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This hands-on review of today's 11 best laptop docking stations can get you quickly hooked up. We pored over product specs, consumer reviews, and the marketing claims made by manufacturers, eventually settling on top-tier products that work with the most common computers and peripheral hardware. We also cataloged common characteristics such as product size and orientation, port types, location, power supply, and monitor resolution. This system of analysis all but ensures that one will select the best product for their needs and budget.
Powers many different laptops, Doubles as a laptop stand
Passthrough charging, pricey
Good port layout, minimal footprint
Cons
No Thunderbolt ports, expensive
Expensive, may be overkill for some
Lacks Thunderbolt 4 ports, industrial look
No passthrough charging, expensive
Expensive, limited high-use ports
Lo-res multiple monitors, disorganized port layout
Large charger, OS compatibility issues
Limited ports, lacks passthrough charging
Poor quality, expensive
Mac only compatibility, dual USB-C upstream attachment
Limited to Windows OS, requires driver download
Bottom Line
A great docking station for those that want to run multiple hi-res monitors but it lacks Thunderbolt hook-ups
This is the best all-around docking station in the class — it can deftly handle just about anything thrown at it and it looks good, too
This do-it-all docking station supports high-resolution dual-monitor set-ups, charges the laptop it's connected to, and puts commonly accessed ports up front for easy access
This compact, USB-A connected dock's international plug adapters make it great for travel while its diverse ports and support for three monitors maximize productivity
This high-end dock supports hi-res dual-monitor set-ups, charges the connected computer and has a slot to lock it to a desk
This economic dock has an abundance of ports and the dock surface is a wireless charging platform but this versatility comes at the cost of cord organization and bandwidth
This dock blends affordability with performance and convenience as it has a long connection cable, plenty of common ports, and pass-through charging all at a manageable price
This minimalistic machine speaks to those on the move as it's compact, has high bandwidth, and sources power from the computer
This low-quality dock is designed for older laptops and accessories
This Mac-specific unit has pass-through charging, many common ports, and plenty of bandwidth
This vertical unit hooks-up with a variety of USB cables but it is limited by operating system and bandwidth
Dimensions: 7 3/8" x 2 7/8" x 1 3/8" | Laptop Connection Type: Thunderbolt 4
REASONS TO BUY
40 Gbps data transfer
Supports 3 monitors (4K @ 60Hz)
REASONS TO AVOID
Expensive
Designed for the newest computers
The Anker 777 Thunderbolt Docking Station is a well-designed device. While the horizontally oriented silver unit is sleek and discreet on a desktop, its compactness belies the plethora of ports packed into this powerful machine. The 777 connects to the laptop via a Thunderbolt 4 cable allowing 40 Gbps data transfer speed and 90 watts of power to charge the computer. The downstream Thunderbolt port supports 8k resolution at 30Hz or 5K @ 60Hz. However, the dock can accommodate three monitors with HDMI ports. The 777 still supports an astounding 4k at 60 Hz when running three monitors across all screens. An SD card reader, audio in/out, upstream and downstream Thunderbolt ports, and an on/off button are conveniently located on the front of the unit. On the back are ports related to peripheries that stay attached to the dock. These are the 2 HDMI 2.0 ports, the 4 USB ports (two 3.1, two 2.0), the Gigabit Ethernet port and another downstream Thunderbolt port.
We have a few criticisms with the Anker 777, but we should acknowledge that this device will be overkill for many folks. The monitor refresh rate and resolution it supports are quite high, and if you don't have a 4K or 8K monitor, there's no point in paying the high price for this device. Additionally, the dock is for late-model computers. You may not want to make this investment if you don't have a computer that supports Thunderbolt 4. However, if you plan to buy a new computer soon, this would be a great investment as it will remain current for quite some time. If you're looking for a travel model, check out the compact StarTech.com Triple Monitor USB 3.0 Docking Station, which also has international power adapters.
The 777 is a sleek machine that packs a lot of high-end hardware into a simple-looking silver bar.
Dimensions: 2 7/8" x 5 3/8" x 7 3/4" | Laptop Connection Type: USB-C
REASONS TO BUY
Independent audio in and out ports
Minimal footprint
REASONS TO AVOID
No upstream Thunderbolt connection
Only 10 Gbps data transfer rate
The Plugable 4K USB C Docking Station is a vertically oriented device that hosts a variety of ports supporting a wide range of peripherals, including 3 monitors with resolutions of 4K @ 60Hz. The unit has both HDMI and display ports for each screen and an alternate USB-C downstream port. Finally, 4 USB 3.0 ports support 5 Gbps and a Gigabit Ethernet port. Fixed peripherals most commonly use these ports and, as such, are located on the back of the device. This design helps to keep the desktop tidy. However, 4 ports on the front of the device are associated with devices that will be regularly unplugged. These are headphone and microphone jacks and USB-C and SD card ports.
Our main gripe with the Plugable is that it has USB-C ports where we would prefer to see Thunderbolt ports. This is also the reason why this otherwise high-end device is less expensive. As the Plugable's upstream USB-C port is limited to 10 Gbps, there may be some data bottlenecking issues for those pushing this device to its maximum capability. That said, this likely will not be the case for most users. Beyond this minor issue, this slender device is one of our favorites — especially when desktop space is at a premium. If you are shopping for a device featuring Thunderbolt ports, we highly recommend the Anker 777 Thunderbolt Docking Station.
The Portable is a great tool for managing multiple peripherals while keeping a slim profile on the desktop.
Credit: Nick Miley
Best for Multiple Connection Types
Plugable USB 3.0 and USB-C Universal Laptop Docking Station for Windows
Dimensions: 7 3/8" x 5 1/4" x 2 3/4" | Laptop Connection Type: USB-C and -A 3.0
REASONS TO BUY
Heavy-use ports on front
Vertical orientation
REASONS TO AVOID
Windows compatibility only
Requires driver download
The Plugable USB 3.0 and USB-C Universal Laptop Docking Station for Windows would be an average docking port if it weren't for its unique ability to accommodate laptops with both a USB-C and USB-A 3.0 cable (both included with purchase). Its vertical orientation is great for those working off the dock because the ports are easy to access, and the connected cables are all oriented in the same plane. All in all, the unit facilitates a shipshape workspace which is needed because it will support dual monitors at 1920 x 1200p with its 2 HDMI ports and a variety of other devices ranging from headsets to printers.
The gamers digesting the Plugable's list of features might be thinking that they've discovered a cheap way to get a gaming-quality dock. Unfortunately, they will be disappointed because this model is designed for office-type work like accessing the web and using productivity software. Additional performance shortfalls include an inability to charge the connected laptops and an inability to play HDCP video. While these are not insignificant shortcomings, we think that its competitive price tag earns it a spot on a thrifty consumer's shortlist. If you're looking to connect multiple screens or want both Windows and Mac compatibility, check out the Plugable 4K USB C Docking Station.
This unit will accommodate two laptops at a time though the bandwidth best suits office work and web surfing.
Credit: Laura Casner
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How We Test Laptop Docking Stations
Our analysis of laptop docking stations is organized along four lines of investigation that collectively cover every aspect of laptop docking station use and functionality. The compatibility metric looks at laptop operating system compatibility and limitations. The dock physicalities metric looks at dock dimensions, orientation, and port locations. The port type metric catalogs the various port types housed in the units, laptop connection type, and power source. Finally, the displays metric investigates the number of monitors the units support, the connection type, and resolution.
Our laptop docking station testing is divided across four rating metrics:
Compatibility (25% of overall score weighting)
Displays (25% weighting)
Port Types (25% weighting)
Dock Physicalities (25% weighting)
We carefully inspected each machine for cord orientation, port location and resistance to movement when pulling cords from ports.
We took stock of all the convenience features of the docks here reviewed. This unit comes standard with international power plugs thus making is a go-to for those traveling for work.
We research, buy, and test ever single product that we review. Here we see this years class of high performance machines that will turn a laptop into a desktop just by plugging in a few cables.
Why Trust GearLab
Senior Research Analyst Austin Palmer and Senior Review Editor Nick Miley have been working together, testing and writing reviews for computer-related devices for the last several years. They have diverse but complementary backgrounds that make them uniquely suited to provide accurate and pertinent information to laypersons and experts. Specifically, Nick draws on years of scientific research where a laptop and a docking port are the indispensable tools of the trade for hooking into various devices of various vintages ranging from digital microscopes to AV systems. Conversely, Austin is a mega gamer who is constantly updating both his professional and private rigs to keep him at the cutting edge of the industry.
Analysis and Test Results
The laptop docking market is saturated, and as a result, picking the right device to meet your needs can be challenging. That's where we can lend a helping hand. This review of docking stations is an in-depth analysis of the leading devices on the market. We researched, bought, and tested each unit. Our evaluation included the range of functionality, including port types, charging method, as well as dock size and orientation. Additionally, we evaluated the number of displays supported and the corresponding resolution and refresh rate. Read on for the details of our analysis, including which models performed the best and why.
What's the Best Value?
The iKling USB C Hub and the VAVA USB C Docking Station stand out amongst their peers as offering good performance at a relatively low price. Both units offer users compatibility with Mac and PC machines, passthrough charging, a variety of common ports, and trim dimensions. However, the savings come at the cost of high resolution across multiple monitors and downstream USC-C ports. That said, these docks will serve users well for all but the latest machines.
Compatibility
The first thing to do when shopping for a docking station is to ensure it meets the requirements of one's laptop operating system. The most common operating systems used today are Windows and macOS. Most docking stations reviewed here support both of these operating systems. However, the Plugable USB 3.0 and USB-C Universal is limited to Windows machines.
On the other hand, the Hiearcool MacBook Pro Docking station is limited to Macbook Air and Pro models 2016 or later. The VAVA USB C Docking Station supports both operating systems but provides better monitor connection options if using a Windows machine. The Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Mini supports not only macOS and Windows but also Chrome OS. Finally, the Targus purportedly supports macOS and Windows but lacks the appropriate hardware to hook up to late-model Macs.
Displays
Connecting one's laptop to a monitor is perhaps the most common cause for purchasing a docking station. As such, we evaluated the connection ports supporting these devices, the number of monitors the docks can accommodate, and the resolution that the docks will maintain when one or more monitors are in use. As a general rule, the resolution goes down with each additional monitor added. With few exceptions, these docks max out at two monitors. Common connection ports are DVI, HDMI, VGA, DP, USB-C, and Thunderbolt.
We recommend that one check their monitor(s) for connection type before deciding on a dock, as this will narrow the list of candidates. However, if high resolution over multiple screens is what you're after, the Plugable 4K USB C Docking Station and Anker 777 are the go-to devices. The Plugable 4K USB C has three DisplayPort 1.2 or three HDMI 2.0 (DisplayLink) as well as a USB-C supporting 4K resolution at 60Hz across three screens. The Anker 777 also supports three screens with 4K resolution at 60Hz using both HDMI and Thunderbolt ports.
The 777 has the ports and the bandwidth to run three monitors.
Credit: Nick Miley
The CalDigit TS3 Plus has two display ports — Thunderbolt 3 and DisplayPort. The prior supports 5120 x 2280 and the latter 4096 x 2160; both maintain a refresh rate of 60Hz. The Kensington Thunderbolt 3 SD5300t also supports a dual monitor set-up and maintains the same resolution and refresh rate as the CalDigit. However, the Kensington connects via HDMI and USB-C ports. While these units are the leaders in resolution and refresh for dual monitor set-up, many other docks have high resolution and refresh rates for single monitor systems. The VAVA USB C Docking Station and Hiearcool MacBook Pro Docking station maintain 4K resolution at 60Hz, which is plenty good for common computer applications.
The CalDigit's DisplayPort and Thunderbolt ports provide superior monitor resolution to a dual-monitor system.
Credit: Laura Casner
Port Types
In this metric, we look at how the dock is connected to the laptop and the ports housed in the dock. The docks in this review connect to laptops with one of three cables: USB-A, USB-C, or Thunderbolt. While Thunderbolt and USB-C ports are physically identical, the latter does not meet the top performance standard set by the prior. Once the connection between the laptop and dock is established, consider what peripheral devices will be connected to the dock. Peripherals could be anything from a printer to a couple of monitors or even a headset for video conferencing. Knowing at least some of the devices that will be used with the dock will make the specs discussed below much more valuable to the reader.
If your laptop and peripheries are fairly modern, then the Plugable 4K USB C and Anker 777 are great choices. USB-C, and particularly Thunderbolt ports, offer great bandwidth. Alternately, if your laptop lacks this hardware, the StarTech.com Triple Monitor USB 3.0 Docking Station connects via a USB-A 3.0 port. All three of these docks offer a wide range of common ports, including USB ports, headset input, Ethernet, and HDMI, to name just a few.
Here we see an array of the common ports found on many devices. From left to right: DC input, USB 3.0 Type-A (x4), USB 3.0 Type-B, DisplayPort, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet input, microphone (red), headphones (green).
Credit: Laura Casner
Photographers and videographers will be happy to know that many docks have SD card readers for uploading visual media. As SD cards are rarely left in the dock when not in active use, we preferred models such as the CalDigit TS3 Plus and the Kensington Thunderbolt 3 SD5300t that have located this port on the front of the dock as it provides easy access.
The CalDigit houses many of the common modern ports, however, the most frequently accessed ports such as the SD card input, head and microphone jacks as well as USB ports are conveniently located on the front of the unit.
Credit: Laura Casner
A final but important consideration is whether the dock has a charging port or if it will draw power from the laptop. Some might not find passthrough charging inconsequential as they always carry a charger. However, we found it annoying to plug into a “convenient” docking station and then get down on our hands and knees to plug our laptops into an electrical outlet. As such, we favored machines like the CalDigit TS3 Plus, Anker 777, and ikling because they have their own power source and charge the laptop when connected.
Dock Physicalities
At their best, docking stations provide all the connectivity required to turn a laptop into a desktop while largely going unnoticed. We took stock of the physical dimensions of each unit, the orientation of the device (vertical or horizontal), and the location of the ports — particularly those ports that one will frequently access. The Anker 777 is a good example of a well-organized flat unit, while the Plugable 4K USB C is a thoughtfully designed vertical unit. For those that want options, the CalDigit TS3 Plus Thunderbolt 3 Dock can be oriented either way. Regardless of orientation, we favored units like the CalDigit TS3 Plus and Plugable 4K USB C that placed SD card ports and headphone jacks on the front, facing the user, while the ports for printers and keyboards were on the back.
Unfortunately, horizontal docks are often the largest and take up the most space. If desktop space is at a premium, the Plugable 4K USB C is a good pick. If the Plugable is still just a little too big, check out the Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Mini. This device is small enough to easily carry in a laptop case.
The narrow dimensions of the Plugable make it a good choice of those with limited desk space.
Credit: Nick Miley
While some shoppers may want a compact device, a dock with larger dimensions is not always bad. For example, if you need a dock that can support more than one user, the Plugable USB 3.0 and USB-C Universal Laptop Docking Station for Windows is the ticket. This unit is large for the class at 7.4 x 5.25 x 2.75 inches, but the size and vertical orientation make it ideal for placement in the middle of a large workspace so that it can be accessed without having to pick up or move the device.
For some, minimalism is key. Here we see a unit that sources power from the computer and keeps the ports to the most regularly needed.
Credit: Laura Casner
Conclusion
This hands-on review of laptop docking stations makes possible head-to-head comparisons of the products. We achieve this by analyzing the product's features and performance in a series of metrics, including compatibility with computer operating systems, port types, display/monitor capabilities, and physical characteristics. Despite the breadth of our investigation, this review's purpose and design are aimed at making the selection of the best docking station for your needs and budget a breeze. With that, let's get to work!
