.
Plugable Universal Laptop Docking Station
Power up your processor
No matter your computing platform of choice, Plugable’s universal docking station can handle electronics expertly. While you won’t be able to connect to the highest definition monitors, you won’t have to upgrade to newer ports with this device either. Plugable touts USB, DVI, and HDMI ports for visual hookup as well as wired internet and audio pairing. If you share your setup with different operating systems, no need to worry. Plugable’s drivers are compatible across the most recent versions of Windows and iOS, delivering stable resolution and a snug fit that won’t disconnect with the occasional bump in hectic office spaces.
Pros:
- We love the vertical design, which minimizes the dock’s footprint and helps to save space on our already cramped desk.
- We appreciate that it comes with both a headphone and mic jack, which helps ensure we come in crystal clear on Zoom calls.
- Setting up the docking station is fairly easy compared with similar models.
Cons:
- If you run Linux, you’re out of luck with this dock. It’s also not great for gaming.
Microsoft Surface Dock 2
A tower for your tablet
Maximizing the potential of your brand-new two-in-one laptop is a breeze with the Microsoft Surface Dock 2. This advanced device is explicitly built to deal with Windows Surface hybrid tablets. We would recommend this device to creatives of all stripes as well as employees that spend as much time in the field as they do behind a desk. Unlike other docking stations that simply accommodate externals, the Surface Dock 2 charges your battery and provides access to the fastest data links in the business.
Pros:
- This dock has USB-C ports that allow for ultra-fast data exchange, making it ideal for high-performance machines.
- It’s also compatible with a Kensington lock, giving it extra security for users concerned with data and device theft.
- We like that the soft rubber finish helps keep the device from sliding around on our table.
Cons:
- It’s expensive, but well worth it for the advanced port offerings and speed.
Hiearcool MacBook Docking Station
Take command of compatibility
Hiearcool’s docking station is a blessing for Apple users that are having trouble conforming to a PC-centric world. While MacBooks can be notorious for their plethora of adaptors and converters, Hiearcool is a one-stop-shop for any external device you could possibly need. Not only does it allow for extra monitors, but, unlike countless PC competitors, this unit can also expand your memory significantly. Best of all, Hiearcool plugs directly into your power supply, so you don’t need to waste native Thunderbolt ports to connect. All in all, when you don’t want to shell out thousands for an iMac, this product will transform laptops into desktops without tedious installation or significant space requirements.
Pros:
- The aluminum frame gives it a much more premium feel than the price would suggest, as well as some added durability.
- Given the wealth of ports, including 4K display, this docking station is amazingly compact.
Cons:
- The card reader and USB ports are a bit slow.
Hiearcool Docking Station
Port peace of mind
Turning your brand-new laptop into a proper work or gaming station is quick and painless with Hiearcool. Above all, we love the simplicity in the setup and operation of this particular dock. Thanks to the plug-and-play design, you won’t need to worry about software installation or issues across platforms. Not only will it interface seamlessly with the big three operating systems, but tablets and consoles such as the Switch can easily find a home here as well. However, a fair word of warning: if your device draws power from something other than USB-C or Thunderbolt, you’re unfortunately out of luck.
Pros:
- We love the variety of ports on this model, including HDMI, USB3.0, and even SD card readers.
- Given the low price point, the quality is really outstanding.
Cons:
- This model doesn’t include an ethernet hookup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ports do I need for extra monitors?
While USB is the standard for most handheld computer accessories and peripheral tools, computer monitors can be a completely different animal. Computer monitors come in all shapes and sizes and do not have a standard port offering. USB monitors do exist, but you will most likely have an HDMI, DVI, or DisplayPort as well. VGA and DVI are some of the most common cables for monitors, but they’re slowly aging out of production. Although HDMI and DisplayPort can transmit both audio and video, DisplayPort is future-proof, boasting capabilities that support the highest resolution on the market today.
Should I connect to the internet using ethernet?
Especially in the world of laptops, the advent of wifi technology has caused a significant drop in ethernet cable popularity for personal use. Because wifi cards come standard in most devices, it’s easy to see why the mobility of cordless tech has become so prevalent. However, there are many reasons why bulky ethernet cables still reign supreme. First, wifi effectiveness drops significantly when solid walls separate the router and computer. Second, wifi can be restricted by the number of devices on a network at the same time. Lastly, ethernet is simply faster. While multiple monitors are a big motivator for laptop docks, their ethernet ports maintain a consistent connection and allow you to download massive files promptly, ideal for creative work as well as your nine to five.
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.