Universal docking stations are one of the best desk accessories that can greatly improve the productivity and overall enjoyment of your setup. By default, many of the best gaming laptops feature a limited number of ports and display connections, especially when compared to desktop PC alternatives. This often leads to the feeling of reduced freedom or a physically limited workspace that becomes increasingly evident while working or gaming on these devices. Luckily, laptop docking stations offer a simple, cost-efficient solution to elevate and improve your portable gaming setup to an impressive home workstation, especially when used in combination with some of the best desks available today.
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Although these devices may seem fantastic at first glance, laptop docking stations come in a wide range of styles and offer a near-limitless combination of ports and various other add-ons. When attempting to choose the best laptop docking station for you and your set-up, these endless options may lead to paralysis in decision-making. If you find yourself in a similar situation, don't worry! Game ZXC has carefully curated a list of some of the best universal laptop docking stations to make the process of choosing one easy and painless.
Game ZXC's Picks For The Best Laptop Docking Stations
Dell USB 3.0 Ultra HD/4K Triple Display Docking Station
The Dell Universal Docking Station is a great way to expand the limitations of your device for both work and gaming. This docking station features two HDMI ports and one Display Port that supports up to 60 Hz of 4K video resolution. This docking station is also great for setups with various peripherals and USB-powered devices, as it boasts three ultra-fast USB 3.0 ports, and two standard USB 2.0 ports.
- Brand
- Dell
- Compatability
- Dell Notebooks/ Tablet PC
- Color
- Black
- Lightweight and portable
- 5 USB Ports
- Three 4K display outputs
- A bit expensive
- No SD card readers
The Dell Laptop Docking Station presents a well-rounded option that balances flexibility with value, making it a great option that suits the average person. This lightweight docking station can easily be tucked into a backpack or laptop sleeve for on-the-go productivity. One of the key features of this docking station that needs to be highlighted is the options for display, which allows an individual to upgrade their laptop's screen into a triple 4K gaming monitor setup.
In addition to high-resolution 60 Hz gaming, the Dell docking station features an impressive variety of ports to further expand the functionality of your laptop. This laptop docking station features three USB 3.0 ports and two USB 2.0 ports, as well as one USB Type-A style port, making it a great solution for those who utilize many USB-powered peripherals, such as wired gaming mice or speakers. Furthermore, users can utilize the 3.5 millimeter headphone input and output port as well as the RJ45 Ethernet port, which is the standard connector associated with the best ethernet cables.
If you're looking for a low-risk addition to your gaming laptop or tablet, the Dell laptop docking station stands as a balanced choice that suits a wide variety of users.
HP USB-C Dock G5
The HP Dock G5 is a sleek, professional laptop docking station that doesn't take up a lot of precious real estate on your desk. This docking station is about 5 x 5 inches in length and width, making it a subtle addition to any workspace. Despite being compact, this universal docking station still comes packed with ample ports to expand the productivity of your laptop, including two display ports, one HDMI port, four USB ports, and one RJ45 Ethernet port.
- Color
- Black
- Brand
- HP
- Compatability
- Notebook
- Mess-Free connection using one USB-C cable
- Compact, suitable for small desks
- Two Display Ports
- Above $100
- Connection Issues
Those working or playing at even the best small gaming desks understand the necessity of keeping things tidy and devices compact. Compared to many other options on this list, which tend to present a large, rectangular design that takes up a considerable amount of desk space, the HP Dock G5 boasts a sleek design that keeps things compact. This square-shaped docking station comes equipped with several ports to expand the functionality of your gaming laptop, including two display ports, one HDMI port, one RJ45 Ethernet port, and four total USB ports. This dock can simply be plugged into the system by utilizing a single USB-C cable, which further helps to keep things tidy.
If desk space is a major concern of yours, or if you're looking for a compact docking station that can easily be brought alongside you during all of your travels, then the HP Dock G5 would make a great addition to expand the capabilities of your laptop computer.
Laptop Docking Station and 360° Rotatable Laptop Stand
This docking station presents a unique, all-in-one product that functions as both a rotating laptop stand and a complete universal docking station. For those who spend a lot of time working at home or at the office, this docking station may prove to be a worthwhile investment to get the most out of your device. As a docking station, this device provides individuals with a wide assortment of USB ports. In addition, this docking station comes with one HDMI port, one Ethernet port, and an SD/TF card reader.
- Color
- Silver
- Brand
- HC
- Compatability
- Laptops up to 15.6 inches
- Under $100
- 2-in-1 laptop stand and dock
- SD Card reader included
- Many USB ports
- Takes up a considerable amount of space
- Minimal display ports
This docking station by HC presents a unique combination that merges the flexibility associated with both laptop docking stations and laptop stands. Those who frequently work, browse, or game in a stationary setting will likely benefit most from this product. The laptop stand is fully customizable, featuring 360 degrees of rotation and up to 18 lbs of weight capacity. In addition, the laptop stand can be cleanly folded up and out of the way whenever it's not in use.
The arm of the laptop stand acts as a laptop docking station, equipped with a generous number of USB ports to expand your at-home setup. This docking station boasts two USB Type-C ports, one USB 3.0 port, one USB PD port, and two USB 2.0 ports. In addition, this docking station comes with a 3.5mm audio port, an Ethernet port, and an SD/TF Card reader. If you value an efficient, stationary workspace for your laptop computer, then this docking station by HC is guaranteed to be a valuable asset to add to your desk space.
Anker 675 USB-C Docking Station
The Anker 675 Docking Station features a combination of functional designs to enhance your workspace. Designed to function as a monitor stand and workspace organizer, this docking station features a built-in wireless charging pad and an assortment of ports to extend the flexibility of your laptop computer. The Anker 675 is prominent for its clever use of built-in cable management, eliminating much of the visible cable clutter associated with docking stations.
- Color
- Grey
- Brand
- Anker
- Compatability
- USB-C Devices
- Includes wireless charging pad
- Built-in cable management
- Functions as a monitor stand
- Expensive
- Minimal display connections
- Not suitable for travel
The Anker 675 USB-C Docking Station presents itself as another promising addition to most stationary workspaces. This docking station combines several common desk accessories into one advantageous device; featuring the design of a monitor stand, wireless charging pad, and, of course, a laptop docking station. Although this docking station is considerably more expensive than other options on this list, the price feels justified concerning the amount of features integrated into this innovative device.
Made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy, this docking station features a wide range of ports to expand the versatility of your device. These ports include two USB-C ports, two USB Type-A ports, one HDMI port, one 3.5mm audio jack, and one Ethernet port. The Anker 675 also features an SD and micro SD card reader, which proves to be an appreciated addition for photographers and videographers. If you're after an aesthetically appealing addition to your daily workspace that adds an incredible amount of function to your laptop computer, then the Anker 675 is an advantageous option.
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Anker 553 USB-C Hub, 8-in-1 USB C Dock
The Anker 553 is a quick plug and play addition to your laptop computer that sells for a great price without compromising on quality. Utilizing a USB-C connection, this universal docking station can be used with most Windows and MacOS devices. This docking station features eight added connections to upgrade your system, including two USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C port, one Ethernet port, two HDMI ports, and SD card and microSD card readers.
- Color
- Grey
- Brand
- Anker
- Compatability
- USB-C Devices
- Small and portable
- SD/microSD card reader
- Under $70
- Limited number of USB ports
The Anker 553 is an approachable alternative that is well suited to the average person seeking a painless upgrade to their laptop. This docking station is especially valuable for those who are still unsure of what ports might suit their workspace best, as the Anker 553 offers a diverse selection of ports that easily suit the needs of any individual. This, among other things, makes the Anker 553 a relatively straightforward addition to nearly any workspace.
The number and variety of ports included leads this device to maintain a portable and lightweight body, while still being varied enough to prove itself useful on several occasions. Users will find that this device contains two USB 3.0 ports, which is enough for a wired gaming mouse and a set of speakers, as well as one additional USB-C port. This docking station also does an excellent job at enhancing the gaming experience, as this device offers an Ethernet port to increase internet speeds, as well as two 4K HDMI ports to significantly improve the visual fidelity of your favorite games.
USB C Docking Station
The Docking Station by Selore stands as a fantastic deal for price-conscious buyers, offering performance and versatility that rivals other, more expensive, alternatives. For under $45, users can receive a significant upgrade to their laptop with this docking station that includes two 4K@60Hz HDMI ports, two USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C port, one USB PD 3.0 port, and an SD/microSD card reader.
- Color
- Grey
- Brand
- Selore
- Compatability
- USB C devices
- Small and lightweight
- Under $50
- Two 4K HDMI Ports
- Minimal USB ports
- No Ethernet port
If you are after a functional yet affordable laptop docking station that does what it needs to, and does it well, then this docking station by Selore should be a considerable option. This docking station is packed with ports to expand the commonly used features of your laptop computer, all for under $45.
This docking station allows you to expand your gaming laptop to a dual monitor setup by utilizing two high-resolution 4K HDMI ports. In addition, this docking station can be used to expand the USB ports on your laptop, as it comes ready with two USB 3.0 ports and one USB Type-C port. This docking station also includes a USB PD (Power Delivery) 3.0 port, which can be used to charge mobile devices at some of the fastest speeds available. It should be noted that this docking station does not feature an Ethernet port, which may be a deciding factor among some individuals. However, if you're after a budget-friendly docking station that can easily be added to nearly any setup, then the laptop docking station by Selore is a quality choice.
How To Choose The Best Laptop Docking Stations
Deciding on the best laptop docking station may seem to be a tiresome decision, especially when you consider the varied selection of products available today. Luckily, there are a few points in the decision-making process that can be highlighted to make the choice an easy one. Before deciding on the best laptop docking station for you, remember to consider these key factors:
- Desk space: Not all desk spaces are created equal. It is important to evaluate the amount of free space you have at your desk in order to consider what size docking station might suit you best. Those pressed for surface area might find it necessary to stick with a low-profile, compact laptop docking station. If you are blessed with significant desk space, however, it may be a better overall investment to purchase a stationary docking station that doubles as a monitor stand, tablet holder, or laptop stand.
- Device compatibility: One of the most important factors to consider is device compatibility. After all, it would be rather unfortunate to set up your newest addition to your gaming workstation only to find that you have nowhere to plug it into on your laptop. Although a large majority of laptop docking stations utilize USB-C or Thunderbolt cables to power the connection to the device, this tends to vary depending on the model. Before making a purchase, it is always important to validate compatibility with your device.
- Ports: Although it might be obvious, ports are one of the most defining features that can drive a decision when purchasing a laptop docking station. Although there is a significant amount of overlap across models, most laptop docking stations feature a unique collection of ports. It is up to you to decide the importance of certain ports, and how many you need. For example, if you want to upgrade your setup to account for three monitors, then it is vital to choose a docking station that supports at least three display outputs. Likewise, it is important to consider the number of USB ports you will need to get the most out of your peripherals.
- Value & additional features: Generally speaking, most laptop docking stations will not be a considerable investment. There is a solid variety of these devices that can be purchased for under $75, sometimes even cheaper if you are willing to sacrifice functionality. However, if you are interested in a laptop docking station that boasts a handful of impressive add-ons or other unique features, then it is normal for the price to increase. Laptop docking stations found at the premium end of the spectrum offer multifaceted designs that include things like wireless charging pads or monitor/laptop stands.
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FAQ
Q: What does a docking station do for a laptop?
A docking station is a gadget that expands upon a laptop's usability by connecting directly to the device, typically through a USB-C connection. A docking station offers a greater selection of ports, often adding Ethernet, USB, or display ports.
Q: Are docking stations worth it?
If you are someone who frequently uses your laptop in place of a desktop PC, then yes, docking stations are well worth it. Docking stations add the ability to utilize additional monitors and peripherals, much like desktop PCs.
Q: Will a docking station work with any laptop?
As long as the laptop meets the expectations for compatibility with the device (typically through a USB-C or Thunderbolt connection), then there should be no issues.