10 Best Docking Stations for Ethernet

As you search for the perfect docking station to meet your Ethernet needs, you're likely wondering which ones stand out from the crowd. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to navigate the market. You're looking for a docking station that not only provides a reliable Ethernet connection but also accommodates your other devices and peripherals. From dual-monitor support to advanced power delivery, the right docking station can elevate your productivity and workflow. But which ones offer the best combination of features and performance?

Key Takeaways

• Consider docking stations with Gigabit Ethernet for fast wired network connections, ideal for professionals and heavy users.
• Look for docking stations with additional ports like HDMI, DisplayPort, and audio jacks for versatility in connectivity options.
• Choose a docking station with high power output like 100W or more for efficient charging and reliable performance.
• Ensure the docking station supports desired display resolutions like 4K, 5K, or 8K for best visual quality and multitasking.
• Check for compatibility with various devices, operating systems, and connectivity types for universal compatibility and convenience.

USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor for MacBook Pro

For professionals and creatives seeking a seamless dual-monitor experience with their MacBook Pro, the USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor stands out as an ideal choice, offering a versatile 15-in-2 expansion and compatibility that streamlines their workflow.

This docking station supports dual 4K@60Hz/4K@30Hz in extend mode, allowing users to maximize their productivity. With super-speed data transmission capabilities, it features four USB 3.0 ports and one USB-C port with transmission speeds up to 5 Gbps.

The strong power delivery USB C PD 3.0 port supports up to 87W charging for MacBook Pro/Air, ensuring uninterrupted work sessions. Additionally, the stable and reliable wired Ethernet connection provides an RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port with up to 1Gbps speed, making it an excellent choice for those who require a reliable and efficient docking solution.

Best For: Professionals and creatives seeking a seamless dual-monitor experience with their MacBook Pro.

Pros:

• Offers a versatile 15-in-2 expansion and compatibility that streamlines workflow
• Supports dual 4K@60Hz/4K@30Hz in extend mode, allowing users to maximize their productivity
• Features super-speed data transmission capabilities, strong power delivery, and stable wired Ethernet connection

Cons:

• Minor malfunction experienced after a year of usage
• Headphone jack requires manual selection in System Preferences
• No additional features or improvements mentioned beyond the initial product description

Dell WD19S Docking Station with Power Adapter

The Dell WD19S Docking Station with Power Adapter stands out as an ideal choice for professionals requiring a reliable and versatile connectivity solution. It offers a 130W power adapter and 90W power delivery to keep devices charged while supporting multiple displays and peripherals.

This docking station features a USB Type-C host connection, three USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C ports, two DisplayPort, one HDMI port, and one RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port. With a maximum resolution of 3840 x 2160 at 60 Hz, it's capable of handling video from multiple monitors with ease.

Additionally, it includes a 130W power adapter and a USB Type-C cable, making it a thorough solution for professionals.

Best For: Professionals requiring a reliable and versatile connectivity solution for their devices.

Pros:

• Supports multiple displays and peripherals with a 130W power adapter and 90W power delivery
• Offers a wide range of ports, including USB Type-C, USB Type-A, DisplayPort, HDMI, and Ethernet
• Includes a 130W power adapter and a USB Type-C cable for a thorough solution

Cons:

• Some users have reported receiving faulty or used products
• The device may not be compatible with all laptops or devices
• The price may be considered high compared to similar products on the market

TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station Triple Monitor

With its impressive array of 18 powerful ports, the TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station Triple Monitor is an ideal choice for users seeking an all-encompassing connectivity solution that can support multiple high-resolution monitors and fast data transfer speeds.

This docking station is compatible with a range of devices, including Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, and full-featured USB-C laptops, and supports multiple operating systems, including macOS, Windows, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android.

Additionally, it features triple/quad 4K extended display capabilities, supporting up to four monitors on Windows and three on macOS, making it an excellent option for those who require multiple high-resolution displays.

Best For: Professionals and individuals who require multiple high-resolution monitors and fast data transfer speeds for their work or daily activities.

Pros:

• Offers an impressive array of 18 powerful ports for comprehensive connectivity
• Supports multiple high-resolution monitors with triple/quad 4K extended display capabilities
• Compatible with a range of devices and operating systems, including Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB-C laptops, macOS, Windows, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android

Cons:

• Requires installation of DisplayLink Drivers for optimal performance
• May require additional power for some laptops to run three monitors effectively
• Has limitations on monitor support for macOS, with HDMI 3 and DP 3 unable to be used simultaneously

Targus USB C Docking Station Universal

High-performance laptop users seeking a reliable and versatile docking solution will find the Targus USB C Docking Station Universal an excellent choice, thanks to its ability to support up to two 4K monitors and 65W power delivery.

This docking station is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of USB-C laptops and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It features two HDMI 2.0 ports, allowing users to connect up to two monitors, as well as USB-A and USB-C ports for connecting accessories.

Additionally, it includes Ethernet and audio ports, making it a complete solution for users. With a 3-year limited lifetime warranty, users can have peace of mind knowing their investment is protected.

Best For: High-performance laptop users seeking a reliable and versatile docking solution for connecting multiple monitors and accessories.

Pros:

• Supports up to two 4K monitors and 65W power delivery for high-performance use cases
• Offers a wide range of connectivity options, including USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet, and audio ports
• Compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Cons:

• Some users have reported network connectivity issues with the docking station
• There have been reports of laptops being damaged or "fried" after using the docking station
• Some users have reported that their monitors turn off when their laptop goes to sleep

Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock

If you prioritize seamless connectivity and multi-monitor support, the Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock is an excellent choice, offering dual 4K monitor support and lightning-fast data transfer speeds.

This high-speed docking station is designed for versatility, featuring Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB-C and USB-A ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, 2.5G Ethernet, and a security lock slot.

The dock also supports quick charging, allowing your laptop to be powered up in just 2.5 hours. Additionally, it features easy port identification with raised tactile indicators on each port, making it user-friendly.

With its sustainable design made from 20% recycled ocean-bound plastic, the Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock is an eco-friendly option for those seeking a reliable and efficient docking solution.

Best For: Those who prioritize seamless connectivity and multi-monitor support, particularly Microsoft Surface laptop users.

Pros:

• Offers dual 4K monitor support and lightning-fast data transfer speeds with Thunderbolt 4 ports
• Features versatile compatibility with USB-C and USB-A ports, 3.5mm audio jack, 2.5G Ethernet, and a security lock slot
• Supports quick charging and has easy port identification with raised tactile indicators on each port

Cons:

• Lacks some features compared to other docks, such as triple/quad monitor support, HDMI, DisplayPort, and SD card readers
• Priced at $300, which is considered expensive, although comparable to other high-quality Thunderbolt docks
• Does not have some suggested upgrades, such as higher power delivery, an SD card reader, front-facing audio port, and M.2 internal storage option

WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station

Ideal for professionals and multitaskers, the WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station stands out for its exceptional video interfacing capabilities, supporting up to 5K Ultrawide or Cinema 4K resolutions for dual monitors.

This docking station is compatible with a wide range of platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, making it a versatile option for various users.

With its Gigabit Ethernet port, users can enjoy fast network speeds, while the six USB 3.0 ports provide high-speed data transfer. Additionally, the docking station comes with a 100W power adapter for laptop charging and supports power delivery through the USB-C port.

Best For: Professionals and multitaskers who require flexible video interfacing and high-speed data transfer for their laptops.

Pros:

• Supports up to 5K Ultrawide or Cinema 4K resolutions for dual monitors
• Compatible with a wide range of platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android
• Comes with a 100W power adapter for laptop charging and supports power delivery through the USB-C port

Cons:

• None mentioned in the product description
• None mentioned in the product description
• None mentioned in the product description

Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock

The Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock stands out as an excellent choice for professionals who require a reliable and versatile docking solution, offering compatibility with most Windows laptops and supporting up to two 4K displays.

This docking station boasts an impressive array of ports, including two DisplayPort 1.2 ports, two HDMI ports, one USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C port, three USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and two USB 2.0 Type-A ports. Additionally, it features a 10/100/1000 Mb/s Ethernet port, ensuring a stable and fast connection.

With a compact design and lightweight construction, this dock is perfect for professionals on-the-go. With an average customer review rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, it's clear that this dock has impressed many users with its performance and reliability.

Best For: Professionals who need a reliable and versatile docking solution for their Windows laptops, particularly those who require multiple display connectivity and a range of USB ports.

Pros:

• Offers compatibility with most Windows laptops and supports up to two 4K displays
• Boasts an impressive array of ports, including DisplayPort, HDMI, USB-C, and Ethernet
• Compact design and lightweight construction make it perfect for professionals on-the-go

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with monitor ports becoming non-functional after a few months
• Customer support can be difficult to communicate with, leading to frustration and wasted time
• May require additional purchases, such as power cords, to get the most out of the product

Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station

Those seeking a versatile and high-performance docking station that can support up to three monitors and fast charging will find the Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station an excellent choice. This docking station offers multiple connectivity options, including dual HDMI and DisplayPort, allowing users to connect up to three monitors for multitasking.

Additionally, it supports high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones. The device also features fast file transfer with USB-C and USB-A ports, making it an ideal solution for those who need to transfer large files quickly.

With a compact design and 18-month warranty, the Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station is a reliable and convenient option for those seeking a high-performance docking station.

Best For: Those who need a high-performance docking station that can support multiple monitors and fast charging for laptops and phones.

Pros:

• Supports up to three monitors for multitasking with dual HDMI and DisplayPort
• High-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones
• Fast file transfer with USB-C and USB-A ports for efficient data transfer

Cons:

• Requires DisplayLink driver for independent display outputs on Macs
• Some users experience USB connection inconsistency and display resolution issues
• Limited refresh rate of 60Hz for 2K and 4K monitors

OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock

With its impressive 96W charging capability and support for up to 8K displays or dual 5K displays, the OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock is an excellent choice for professionals and heavy users who require a reliable and high-performance docking solution.

This dock boasts an array of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output, making it a versatile multi-connectivity solution. Additionally, it's compatible with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices, and supports up to 8K @ 60Hz or 4K @ 120Hz displays.

With its 96W power delivery to the host computer and 15W to external devices, this dock is capable of handling demanding tasks with ease.

Best For: Professionals and heavy users who require a reliable and high-performance docking solution.

Pros:

• Supports up to 8K displays or dual 5K displays with 96W charging capability
• Offers a versatile multi-connectivity solution with multiple ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, and Gigabit Ethernet
• Compatible with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices, making it a great option for users with different devices

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with fullscreen video playback on external monitors
• The placement of the charging port may be inconvenient for some users
• No software is required, but some users may prefer a more customizable experience

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

This high-performance docking station stands out as the best choice for professionals seeking extreme connectivity, boasting 18 ports and supporting single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays.

The CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock offers powerful 98W charging, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, and 40Gb/s Thunderbolt 4 speeds, making it an ideal solution for those who require fast data transfer and high-resolution display support.

Universally compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices, this dock is suitable for Apple M2, M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max, M1 Ultra, Intel-based Macs, Windows PCs, and Chrome OS devices.

With its impressive feature set and ease of setup, the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock is a top recommendation for those seeking a reliable and high-performance docking solution.

Best For: Professionals seeking extreme connectivity and high-performance docking solutions.

Pros:

• 18 ports of extreme connectivity, including powerful 98W charging and 40Gb/s Thunderbolt 4 speeds
• Supports single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays and 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
• Universally compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices, making it suitable for a wide range of devices and operating systems

Cons:

• Runs warm/hot due to the nature of high-performance docking stations
• Some users have reported network connectivity issues
• Some users have suggested replacing memory slots with additional USB ports

Factors to Consider When Choosing Docking Stations for Ethernet

When choosing a docking station for Ethernet, you'll want to ponder several key factors to secure you get the right one for your needs.

You'll need to contemplate the types of ports you require, the speed and type of connectivity you need, and whether the dock is compatible with your devices.

Port Options and Variety

You'll want a docking station that offers a range of port options to accommodate your various devices and peripherals. This is essential to make sure that you can connect all your essential devices and accessories seamlessly.

Look for docking stations with multiple USB ports, including USB 3.0 and USB-C, which provide flexible connectivity options. Additionally, consider docking stations with specific Ethernet ports like Gigabit Ethernet for fast and reliable wired network connections.

Having additional ports like HDMI, DisplayPort, and audio jacks can enhance the versatility of the docking station. These ports can come in handy when you need to connect your laptop to external monitors, projectors, or speakers.

Make sure the docking station supports the necessary ports and connectivity options for your specific setup and devices. By choosing a docking station with a variety of port options, you can make sure that you're well-equipped to handle any connectivity task that comes your way.

With the right docking station, you'll be able to connect, work, and be productive with ease.

Connectivity Speed and Type

As you shop for a docking station with Ethernet capabilities, consider the speed and type of connectivity it offers, as they play an important role in determining the performance and reliability of your network connections.

You'll want to make sure the docking station can keep up with your data transfer needs. Look for docking stations with Gigabit Ethernet, which offers speeds of up to 1Gbps. If you need even faster speeds, consider docking stations with 2.5GbE or 10GbE Ethernet ports, which can provide markedly faster network speeds.

It's also essential to verify the docking station is compatible with your devices and network infrastructure, including routers and switches. This will help maximize Ethernet performance and prevent any connectivity issues.

Check if the Ethernet port is integrated into the docking station or requires an additional adapter for connectivity. Finally, evaluate the type of Ethernet port available, such as RJ45, to confirm compatibility with your network setup and devices.

Device Compatibility Range

Ascertain the docking station's compatibility range by checking its support for various devices, operating systems, and connectivity types to guarantee smooth integration with your existing setup.

You'll want to verify the docking station is compatible with a wide range of devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Additionally, look for docking stations that support multiple operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux, to provide versatile connectivity options.

It's also essential to check if the docking station is compatible with both Thunderbolt and USB-C devices to cater to different connectivity needs. If you have specific devices like MacBook Pro, Dell laptops, or Surface devices, make sure the docking station supports them for smooth integration and functionality.

Opting for a docking station with universal compatibility will allow you to connect to different brands and models of devices without compatibility issues. By considering the device compatibility range, you'll be able to find a docking station that meets your specific needs and guarantees hassle-free connectivity.

Power Delivery Capacity

When selecting a docking station for Ethernet, it's essential to take into account the power delivery capacity to make certain it can efficiently charge your laptop and devices while maintaining stable performance.

You'll want to look for docking stations with high power output, such as 100W or more, to guarantee efficient charging and powering of multiple devices. Additionally, make sure the docking station supports Power Delivery (PD) standards like PD 3.0 for fast and safe charging.

A higher power delivery capacity enables simultaneous charging of laptops, smartphones, and other peripherals without compromising performance. This is particularly important if you have power-hungry devices that require a lot of energy to function properly.

Opting for docking stations with robust power delivery capabilities will support your devices and maintain stable operation. By considering the power delivery capacity, you can confirm that your docking station meets your charging needs and provides reliable performance.

Display Support and Quality

You'll need a docking station that can handle your display demands, so consider one that supports the desired display resolution, such as 4K, 5K, or 8K, for best visual quality. This guarantees that you'll get the clearest and most detailed images possible.

In addition, look for features like dual or triple monitor support to enhance your multitasking capabilities. This will allow you to connect multiple displays to your docking station, making it easy to work on multiple projects simultaneously.

It's also essential to check the types of display connections the docking station supports. Does it have multiple HDMI ports, DisplayPorts, or Thunderbolt connections? Having a variety of options will give you more flexibility when setting up your workspace.

Moreover, consider the maximum refresh rate supported by the docking station. A higher refresh rate will provide smoother video playback and better overall screen pe