19 Recommended Docking Stations: Improve Work Efficiency with Central Management of Peripherals

19 Recommended Docking Stations: Improve Work Efficiency with Central Management of Peripherals

Have you ever had the trouble of running out of ports or having to disconnect and connect cables every time you have a meeting while using a laptop? A docking station can solve this problem. You can connect to a variety of peripheral devices while minimizing the hassle of cables.

This time, we will introduce recommended docking stations. We will also explain the types and how to choose one, so please try to find the one that is perfect for you.

What is a docking station?

A docking station is an item that allows you to expand the USB terminal into various interfaces. Basically, the feature is that you can connect it to your laptop with just one cable.

It can be used to compensate for the small number of ports on a laptop computer or to connect or remove a large number of peripheral devices at once, which can lead to improved work efficiency. This item is useful not only for use at work, but also for those who work from home or travel frequently.

What is the difference between a docking station and a USB hub?

The main difference between a docking station and a USB hub is the type of ports they have. While a USB hub only adds USB ports, a docking station expands to various interfaces such as HDMI, LAN ports, and SD card slots.

Another point is that the power supply method is different. USB hubs mainly supply power from a computer, but there are many models of docking stations that can be used by plugging them into a power adapter.

How to choose a docking station

Check the connection terminal suitable for your PC

Windows｜USB3.0 or higher recommended

When using a docking station with Windows, we recommend choosing a model that supports USB 3.0 or higher standards. The transfer speed of USB3.0 is 5Gbps. Data can be transferred at nearly 10 times the speed of USB 2.0.

Models that support the USB3.1 Gen 2 standard have also appeared. The USB3.1 Gen 2 standard is attractive because it achieves high-speed transfer of 10Gbps. Recommended for people who often exchange large amounts of data such as music and videos.

Mac｜Thunderbolt 4 (Type-C) recommended

When using a docking station with your Mac, we recommend choosing a model that supports Thunderbolt 4. The appeal of Thunderbolt 4 is that it has a high-speed bandwidth of 40Gbps. It is also compatible with other Thunderbolt devices.

Another point is that it supports dual 4K or single 8K video output. Additionally, you can display your laptop on the monitor while charging it.

If you want to expand your computer screen, check out models equipped with a “video output terminal”

If you want to expand your computer screen, choose a docking station with a video output terminal. Types of video output terminals include HDMI, DisplayPort, and VGA.

If you want a dual display, choose a model with two video output terminals, and if you want a triple display, choose a model with three video output terminals. Please note that relatively old monitors may only support VGA.

A stable connection is possible with a “wired LAN terminal”

One of the ports that is convenient to have on a docking station is the LAN port. Thin and compact notebook computers often do not have LAN ports, and wireless is the mainstream way to connect to the Internet.

If the model is equipped with a wired LAN terminal, you can connect to the Internet even if your accommodation only has wired LAN. Therefore, it is recommended for carrying on business trips and travel.

Another point of wired LAN is that unlike wireless connections such as Wi-Fi, the radio waves are less likely to become unstable. Since you can connect to the Internet stably, it is also useful when watching content from video distribution services or playing online games.

Check if it supports “fast charging”

If you are using a computer such as a Mac where the Type-C terminal plays the role of both expansion and charging, choose a model that supports the PD quick charging function. If you choose a model that supports quick charging, you can connect external devices while charging your computer, which is very convenient. Models compatible with Windows are also available.

It is important to check whether your computer supports PD quick charging. Also, check in advance whether it supports the number of watts required to charge your computer. If you go through a docking station, the main unit will consume several watts, so please check the actual output value.

When connecting storage, choose a standard with fast data transfer speeds

When connecting external storage such as an SD or HDD, choose a docking station that supports standards with fast data transfer speeds. Models with fast data transfer speeds allow you to smoothly exchange large amounts of data such as videos and music.

In addition, Thunderbolt 4 has a maximum transfer speed of 40Gbps, and USB 3.0 has a maximum transfer speed of 5Gbps. Please check the specifications carefully before purchasing.

If you are using a camera, it is convenient to have an SD card slot.

The SD card slot is also one of the ports you should check to see if it is installed. There are not many laptops that can read SD cards directly, so if you have the opportunity to edit or move data taken with a camera, check to see if it has an SD card slot.

Some models are equipped with a microSD card slot. This is useful when organizing data on a smartphone that uses a microSD card.

Recommended docking stations | Windows compatible models

Anker A8365NA1

A docking station that supports 5Gbps high-speed data transfer. You can quickly exchange large amounts of data such as videos and music. Additionally, it is equipped with a 4K/30Hz HDMI port, allowing you to enjoy video content on a large screen.

Equipped with a USB Type-C port that supports quick charging, this item is recommended for those looking for a model that can connect to external devices while charging.

Buffalo LUD-U3-CGD

A recommended mobile docking station that is easy to use on the go. Use by connecting to a laptop with a USB Type-C port. In addition to a USB Type-A port and a USB Type-C port, another point is that it is equipped with two HDMI/VGA video output terminals.

The main body size is compact at width 125 x depth 48 x height 17 mm. In addition, the direct-attached cable is designed to be short, approximately 30 cm, so you can use it without stress.

I-O Data US2C-HB2/PD

This model uses USB Type-C for the connection terminal with a computer. A docking station recommended for those who want to improve the lack of ports on their MacBook. It is characterized by supporting USB Power Delivery of up to 60W. If you prepare a separate power adapter, you can work while charging your laptop.

Another convenient point is that it is multi-OS compatible and can be used on a wide range of devices, including Windows and Chrome OS devices. Equipped with standard SD and microSD card readers. It is useful in a variety of situations, such as transferring photos and videos taken with a digital camera or smartphone to a computer or saving them to an external HDD.

ELECOM LGB-DHUPD

This is a docking station that can be used by inserting an HDD or SSD into the main unit. 2.5 inch, 7mm/9mm thick HDD or SSD can be easily installed without tools. Expand your laptop’s interface while also storing your data.

Another feature is that it supports Power Delivery. It can quickly charge devices such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones with high output of up to 85W.

Sanwa Supply USB-CVDK4

A stationary docking station with a distinctive slim shape. The main unit is equipped with a tablet stand, so you can store your tablet against it. You can use your 2in1 type Windows tablet like a desktop computer.

Another point is that it supports high-performance video output function. You can output a 4K resolution screen to two displays. You can choose between extended mode and mirror mode, so you can work efficiently.

Anker A83775Z1

A docking station that uses a USB Type-C port that can charge your laptop at up to 100W. It also has two USB Type-C ports that support PD quick charging and a wireless charging pad for smartphones.

It is a stationary type, and the key point is that you can change the viewing height by installing it under your computer or monitor. You can create an environment where you can work comfortably. This docking station is recommended for those looking for a model that can charge multiple devices at the same time.

HYPER “HyperDrive” HP-HDTB4D

A docking station equipped with two Thunderbolt 4 ports that can transfer data at up to 40Gbps. Recommended for those looking for a model that can smoothly transfer large amounts of data such as videos and music.

The key point is that it supports 8K/60Hz or 4K/144Hz video output. It also supports high-quality audio output, making it suitable for playing games and watching videos. In addition, it is also attractive that it has a 96W PD fast charging function.

j5 create JCD397

This docking station uses MST technology and can create a triple display environment with just one cable. It can be used for a wide range of needs, such as playing games while viewing strategy information, or expanding your work space to work.

An important point is that this product can be expanded with 11 functions, such as PD quick charging and LAN port. In addition, the main body size is compact at 148 mm wide x 55 mm deep x 17 mm high, so it is also recommended for those who are looking for a model that is easy to carry.

Sanwa Supply USB-CVDK6

This is a docking station with two HDMI and two DisplayPort ports. You can connect two external monitors to expand your work space.

The key point is that it supports PD quick charging with USB Type-C, allowing you to connect it to external devices while supplying power to your computer. Since you can connect and disconnect multiple devices with a single cable, this item is recommended for those who often take their laptops to conference rooms or other seats.

Recommended docking stations | Mac OS compatible models

Anker A8396541

A stationary docking station with 13 ports. Equipped with two Thunderbolt 3 ports that support data transfer speeds of up to 40Gbps, allowing smooth transfer of large amounts of data such as videos and music.

Thunderbolt3 port supports maximum 85W and maximum 15W output. It is also equipped with a USB Type-C port that supports Power Delivery and can output 18W. If you are looking for a model with fast data transfer speed, please check it out.

Anker A83520A2

A docking station equipped with a USB Type-C port that supports PD quick charging. You can quickly charge your MacBook while using it as a hub. In addition, it also features a slot for microSD and SD cards.

The key point is that it supports high-speed data communication of 5Gbps, allowing large amounts of data to be transferred quickly. It also comes with a travel pouch, so you can easily carry it around. This item is recommended for those who are looking for a model that is easy to take with them on the go.

Belkin F4U097ja

A stationary docking station made for Thunderbolt 3 compatible devices. It is equipped with a variety of terminals such as a USB Type-A port, a USB Type-C port, and a DisplayPort. It also supports Power Delivery and allows high-speed charging.

Another feature is that it supports daisy chaining of up to 6 devices. In addition, the video output supports high image quality up to 8K 30Hz, so this model is also recommended for creators who work with videos and photos.

j5 create JCA379

A docking station with a stylish white color. Adopts USB Type-C for the terminal that connects to the computer. It supports expansion of HDMI, USB Type-A ports, and USB Type-C ports, and is also equipped with Power Delivery.

An added bonus is that when outputting the screen via HDMI, you can select a mode to suit your needs, such as mirror mode or extended display mode. This docking station is recommended for those who want to output video.

Sanwa Supply USB-CVDK8

A docking station that saves space even though it is equipped with a wide variety of ports. This model can be used as a simple computer stand when placed under a laptop. The matte silver design makes it compatible with the MacBook series.

Also, it can be used as a smartphone stand. The stand can be used upright only when needed. This is a recommended docking station that is multifunctional and easy to use.

TUNEWEAR TUN-OT-000042

This docking station supports PD quick charging of up to 49W and can be used as a hub while supplying power to your MacBook. It has an HDMI port so you can connect it to a monitor.

Another point is that it has an SD card slot. Recommended for those who often edit or move data captured with a camera.

j5 create JCD612

A docking station that comes with a pad for attaching to the iPad Pro. It is characterized by easy installation without using locks or clips. You can connect various devices such as headphones, projectors, and memory cards.

Another point is that it has a PD charging function that supports up to 100W charging. Please note that it must support “Displayport alt mode”.

Belkin “CONNECT” INC006qcSGY

Docking station with Thunderbolt 4 ports. It achieves 8K/30Hz video output, allowing you to enjoy video content in high resolution. Additionally, it comes with two HDMI ports to connect up to three external monitors.

Another point is that it is equipped with a USB Type-C port that supports PD quick charging of up to 90W. You can quickly charge your laptop or smartphone. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, and iPad, and its high compatibility is also a recommended point.

ELECOM DST-C14BK

Docking station with VGA connection. It also supports PD quick charging via the USB Type-C connector, allowing you to use it as a hub while supplying power to your computer.

Another point is that it supports USB3.1 Gen1, which achieves transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps. Even large amounts of data can be exchanged smoothly. The price is relatively reasonable, so it is also recommended for those looking for a model with excellent cost performance.

Belkin “CONNECT” AVC009btSGY

Docking station compatible with Mac mini M1, MacBook Air M2, etc. Recommended for those who want to use it mainly for Apple products. The main body size is compact, so you can easily carry it around.

It is also equipped with an HDMI port that supports 4K monitor resolution. It can output vivid images.