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The best laptop docking stations you can buy: Expert tested
Laptops offer great utility as computers since they typically offer the same level of performance as a desktop while also being portable. But if what you want a proper PC setup but you don't want a tower and you just have the single laptop? Well, you buy a docking station.
Laptop docking stations consolidate all your connectivity need by providing a single hub for all your accessories. It allows you to connect keyboards, external monitors, external drives, and more. However, the toughest part is figuring out which one to get since there are a ton of options.
Also: The best laptops you can buy
What is the best laptop docking station right now?
We researched and went hands-on with some of the top laptop docking stations available to find the best device for your setup. Our pick for the best laptop docking station overall is the Ugreen Docking Station Triple Display 12-in-1. It comes highly recommended for its multitude of ports and support for 8K resolution. Of course, there are a lot of other great options out there that may be a better fit for you from brands like Baseus, Microsoft, and more.
The best laptop docking stations of 2024
- Allows triple monitor setups
- Supports 8K monitors via HDMI
- Comes with 12 ports in total
- You need to provide your own power supply
- Expensive
Our pick for the best laptop docking station overall is the Ugreen Revodok Pro USB-C Docking Station. This monolith can meet all of your productivity needs and then some thanks to its wide variety of ports. It has two HDMI ports (one for 8K output and one for 4K output), three USB ports, two for SD cards, and a pair of DisplayPort inputs, just to name a few.
Ugreen's Revodok docking station is a great addition to in any office setting. It offers consistent performance as it handles numerous connections seamlessly. What's particularly noteworthy is the fact it can send a signal from a single computer up to three different displays. Not only that, this docking station can display content in either 4K or 8K resolution via the appropriate HDMI port, so you can be sure the video or images you're sharing with others will maintain their high resolution.
Review: Even Mac owners can have three displays with this Ugreen docking station
Additionally, being able to project onto multiple screens can help improve work efficiency as you won't have to switch between windows over and over. All the information you need can be right in front of you.
This triple display support is thanks to DisplayLink technology, an important add-on allowing Ugreen's docking station to work with PCs and M1 Macs. As you can imagine, the software is very helpful to Mac owners as they're no longer restricted to just one screen.
Ugreen Revodok Pro USB-C Docking Station specs: Ports: HDMI 8K (1), HDMI 4K (1), DP 4K (1), PD 3.0 100w (1), USB-A (3), USB-C 10Gbps (1), Gigabit Ethernet (1), SD/Micro SD card slot (1), 3.5mm AUX port (1) | Display: HDMI: 4K @ 60 Hz (1), 8K @ 30Hz (1); DisplayPort 4K @ 30Hz (1); supports up to 3 total displays
- Space-saving design
- Can output 4K video in both HDMI and DisplayPort on up to 3 monitors
- Detachable base
- Fast charging capable
- No Thunderbolt support
- No 8K video support
- Only supports one additional monitor on macOS
Many docking stations have a common issue: they tend to be large and bulky. The assumption being that everyone has the desk space to dedicate a significant portion of their real estate to a dock. That's where the Baseus 11-in-1 docking station comes in, with a vertical design that's designed to save as much space on your workstation as possible.
Review: This 11-in-1 docking station freed up my cluttered workspace, and it's 40% off
Its tower configuration builds upwards rather than out, and has a detachable magnetic base and "nano adhesive" pad that allows the dock to stay attached to your desk, while being able to detach from the base in the event that you need portability.
As for the ports, there's a selection of USB-C, USB-A, DisplayPort, HDMI, and even a 3.5 mm audio jack. There's also a fixed 12-inch braided cable -- long enough to be useful, but short enough to not be unwieldly. Notably, the dock also features a display on the front with an at-a-glance operating status for each interface.
Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate Docking Station specs: Ports: USB-C (1), USB-A (3), SD card reader (1), microSD card reader (1), HDMI (2), DisplayPort (2), Ethernet (1), 100W PD (1), 3.5mm AUX (1) | Display: 4K with up to 3 displays (Windows only, MacOS supports one additional display) | Fast charging compatible
- 10 ports
- Supports up to two 4K displays or one 8k monitor
- Thin design doesn't take up much room
- Doesn't support dual monitor setup for M1 MacBooks
It's not uncommon for professionals to find themselves with a cramped desk. You have folders, laptops, monitors, and bottles of water taking up space with no room for a docking station. For those situations, we recommend getting the Accell Thunderbolt 4.
Its low-profile, shallow design hosts a surprising amount of connections -- 10 in total. They cover a variety of protocols, both old and new. You have a pair of Thunderbolt 4 inputs, several USB-A ports with one supporting the old USB 2.0 standard, and an SD card reader, just to name a few.
Review: Is this the ultimate Windows docking station? Meet the Accell Thunderbolt 4
There aren't any HDMI ports, but it can still output an 8K resolution video at 30 Hz to a single display or Ultra HD 4K resolution at 60 Hz to a dual monitor setup via the Thunderbolt 4 connections. The audio jack pulls double duty as it serves as an input for headphones as well as a microphone.
Accell's docking station works on PC laptops and M1 MacBooks alike, although the latter sees limited support. M1 MacBooks connected to this device will only be able to output to one external monitor due to the limitations of the chipset.
Accell Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station specs: Ports: USB-C with Thunderbolt 4 support (2); Display 1.4 (1) USB-A 3.1 (3); USB-A 2.0 (1); Gigabit Ethernet; 3.5mm audio combo jack; SD card reader | Display: Supports one 8K @30Hz display or dual 4K @60Hz displays.
- Compact
- Can output to 4K@120Hz display
- Data transfer speeds up to 10Gbps
- Compatible with Windows and macOS
- Tendency to run hot
Docking stations can get big. After all, many of the high-end models can have as many as 15 ports on them; sometimes more. We recommend the Baseus 10-in-1 for consumers looking for something more portable. It's quite small, with the main body measuring just 5.3 inches long, and weighs less than 4 ounces, so you can fold the cable and put it in your pocket when you're on the go.
Review: This 10-in-1 docking station is a multitasker's dream, and it's 35% off right now
On the body, you have a decent array of ports such as a USB-C input, an ethernet port, and two HDMI ports, which allow for an impressive 4K resolution at 60Hz on two different monitors (or 120Hz on one). And the best part? This device is dirt cheap for a docking station at around $50.
Like all docking stations, this little powerhouse can get quite warm under a heavy load, so users should take this into consideration with where it's placed. Additionally, if you use an Android device, note that it doesn't support screencasting.
Baseus 10-in-1 Docking Station specs: Ports: USB-C (1), USB-A (3), SD card reader (1), microSD card reader (1), HDMI (2), Ethernet port (1) | Display: 4K@120Hz with 1 display, 4K@ 60Hz with 2 displays
- Up to 87W of charging
- Compatible with Macs
- Supports dual 4K displays at 60Hz
- 15 ports
- Expensive
- Bulky
Apple makes its own docking stations for MacBooks, but the main problem with first-party devices is that they're very limited in what they can do. The Digital AV Multiport Adapter, for example, only comes with three inputs and a USB-C cable at the end. To make up for this, Apple sells multiple third-party in its online store, and among the selection, the best is the TS3 Plus Dock from CalDigit.
It's similar to other entries on the list as it sports 15 individual ports. Just to name a few, you have a pair of Thunderbolt 3 inputs, five USB-A ports, and an SD card reader on the front. As you probably guessed from that brief array, this docking station can output video. In fact, it can output up to two displays at once in 4K resolution at 60Hz. Or if you have a single screen, you can instead send a 5K video with a refresh rate of 60Hz.
Also: My favorite USB-C accessory of all time has a magnetic superpower (and it's up to 25% off)
The TS3 Plus Dock works with PCs as well as Mac computers, however. it caters more to Apple hardware. CalDigit's device is capable of charging MacBooks up to 87 watts allowing you to power up your computer while transmitting files or working. The TS3 Plus Dock is even backward compatible as it works with old Apple laptops equipped with Intel processors.
If you want a version with more ports, Apple also sells its big brother, the CalDigit TS4, on its digital storefront as well.
CalDigit TS3 Plus Dock specs: Ports: Thunderbolt 3 (2), USB-A 3.0 (5), USB-C (2), UHS-II SD card reader (1), DisplayPort (1), 3.5mm Mic line in and Audio out (1), Gigabit Ethernet port (1) | Display: 4K @60Hz display (2), 5K @60Hz (1); supports up to 2 total displays
- Relatively inexpensive
- Great for older devices you plan to upgrade
- Compatible with many operating systems
- Can't output 4K resolution
- Doesn't provide power to laptop
For those who own older laptops, we recommend the Plugable USB 3.0 and USB-C Universal Laptop Docking Station. This device has 11 ports in total with two of them being a pair of USB 3.0 inputs on the front for older machines to connect to. Because it supports an older protocol, the docking station does suffer from limited performance. It can't do 8K or even 4K resolution video.
Still, it does a pretty good job at what it can do. For instance, it can send video signals out to a pair of HDMI displays at a resolution of up to 1,920 x 1,200 pixels at a refresh rate of 60Hz. For a single screen, that quality gets bumped up to Quad HD resolution (2,560 x 1,440 pixels) at a refresh rate of 50Hz.
Also: This 6-in-1 USB-C hub exposes your worst cables from the best ones
True to its name, Plugable's docking station has support for a wide array of operating systems from Windows 11, macOS, and ChromeOS. It's even capable of supporting laptops running Windows 7.
Even if you decide to finally let go of your beloved Windows 7 laptop, you can still keep this docking station and continue to use it when you upgrade since it comes with more modern USB-C inputs. What's particularly interesting about this model is it comes with a microphone port -- the only entry on this list to have one. Having this port available can be handy on older machines that may have malfunctioning parts or it's already being taken up by another device. Plugable's docking station essentially can add this functionality back to those models.
Plugable USB 3.0 and USB-C Universal Laptop Docking Station specs: Ports: USB 3.0 Type-A (2); USB 2.0 Type-A (4); HDMI (1); DVI (1); Gigabit Ethernet (1); 3.5mm audio jack (1); microphone jack (1) | Display: 1920x1200 at 60Hz (2); 2,560x1440 at 50Hz via HDMI (1)
- 199W of power delivery for fast charging
- Supports dual 4K displays
- Offers most popular connections
- Doesn't work with non-Surface laptop devices
Rounding out the list is the Surface Dock 2 from Microsoft. This docking station is meant solely for Surface Pro devices and Surface Laptops. It's been specially optimized for the Surface Laptop Go 2 and the Surface Pro 7 Plus, just to name a few notable models. It won't work with third-party hardware. If you have something like a ThinkPad, you're better off selecting one of the earlier entries.
Also: Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2 review: Stylish and lightweight, but battery life could be better
However, if you do own a compatible device, the Surface Dock 2 will become your best friend. It comes equipped with a pair of USB-A inputs and four USB-C ports split between the front and back. With this, you'll be able to use your favorite peripherals like mice or keyboards. There's even an in/out audio jack on the rear that accepts headphones and microphones.
Plus, it has 199W power delivery allowing users to fast charge their devices. And it supports outputting 4K resolution video at 60Hz to a pair of monitors. It's not the most comprehensive or robust entry, but for Surface owners, it's one of the best out there on the market today.
Microsoft Surface Dock 2 specs: Ports: USB 3.2 Type-A (2); USB Type-C (4); 3.5 in/out audio jack; Gigabit Ethernet (1) | Display: Supports up to two 4K displays at 60Hz
What is the best laptop docking station?
The Ugreen Revodok Pro USB-C Docking Station is our pick of the best laptop docking station. It offers a dozen ports and a direct power supply. Plus, the added flexibility coming from the DisplayLink support ensures that almost any connected laptop becomes the core of a multi-monitor workstation.
As great as the Revodok is, the others on the list are worth considering. Check out the table below to see how they compare to each other.
Best laptop docking station | Cost | Ports | Power |
Ugreen Revodok Pro USB-C Docking Station 12-in-1 | $350 | 12 | 100 watts |
Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate | $200 | 11 | 100 watts |
Accell Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station | $200 | 10 | 96 watts |
Baseus 10-in-1 Spacemate | $47 | 10 | 100 watts |
CalDigit TS3 Plus Dock | $239 | 15 | 87 watts |
Plugable 4K USB-C Docking Station Triple Monitor | $280 | 13 | 100 watts |
Microsoft Surface Dock 2 | $260 | 8 | 199 watts |
Which laptop docking station is right for you?
The right laptop docking station for you ultimately depends on the type of work you're doing and what you need the device for. Below, we've laid out our list of recommendations to help you decide.
Choose this best laptop docking station... | If you want... |
Ugreen Revodok Pro USB-C Docking Station, 12-in-1 | The best overall option. This docking station has HDMI and DP connections, 3 USB-A ports, an SD card slot, and the ability to signal a computer signal to three individual displays. |
Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate | An affordable docking station with all the ports and a vertical, space-saving design. Bonus if you want to use three monitors. |
Accell Thunderbolt 4 | A docking station for super compact workspaces. This best laptop docking station doesn't require a large amount of space, but still supports up to two displays or one 8K monitor. |
Baseus 10-in-1 | A pocket-sized, inexpensive dock that works across multiple operating systems. It's also easy to take with you on the go. |
CalDigit TS3 Plus | The best docking station for your MacBook. It can send video signals to two 4K displays at once, and can even charge your MacBook while it's connected. |
Plugable USB 3.0 and USB-C Universal Laptop Docking Station | The best laptop docking station for older laptops that supports two displays at a resolution of 1920x1200 pixels (or 2560x1440 pixels via one HDMI connection). It works across Windows, ChromeOS, MacOS, and even Android-based devices. |
Microsoft Surface Dock 2 | A docking station specifically for your Surface Pro or Surface Laptop. There is incredible power packed into this model. |
Factors to consider when choosing a laptop docking station:
A laptop docking station can upgrade your work station. Here's what to think about before you buy one:
- Connection type: This is the most important aspect to look for when shopping for a docking station. Most new laptops support USB Type-C connections so you'll want a device that has the same type of ports. The same thing goes for older laptops. Those machines tend to support USB 3.0 meaning you will need a docking station with the same input. If you buy a station without the right support, video signal or data transferring will not work as well as it should.
- Power: For a true one-cable connection, your dock needs to supply power to the laptop. Some cheaper options lack this, forcing people to use it solely for connecting peripherals. Others may require you to use your laptop's own charger to power them.
- Video output(s): Look closely at the specs for video connections. If you need to send a video signal to a single 1080p display using an HDMI cable, any old dock will work. Things get complicated if you need support for two or more 4K external displays. For that, you'll need a docking station with a DisplayPort connection or a more recent version of HDMI.
- Ports: Note if the dock you're considering has enough external ports for your devices. Docking stations can have USB ports that are either Type A, Type C, or both. There are also docking stations lacking the ability to charge devices. Others have ethernet ports for internet routers, freeing you from dealing with weak Wi-Fi connections.
- Audio input/output: Few docking stations have audio I/O ports, but they can be helpful. Having dedicated external speakers and microphones can do wonders for significantly upgrading your audio experience
How did we choose these laptop docking stations?
When choosing the best laptop docking station, we look at important specifications like the price point, connection types, power delivery, ports, and more. Everything in our guide consists of popular, well-reviewed options. We tested some of the options ourselves, using them in our everyday work. Others, we researched and recommended based on user reviews, brand trust, and price point.
What is a laptop docking station and what does it do?
A docking station essentially allows your laptop to behave the same way as a traditional desktop computer. It Iets you connect multiple accessories, external storage drivers, webcams, and external monitors. Most notably, it opens up the opportunity for multitasking.
Think of them as your laptop's own personal assistant. Docking stations serve as a central hub where you can connect all sorts of peripherals. Some can even charge your laptop.
Are there docking stations that work with any laptop?
The vast majority of laptops will work with any type of dock. You'll be more hard pressed to one that doesn't; however they do exist. These exceptions to the rules will require you to attach special adapters or cable in order to be compatible with the station. This situation will likely occur with older laptops that pre-date the widespread implementation of USB-C connectors.
Lenovo, for example, sells the USB-C (Female) to USB-A (Male) adapter which can help you connect your old laptop to a docking station. Additionally, there are also devices that are specifically made to only work with certain brands or models such as the Microsoft Surface Dock 2.
What's the difference between a USB hub and a docking station?
A USB hub is a device that adds more USB ports to give you additional ways to connect extra peripherals like mice and thumb drives. That's pretty much it. USB hubs don't really do much at all.
Also: The 5 best USB hubs
A docking station can do that, plus sending video signals to external monitors via DisplayPort, HDMI, or Thunderbolt for easier multitasking. Some can introduce wired networking to laptops that are normally compatible with Wi-Fi only. And of course, as we've already covered, docking stations can charge your devices too.
Why won't my laptop recognize my docking station?
Fixing a laptop's inability to recognize a docking staiton can be surpsringly difficult, because the problem can be caused by a lot of things. Perhaps the station you purchased is faulty or something in your setup, like one of the ports, is broken. Before you do asking for a refund, the first thing you should do is install the latest drivers and BIOS updates for both the laptop and the docking station.
Beyond that, make sure the cables are properly secure. Try disconnecting and reconnecting said cables. Next, ensure the correct playback device has been selected. It's possible you didn't choose the right video or audio source which may explain there may not be any visuals or sound coming through.
Does leaving your laptop plugged in overnight ruin the battery?
For the most part, no. Modern laptops won't be negatively impacted by being connected to a docking station for an extended period of time. Battery technology has gotten much better over the years. Plus, many stations don't offer power delivery which is a feature where the device will send energy to a laptop's battery, charging it.
However, there are docking stations that do indeed offer power delivery, and it is possible (although unlikely) that these devices can harm your battery. The reason for this is because continous usage of a computer puts extra strain on a laptop's power source. Continuous stress can negatively impact your computer's ability to hold a charge.
It's for this we recommend unplugging your docking station when not actively being used. It is a good practice to perform in order to ensure battery longevity.
Are there alternative laptop docking stations to consider?
There are plenty of great laptop docking stations out there on the market.
The options below can be considered honorable mentions to the ones above. They perform well enough but didn't make the cut for multiple reasons. Still, if you need something that's easy to use, these docking stations can help you out. Plus, several are cheaper than those on the main roster.