The best Laptop Docking Stations: Reddit reviews

From 3.5 billion Reddit comments

CalDigit TS3 Plus Thunderbolt 3 Dock - 85W Charging, 7X USB 3.1 Ports, USB-C Gen 2, DisplayPort, UHS-II SD Card Slot, LAN, Optical Out, for 2016+ MacBook Pro & PC (Space Gray - 0.7m/2.3ft Cable) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CZPV8DF/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_kEegDbQV2SGE5

For a single cable solution, your budget is too low even at $100. Look at these prices:

https://www.windowscentral.com/best-affordable-thunderbolt-3-docking-stations

If you don't really need thunderbolt and are ok with using your current charger with a pass through option and USB-c, then there are a lot more options. The difficulty might be VR as that needs a lot of power and your charger might not be able to handle all of that. If you stick to a monitor and USB-C you should be able to find something good in the $50- $100 range. Something like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerExpand-Adapter-Delivery-Ethernet/dp/B087QZVQJX/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=usb+c+hub+pass+through+charging&qid=1621901795&sr=8-4

If you plan on bringing your charger along with you then whatever pass through dock you buy you'll need to figure in the cost of a second charger, so then the thunderbolt dock starts to look like a good option, cost wise.

If you have a model with a usb-c port this is the one I use. Works great. Use the Ethernet all the time for GeForce now gaming.

Anker USB C Hub, PowerExpand 8-in-1 USB C Adapter, with 100W Power Delivery, 4K 60Hz HDMI Port, 10Gbps USB C and 2 USB A Data Ports, Ethernet Port, microSD and SD Card Reader, for MacBook Pro and More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087QZVQJX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_2HS4CF0CKRCNP35K86A9?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

The CalDigit TS3+ is an amazing dock. Gives you a ton of ports, and you only attach one cable because it acts as an 85W power supply too. Link to it on Amazon $300

I had this one but switched to the USB-C version after I got a new laptop with fewer USB-A ports. Both are fairly plug and play (and quick driver download) with Linux if you're using Ubuntu. I can't speak for compatibility with other distros.

I don't know that it hit gigabit speeds, but I used a USB-C hub with ethernet for exactly the reason you stated. It ensured Plex playback was always smooth.

I bought this one on Amazon.

I use an Anker dock which has two HDMI ports. I run a dual monitor set up with a third portable monitor for shits and giggles… I’ll have to double check the specs but I think you should be able to pump out 4k on all but don’t quote me…

Anker Dock

5 in1 USB c hub,Type c multiport Adapter with Gigabit Ethernet, 3 prots USB 3.0 hub for Data, 100W Power Delivery, Docking Station for USB c hub MacBook pro, and Other USB C Devices https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085XZGVN5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_DCVHH6ANXZD4MGCEGB0J?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Just picked this up works great and the google one is only 100mb where this is gb

If you want to save some money over the caldigit, Anker has a couple nice ones. I bought this one back in February and it’s been flawless.

Anker Docking Station,... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B088F7SY6S?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

Yes but there is no physical port. You can get the official Ethernet/Power adapter, or a generic USB-C Ethernet hub would be more flexible.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085XZGVN5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_KKUOnU7CfYI7W

https://www.amazon.com/Dell-452-BCYT-D6000-Universal-Black/dp/B071YTQBXM/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=dell+d6000&qid=1615230785&sr=8-2

I've heard that, dell docking stations do suck. We have used the Plugable brand and they seem to hold up pretty well.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ECDM78E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_NkxcGbMQ52Y49?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

I have this one as do many others. Works great.

LINK

In general, just dont buy a no-name brand because its cheaper and has more features. You'll pay for it later. Also, dont buy anything made for Thunderbolt even though the connector is the same.

If using a higher wattage power brick doesn't help, bad hub?

For me, this one works with the original power brick for CCwGTV + ethernet + webcam.

Amazon.com: Vemont USB c hub,5 in1 USB c hub multiport Adapter with Gigabit Ethernet, 3 prots USB 3.0 hub for Data, 100W Power Delivery, Docking Station for USB c hub MacBook pro, and Other USB C Devices: Computers & Accessories

For a TB3 dock, I’d recommend the Caldigit TS3. It was my favorite dock for desktop use with a MBP and I still continue to use it with my iMac. It might be tough to justify $250 for this dock but it’s honestly worth every penny.

For a cheap portable hub, the VAVA 8-in-1 USB-C Hub is a great choice. Tried out multiple hubs before this one and it was the winner in my book.

USB-C hubs tend to be much smaller without any external power adapter and more portable. Like this: Anker USB C Hub, PowerExpand 8-in-1 USB C Adapter, with 100W Power Delivery, 4K 60Hz HDMI Port, 10Gbps USB C and 2 USB A Data Ports, Ethernet Port, microSD and SD Card Reader, for MacBook Pro and More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087QZVQJX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_WyjfFbGMKNZHZ

Docks tend to be bigger with more ports and external power supply. Like this: USB C Docking Station,Hiearcool 4K Triple Display 17IN1 Docking Station for Windows USB C Laptop and Thunderbolt3(2HDMI,DP Output,VGA,Gigabit Ethernet,2USB3.0,2USB2.0,100W PD) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0831BJQ3Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_hAjfFbV4MCKV1

CalDigit TS3 Plus Thunderbolt 3 Dock https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CZPV8DF/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_fabc_XNBWSQVRE4Q4CAJ433PA?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Wires are all under the desk. There is a power strip mounted to the back of the desk which is where the monitors/dock/desk/etc all plug in.

>the Corsair didn't work

Thunderbolt 3 docks can be based on Alpine Ridge chipset and those don't work with USB-C DP laptops, they require TB host (only charging would likely work, if dock and laptop support PD). Newer TB3 docks (Titan Ridge) and TB4 docks are "universal", so they would work, but there is not much benefit in spending $$$ for Thunderbolt tech when your laptop cannot take advantage of it (universal TB docks will "regress" in 2 lanes for video + 2 lanes for USB3 behavior, which is similar to what non-TB cheaper dock could do https://www.amazon.com/Anker-PowerExpand-Adapter-Delivery-Ethernet/dp/B087QZVQJX - resulting in at best one 2560x1440 60Hz on USB-C DP1.2 machines)

There is another Anker I was considering. It looked really good, and it was clearly stated that it will work with the Galaxy Tabs. It is $80, so I balked. I might try again after some extra cash collects. Let me find it...

But no headphone jack! It was SO very hard to find them with headphone jack + USB 3.0 + HDMI 4K at 60Mhz. I considered this one. I am watching for a sale but I feel it is unlikely for a while. This product appears to be 'la creme'. I've already started collecting my change.

I bought the other 2 because they were on Prime Day sale. Figured $80 for 2 was better for me because I have 2 different types of cases. The one I have works with both cases and it was $27. My Tab S7 came with Earbuds Pro. They pair so easily. They are like old friends, so I relaxed on my headphone requirement. More because it was hard to find.

You are welcome dude :). I used to have Hackintosh with plenty of USB, since last year early M1 switcher. So far really no problem with usb. I use this adapter from anker with 144hz ultrawide display https://www.amazon.de/-/en/PowerExpand-Adapter-Delivery-Ethernet-MicroSD/dp/B087QZVQJX

I recommend buying Anker USB C Hub over other hubs since many people buy them and are happy with them! I bought this I’m really happy with it so far!

I almost bought the Google one but it's 10 bucks for shipping... I found an article listing a few that were tested with the chromecast and bought this one from Amazon....

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B085XZGVN5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_glt_fabc_CBBQQR6NVPJFPDEH0BCB?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

This hub https://www.amazon.es/dp/B087QZVQJX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_E1398PXJWKYYRBGVA6K1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

And this display https://www.tiendalgonline.com/outlet/outlet-27UL500-W.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIxcK565688QIV8eDmCh3qXQSxEAQYAiABEgK0t_D_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

I don't mind posting it here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00ECDM78E

USB 3.0 generally has been more reliable for me. I generally have my users pushing two external 24" 1080P screens. Along with gigabit ethernet which just makes the system much more reliable. Hard-wire all the things and only use laptops when needed :)

Ah I'm sorry about the lag. I use this one: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B087QZVQJX/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It's not the cheapest but it works great for connecting to TV, and it's also really handy for general use! The ethernet port actually works for connecting the tablet straight to the modem which is great for reducing lag for streaming on Xbox Gamepass (I plug it into my TV via HDMI at the same time and essentially have my own mini-streaming console!) and it also allows me to charge the tablet for long Dolphin/Wii play sessions. It even allows me to plug in my PS4 Wireless Headset dongle at the same time as all of the above!

This isn't the same one I have but I haven't had any issues with my Anker hub

So, here is the exact specs of the laptop you posted- https://www.cnet.com/products/hp-pavilion-15-bc010nr-15-6-core-i5-6300hq-8-gb-ram-1-tb-hdd-us/

You have 2 hdmi 3.0 ports (5gpps bandwith), and one hdmi port, which are your best options for connectivity. A 1080p 60hz display uses 3.8 gbps of bandwith, so you could only run one off of a usb dock. So if you want two monitors, you could run one off of a usb dock, like this- https://www.amazon.com/Plugable-Universal-Docking-Station-Ethernet/dp/B00ECDM78E/ref=sr_1_3?dchild=1&keywords=usb+3.0+dock&qid=1622744597&sr=8-3

That will only support one monitor, and usb peripherals like keyboard/mouse/headset/etc. You would need to still connect power, and use the built in hdmi port for your main monitor. The secondary monitor won't be quite as good, since it won't be able to play copy protected videos and will be slightly more delayed, but it should be fine.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B071YTQBXM

Something like this is probably what you need. This is the first docking station I found with three monitor ports so I cant comment on this one specifically but it looks like it will do what you need.

I cooked that Belkin one personally. I had a charger, Ethernet, 4K monitor, and a usb receiver running through it to my 16” MacBook Pro.

Here’s what I replaced it with and it’s been amazing to use between my personal and work machines.

Anker Docking Station, PowerExpand 13-in-1 USB-C Dock for USB-C Laptops, 85W Charging for Laptop, 18W Charging for Phone, 4K HDMI, 1Gbps Ethernet, Audio, USB-A Gen 1, USB-C Gen 2, SD 3.0 https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B088F7SY6S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_4TPMB5TMP01B7GK3DSCV

I use a USB-C hub with my SP7, connecting HDMI to a 4K monitor, a 4TB HDD, a 500GB SSD and various USB devices as needed -

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B087QZVQJX

I usually use Surface Connect for power but sometimes use the power pass-through of the hub itself.