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
- 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.
- 12-in-1 Expansion: Compatible with USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt laptops on Windows, macOS, or ChromeOS, this docking station charges your device, connects up to 3 HDMI monitors, offers Gigabit Ethernet, a 3.5mm combo audio jack, and 6 USB 3.0 ports
- Triple Display Docking Station: Features 3 HDMI video outputs, including 1x 4K 30Hz HDMI output and 2x 1080p 60Hz HDMI outputs using DisplayLink USB Graphics Technology, supporting 3 extended displays even on systems like Apple M1, M2, and M3
- USB-C Features: Supports DisplayLink graphics technology and native USB-C video path ("Alt Mode”) for external display at full native performance, along with USB-C Power Delivery for charging the connected system
- Compatibility: Works with USB Type-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt Macs (macOS 11 and newer with driver installation), Windows, ChromeOS 100 and newer, and laptops supporting USB-C Alt Mode and Power Delivery; Not compatible with Linux; HDCP not supported
- Enhance Your Productivity: Transform your workspace with seamless connectivity and multiple display options, ideal for professionals needing efficient multitasking and enhanced workflow
- 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 is compatible with Windows 11, 10, 8.x, and 7 systems, macOS 10.14+, 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
- Flexible Expandability: Featuring a hybrid 2-in-1 USB 3.0 and USB-C cable, a single connection from a host PC to this USB dock provides dual HDMI video outputs, wired Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm Headphone and Microphone jacks, two USB 3.0 ports, and four USB 2.0 ports. TAA-compliant
- Dual HD Monitors: Supports dual HDMI displays up to 1920x1200 @ 60Hz refresh rate. Capable of 2560x1440 @ 50Hz with a single HDMI display
- Compatibility: Universal compatibility with Windows 11, 10, 8.x and 7, macOS 10.14 or later, and ChromeOS 100 or later; plug and play driver installation via Windows Update; manual driver installation on macOS, see gallery video for software install walkthrough; does not charge host PC; includes its own power adapter so it won't drain your laptop's battery
- For Best Results: Ideal for web and productivity software usage; not recommended for gaming; not supported: some non-DisplayLink adapters, DisplayPort connections, HDCP - will not playback encrypted or copy-protected content
- Enhance Your Productivity: Transform your workspace with seamless connectivity and multiple display options for efficient work and multimedia experiences
- [8 in 1 USB C Hub Dual HDMI] Transform your laptop with this latest upgrade Selore 8-in-1 dual monitor hub featuring dual 4K60HZ HDMI ports, a 100W PD charging port, a USB-C port up to 5Gbps, two USB 3.0 ports up to 5Gbps and TF/SD card slot up to 104 Mbps. Versatile and all-in-one hdmi adapter for dual monitors,suitable for home and office use for effective work
- [Dual Monitors Made Easy] With our advanced intelligent technology, the 2 HDMI to USB C adapter provides temperature control and stable performance. Boost productivity with our usb c dual hdmi supporting SST or MST mode under Windows Laptop for extending two monitors simultaneously. Please note: Only mirror(SST) mode (identical screens of external monitors) is supported on MacOS system,Extended mode(MST) is not supported.Enjoy breathtaking 4K60Hz resolution (DP1.4 Laptop) with astonishing clarity for a truly thrilling and immersive working experience
- [Speedy charging 100W] This dual hdmi adapter for 2 monitors with a USB-C power delivery port(near the SD/TF) can charge your laptop anytime; hdmi hub for multiple monitors input 100W, output 87W. Please Note: Power charger & charging cable is not included in the package. Note:The second USB C port is only for data transfer
- [Fast Speed USB C Dock] 1xUSB C 3.0 &2xUSB A 3.0 port not only allows you quick transfer of data with a speed up to 5Gbps,but also supports to connect to peripheral devices such as mouse keyboards.USB C to SD/TF card reader(speed up to 104Mbs) allows you to easily browse and copy photos and videos from your cameras, and quickly share your beautiful moments
- [Universal Compatibility] Our plug-and-play docking station with 2 HDMI ports is compatible with a wide range of USB C or Thunderbolt 3/4 laptops,including MacBook Pro/Air(Only Support Mirror mode),Dell XPS13/15/17,Dell Latitude 5420,5430,5520,5530,7530,7420,7480,7400, Lenovo Yoga 720/910/920/930,Surface 7/8/9,Samsung Galaxy S9/S9+,and more. Ideal for home and office use, maximizing productivity and efficiency
- 2 x USB 2.0 to 4 pin USB Type A, 1 x headphone input and output 3.5 millimeter. System Requirements(OS)-Microsoft Windows XP / 7 / 8 / 8.1 / 10 (32/64 bits) .Video Resolution : MAX at 60Hz - 2048 x 1152.Operating Temperature : Maximum operating temperature is 40°C
- 3 x super speed USB 3.0 - 9 pin USB type A, 1 x network - RJ-45. Designed for Inspiron 15 7567 Gaming, 5459; Latitude 13 7350, 3350, E5270, E5460, E5470, E5570, E7270, E7470; XPS 13 (9343)
- 1 x display/video: DisplayPort output : 20 pin DisplayPort, super speed cable
- 2 x display/video: HDMI: 19 pin HDMI type A, 1x HDMI DVI adapter included
- Allow for a triple monitor setup, see compatible Dell models in the description
- [Compatible Devices] - Notebook, Monitors, Laptops, Desktops / For Elite x2 G4; Elite Book 735 G6, 745 G6, 830 G6, 850 G6; Elite Book x360 1040 G6; mobile thin Client MT45; Pro Book 445R G6, 640 G5, 650 G5
- 4.8 in x 4.8 in x 1.8 in; 23.98 oz + Gigabit Ethernet; Power Adapter 120 Watt, Docking Station for HP Laptop Docking Station, Thunderbolt, Wired
- [Ports] - 1 x powered USB 3.0 1 x USB-C (power port) USB-C 1 x Audio 1 x Super speed USB 3.0 1 x network 2 x Display/ video - DisplayPort 1 x Display/ video – HDMI
- [Universal Compatibility] - Our HP universal docking station is designed for HP and non-HP USB-C, Thunderbolt enabled laptops with a single-cable solution for up to three displays. The compact design saves desk space with advanced network management and efficient firmware updates.
- [Package Includes] - HP G5 Docking Station 5TW10AA#ABB, 1x USB Type-C Cable, 1x HDMI Cable, 1x Displayport Cable, Original HP 120W Power Adapter, Microfiber Cloth
- [OS Compatibility] - Enhance your coworking spaces with Dell Universal dock – UD22 consistent support across different systems. Connect to any USB-C notebook and run any operating system / For Windows, Ubuntu-OS, macOS, ChromeOS
- [Monitor & Display Support] - Maximize productivity with the highest number of displays supported on a dell docking station dual monitor, enabling connection of up to four 4K (60Hz) monitors via DisplayLink drivers.
- [Ports] - 2 x display / video - DisplayPort - 20 pin DisplayPort (1.2), 1 x display / video - HDMI, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2/DisplayPort, 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 with PowerShare, 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 1 x USB-C with PowerShare, 1 x network - RJ-45
- [Power Supply & Interfaces] - Power Adapter 130 Watt AC / USB, USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort. Cable included: 1x SuperSpeed USB-C cable (2.6 feet)
- [Package Includes] – Dell UD22 Docking Station, Dell 130W Power Adapter, 1x USB Type-C Cable, 1x HDMI Cable, 1x Display Port Cable, Microfiber Cloth
- Immersive 4K Display Support: With three 4K HDMI/DP ports, laptop docking station empowers users to enjoy crystal-clear visuals across three monitors simultaneously, enhancing productivity and providing an immersive viewing experience for multimedia content creation, gaming, and professional tasks.
- High-Speed Data Transfer: Equipped with 3 USB-A 3.0 ports and 2 USB-C 3.0 ports, users can enjoy lightning-fast data transfer rates for quick and efficient file sharing between devices. And 2 USB-A 2.0 ports accommodate more devices and peripherals.
- Reliable Network Connectivity: Incorporating a Gigabit Ethernet port, Usb c docking station ensures stable and high-speed wired internet connections, ideal for tasks requiring low latency and reliable network access, such as video conferencing, online gaming, and large file transfers.
- Convenient Power Delivery: The inclusion of a 100W Power Delivery (PD Input) port ensures fast and efficient charging for compatible devices, reducing downtime and keeping users powered throughout their workday. Note:The included 36W adapter only powers the docking station. If laptop needs to be charged, an additional charger and cable must be connected to the PD port.
- Versatile Detachable Stand: Usb c dock features a detachable stand, allowing users the flexibility to choose between two placement options, optimizing desk space while maintaining a sleek and professional aesthetic.
- Expandability—This Plugable USB C docking station dual monitor supports dual 4K displays with either HDMI or DisplayPort, Gigabit Ethernet, audio input/output and six USB 3.0 ports
- Dual 4K Displays—Laptop dock supports up to 4K on two independent displays using either DisplayPort 1.2 or HDMI 2.0, also supports most common resolutions including 3840x1080, 2560x1440, 1080p and more
- System Requirements—Universal docking station is compatible with modern Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS systems with USB 3.0 Type-A or Type-C ports with DisplayLink USB Graphics driver installed. Laptop docking stations recommended hardware specifications can be found in the listing below
- Compatibility—For Windows 11, 10, 8.x, and 7, macOS 10.14+ with driver installation, and ChromeOS 100.x or later. Linux/Unix not supported. USB docking station does not charge the host computer; includes its own power adapter so it won't drain your laptop's battery. Suggested use: web and productivity software; not recommended: gaming, video playback, 2D/3D graphic tools
- 2-Year Coverage, Lifetime Support—Every Plugable product, including this universal laptop 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
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.