What is a USB-C hub?
A USB-C hub is an external device that is mainly used to expand the number and functionality of USB-C ports on a computer or laptop. It allows users to connect to multiple USB devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, storage devices, monitors, etc. through a single USB-C interface, thereby improving the connectivity and efficiency of the devices.
A docking station, also known as a port replicator, is an external device designed for laptops. Its main function is to enable a laptop to achieve a convenient one-stop connection with multiple accessories or external devices (such as power adapters, network cables, mice, external keyboards, printers, and external monitors, etc.) by duplicating or even expanding the laptop's ports.
By providing multiple interfaces (such as USB, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet interfaces, etc.), the docking station enables the laptop to connect to more external devices, thereby improving its functionality and convenience. It can also be a universal port replicator, and is also compatible with laptops of various brands and models.
13 in 1 thunderbolt4 docking station If you've been undecided between buying a USB-C hub or a docking station, or you already have a hub but it's not living up to your expectations, now might be the time to get yourself a docking station.
Find out what's so great about docking stations below:
1. More Screens, Higher Resolution
Compared to a USB-C hub, docking stations are far superior when it comes to display options. Take Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station for example. It's equipped with 2 HDMI ports plus a Thunderbolt 4 port to support 4K@60Hz to 3 screens simultaneously. And it can even display in 8K@30Hz to a single screen.
2. Fast Charging
Docking stations also have a huge edge when it comes to power. Unlike USB-C hubs, Docking stations come with their own power adapter. This means you can connect your laptop to the dock to get a powerful charge, and you can even connect other devices like phones and tablets to the downstream ports.
3. Speedy File Transfer
USB-C hubs usually support file transfer speeds of 5 Gbps or 10 Gbps. That's enough for most people, but if you're someone that needs to do some heavy-duty file transferring, then a docking station can give you a noticeable speed boost. With up to 40 Gbps speeds, you'll never be left twiddling your thumbs as you watch a file slowly trickle from your thumb drive to your laptop.
