The idea of a laptop docking station is to provide a more ergonomic workstation by moving your laptop away from your desk and onto a dedicated workstation. Laptop docking stations allow you to work on your laptop and have access to a mouse, keyboard, and other desktop peripherals at the same time.
If you need a portable workstation, then you might be considering a portable laptop. These compact laptops have smaller screens, keyboards, and are lighter and easier to carry around than their full-size counterparts. A portable laptop can be used as a tablet and is often more affordable than a laptop with a full-size keyboard.
To help you find the best laptop for you, here’s what to consider when shopping and our top picks at a variety of price points.
Our Editor’s Best Laptop Docking Stations Reviews
- High-spec 11 in 1 Expansion : This laptop docking station is equipped with 2 HDMI ports, 2 DisplayPort connectors, a USB-C port and 2 USB-A ports supporting 10Gbps data transfer, a USB-A 2.0 port for additional connectivity, 100W USB-C PD input port, Gigabit Ethernet, and 3.5mm AUX jack. This all-in-one USB C docking station meets all your expansion needs, enhancing work efficiency significantly
- Efficient Triple Display for Windows : Docking station 3 monitors extending your display in stunning 4K resolution through its HDMI and DisplayPort ports, ehancing efficient multitasking. Our laptop dock enhances your work with professional-grade visual capabilities. *Note: MacOS systems do not support triple-display mode, only can extend one display with connected monitors under the extension mode
- Data Transmission 10Gbps : This usb c docking station achieves up to 10Gbps data transmission speed with its USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports (1 USB-C and 2 USB-A), enabling you to transfer 20GB files in just 20 seconds. Baseus docking station ensures a fast and secure transfer experience
- Innovative Upright Design & Screen-lock Button : Compact vertical laptop docking station with sleek aluminum finish, 80cm cable and a magnetic base, redefine your workspace. Vertical expansion space provides a larger usage range for your desktop. The built-in LED digital screen displays the connection status of each port. Use the screen-lock button to secure sensitive information whenever needed
- PD 100W Fast Charging : Maximum 100W power input with the USB-C PD port, supporting pass-through charging to your laptop with output up to 85W. Laptop docking station 3 monitor allows you to enjoy full power every day. It is recommended to connect an adapter of 65w or above, please use a 100w adapter when the device is fully loaded. *Note: Power adapter and input cable are not included
- Huge Expansion: Equipped with an 85W laptop-charging USB-C port, an 18W Power Delivery USB-C port, a USB-C data port, 3 USB-A ports, 2 HDMI ports, a DisplayPort, an Ethernet port, SD/microSD card slots, a 3.5 mm AUX port, and a DC input.
- Simultaneous Charging: Connect your laptop to the 85W USB-C port and connect your phone or other mobile device to the 18W Power Delivery USB-C port to get simultaneous high-speed charging.
- Comprehensive Media Display: Simultaneously stream media to up to 3 monitors in 1080p@60Hz via the DisplayPort and dual HDMI ports.
- Display Information: macOS and iPadOS only support Single-Stream Transport (SST) mode, which means all connected monitors will show the same content.
- What You Get: PowerExpand 13-in-1 USB-C Dock, a 135W power adapter, 1 m / 3 ft USB-C to USB-C cable, welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
- Flexible Expandability - This USB 3.0 laptop docking station provides dual HD HDMI video outputs, wired Gigabit Ethernet, a 3.5mm combination audio jack, two USB 3.0 ports, and four USB 2.0 ports. Includes both USB 3.0 and USB-C cables for flexible host connectivity
- Docking Station Dual Monitor - 2x HDMI ports let you easily connect two HDMI monitors, even if your computer only supports one output like an M1, M2, or M3 Mac. Supports resolutions up to 1920x1200; lower resolutions such 1080p (1920x1080) are also supported
- Compatibility - Universal docking station for laptop compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8.x, and 7 systems, macOS 10.14+ (Driver Required), and ChromeOS 100+. Plug and play driver installation via Windows Update. Manual driver installation required on Mac. Linux not supported. Dock does not charge host PC
- Recommended Use - For use with web and productivity software at home or the office. Not recommended for gaming. DisplayPort connections not supported. This USB C dock does not support HDCP, will not playback encrypted or copy-protected content
- 2-Year Coverage, Lifetime Support - Every Plugable product, including this docking station, is covered against defects for 2 years and comes with lifetime support. If you ever have questions, contact our North American-based team - even before purchase
- 12-in-1 Expansion - With a compatible USB-C, USB4 or Thunderbolt laptop running Windows, macOS, or ChromeOS, this laptop docking station can charge your device, connect up to 3 HDMI monitors while providing Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm combo audio jack, and 6x USB 3.0 ports
- Triple Display Docking Station - This USB C docking station features 3 HDMI video outputs including 1x HDMI output capable of 4K 30Hz, and 2x HDMI outputs capable of 1080p 60Hz using DisplayLink USB Graphics Technology. Supports 3 extended displays even on systems that would otherwise support 1, like Apple M1, M2, M3, and M4 systems
- USB-C Features - Along with DisplayLink graphics technology, this triple monitor docking station supports native USB-C video path ("Alt Mode”) for an external display at the full native performance of your system's graphics processor, and USB-C Power Delivery to charge the connected system
- Compatibility - Compatible with USB Type-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt Macs (macOS 11 and newer, with driver installation), Windows , ChromeOS 100 and newer, and other laptops which support USB-C Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Not supported with Linux. HDCP is not supported.
- 2-Year Coverage, Lifetime Support - Every Plugable product, including this USB C docking station, is covered against defects for 2 years and comes with lifetime support. If you ever have questions, contact our North American-based team - even before purchase
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 50 million+ powered by our leading technology.
- Massive Expansion: Equipped with a USB C PD-IN charging port, 2 USB-A data ports, 2 HDMI ports, an Ethernet port, and a microSD/SD card reader, giving you an incredible range of functions—all from a single USB-C port.
- Dual HDMI Display: Stream or mirror content to a single device in stunning 4K@60Hz, or hook up two displays to both HDMI ports in 4K@30Hz. Note: For macOS, the display on both external monitors will be identical.
- Power Delivery Compatible: Compatible with USB-C Power Delivery to provide high-speed pass-through charging up to 85W. Please note: 100W PD wall charger and USB-C to C cable required.
- Compatibility: Supports USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt connections. Compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- USB C Docking Station 15 IN 1: With this USB C hub multiple adapter you can easily extend your laptop from one type c/thunderbolt 3 port into 14 ports, you get 2*4K@60Hz HDMI, 8K@30HZ / 4K@144HZ DP, turn off button, compatible and working detection lamp, 3*USB 3.0 ports, USB C 3.0 port, 2*USB 2.0 ports, 100W USB C PD Port, 1Gbps Gigabit Ethernet, SD/Micro SD card readers and 3.5mm Mic/audio. USB C to dual HDMI Adapter widely applicable for Dell XPS13/15, Dell Latitude 13 7000/ E7370, etc.
- 4K Dual Monitor&Triple Display: The docking Station dual monitor can easily to achieve dual-monitor and triple-monitor displays for Windows.Single use HDMI max up to 4K@60Hz,DP up to 8K@30Hz(DP1.4). When connect 2 displays,the resolution will be dual 4K@60Hz(DP1.4). Display output will be dual 4K@60Hz and 4K@30Hz when triple display(DP1.4) .When connecting 3 monitors and only two monitors are displayed,please plug in the DP port first,then plug in the 2 HDMI ports.Mac OS ONLY Support Mirror Mode
- Turn Off Button & Detection Lamp: The docking station 3 monitors have the wake up/turn off display button. One-click switching of monitors, no complicated operations toplug and unplug, while protecting your privacy. The compatible and working detection lights let you identify at a glance whether the usb c dock is compatible with your laptop. When both lights are on, the laptop docking station is compatible with your laptop and can work properly. NOTE: you need an HDMI to HDMI or a DP to DP cable
- PD Charging Port & Gigabit Ethernet & Audio/Mic: This computer docking stationdual hdmi with power delivery support 100W PD Charging. This usb c docking will occupy 13W power to work, so only 87W power for laptop charging. The dual monitor docking station supports 10/100/1000BASE-T Lan networks, just plug in an ethernet cable, you can enjoy the ultra-fast gigabyte ethernet speed and the reliability of a wired connection directly. Also, this thunderbolt dock have a 3.5mm Mic/Audio(2 in 1) port for you to put in your wired headset, so that you can enjoy music without disturbing others
- USB 3.0 Hub with Super Speed Data Transfer: This HP Docking Station comes with 3 usb 3.0 ports and one usb c port, speed up to 5Gbps, allows you transfer files in seconds from your usb flash driver, usb/usb c hard disks. In addition, you can connect the keyboard or mouse without any lag via 2 USB 2.0 ports. Note: The USB C dongle only 1 HDD/SSD can be connected at the same time. USB C 3.0 port supports data transfer only
- 【120Hz USB C to HDMI Adapter】Simply connect docking station with the HDMI port and you can enjoy Ultra HD audio instantly(Single Display Up to 4K@120Hz). Hdmi splitter for dual monitors support mirror or extend mode with crystal clear 3D visual and high quality video experience through 2 HDMI ports. You can do different project on different monitors which provide you more space for work, good for home office.
- 【Stable 1000Mbps Ethernet】USB to ethernet adapter provides faster data transfers and better security than most Wi-Fi connections; Simply Plug the usb c hub to your laptop and plug in an ethernet cable, you will enjoy an ultra-fast surfing feeling. Baseus usb docking station which is the Ideal solution for unstable Wi-Fi or a failed network card.
- 【Fast Power Delivering Hub】The USB C multiport adapter equipped with one type-C charging port for connecting extra power supply which supports charging your laptop. No need to worry about losing laptop's power when USB C docking station is fully loaded. Please note: The hub itself consumes 15W of power. When you use a 100W charger, the maximum power transmitted to the computer is 85W.
- 【Advance USB C Card Reader】The laptop docking station dual monitor with light and compact body also insert SD and TF slots. You can transfer photos to your laptop/phones with highest speed up to 104MB/s and you can post photos to ins/Youtube/Facebook in the next second. Perfect for Photographer or Designer or Video editor,etc.
- 【Effortless Data Transfer】Built in 2*USB3.0 + 1*USB2.0 Ports, which fulfill high speed rates data transfer and wide range of applications at the same time. USB 3.0 ports support up to 5Gbps transmission speed rates, fast enough to transfer HD movie in seconds. And usb c adapter comes with a USB 2.0 port, perfect to connect a keyboard, mouse or other USB A connected peripherals without any lag.
- 14-in-1: Get 14 connectivity options ranging from two 4K HDMI ports, a 1080p VGA port, a 5 Gbps USB-C port, a 100W USB-C PD-IN port, five USB-A ports, a 1 Gbps Ethernet port, an SD / micro SD slot, and an AUX port for all your peripheral needs.
- Extended View with Triple Display: Connect and stream across three monitors simultaneously in 4K via two HDMI ports and a 1080p VGA port, ideal for multitaskers. Note: For macOS, the display on external monitors will be identical.
- Transfer Files at Super Speeds: Rely on the USB-A and USB-C ports for instant transfers of your multimedia and files at impressive 5 Gbps speeds.
- 80W Pass-Through Charging: The hub's 80W seamless charging solution ensures your devices receive constant power, letting you work and play without interruptions. (Note: Wall charger not included)
- Compatibility: Supports USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt connections. Compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- Space-Saving Design - If you want to turn your laptop into a desktop-like setup and have limited desk space, you should consider our docking station dual hdmi stand. Its sleek design not only keeps your workspace clutter-free but also provides more comfortable viewing for professionals seeking efficient multitasking and enhanced display capabilities. Suitable for daily use in office,home office, school, or any routine tasks
- Dual 4K@60Hz Display for Enhanced Visuals-Enhance your workflow with 2x 4K HDMI ports for ultra-high-definition visuals. Whether you’re multitasking, editing graphics, or enjoying movies, this dual display docking station ensures sharp, vibrant images for an immersive viewing experience that boosts productivity and entertainment alike
- 100W Power Supply Included-The 100W power supply provides reliable charging for laptops, while the fast 87W charging keeps your devices topped up even during heavy use. You can Keeps your laptop running efficiently even when multiple peripherals are connected
- 6 USB ports and Ethernet Port-Equipped with 6 USB ports, including both USB-C and USB-A options for versatile connectivity.Perfect for connecting multiple peripherals, such as external drives, keyboards, mice, and other accessories.The Ethernet port ensures a stable, high-speed wired internet connection, providing reliability over Wi-Fi
- Widely Compatibility: USB C docking station dual hdmi monitor is compatible with Windows 10 or later, ChromeOS 100.x or later, with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C. USB C hub multiport adapter 2 hdmi ports works seamlessly with models like the HP ProBook / EliteBook / Spectre x360 series, Dell XPS / Latitude series. Not for macOS
- Docking Station 14 in 1:This usb c docking station could extend your laptop from one usb c/thunderbolt 3/4/type c port into 14 ports:2 HDMI port(4K),Display Port(4K),100W USB C Power Delivery port,Ethernet(1Gbps), 1 USB C port and 2 USB A 3.1 ports(10Gbps), 1 USB C 2.0 and 2 USB 2.0(480Mbps),SD/Micro SD card reader,and 3.5mm Mic/audio.NOTE: Not all USB-C device is compatible with the hub,the incompatible device cannot use theHDMI orDP of this usb c dock
- Ultra High-definition 4K Dual Monitor Output and Triple Displays: This docking station dual monitor support dual monitor and triple displays for Windows. While single use HDMI 1 port or displayport resolution up to 4K@60Hz, single use HDMI2 resolution up to 4K@30Hz. Dual monitors will be 4K@30Hz and 1080P@60Hz(DP1.4). Triple monitors will be 1080P(DP1.4). Note: MacBook laptops only support same image on external monitors
- Super Speed Data Transfer: Laptop docking station equipped with USB C port & 2USB A 3.1 ports(speed up to 10Gbps) that allows you transfer files in seconds from your usb flash driver,usb/usb c hard disks.Provide USB C 2.0 and 2 USB A 2.0 ports(speed up to 480Mbps),USB A 2.0 special for connecting to mouse without any lags.And USB C to SD/TF card reader for you conveniently browse photos or videos on your USB-C devices and transfer photos in seconds to your laptop
- USB C Power Delivery 100W Charging Port & Gigabit Ethernet: This docking station for lenovo support power input up to 100W, safe power out (charging) is limited to 87W. NOTE: Charging cable and adapter are not included.And please make sure your laptop's USB C port support Power Delivery protocol.Also this dell docking station support 10/100/1000BASE-T Lan networks,provide you with a stable and reliable wired Ethernet.Plug and play. This usb c hub have 3.5mm Mic/Audio jack for your wired headset
- Strong Compatibility: This usb c dock dongle hub multiport adapter compatible with all laptops with thunderbolt3/4/usb-c/type c(with vidieo output function ), such as Dell Latitude 5420,5430,5520,5530,7530,7420,7480,7400,Dell Inspiron,Vostro,XPS 13/15/17;HP Elitebook Zbook g7,g8, Probook;Lenovo Thinkpad, t14/s,t490,Yoga;Surface Pro 8/7/X/Go/Laptop 3,etc. This usb c laptop dock hub multiple monitors Not Support Using Converter
Best Laptop Docking Stations Buying Guide
Before choosing the best laptop docking station you should consider following options:
1. Multiple Monitor Support: Does the docking station support multiple monitors? If so, how many?
If your laptop supports up to three monitors, look for a docking station that supports three or more. If your laptop supports up to two monitors, look for a docking station that supports two or more.
Similarly, if your laptop supports one or two monitors, look for a docking station that supports one or two.
2. Display Connectivity: What kind of connections does the docking station support for connecting displays?
You will find docking stations with different types of display connectors. Some docking stations support DVI and HDMI connections, while others support DP connections.
You can get a docking station with multiple display connectors, or one with just one or two display connectors.
You should choose a docking station with the display connectors that your monitor supports.
3. Display Resolution Support: The resolution of the display determines the effective desktop real estate.
The higher the resolution, the larger the effective desktop real estate.
The effective desktop real estate determines how many windows you can have open at the same time without crowding the screen.
The higher the resolution, the more windows you can have open at the same time.
Thus, you should get a docking station that supports a higher resolution if you need multiple displays.
4. USB Connectivity: How many USB ports does the docking station support?
Some docking stations have multiple USB ports, while others have just one or two USB ports.
USB ports come in handy for connecting external drives and other peripherals. If your laptop supports only one or two USB ports, look for a docking station with more USB ports.
What else you should know about laptop docking stations
1. What are laptop docking stations?
Laptop docking stations are devices that are used to connect a laptop to other devices, such as a monitor, printer, or keyboard. They typically include multiple ports, such as USB, HDMI, and Ethernet, which allow the laptop to be connected to multiple devices at once.
2. What are the benefits of using a laptop docking station?
There are many benefits of using a laptop docking station. Some of these benefits include:
1. Increased Productivity: A laptop docking station can increase your productivity by giving you easier access to all of your peripherals. When your laptop is docked, you can have quick and easy access to things like an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse. This can help you get your work done faster and more efficiently.
2. More Connectivity Options: A docking station also gives you more connectivity options. With more ports and connections, you can connect your laptop to more devices and peripherals. This can be very helpful if you need to use multiple monitors or connect to multiple devices.
3. Better Ergonomics: A laptop docking station can also help you with your ergonomics. When your laptop is docked, it can be positioned at a better angle for your viewing and typing comfort. This can help reduce strain on your neck and back.
4. Protection for Your Laptop: A docking station can also help protect your laptop from being damaged. When your laptop is docked, it is less likely to be dropped or knocked over. This can help keep your laptop in good condition and prevent costly repairs.
3. What are the best laptop docking stations?
The best laptop docking stations are those that provide the most ports and the best connectivity.
4. What are the different types of laptop docking stations?
Docking stations for laptops are devices that allow a laptop to connect to additional peripherals, such as a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and printer. They typically include additional ports, such as USB and Ethernet, and may offer charging capabilities. Some docking stations are designed for specific laptop models, while others are universal.
5. How do laptop docking stations work?
A laptop docking station is a piece of hardware that allows a laptop to connect to additional peripherals, such as a monitor, mouse, and keyboard. The docking station typically has multiple ports that the laptop can connect to, and it also provides power to the laptop.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best laptop docking stations. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best laptop docking stations will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.