First things first: In general usage, many laptop users actually refer to a port replicator when they say “docking station”. A docking station is manufacturer-dependent and therefore only suitable for the manufacturer’s intended notebooks. A port replicator is model and manufacturer-independent and is connected to the laptop via a free USB port or Thunderbolt connection.
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Docking Station
A docking station always only fits laptops from the same manufacturer. Within the models and series, different docks are often suitable. The docking station connection may not be suitable depending on the device generation. The notebook width and design also play a role, as the docking station sits under the device and is attached to the dock with the locking hooks. The additional connection on the underside of the device leaves all other ports, e.g. USB, USB-C, Thunderbolt connections, free for other peripheral devices.
Conclusion: Buying a docking station ties the use to a notebook and, as a rule, cannot be used again on a newer device from the same manufacturer.
Where can I order docking stations?
Docking stations from all manufacturers, here in our shop.
Port Replicator
A port replicator is connected to your laptop via the USB-C port or the Thunderbolt port. This makes it a lot more universal than a dock. Here, the signal from several connections is transmitted via a single USB cable (like a large USB hub, comparatively). However, the notebook does not necessarily have to be opened to use it. For example, an external monitor, keyboard, mouse and an external hard drive can be easily connected to the port replicator and connected to the notebook with just a single plug. However, both the notebook and the replicator must be powered by separate power supplies. The advantage here is the model independence. It is easy to switch between several different notebook models and manufacturers, the only requirement is an existing USB port. Even if you get a new laptop, you can usually continue to use the old port replicator there.
Where can I order port replicators?
Universal port replicators universally suitable for all manufacturers, here in our shop.
Conclusion: Docking Station VS Port Replicator
If you are working at a desk/workplace with changing notebooks of the same manufacturer and model series that have a docking connection, it makes sense to purchase a docking station, as only the notebook without a power supply needs to be taken along. However, if you are working with different notebooks from different manufacturers or devices for which there is no docking station, a port replicator is a great alternative. As always, you should pay attention to the features. Connections, speed, quality, compatibility and of course the price are other important decision criteria.
The sales trend has been clear for many years – away from the docking station – towards the port replicator.
Docking Station Unboxing
Port Replicator Unboxing
Here are answers to the most important questions
When does a docking station make sense?
Docking stations are as good as obsolete. Due to the proprietary connection, usually on the underside of the notebook, the dock only ever fits a few devices in a very similar series. At the latest when the laptop is changed, the dock can no longer be used. Therefore, very few docking stations in the traditional sense are offered on the market anymore.
When does a port replicator make sense?
Basically always when you want to use the laptop quickly and without hassle at different locations. Disconnecting the USB-C connection cable to the laptop is usually quick and effortless. All other connections such as graphics, network, mouse etc. are made on the port replicator.
Does a dock or a port replicator improve laptop performance?
Yes, laptops often have few graphics outputs. Connecting 2 or more monitors is therefore not possible. With modern port replicators, it is exactly possible to expand the connections, such as with the LAN connection. Many modern ultrabooks often no longer have this in the device, as they would often be too high.
How many watts should the power supply of a dock / port replicator have?
Attention: Answering this question depends fundamentally on the power consumption of the laptops. Modern gaming laptops have a higher power consumption during operation than office devices. It is important that the dock also has at least the power of the notebook power supply. If this is not the case, there is a risk that your laptop will no longer be able to charge the battery in parallel while operating on the dock. Rule of thumb: If your laptop requires a 90 watt power supply, you should use at least a 120W dock power supply so that all functions are possible as usual.
Can I also use a dock / port replicator on a PC?
Yes, this also usually significantly expands the number of possible peripheral devices there. The connection of multiple screens and the increase of USB connections are common added values. Also, it is especially more convenient for tower PCs to connect the devices to a dock/port replicator, as it is usually placed on the table. Yes, this also usually significantly expands the number of possible peripheral devices there. The connection of multiple screens and the increase of USB connections are common added values. Also, it is especially more convenient for tower PCs to connect the devices to a dock/port replicator, as it is usually placed on the table.
Should I buy a USB-C or Thunderbolt dock?
USB-C is the older connection technology. This means that USB-C docks are always cheaper to manufacture and therefore also to sell.
Important difference to the Thunderbolt dock:
The transmission speed of USB-C is between 5-20 GBit/s depending on the USB specification. With Thunderbolt, this is between 40-80 Gibt/s depending on the specification – also the theoretically higher refresh rate of up to 240 Hz is a clear advantage for demanding applications.
This allows multiple high-resolution monitors and fast NVMe SSDs to be operated more reliably.
