You probably know which ports you use regularly, so when looking at different models, you want to be sure you can plug in everything you need at one time to your dock, avoiding excessive cable-swapping.Ĭonnections for desktop monitors are the most fraught of the ports to figure out. Port selection-in both number and variety-is a key reason to choose one docking station over another. How to Pick the Right Ports on Your Docking Station Now we'll discuss each of these factors in greater detail. Still, you'll want to check for this if you're docking a MacBook Pro or MacBook Air. Rest assured, most universal docks are Mac-friendly. You'll tend to see fewer ports on portable docks, due to the simple fact that they are smaller.Īpple compatibility. Stationary docks are best for a home-office setup, but portable docks are ideal for adding a few extra ports when you are on the go. But you can also find models that connect over the older USB Type-A standard if your laptop lacks one of the newer ports.
Docking stations are available for USB Type-C and Thunderbolt connections to your computer. It goes without saying that the dock you choose should have all the ports-in type and number-that you need.Ĭonnectivity between the dock and your laptop. Getting right down to it, these are the four key factors you need to consider when selecting one: Let's look at docking stations from the top level first. The Short List for Picking a Docking Station (Hit those links for product-level options according to the broader kind of laptop you have.) This guide will give you more detailed, nuanced advice to help you gauge the best one for your specific needs. We've already picked the best laptop PC docking stations and best MacBook docking stations on the market. Some can even power your notebook through that same wire, for the ultimate in convenience. Today's generic USB and Thunderbolt docks, in contrast, do it all through a single cable. The dock would interface with your laptop via a vendor-specific port or slot. You might be familiar only with old-school, proprietary docking stations, into which you would click or slide your notebook. (Plus, it might allow you to carry a leaner laptop, with fewer ports.) How to Set Up Two-Factor AuthenticationĪt your desk or on the go, are you forever unplugging devices from your laptop and buying countless port adapters and dongles? A docking station can save you from those hassles, providing extra connectivity and acting as a central hub for all your devices and displays.How to Record the Screen on Your Windows PC or Mac.How to Convert YouTube Videos to MP3 Files.How to Save Money on Your Cell Phone Bill.
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