If you’ve searched for laptop docks recently, you’ve likely noticed the multitude of options available. Not only are there many port/feature combinations, but also a potentially confusing range of core technologies: USB-C, multi-stream Transport (MST), DisplayLink, and Thunderbolt, among others. There can be overlap between options, especially when it comes to core features like power delivery, USB hub ports, and device security features. Regardless of the dock, make sure it has features like a power adapter that is fully rated to ensure laptop and peripherals receive continuous full power without throttling or sharing. Options to keep peripherals and the dock secure with K-Slot lock ports, and VESA mounting points are also important. Other features like a software utility suite makes it easier to manage network security and provide support and offer an enhanced user experience. Let’s discuss the two main types of laptop docks, and how to maximize compatibility and performance in your deployments. Easy Office-Wide Deployment: Prioritize Compatibility First up: docking stations focused on compatibility. Perhaps you’re deploying many docks at once and want to standardize on one model. That may not seem complicated, but what if you have a mixed environment, with Windows, macOS, and maybe even some ChromeOS devices? What if some users have single display workstations while others have dual or triple displays? That’s where a docking station with universal compatibility will really save the day. For productivity-focused users (utilizing applications like Office and/or in hot-desk environments), these docking stations are broadly compatible and enable one to four external displays across a broad range of systems including: When you need a dock for hot desks & hoteling, or mixed hardware deployments & ecosystems, choose a model that offers universal compatibility for hassle-free docking and minimal support requirements. Example Universal Compatibility laptop docking stations: USB-C Dock 4K Triple Monitor DP/HDMI PD Triple Monitor Docking Station, HDMI/DP Hybrid USB-C USB-A Dock - 100W PD - 4K60 DK30CH2DEP 116N-USBC-DOCK DK30C2DPEP Use our helpful Dock Finder Grid to identify the right dock to maximize compatibility. High Octane Workloads: Prioritize Video Performance Have you ever wondered how a docking station will affect performance? Some deployments require a higher performance docking station and that’s where this second category shines. Based on multi-stream Transport (MST), Thunderbolt 3, or Thunderbolt 4 technology, this category of docking stations harnesses the GPU of the host system to deliver uncompressed high performance graphics for power users and creators in media production or engineering. Performance docking stations are ideal for power users of performance workstation laptops, or MacBook Air / MacBook Pro (Apple M series Pro and Max), (MacBook Air M3 chips) requiring high resolution and/or high refresh rate displays. Another big advantage of this type of dock is the driverless setup. That means users plug right in and your support tech doesn’t get a phone call. When it comes to performance docks, determining the best docking station requires understanding the technology capabilities of the host laptop. For example, a Thunderbolt 4 dock will support up to dual 5K 60 displays on an Apple M series Pro or Max, or MacBook Air (M3 chip) system. Some Chromebooks with Intel 12th Gen processors or later will work great with a Thunderbolt 4 dock, but other Chromebook models won’t at all. With those, for example, an MST-based model of dock would be a better fit. StarTech.com can help you select the ideal dock for your deployment, with compatibility grids, detailed product specifications, and live support available. Paired with the appropriate host laptop, a Performance Docking Station enables high-resolution displays, USB connectivity, and Power Delivery. If you have an Apple M3/M2/M1 Max or Pro based system, read this post to learn more about the best docking station options available. Example performance laptop docking stations: Thunderbolt 4 Dock, 96W, 2x4K 60Hz/1x8K Dual Monitor USB-C Docking Station HDMI USB-C Dock Triple 4K - 100W PD, 6x USB TB4CDOCK MST30C2HHPD DK31C2DHSPD Use our handy Dock Finder Grid to select the best dock for your needs. For more details about all your docking station options, check out the docks resource page at Discover Laptop Docking Stations for IT Pros.