Both desktop and laptop computers don't have enough ports for peripherals, and docking stations are a great solution to this problem. But what is a docking station for? How does it work? What do you need to consider when buying a docking station?
A docking station is an electronic device known as a "port replicator." This handy device provides an easy, hassle-free, and convenient way to plug in common computer peripherals, bridging the gap between laptops and desktops with its multiple ports. This multi-port device is a game changer as it expands the functionality of a laptop, allowing people to connect multiple devices (like an external monitor) while charging their laptop.
How does a docking station work?
A docking station connects a laptop with many peripherals to form a multi-functional work center to improve work efficiency. You might think it works the same as a hub, which also provides many ports to enable multiple device connections. But in fact, they work differently.
Unlike other hubs, a laptop docking station plugs into wall power to power the laptop and peripherals. With a variety of ports, it can support one or more monitors. However, docking stations vary; therefore, the video ports they support also vary, although they usually revolve around DisplayPort, mini-DisplayPort, DVI, VGA, and HDMI. It also has a card reader and can even support Gigabit Ethernet and different audio connections.
What is the purpose of a docking station?
A docking station is created for convenience, bridging the gap between laptops and desktop computers. By providing or expanding the number of ports, employees working from home can get the desktop experience they need while retaining the portability and convenience of a laptop. With a docking station, the laptop becomes a powerful device as a desktop: equipped with all the ports needed to connect to a monitor, LAN, Internet, printer, external speakers, etc.
How to choose a docking station?
1. Compatibility.
Not all laptops are compatible with docking stations due to port issues. Before purchasing a docking station, you should check whether the docking station supports your laptop. For example, the Purplelec DS019 has Thunderbolt dock compatibility (Thunderbolt 3 or 4 ports), so it works perfectly with Windows laptops and non-M1 MacBooks running macOS 11 or later, but not with M1 MacBooks, Linux, or Chrome OS laptops. On the other hand, USB docks such as the Anker 563 (USB-C dock) are designed for connecting monitors to M1 MacBooks.
2. Video and audio output.
If you are buying a docking station, it will be helpful for you to check the support quality of the video output port. Why? Because of the display quality. For example, if the docking station does not support 4K resolution and 4K texture design, the display effect will be poor. This is a bane, especially for those who need to improve the video quality. The same is true for audio output. If your work meets the requirements of broadcasting, a docking station that supports external speakers and comes with a 3.5 jack will be the best choice.
3. Number of ports
How many ports does the docking station have? You should answer this question when choosing a docking station. After all, the number of ports determines how many peripherals you can plug in. You should also consider what type of ports they are. Most docking stations have two to six standard USB ports. However, some newer models have more ports, such as the DS018R, which has 13 ports, including dual Thunderbolt 3 ports, 2 USB-C ports, 4 USB-A ports, an HDMI port, an Ethernet port, an SD/microSD card slot, and a 3.5mm AUX port.
4. Ease of Use
Everyone has experienced driver issues, which can be annoying and tedious. Therefore, always remember that you are buying a docking station for convenience and less hassle; therefore, choose a docking station that is easy to install and use whenever possible. Fortunately, most docking stations that support USB-C are driver-free, which makes them work properly once connected to the system.
5. Design
There are two designs for docking stations: horizontal and vertical. Aside from the orientation, there is not much difference between the two designs. Which design to choose depends on personal preference. If you choose a horizontal design, you have chosen a design that will fit in all workplaces. On the other hand, if you go for a vertical design, you’ll be able to free up a lot of space on your workbench.
