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10 Best Thunderbolt Docking Stations 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station Triple Monitor with 120W Power Adapter, Triple 4K Display for MacBook Pro/Air, Thunderbolt 4/3, USB-C Windows(3X HDMI, 3X DP, 2xUSB-C, 4xUSB 3.2, SD/TF)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,422
Number of Ports
Port Types
Power Delivery

Most important from
727 reviews

Number of Ports
Comprehensive port selection eliminates the need for additional dongles, covering almost every connectivity need.
Port Types
A minor improvement would be relocating more USB ports to the rear to keep front ports free for temporary devices and reduce clutter.
Power Delivery
The 120W power adapter reliably charges laptops and supports fast charging for phones, making it a versatile power hub.
Compatibility
Effortless setup with DisplayLink software enables multiple monitors and drives to work seamlessly right after connection.
Data Transfer Speed
High refresh rates across multiple DisplayPort monitors run smoothly, even when integrated with KVM switches.
Build Quality and Design
The dock's substantial weight and sturdy metal enclosure prevent movement and aid heat dissipation during heavy use.

The TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station is a strong choice for users who need to connect multiple monitors and peripherals through a single USB-C or Thunderbolt cable. It offers an impressive total of 18 ports, including 3 HDMI, 3 DisplayPort, 2 USB-C, 4 USB 3.1 Type-A, and slots for SD/TF cards, plus Ethernet and audio connections. This variety covers most connectivity needs, making it ideal for expanding laptop capabilities. The dock supports triple 4K monitors at 60Hz, which is great for multitasking and visual work, especially on Thunderbolt 4/3 compatible laptops. However, macOS users should note it supports only three monitors and cannot use all HDMI and DisplayPort outputs simultaneously. Windows users can connect up to four monitors if their laptop’s USB-C supports video output.

It’s compatible with many systems including macOS 11+, Windows 10+, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android but does not support Linux/Unix and requires installing DisplayLink drivers. The included 120W power adapter can charge laptops at up to 100W, covering most power-hungry devices, and also provides fast charging for phones. Data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps via USB 3.1 ports allow quick file transfers. The dock’s build is compact and practical, weighing just over a pound with a sturdy design in neutral grey.

Users should keep in mind some limitations like the need for driver installation, the complexity of monitor output combinations on macOS, and that streaming services like Hulu or Netflix may not work on extended displays. This dock is well suited for professionals or anyone who requires extensive connectivity and multiple high-resolution displays with fast charging capabilities, especially users with Thunderbolt 3 or 4 laptops.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,422
Number of Ports
Port Types
Power Delivery

Most important from
727 reviews

Number of Ports
Comprehensive port selection eliminates the need for additional dongles, covering almost every connectivity need.
Port Types
A minor improvement would be relocating more USB ports to the rear to keep front ports free for temporary devices and reduce clutter.
Power Delivery
The 120W power adapter reliably charges laptops and supports fast charging for phones, making it a versatile power hub.
Compatibility
Effortless setup with DisplayLink software enables multiple monitors and drives to work seamlessly right after connection.
Data Transfer Speed
High refresh rates across multiple DisplayPort monitors run smoothly, even when integrated with KVM switches.
Build Quality and Design
The dock's substantial weight and sturdy metal enclosure prevent movement and aid heat dissipation during heavy use.
#2

Plugable USB-C Triple Monitor Docking Station: 13-in-1 Laptop Dock with 100W Charging for Mac (DisplayLink Driver Required), Windows, Chrome, 3 HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, SD, USB-C 20W, 4 USB - UD-ULTCDL

Rating
9.4
Power Delivery
Compatibility

Most important from
1463 reviews

Power Delivery
The dock charges my MacBook Air and connects all peripherals, even though it uses both USB-C slots.
Compatibility
Works well but make sure your computer has the necessary drivers. Tricky for Macs, super easy for PCs.

The Plugable 13-in-1 USB-C Triple Monitor Docking Station offers a versatile and powerful expansion solution for users needing multiple monitors and high-speed connectivity. With 13 ports, including three HDMI ports, four USB 3.0 ports, and an SD card reader, it provides ample options for connecting various devices. This docking station supports up to three monitors, making it ideal for professionals requiring extensive screen real estate.

It delivers a clear 4K display on one monitor and up to 1920x1200 resolution on the other two, thanks to DisplayLink technology, which also supports M1 and M2 Mac systems with driver installation. The 100W power delivery ensures your laptop stays charged while you work, and an additional USB-C port offers 20W charging for smaller devices like phones. Compatibility is broad, covering Windows, macOS (with drivers), and Chrome OS systems that support USB4, Thunderbolt, or video-capable USB-C.

MacOS users need to install drivers, which could be a drawback for some. The build quality is solid, and the design is functional but may be bulkier compared to some sleeker alternatives. Data transfer speeds are good, with USB 3.0 ports offering up to 5 Gbps, but it's not the fastest option available. For users needing a robust and comprehensive docking solution with wide compatibility and strong multi-monitor support, this Plugable docking station is a reliable choice. Just be mindful of the driver requirements for Mac users and the bulkier design if desk space is a concern.

Rating
9.4
Power Delivery
Compatibility

Most important from
1463 reviews

Power Delivery
The dock charges my MacBook Air and connects all peripherals, even though it uses both USB-C slots.
Compatibility
Works well but make sure your computer has the necessary drivers. Tricky for Macs, super easy for PCs.
#3

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock - 18 Ports, 98W Charging, 40Gb/s Thunderbolt 4, USB-A/C, 2.5GbE, 8K/6K Displays, Mac/PC/Chrome Compatible

Rating
7.9
Number of Ports
Port Types
Power Delivery

Most important from
1621 reviews

Number of Ports
Provides enough powered ports for a Logic-based home studio, including 4K monitor, webcam, USB microphone, audio interface, and multiple USB devices.
Port Types
The front audio port has baseline noise, but the back audio output is dead silent.
Power Delivery
This hub is a single Thunderbolt cable to my laptop that drives ethernet, all USB connections, peripherals, and even powers a monitor through an eGPU.
Compatibility
Setup was dead simple; just connect the monitor cables and network cable to the dock, and everything works flawlessly.
Data Transfer Speed
Fast transfer speeds through the SD card reader, as quick as the card permits.
Build Quality and Design
CalDigit TS4 is pricey but worth it, saving time and headaches in complex setups.

The CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock is a robust choice for users needing extensive connectivity and power delivery. With an impressive 18 ports, including USB-A/C, 2.5GbE, audio, and DisplayPort 1.4, it meets diverse and demanding workflows. The dock’s 98W charging capacity is powerful enough for larger laptops, making it convenient to charge your device while connected to multiple peripherals with a single cable.

The data transfer speeds are top-notch at 40Gb/s via Thunderbolt 4, ensuring fast and efficient performance. Compatibility is broad, covering Mac, PC, and Chrome systems, including the latest Apple M1, M2 devices, and USB-C devices like the iPhone 15 and iPads. This makes it versatile for various users and environments. Additionally, its support for high-resolution displays (up to 8K on Windows and 6K on macOS) and dual display setups boosts productivity for professionals working with visual media. The 2.5GbE port further enhances connectivity with faster network options.

On the downside, the dock's price might be on the higher end for some users. Also, users may need to update the firmware for optimal compatibility, which could be a hassle for those less tech-savvy. The build quality and design are solid and compact, but the dock might feel a bit heavy at 1.41 pounds for those who need a more portable solution. Despite these minor drawbacks, the CalDigit TS4 is a powerful and versatile docking station that offers a comprehensive solution for users needing high connectivity and performance.

Rating
7.9
Number of Ports
Port Types
Power Delivery

Most important from
1621 reviews

Number of Ports
Provides enough powered ports for a Logic-based home studio, including 4K monitor, webcam, USB microphone, audio interface, and multiple USB devices.
Port Types
The front audio port has baseline noise, but the back audio output is dead silent.
Power Delivery
This hub is a single Thunderbolt cable to my laptop that drives ethernet, all USB connections, peripherals, and even powers a monitor through an eGPU.
Compatibility
Setup was dead simple; just connect the monitor cables and network cable to the dock, and everything works flawlessly.
Data Transfer Speed
Fast transfer speeds through the SD card reader, as quick as the card permits.
Build Quality and Design
CalDigit TS4 is pricey but worth it, saving time and headaches in complex setups.

Buying Guide for the Best Thunderbolt Docking Stations

When choosing a Thunderbolt docking station, it's important to consider your specific needs and how you plan to use the device. A docking station can greatly enhance your productivity by expanding the connectivity options of your laptop or desktop. To make the best choice, you should understand the key specifications and how they align with your requirements.
Number of PortsThe number of ports on a docking station determines how many devices you can connect simultaneously. This is important because it affects your ability to connect peripherals like monitors, keyboards, mice, external drives, and other USB devices. If you have many devices, look for a docking station with a higher number of ports. For basic use, a docking station with fewer ports may suffice.
Port TypesDifferent port types offer various connectivity options. Common ports include USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, and audio jacks. The importance of each port type depends on the devices you plan to connect. For example, if you need to connect multiple monitors, ensure the docking station has multiple HDMI or DisplayPort outputs. If you require fast data transfer, look for USB-C or Thunderbolt ports.
Power DeliveryPower delivery refers to the docking station's ability to charge your laptop or other devices while connected. This is crucial if you want to avoid using multiple chargers. Docking stations with higher power delivery (measured in watts) can charge more power-hungry devices. If you have a high-performance laptop, look for a docking station with at least 60W of power delivery.
CompatibilityCompatibility ensures that the docking station works seamlessly with your laptop or desktop. This includes both the operating system (Windows, macOS, etc.) and the hardware (Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, USB-C). Check the specifications of your device and the docking station to ensure they are compatible. Some docking stations are designed specifically for certain brands or models, so make sure to verify this before purchasing.
Data Transfer SpeedData transfer speed is important if you frequently move large files between devices. Thunderbolt docking stations typically offer high data transfer speeds, but it's important to check the specific speed ratings (measured in Gbps). Higher speeds (e.g., 40 Gbps) are beneficial for tasks like video editing or transferring large datasets. For general use, lower speeds may be sufficient.
Build Quality and DesignThe build quality and design of a docking station can affect its durability and ease of use. Look for a docking station with a sturdy build, especially if you plan to carry it around frequently. The design should also be user-friendly, with ports that are easily accessible. A compact and lightweight design is ideal for portability, while a larger, more robust design may be better for a stationary setup.

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