Docking stations and USB hubs

This category covers docking stations, USB hubs and USB-C hubs with video outputs, which connect a laptop to monitors, a network and peripherals through a single cable. Our range includes over 1,500 models, with brands such as DELOCK, DELL, LENOVO and EXSYS.

How to choose a docking station or USB hub

Connection to the computer. Start by checking which port your laptop has: USB-C, Thunderbolt 4 or only USB-A. Many models in our range connect through USB 3.2 Gen 1 or Gen 2 Type-C, there are stations with Thunderbolt 4, and some hubs use a USB-A or USB-B connection.

Video outputs. If you plan to work with two or more monitors, check how many screens the station supports and at what resolution over HDMI or DisplayPort. A basic USB hub does not carry video, and a docking station only outputs video if your laptop's USB-C port supports it.

Number of USB-A ports. Our range includes models with no USB-A ports at all, as well as ones with 1, 2, 3, 4 or even 7. If you use a mouse, keyboard, printer and external drive, aim for at least four USB-A ports. If all your devices are newer USB-C ones, a few USB-C ports will be enough.

Power and compatibility. If the station needs to charge your laptop, its Power Delivery output should match the wattage of your laptop's own charger. Dell and Lenovo stations are often designed for specific laptop series, while universal stations are made for devices from different manufacturers, so compare the product description with your computer before buying.

Brands we carry

• DELL and LENOVO: make docking stations for their own business laptops, such as the Dell Latitude and Lenovo ThinkPad series.
• STARTECH: a manufacturer focused on connectivity equipment for IT professionals and businesses.
• DELOCK: a German manufacturer known for its large choice of adapters, cables and hubs.
• EXSYS: a German manufacturer specialising in interface cards and USB and serial port adapters.
• SATECHI: hubs in aluminium cases, with a design that matches Apple MacBook computers.
• I-TEC: a Czech manufacturer offering universal docking stations for laptops from different brands.
• ICY BOX: known for storage enclosures and docks, and also offers USB hubs.

Also in our range: Renkforce, LogiLink, InLine and ROLINE.

Frequently asked questions

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

A USB hub only increases the number of USB ports. A docking station usually adds video outputs, a network port and often laptop charging, so it replaces a whole bundle of cables.

Will a docking station work with any laptop?

Not with every one. The laptop needs a USB-C or Thunderbolt port that can carry video, and some manufacturer stations are made only for certain series. Universal stations generally work with laptops from different brands, but may offer fewer features.

Do I need a Thunderbolt 4 station, or is USB-C enough?

You only need a Thunderbolt 4 station if your computer has a Thunderbolt port and you want more monitors or faster data transfer. For everyday office work with one or two monitors, a USB-C station is usually enough. Check your laptop's port specification before buying.

Can I connect an external hard drive through a USB hub?

Yes, but power matters. A hub with its own power supply feeds external drives and other demanding devices better than a hub powered only by the computer.