10 Best universal docking stations on the market in 2022

Here You Will Learn What Are The Best Universal Docking Stations:

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What are Universal Docking Stations? Universal docking stations are charging and interfacing stations designed with various makes and models of phones, tablets, mini-laptops and gaming devices in mind. Unlike a charging station, where more cables and haphazard stacking of devices is involved, universal docking stations provide cradle slots that MP3 players, phones and tablets can fit vertically into.

Also unlike charging stations, docking stations can often provide a mounting interface to connect these devices to landline internet, computers as external drives, or televisions as streaming sources.

These docking stations also often have additional SD card slots, and built in speakers or speaker interfaces, allowing any mobile device to be converted into an entertainment center or boom box stereo.

Most universal docking stations forward Bluetooth pairing and USB connections as well, meaning that some may find them a useful way to convert a larger tablet into a small TV or gaming device with a USB joypad or keyboard plugged in. Of course, only the higher-end stations have such accoutrements. Universal can be a loose term, as Apple’s fixation with ridiculous proprietary interfaces makes it hard to support them alongside sane designs.

How Do Docking Stations Differ From Each Other?

There is only one fundamental difference. This is the way such a station connects to your computer: via USB 3.0 or USB-C. When choosing a docking station, this is the first parameter to consider.

All devices with USB 3.0 have an additional power source, as old USB technologies do not allow for transferring more power through its interface. This results in additional inconveniences in use. Such devices are not portable and make you dependent on a power outlet.

As for the advantages, it is worth noting that such devices have wide compatibility because the USB 3.0 interface is still very common today. All devices with USB-C do not have extra power sources, as Its technology allows for transferring large amounts of electricity through the port. Therefore, you can even charge some laptops, tablets, and phones via USB-C. This means that docking stations with such interface are more portable and can be used with your laptops even though there is no socket nearby.

Best Docking Stations

AmazonBasics USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station

This is a USB 3.0 docking station from Amazon. It has a decent number of external ports: HDMI, DVI-I, 2 х USB 3.0, 4 x USB 2.0, Ethernet, mic, headphones. The device is compatible with Windows and MacOS. The set also includes a power adapter, USB 3.0 cable, CD (contains a driver and user manual). You can mount it on a desk both vertically and horizontally.

UtechSmart Triple Display USB Type C Docking Station

This USB-C Docking Station has an enormous range of functions. This station comes with the same USB ports as the previous one, but additionally, it can be connected to two 4K monitors or three Full HD monitors, has an SD/TF card slot, supports an 87W PD charger and also improves the WiFi connection. It is compatible with any laptop with USB-C.

10 Best-Selling Universal Docking Stations Comparative Table

Customers' Choice

Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station Dual Monitor for Windows (Dual Video: HDMI and DVI/VGA/HDMI,...

FLEXIBLE EXPANDABILITY - A single USB 3.0 connection from a host PC to this dock provides dual video outputs, wired Gigabit Ethernet, 3.5mm Headphone and Microphone jacks, two USB 3.0 ports, and four USB 2.0 ports
DUAL HD MONITORS - Built-in HDMI and DVI outputs each supporting 1920x1200 resolution @ 60Hz refresh rate. Includes DVI to VGA adapter and DVI to HDMI adapter. HDMI port supports resolutions up to 2560x1440 @ 50Hz with a single HDMI display only
COMPATIBILITY - Docking station compatible with Windows 10, 8.x, 7, and XP systems. Plug and play driver installation via Windows Update. Not supported are Surface RT, macOS, and Linux. Wired Ethernet supports Gigabit speed. Dock does not charge host PC
RECOMMENDED USE - For use with web and productivity software; not recommended for gaming. Cannot be mixed with non-DisplayLink USB adapters. DisplayPort connections not supported. Does not support HDCP, will not playback encrypted or copy-protected content
2 YEAR WARRANTY - We love our Plugable products, and hope you will too. This product is covered by a 2 year limited parts and labor warranty, as well as Seattle-based email support

Best Value

Hiearcool USB C Hub,USB-C Laptop Docking Station,11 in 1 Triple Display Type C Adapter Compatiable for MacBook...

INDUSTRY LEADING TECHNOLOGY: Hiearcool intelligent USB C HUB has perfectly combined the function of USB c hub and docking station, Compare to the cumbersome docking station with no interface and dual display traditional USB C Hub. Our USB C hub incorporates a triple display, lightweight,portable and powerful with multi-ports to achieve multi-display (Mirror Mode/Extend Mode/Video Wall Mode)refine you a new concept of USB C HUB.
TRIPLE DISPLAY USB C HUB: Expand triple monitors with our USB C HUB. 2 x 4K-HDMI ports support resolutions up to 3840 x 2160@30Hz with dual HDMI displays attached. VGA port supports display resolutions up to 1920 x 1080@60Hz. -- For Apple computer user (MAC OSmac os),displays are Mirror mode only.
11 IN 1 Docking Station: PD charging port, Gigabit RJ45 Port, 2 x 4K HDMI ports, VGA port, SD/TF Card Slot, 2 x super speed USB 3.0 Ports(Up to 5Gbps), 2 x USB 2.0 Ports backward compatibility. Portable design, Plug, and Play. As a new content of powerful USB C docking station, Hiearcool product back with an 18-month to ensure you a satisfied purchase.
SMART USB C-HUB: Equipped with the newest generation super smart chip, Up to100W design USB C Hub shorten the charging time with power delivery 3.0 (backwards with PD2.0) preventing overload, over-voltage, over-current, short circuit, overcharge, voltage regulation, temperature protection, your primary choice of docking station under safety.
SUPER SPEED USB C HUB:Instant stable access to the Internet with the 1000M Ethernet port(supports 10/100/1000Mbps speeds.) brings you a 1G movie in few minutes, Ultra-fast data transfer with a rate of 5GBPS for 2 x USB 3.0 ports, SD Card Slot and TF Card Slot included. Extra 2 USB 2.0 Ports are perfect for your keyboard and wireless device.Ensure you a stable WiFi connection.

Most Popular

Dell 452-BCYT D6000 Universal Dock, Black, Single

Enjoy Ultra HD 5K on a single screen or up to three 4K displays via USB C
Supports up to three 4K displays or a single 5K Display
Four USB 3.0 Ports. One USB C port. System Requirement (Recommended): PC’s equipped with USB 3.0 or USB C port, Display Link Driver installation
Os required Windows 7, 8, 8.1, 10 32/64bit or later. Charges up to 65W laptop via USB C
Troubleshoot incompatible display driver this message will appear if the primary graphics card drivers installed are not wddm compatible. Windows 7 onwards is not designed to operate without wddm drivers. Download and install the latest graphics drivers for your primary graphics card.Third 4K display at 30 Hertz

Best Budget

Dell USB 3.0 Ultra HD/4K Triple Display Docking Station (D3100), Black

2 x USB 2.0 to 4 pin USB Type A, 1 x headphone input and output 3.5 millimetre
3 x superspeed USB 3.0 - 9 pin USB type A, 1 x network - RJ-45. Designed for Inspiron 15 7567 Gaming, 5459; Latitude 13 7350, 3350, E5270, E5460, E5470, E5570, E7270, E7470; XPS 13 (9343)
1 x display / video: DisplayPort output : 20 pin DisplayPort, super speed cable
2 x display / video: HDMI: 19 pin HDMI type A, 1x HDMI DVI adapter included
Allow for a triple monitor setup, see compatible Dell models in the description

Most Discussed & Reviewed

WAVLINK USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station Dual Display with HDMI & DVI/VGA with Gigabit Ethernet, 6 USB...

Built-in HDMI and DVI outputs each resolution up to 1920x1200 @ 60Hz, HDMI port supports resolutions up to 2560x1440@ 50Hz with a single HDMI display only. DVI to VGA adapters are supplied for added flexibility, great for different home and office workspace applications.
System Support: Windows 10, 8, 7,& legacy XP systems. Plug and play driver installation via Windows Update. Surface RT, Mac OS/Linux are not supported. (Please refer to Display Link website for more system compatibility)
Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 port 10/100 / 1000Mbps Ethernet, provides you with fast wired network connection. 4x USB 2.0 ports fulfill all USB 2.0 devices such as keyboard, mouse,printer, ect. 2x USB 3.0 ports for super transfer speed up to 5Gbps and 900mA of power, you can connect your usb peripherals or usb stick to solve external USB devices and high-speed file transfer for home office workers.
Docking station is suggested for use with web and productivity software; not recommended for gaming, cannot be mixed with non-DisplayLink USB adapters.
Build in USB 3.0 GPU certified by DisplayLink. Compact size, LED display status, easy setup, multi-function operation performance, bring a new life style for you. All of our products offer 30-month limited warranty.

Best Trusted

USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station, Acodot Dual Monitor Dock Support Windows Equipped with HDMI and...

One USB connection- to your computer, which can expand your computers’ capabilities,you can have access to large screen displays, stereo speakers, headset, mic, external hard Drive, printers and other USB devices, gigabit ethernet,audio input/output,Please NOTE: Install driver before use.
USB 3.0 5Gbps Data Transfer: This laptop dock offers extra 6 USB 3.0 ports for connecting multiple USB peripheral devices such as flash drive, hard drive, keyboard, mouse, printer, MP3 player and more, can keep you away from the trouble of plugging & unplugging your devices repeatedly.USB 3.0 is backwards compatible with USB 2.0.
Dual video display- Provide your PC with additional displays,HDMI port supports resolutions up to 2560x1440 with a single HDMI display or 1080P if two displays are attached. DVI/VGA port supports display resolutions up to 2048x1152 / 1920x1200; wired Ethernet port supports 10/100/1000Mbps speeds,provide more stable and faster Ethernet connection.
Wide Compatibility:Acodot USB docking station is compatible with Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, & legacy XP systems,does not support Surface RT, and Linux/Unix. Usb 3.0 Docking station is suggested for use with web and productivity software; not recommended for gaming.
Warranty and package:Acodot provide 1 year warranty and lifetime technical support.Package includes laptop docking station, USB 3.0 Type-A male to Type-B male cable, user manual,CD,power adapter,DVI-to-VGA and HDMI-to-DVI adapters included for greater monitor compatibility.

Best Cheap

AmazonBasics USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Dual Monitor Docking Station

Compatible with Windows 10, 8.1, 7 and Mac OS 10.9 later version (does not support Surface RT, Linux/Unix). In order for this docking station to work as intended DO NOT connect it to a computer before installing the provided drivers (drivers provided in the CD). If you experience issues please uninstall the DisplayLink Graphics drivers as described in the User Manual. Requires current DisplayLink drivers which can be downloaded at DisplayLink (dot) com.
Connect up to two monitors using the HDMI and DVI-I ports; DVI-I to VGA adapter included
Features 9 peripheral ports: 2 USB 3.0 ports for connecting accessories like an external hard drive or extra USB graphics adapter; 4 USB 2.0 ports for connecting older devices like mice, keyboards, and printers; RJ-45 Gbit Ethernet network port; audio/input to connect headphones and microphones
Universal laptop docking station provides convenient connectivity for an expanded workspace; connect a Windows laptop, desktop, or tablet with up to 2 additional monitors, an Ethernet network, and 9 peripherals—all through a single USB cable; for web/productivity software (not recommended for gaming); functions as a USB hub only; does not offer charging functionality
Includes universal laptop docking station, USB 3.0 cable, power adapter, CD (driver and user manual), and quick installation guide; backed by an AmazonBasics limited 1-year warranty

Other Popular universal docking stations

USB C Hub, UtechSmart Triple Display USB Type C Adapter Docking Station with 2 HDMI, VGA, Power Delivery Type C...

Industry-leading pioneers with the worldwide patent: this is the first Triple display capable USB C hub available on the market today. Our UtechSmart innovation USB C hub is designed from rolled aluminum to be durable yet lightweight making this an ideal portable docking station. Multi-display has been a major challenging technical issue in the USB C hub industry, UtechSmart conquers this technical barrier and provides more interface options to expand your MONITORS.
Triple display flexibility: Triple display modes Boost your efficiency 3 times. UtechSmart triple display hub supports single and dual HDMI displays up to 3840x2160@30Hz or triple displays up to 1920x1080@60Hz. Three display mode options available (mirror mode, extend mode & video wall mode). Attention: Mac OS (Apple laptop) & Chrome OS doesn't support extend mode. The VGA port could only mirror one HDMI port's Display.
Ultra-portable & discreet powerful workstation: We designed the UtechSmart USB C hub to be slim and compact without any compromise on accessibility. Lighten your load and ditch the extra cable adapters, consolidate them with this USB C hub! The slim portable design of the UtechSmart USB C hub equips with Thunderbolt 3 port (supports PD charging), Gigabit RJ45 port, two 4K capable HDMI ports, VGA port, SD/TF card slot, 2x USB 3. 0 Ports and 2x USB 2. 0 Ports. With a simple plug and play connectivity, This USB C hub turns any MacBook or USB C capable PC laptop into a mobile workstation!
PD 3. 0 (power delivery) technology & smart safety: The UtechSmart USB C hub is rated at 87W and supports power Delivery 3. 0 technology (backward compatible with PD 2. 0) which allows significantly shortened charging times when compared to a non-pad charger. This USB C hub is equipped with our next generation intelligent microchip which provides a slew of safety features including: internal overload protection, over-volt protection, short circuit protection, voltage regulation, temperature protection, and over-current protection. With these comprehensive protection strategies, feel safe when your devices are connected to the UtechSmart USB C hub!
Advanced networking & blazing-fast data transfers: both power users and gamer will appreciate the plug and play instant access to the blazing fast 1000M Ethernet port. Download movies quicker, transfer files faster, reduce latency in games. The UtechSmart USB C hub is Ultra fast with speeds of 5Gbps for 2x USB 3. 0 Ports, one SD and ONE TF card slot, extra 2x USB 2. 0 Ports for your keyboard, mouse, or charging devices. Ensure the Wi-Fi connection more stable.

Wavlink USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station,USB C to 5K/ Dual 4K @60Hz Video Outputs Dual Monitor for...

UNIVERSAL DOCKING STATION - Fully compatible with USB Type-C ,Type-A and Thunderbolt 3 laptops and desktops.Ideal for Home Office, entertainment, online education (Both USB-C to USB-C and USB-A to USB-C cables included).★This dock doesn't support Power Delivery function.
ULTIMATE HD EXPERIENCE - Resolutions up to 5K (5120 x 2880@60Hz) single display when using dual DisplayPort ports / Dual 4K HDMI / 4K HDMI +4K DisplayPort (3840 x 2160) @60Hz. ★The new 10.0 release support Dual DisplayPort (5120x1440) displays with Windows 7, 8.1 and Windows 10 and Windows 10 IoT Enterprise.
SYSTEM SUPPORT - Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, XP systems,Mac OS 10.6 onwards,-Mac OS 10.13.4 - 10.13.6 has single extended display support with AirPlay.No support on Linux/Unix or ARM based Windows operating systems (such as Surface RT)(see Display Link website for more details)
ALL-IN-ONE DOCKING STATION - 6 x USB 3.0 ports give you access to SuperSpeed data transfer rates of up to 5Gbps.Integrates 2 HDMI & 2 DP Dual Video Outputs, Gigabit Ethernet, Audio out and Mic in are also offers enhanced your laptop's performance capabilities.
COMPACT&MODERN NEW DESIGN - The Unit Dimensions of low profile black dock: 223 X 80 X 26MM (L x H x W),and its wegiht of the dock just only 890g with ABS Housing Material.WAVLINK Committed to providing you with high-quality products and quality services.Please don't hesitate to contact us via Amazon if you have any questions.

USB C Hub, USB C Docking Station, UtechSmart Triple Display 12 in 1 Type C Laptop Dock Station Adapter Compatible...

Extraordinary extensive capability: UtechSmart 12 in 1 Type C hub adapter contains 1* Ethernet/RJ-45 1000 Mbps LAN, 1* USB 3. 0 Type C port, 1* Type C PD charging port, 2* USB 3. 0 Ports, 2* USB 2. 0 Ports, 3* 4K HDMI vivid video output, 1* Micro SD/SD and 1* TF card reader. Total 12 extensive ports offer incredible convenient for you to connect mufti-monitors, extra memory device or extra USB devices.
Triple 4D HDMI Output: UtechSmart Contains 3 HDMI ports which could help mirror or extend your screen. All of 3 HDMI ports can directly stream 4K @ 30Hz or full HD 1080P video to HDTV, monitor or projector. The highest support 3840*2160 resolution monitor. Multiple 4D display Boost your working efficiency by reducing devices occupy space and extend or mirror your screen to external monitors. Attention: OS system doesn’t support Extend mode.
Premium Multifunctional Hub: Two 3. 0 USB ports support transmission speed up to 5 Gbps and Two 2. 0 USB ports support transmission speed up to 480 Mbps which connect to your smart phone, tablet, hard drive or other USB peripheral. 1000 Mbps Ethernet port support more stable and faster wired network connection. USB-C PD charging port support 100W（20V/5A） charging power which helps you to charge your laptop and other connected devices. Each SD and TF card reader provide high speed data transfer.
Product and safety technology applying: UtechSmart USB-C hub provide the full cover 18 months which means no matter what problems you had, contact our customer service and get our all round services. Premium temperature controlling technology chip to keep your Device operating temperature always below 50 Degree.
Outstanding capability: The size of USB-C as big as iPhone 5 Se but lighter than it at least 2G. It is perfect for business trip, travel, data gathering or design project to help you save your language space and easy to use. Perfect for you to connect external monitor or screen to presentation. Compatible with laptops, smart phones, tablets or any device which contain Type C port. For laptops compatible with MacBook Pro, Microsoft Surface Book 2, Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro S and more USB-C devices.

10 Best universal docking stations on the market in 2022: Comparison Table