Want to supercharge your laptop with a few extra ports and connect even more tech? Then a docking station will do the trick. It’s the perfect way to get the most out of your laptop and get way more done. Especially if you’re working on a desk at home or in the office. Here’s why it’s worth adding one to your setup…
What is a laptop docking station?
Laptops are great for getting work done on the go. Whether you’re on a train or sat in the lecture hall. But when you get back home to your desk, it can feel like your laptop isn’t cutting the mustard — with its small screen and fiddly touchpad. Especially if you don’t have a separate desktop PC.
This is where laptop docking stations can help. These clever multi-port devices plug into your laptop and let you easily hook up to peripherals using just one small and tidy gadget. Like an extra monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, or external hard drive. Neat!
They’re great at boosting what your laptop can do. You can easily transform it into a powerful desktop computer without having to fork out for one. So, if you want to get rid of those clunky adapters and dongles — get one of these handy all-in-one gadgets instead.
Key features of laptop docking stations
Docking stations have loads of extra ports that your laptop might not have. So, if your laptop only comes with a couple of USB-A or USB-C ports, then a docking station gives you a few more to play with. And you’ll be able to plug in a load more hardware.
Or maybe you want to upload your holiday snaps, but your laptop doesn’t have an SD card reader? No problem. Most docking stations have SD and microSD card slots so you can import photos without the hassle. And some offer even more — like HDMI and DisplayPort for monitors, audio jacks for your headphones or speakers, and ethernet ports for connecting straight to a router.
Some docking stations can even charge your laptop, so you can keep it topped up while you use it! If they’re mains-powered, they can send juice to your laptop when you plug them in with a USB-C or Thunderbolt cable. And mains-powered docking stations can even charge and power other tech that’s plugged into them — like your mobile phone, tablet, or a monitor.
Why you should consider a docking station
Laptop docking stations help create a super versatile and efficient workspace — completely without the clutter. They let you turn your laptop into a fully-fledged desktop PC with just one quick connection. Giving you the best of both worlds for some flexible hybrid working.
With a central hub for all your extra gadgets, you won’t have to waste time hooking these up to your laptop one by one when you’re working between your house and the office. Just a single cable from the docking station connects your laptop to everything in an instant.
FAQs
How do docking stations work?
Laptop docking stations make it easier to connect your laptop to extra bits of tech. They have a few more ports so you can plug one or two extra monitors, a mouse, keyboard, or printer into one device for a neat setup. Lots of these are also mains-powered and connect to your laptop using a USB-C or Thunderbolt cable, which carries both data and power.
Most docking stations are “plug and play” devices too. So, you can just connect one to your laptop and its operating system will recognise the docking station automatically. This can depend on your laptop, but in most cases, it’ll mean that you shouldn’t have any compatibility problems. Hook everything up, and you’ll be ready to go!
Are there any software requirements for docking stations?
Although most laptop docking stations will work straight away, some might need a driver to connect properly. You can easily download this from the manufacturer’s website for free. And once it’s installed, it’ll help your laptop to recognise the docking station so that you can use it properly. Easy.
What's the difference between docking stations and USB hubs?
Docking stations and USB hubs pretty much do the same thing. They let you connect your laptop to more stuff — all from one neat little workstation. The main difference is that laptop docking stations are usually mains-powered, so they can charge up your laptop while you use it. USB hubs are devices that you plug in to just give your laptop more ports.
Do docking stations work with all laptops?
“Universal” laptop docking stations should work with lots of different laptops, including any from Windows and Apple. These will usually connect via USB-A, USB-C or Thunderbolt — so they should work with loads of laptops. It’s always best to double check which ports your laptop has before you buy though!
Any more questions?
Now that your laptop’s ready to make more connections, why not check out some of our other computer accessories to get the most out of your machine? Or have a look at some of the best laptops you can buy if you’re thinking about an upgrade.
