Docking stations and USB hubs for laptops, tablets and desktops, from simple port multipliers to full docks with dual displays and charging. Over 1,500 models are in our range, including DELOCK, Lenovo, Dell and StarTech.com, so home workers, office teams and IT buyers can find a match for their equipment.
How to choose a docking station or USB hub
Connection type. Check which port your laptop uses to connect: USB-C, Thunderbolt or older USB-A. A dock that needs video output over USB-C only works if the laptop port supports DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt, so check the laptop specifications first.
Dock or hub. A hub adds extra USB ports, and some add HDMI or card readers. A docking station goes further, usually combining several video outputs, Ethernet, audio and power delivery in one device. If you only need to plug in a mouse and a flash drive, a hub is enough. For a permanent desk with monitors, choose a dock.
Displays. Count the monitors you want to run and check their inputs. HDMI and DisplayPort are the common outputs, and the resolution and refresh rate a dock supports often drop when two displays are connected at once. Look for the stated maximum for your exact setup, for example two 4K screens.
Power delivery. If the dock should charge the laptop through the same cable, its power delivery wattage must cover what the laptop's charger supplies. A weaker dock may charge slowly or not at all under load. Larger business laptops usually need more power than ultrabooks.
Laptop compatibility. Some docks are built for one manufacturer's laptops and use a proprietary connector or firmware features. Universal USB-C and Thunderbolt docks work across brands, which helps if you use mixed equipment or may change laptops later.
Docking station and USB hub brands we carry
- DELOCK: the largest brand in this category in our range, known for interface adapters, cables and connectivity components alongside its hubs.
- Lenovo: makes docks designed for its ThinkPad and ThinkCentre lines, including USB-C and Thunderbolt models used in business fleets.
- Dell: offers docks for its Latitude, XPS and Precision laptops, with universal USB-C and Thunderbolt options aimed at office deployments.
- EXSYS: specialises in interface technology such as USB and PCI Express expansion cards, which makes it a good source for extra ports in desktop PCs.
- StarTech.com: a connectivity brand aimed at IT professionals, known for docks, adapters and cable accessories.
- ICY BOX: known for drive enclosures and storage accessories, as well as docks and hubs that often combine ports with drive bays or card readers.
- Satechi: designs slim aluminium hubs and docks, mostly with Apple laptops in mind.
Also in our range: Renkforce, Inline, LogiLink, i-tec and Roline.
Frequently asked questions about docking stations and USB hubs
What is the difference between a docking station and a USB hub?
A USB hub mainly adds USB ports, sometimes with an HDMI output or card reader. A docking station combines more functions, typically multiple video outputs, wired network, audio and laptop charging. Docks suit a permanent desk setup, while hubs suit light, portable use.
Will any USB-C docking station work with my laptop?
Not always. The laptop's USB-C port must support the functions you want, such as video output or charging. Many laptops support these, but some budget models have data-only USB-C ports. Check the laptop manual for DisplayPort Alt Mode, Thunderbolt or Power Delivery support.
Can a docking station charge my laptop?
Yes, if it offers power delivery and the wattage is high enough for your laptop. Compare the dock's output with the wattage of your laptop's original charger. A lower figure may still work for light use but can leave the battery draining under heavy load.
How many monitors can I connect to a docking station?
It depends on the model. Many docks support two external displays, while simpler ones support one. The maximum resolution and refresh rate often fall when more screens are connected, so check the stated limits for your exact monitor setup before buying.
