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With the amount of tech accessories we use constantly increasing, and the built-in ports of laptops disappearing, docking stations are quickly becoming a must-have accessory. These are ideal for everyone, but especially those who are constantly on the move and require multiple devices for their daily work. Instead of relying on the limited ports of your PC, a docking station instantly provides multiple spots for things like USB, HDMI, and Ethernet, allowing you to connect your laptop to a variety of external devices. We’ve tried these out and put together a guide of what to check out when getting one for yourself.
Docking Station Buying Guide
From their compatibility to the included ports, here’s what to know about finding the best docking station for you.
Compatibility: The first and most important factor to consider is compatibility with your laptop. Make sure that the docking station you purchase is going to work with your laptop’s operating system and the type of ports it has. Newer docking stations often have a USB-C connection, while older laptops don’t, meaning you’d need to buy a converter dongle, so avoid that if possible.
Ports: Consider the number of ports you need and the type of devices you want to connect to your laptop. A docking station with multiple USB ports is a must, and you may also want to consider having an HDMI port for a large display, an Ethernet port for a wired network connection, and a headphone jack for audio. Plus it’s always good to leave a few spots open for what you might add in the future.
Display Resolution: If you plan on using a docking station to connect to an external display, take a look at the resolution capabilities. A docking station with a high display resolution will provide a clearer and more detailed image on your external monitor, and this one’s especially important for the gamers looking to create a multiple-monitor setup.
Size and Design: The size and design of a docking station are important factors to look at – both how it’s going to fit into your home, and especially if you plan on taking it with you on the go. A small and compact docking station is easy to carry and won’t take up too much space on your desk, but can limit the number of port options it provides. Also if you have a laptop that requires a lot of power to charge, you should consider a docking station that has power delivery. Power delivery provides more juice to your laptop in a shorter time, allowing it to fuel up faster.
Price: Docking stations are available at different price points, and the price you pay will depend on the features you need. But, overall, we highly suggest getting one. A docking station is quickly shifting from a bonus luxury to a must-have for everyone, and it’s clear to see why. These significantly improve your productivity, while keeping everything charged and readily accessible (and organized too).
What Are the Best Docking Stations?
After a round of testing, here are our picks for the best docking stations for a variety of desk setups.
