The Best Docking Stations for HP Laptops
If you’ve ever had to decide between buying a laptop or a desktop computer, you understand how difficult it can be to choose between the two. A desktop generally offers more upgradeable options and more overall functionality.
On the other hand, laptops deliver convenience and mobility for productivity on the go. Fortunately, there is a solution to consider if you love the portability of notebooks but you’d like a wider range of capabilities: docking stations.
Docking stations are a great compromise in the desktop versus laptop debate because they provide laptop users with a desktop-like experience. A laptop docking station provides you with additional charging power and allows you to connect to laptop accessories such as additional PC monitors or computer speakers.
If you’re looking for a great HP laptop docking station to create a better laptop experience, there are a range of HP options for you to choose from based on your needs.
Docking station ports
The best laptop docking station is the one that fits your workflow and lifestyle. When you’re shopping for docks, pay attention to what connections the docking station offers so you’ll know what sort of auxiliary accessories you can use with it.
Before we dive into the best HP laptop docking stations, let’s take a look at the common ports and monitor cable types you might see mentioned in the specifications section for a dock.
- HDMI: Connects your PC to a high-definition television or other high-definition monitors
- RJ-45: Used for Ethernet networking; “RJ” stands for registered jack and “45” denotes the number of the interface standard [1]
- USB-C Dock: Considered the industry standard to transfer both data and power between devices [2]
- USB 3.0: Data transfer rate of 5 gigabits per second; better power management and data transfer speeds over USB 2.0 [3]
- USB 2.0: Limited data transfer rate of 480 megabits per second; older generation technology [4]
- DisplayPort: Supports multiple displays and can connect to almost any type of monitor [5]
- VGA: Video Graphics Array connects standard monitors of display interfaces [6]
The 7 best HP laptop docking stations
1. HP USB-C Dock G5
The HP USB-C Dock G5 is a versatile and powerful docking solution, designed to enhance the functionality of your USB-C- and Thunderbolt-enabled laptops. It's a perfect fit for those seeking to create a clean, organized, and highly efficient workspace.
The dock is designed to work with a broad range of laptops, including HP, MacBook, and other USB-C- and Thunderbolt-enabled devices. This universal compatibility ensures a seamless connection regardless of your laptop brand.
With its one-cord setup, the HP USB-C Dock G5 significantly reduces desk clutter. This simplifies your workstation and helps maintain an organized work environment.
In conclusion, the HP USB-C Dock G5 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enhance their laptop's connectivity and charging capabilities. Its combination of universal compatibility, multiple ports, and powerful charging options, all within a compact and sleek design, makes it a valuable addition to any tech setup, whether at home or in the office.
Ports:
- 1 USB-C port with data and power out (15W),
- 1 USB-C cable to connect to the host system.
- 2 USB 3.0 charging ports and 1 combo audio jack,
- 2 additional USB 3.0 charging ports, 2 DisplayPort™ ports,
- 1 RJ45 port for wired internet access,
- 1 HDMI 2.0 port for external displays, and
- 1 standard lock slot for security.
2. HP USB-C G5 Essential Dock
The HP USB-C G5 Essential Dock is an indispensable tool for enhancing productivity and simplifying workspace management. Designed for seamless integration, it offers a one-cable solution that expands the capabilities of your laptop, making it an ideal choice for professionals and home users alike.
The dock facilitates effortless connectivity through a single USB-C cable. It powers up to four USB-A ports, allowing you to connect a range of accessories. Additionally, it supports up to three high-resolution displays, providing expansive visual workspace options. The stable Ethernet connection ensures uninterrupted internet access, and the dock delivers 65W of power to keep your laptop charged.
Essential Manageability: The dock is equipped with several manageability features crucial for IT support in work environments. These include PXE boot, MAC address pass-through, Wake on LAN, and LAN/WLAN switching, allowing for efficient management of your docking fleet.
The HP USB-C G5 Essential Dock is not just a docking station; it’s a comprehensive solution for workspace optimization. Its compact size, combined with its extensive feature set, makes it an invaluable asset for anyone looking to enhance their laptop’s functionality while maintaining a clean and organized desk space. The package includes the dock, a 120W power adapter, an AC power cord, a quick setup poster, and a warranty card, ensuring you have everything you need for an immediate and impactful upgrade to your workspace.
Ports:
- SuperSpeed USB Type-C
- 2 SuperSpeed USB Type-A
3. HP Thunderbolt Dock 120W G4
The HP Thunderbolt Dock 120W G4 is a powerful and secure docking solution that elevates the productivity and connectivity of your workspace. This dock is designed for IT decision-makers and hybrid workers, offering an unparalleled combination of security, compatibility, and power for a seamless work experience.
This dock boasts wide compatibility, working effortlessly with most notebooks and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and Chrome OS. Rigorous testing and certifications guarantee hassle-free connectivity with just one USB-C cable.
With support for up to four 4K displays, the dock harnesses the speed of Thunderbolt 4 technology, facilitating multitasking and collaboration. It also offers double the Ethernet speed for faster downloads and delivers up to 100W of power, sufficient to charge most notebooks.
The HP Thunderbolt Dock 120W G4 is more than just a docking station; it's a comprehensive solution for modern workspaces. Whether you're in an office or working remotely, this dock ensures a secure, productive, and efficiently managed work environment. With its advanced features and robust design, it stands as a top choice for professionals seeking to maximize their productivity and device security.
Ports:
- LED and power button
- 1 USB-C data/power out
- 1 Kensington lock slot
- 2 USB 3.2 Gen
- 1 ports
- 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1
- 1 HDMI 2.0, 2
4. HP USB-C/A Universal Dock G2
The HP USB-C/A Universal Dock G2 is a versatile and future-proof docking solution that caters to a wide range of connectivity needs, making it an ideal choice for commercial fleets and individual users alike. Its compatibility with both USB-A and USB-C™ enabled notebooks ensures it fits seamlessly into any setup, providing a single-cable solution that simplifies and enhances the user experience.
This dock is designed with universal compatibility in mind, supporting HP and non-HP USB-A, USB-C, and Thunderbolt-enabled notebooks. This feature makes it a long-term investment for any fleet or individual setup.
It includes a USB-A Adapter, enabling connection to USB notebooks. Additionally, with the optional HP 4.5 mm and USB-C Dock Adapter G2, it offers legacy device barrel charging, ensuring backward compatibility with older devices.
Overall, the HP USB-C/A Universal Dock G2 is an excellent choice for anyone looking to streamline their workspace while ensuring compatibility with current and future devices. Its comprehensive feature set, combined with its compact design, makes it a valuable addition to any professional or personal setup.
Ports:
- 1 USB Type-C (front),
- 2 USB 3.0 (side, charging),
- 2 USB 3.0 (back, charging),
- 2 DisplayPort™, 1 HDMI 2.0,
- 1 headphone/microphone combo (side),
- 1 RJ-45 (back).
5. HP Universal USB-C Multiport Hub
The HP Universal USB-C Multiport Hub is a highly versatile and efficient accessory for any user requiring additional connectivity options. Compatible with various devices and operating systems, it offers a simple yet powerful solution for expanding the capabilities of your USB-C-equipped PC.
This hub is designed to work with any PC that has a USB-C port, supporting Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS®. Its universal compatibility ensures seamless integration with a wide range of devices.
It supports dual 4K displays via HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort™ 1.2, offering high-quality resolution and enhancing your visual workspace.
The hub allows for pass-through charging of up to 65W (with a 90W power supply), enabling you to power your PC while simultaneously using the other ports for data transfer and connectivity.
The HP Universal USB-C Multiport Hub is an excellent accessory for anyone looking to enhance their PC’s connectivity. Its compact design, combined with its wide range of ports and universal compatibility, makes it a must-have for professionals, students, or anyone in need of a powerful yet simple connectivity solution.
Ports:
- 1 USB Type-C (5Gbps)
- 2 USB Type-A (5Gbps)
- 1 RJ-45,
- 1 USB Type-C pass-through (up to 65W USB Power Delivery).
6. HP USB-C Travel Hub G2
The HP USB-C Travel Hub G2 is a compact and efficient solution for professionals and travelers who need to expand their laptop's connectivity while on the go. Its design focuses on simplicity and functionality, making it a perfect companion for those who require extra ports and screen connectivity in a portable form.
The hub transforms a single USB-C port into three useful connections. It offers two USB ports for connecting everyday accessories, and an additional port for either HDMI or VGA, providing flexibility for second-screen connectivity.
Designed for productivity, the hub supports scalable power delivery to your laptop. It accommodates 45W, 65W, or 90W adapters, ensuring that your device receives the right amount of power for optimal performance.
The HP USB-C Travel Hub G2 is an ideal choice for anyone in need of a lightweight, versatile hub that can handle multiple connections and power delivery efficiently. Whether for business travel, remote work, or everyday use, this hub provides the essential connectivity and charging capabilities in a compact, portable package.
Connect and do more
The best HP docking station for your laptop depends on your needs and what peripheral devices you plan to use. However, with the right docking station setup, you can efficiently expand the functionality of your laptop and accomplish all of your work tasks - and then some.
Experience enhanced sound with external speakers, open up an entirely new frame of productivity with an extra display, and enjoy advanced capabilities to take your workday to the next level.
[1] Tech Terms; RJ45 Definition
[2] PCMag; What is USB-C? An Explainer
[3] Diffen; USB 2.0 vs. USB 3.0
[4] AVADirect; USB 3.1 vs 3.0 vs USB Type-C – What’s the difference?
[6] Lifewire; What Does VGA Mean?
