Docking stations and USB hubs add extra ports to a laptop or desktop through a single USB connection, which suits anyone who plugs in a monitor, keyboard, network cable and storage every day. The range covers USB-C docks, multiport hubs and adapters from Lenovo, AXAGON, Goobay and StarTech.
How to choose a docking station or USB hub
Host connection. Check the port on your computer first. Most products in our range connect through USB-C, while others use a USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A plug or older USB 2.0. A laptop without USB-C therefore needs a model with a Type-A cable. Video and charging over USB-C also depend on the laptop supporting them through that port.
Video output. Most docks with video in our range have one HDMI port, which covers a single external monitor. If you want two screens, look for a model with more video outputs. Check the maximum resolution and refresh rate as well, because a 4K screen at 60 Hz asks more of a dock than a Full HD one.
Ports and network. Count what you plug in daily. The USB-A ports in our range run from one to five per product, and two or three are common. Many models include an Ethernet port for a wired network, which helps in offices and on video calls. A built-in card reader is rare, so buy a model that has one if you regularly import photos.
Data speed and power. Most specified models in our range quote 5 Gbit/s (USB 3.2 Gen 1), which is enough for keyboards, webcams, headsets and ordinary external drives. A 10 Gbit/s model (USB 3.2 Gen 2) suits fast external SSDs. If the dock will also charge your laptop, check that its power pass-through wattage matches what your laptop needs.
Docking station and USB hub brands we carry
- Lenovo: makes docks designed around its own ThinkPad and other laptops, so port layout and charging suit those machines.
- AXAGON: a Czech brand focused on USB accessories such as hubs, adapters and card readers.
- Goobay and Wentronic: Goobay is a Wentronic brand, known for a large catalogue of cables, adapters and everyday connectivity products.
- StarTech: a connectivity specialist whose docks and adapters are aimed at office and IT use.
- Delock: a German brand known for interface adapters and converters for many connection types.
- ALOGIC: an Australian brand specialising in USB-C accessories and docks.
- Satechi: known for slim aluminium hubs styled to sit alongside Apple laptops.
- ICY BOX: a brand best known for storage enclosures and docks for drives.
Also in our range: LogiLink, Trust and InLine.
Docking stations and USB hubs: frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a docking station and a USB hub?
A USB hub mainly multiplies USB ports, while a docking station usually adds video outputs, Ethernet and sometimes charging as well. Some hubs in our range also include HDMI or Ethernet, so the line between the two is not fixed. Check the port list rather than the product name.
Will a Lenovo dock work with other laptop brands?
Often it will, as long as the dock connects over standard USB-C and your laptop supports video output through that port. Charging and some features may behave differently on a non-Lenovo laptop. Check the compatibility notes on the product page before buying.
Can one dock power my laptop and connect a monitor?
Yes, if the dock offers power pass-through and your laptop supports charging and video over USB-C. The laptop then needs only one cable to the dock. Make sure the dock's charging wattage is at least what your laptop requires.
Do I need Ethernet on a dock?
You need it if you want a wired network connection, which is usually more stable than Wi-Fi for video calls and large file transfers. Many docks in our range include an Ethernet port, but plain hubs often do not. Choose one with LAN if your laptop has no network socket of its own.
