The 3 Best Laptop Docking Stations and USB Hubs

• 10-in-1 USB Hub
• Can output to two 4K monitors at once
• Protects your laptop from overheating
• Mini SSD enclosure for faster data transfer and backup

• Older MacBooks can't support dual-monitor output

If you're investing in a docking station, get one that will suit all your potential needs. This 10-in-1 hub from Satechi checks all the boxes. It offers multiple USB and HDMI ports, and can output to two monitors at once in 4k resolution (given you have the right hardware—M3 MacBooks and older won't support this).

It's simple, not too bulky, and works once you plug it in. But this dock goes beyond the basics. With DisplayPort to connect to monitors without using a USB slot, Ethernet for a fast wired connection, and an enclosure for SSD installation, you can't ask for much more than this from your USB docking hub.

• SD card reader slot
• Dual monitor output capable
• Easy to travel with

• No ultra-wide aspect ratio support

For the size and the price, it's actually hard to recommend any other docking station. This is the affordable 10-in-1 USB hub for people just looking to get more connections out of their laptop. It's portable, under $100, and is equipped with multiple USB and HDMI slots, as well as an SD and TF slot reader. And it works with MacBooks, iPads, and all sorts of Windows laptops and tablets.

• A reliable PC docking station
• Power delivery charging
• Headphone jack

• Not compatible with Mac

If you're team PC all the way, rocking a Windows laptop or Surface tablet, we instead recommend this USB hub from Plugable. The brand has some of the most reliable tech in the biz... provided your using a Windows machine. Plug a MacBook into this and you may encounter a number of display inconsistencies or even a lack of compatibility. Don't say we didn't warn you.

This station includes USB and Thunderbolt ports, an Ethernet, and even a 3.5mm headphone jack that makes it easy to wire in to your entire setup. It's super reliable, supports dual 4K output, and best of all it is easy. No software or downloads, just plug it in and get ready for action.

We don't need to get too tech-y here, but when it comes to the docking stations we recommend here's what we're looking for.

• Port Selection: Generally, you're looking for something with regular USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI ports. Ethernet and DisplayPort are also near the top of the must-have list.
• Speed: When it comes to USB, it's worth noting that different ports will have differing data transfer rate speeds. Typically USB ports have speeds of 5 Gbps and 10 Gbps, and most docking stations will have at least one of each speed. USB generation (2.0, or 3.0) doesn't mean a thing when distinguishing ports. Shape and speed do.
• Monitor resolution and refresh rate: For the HDMI and DisplayPort outputs, some ports top out at 4K resolution and 60 Hz refresh rate. Other ports output at 4K/120 Hz. The hubs we've chosen each have one 60Hz HDMI port, one 120Hz HDMI, and a 4K60 DisplayPort.
• Dual monitor output: If it can display out from your laptop to two monitors at once, that's great. If it can do both in 4K, even better.
• Design: There are bigger, and more powerful, docking stations than these, but if you're a laptop user you're probably on the go. Each of these stations is small and light enough to squeeze into a backpack.
• Power Pass Through: Some of these docking stations have power pass through, which charges your computer automatically via the station. Ones that do offer the incredibly convenience of never needing to worry about laptop battery again.

If you've ever found yourself wishing your laptop had an extra USB or HDMI port (or any of them at all), that's when you know you need a USB Hubs.

If you don't have enough ports for your mouse, monitor, keyboard, and all your other accessories, that's when you need one of these.

Or if you've wished for faster internet speeds without having to increase your monthly bill, a docking station with an Ethernet port is the solution you need.

Here on Esquire's commerce team, we've been poking, prodding, and stress-testing products for a long time, allowing us to recommend the best tech for your hard-earned money. From speakers to smartwatches to any other gadget we use on a daily basis, it is our job to never lead our readers astray. We like to say that we wouldn't recommend anything we didn't feel comfortable buying for ourselves, our best friends, or a family member. We mean that.