10 Best Docking Stations for Inspiron 15 3520

When you're looking to upgrade your Dell Inspiron 15 3520 laptop experience, a reliable docking station can make all the difference. You're probably wondering which one to choose from the countless options available. Well, you're in luck! We've narrowed down the search to the top 10 docking stations that can take your productivity to the next level. From the Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock to the Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station, each one offers unique features that cater to your specific needs. But which one is the best fit for you? Let's take a closer look.

Key Takeaways

• Consider docking stations with multiple USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and Ethernet ports for seamless connectivity with your Inspiron 15 3520.
• Look for docking stations that support dual or triple monitor setup with high-resolution displays for enhanced productivity.
• Ensure the docking station's power delivery capacity aligns with your laptop's power requirements, ideally with Power Delivery support.
• Choose a docking station with high-speed data transfer and network connections, such as Gigabit Ethernet and USB 3.1 Gen 2.
• Prioritize compact and portable designs that maximize desk space and offer convenient mobility for your Inspiron 15 3520.

Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock

For those seeking a docking station that can support up to two 4K displays, the Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock stands out as an ideal choice, boasting two DisplayPort 1.2 ports and two HDMI ports to cater to demanding display requirements.

This docking station is compatible with most Windows laptops, ensuring versatility and convenience. In addition to its impressive display capabilities, it features a range of ports, including 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, making it an excellent option for those with multiple devices to connect.

With an Ethernet port and a compact design, the Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and feature-rich docking solution.

Best For: Those who need a reliable docking station that can support up to two 4K displays and have multiple devices to connect.

Pros:

• Supports up to two 4K displays with two DisplayPort 1.2 ports and two HDMI ports
• Features a range of ports, including USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C and Type-A ports, and Ethernet port
• Compact design and compatible with most Windows laptops

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
• May require additional power supplies or accessories, such as power cords

WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station

Business professionals and frequent travelers seeking a reliable and versatile docking solution for their Inspiron 15 3520 laptops will appreciate the WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station. This docking station offers impressive video capabilities, supporting maximum resolutions of 5120x1440p60 (5K Ultrawide) or 4096x2160p60 (Cinema 4K) for dual monitors.

It's compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, and features a Gigabit Ethernet port, six USB 3.0 ports, and a 100W power adapter for laptop charging. With its wide compatibility and robust feature set, this docking station is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and high-performance docking solution.

Best For: Business professionals and frequent travelers seeking a reliable and versatile docking solution for their laptops.

Pros:

• Supports flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays, offering maximum resolutions of 5120x1440p60 (5K Ultrawide) or 4096x2160p60 (Cinema 4K) for dual monitors.
• Compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, making it a versatile docking solution.
• Features a Gigabit Ethernet port, six USB 3.0 ports, and a 100W power adapter for laptop charging, providing a robust set of features.

Cons:

• No specific cons mentioned in the product description.
• No information available on the product's durability or build quality.
• No additional features or accessories included beyond the standard package contents.

RVP+ 13-in-1 Docking Station for Laptops

With its ability to support triple display with 4K HDMI and DisplayPort, the RVP+ 13-in-1 Docking Station for Laptops is an ideal choice for users who require high-resolution multitasking capabilities.

This docking station offers a range of features, including fast and powerful 100W laptop charging, effortless data transfer with USB-C 3.1 and USB 3.0, and stable Gigabit Ethernet for a wired Internet connection.

Its compact and lightweight design, measuring 4.73 x 4.73 x 1.46 inches, makes it easy to take on the go.

With an impressive 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 121 customers, this docking station has received praise for its high-speed network performance, excellent customer service, and reliable connectivity.

Best For: Users who require high-resolution multitasking capabilities, reliable connectivity, and fast charging on the go.

Pros:

• Supports triple display with 4K HDMI and DisplayPort for high-resolution multitasking
• Offers fast and powerful 100W laptop charging and effortless data transfer with USB-C 3.1 and USB 3.0
• Compact and lightweight design with multiple functioning ports for reduced cable clutter

Cons:

• Limited HDMI ports, which may not be sufficient for some users
• No other significant drawbacks mentioned by customers
• None reported

Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K

This Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K stands out as an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile docking solution, offering 65W Power Delivery and support for up to two monitors via its two HDMI 2.0 ports.

Designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of USB-C laptops and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, this docking station is a convenient and clutter-reducing solution for any workspace.

With additional USB-A and USB-C ports, Ethernet and audio ports, and a 3-year limited lifetime warranty, users can enjoy hassle-free connectivity and organization.

The Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K has received overwhelmingly positive reviews for its reliability, performance, and ease of setup, making it a top contender for Inspiron 15 3520 users.

Best For: Those seeking a reliable and versatile docking solution for their USB-C laptops and multiple monitors.

Pros:

• Offers 65W Power Delivery and support for up to two monitors via its two HDMI 2.0 ports
• Designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of USB-C laptops and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
• Includes additional USB-A and USB-C ports, Ethernet and audio ports, and a 3-year limited lifetime warranty for hassle-free connectivity and organization

Cons:

• Some users have reported network connectivity issues
• There have been reports of laptops being damaged after using the docking station
• Some users have experienced issues with monitors turning off when the laptop goes to sleep

OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock

Frequently, users seeking a high-performance docking solution that can support up to 8K displays or dual 5K displays simultaneously will find the OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock to be an ideal choice for their Inspiron 15 3520. This dock offers a multi-connectivity solution with 11 ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output.

It also supports up to 96W charging and provides 15W of power to external devices. With its compatibility with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices, this dock is a versatile option for users with various devices. Additionally, it has received positive feedback from customers, who praise its ability to connect multiple monitors and handle various devices without issues.

Best For: Users seeking a high-performance docking solution that can support up to 8K displays or dual 5K displays simultaneously, particularly those with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices.

Pros:

• Connects multiple monitors and handles various devices without issues
• Provides 96W charging and 15W of power to external devices
• Offers a versatile multi-connectivity solution with 11 ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output

Cons:

• Some issues with fullscreen video playback on external monitor
• Placement of charging port may be inconvenient for some users
• No specific details provided about the product warranty

USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor for MacBook Pro

Designed specifically for MacBook Pros, this USB-C docking station offers a thorough 15-in-2 expansion that caters to professionals requiring multiple high-speed connections and dual 4K monitor support.

With its 15-in-2 expansion, this docking station supports:

• 2x 4K@30Hz/60Hz HDMI
• 4x USB 3.0
• 1x USB-C
• USB C PD 3.0
• 2x USB 2.0
• 3.5mm Audio/Mic
• SD/TF
• Gigabit Ethernet

This means users can enjoy seamless connectivity and extend their desktop to two 4K monitors at 60Hz or 30Hz.

The docking station also features a strong power delivery USB C PD 3.0 port, supporting up to 100W power input and offering up to 87W charging for MacBook Pro/Air.

Best For: Professionals requiring multiple high-speed connections and dual 4K monitor support for their MacBook Pros.

Pros:

• Offers a thorough 15-in-2 expansion with multiple high-speed connections, including dual 4K monitor support
• Features a strong power delivery USB C PD 3.0 port, supporting up to 100W power input and offering up to 87W charging for MacBook Pro/Air
• Provides a compact and minimalist design, eliminating the need for multiple cables and adapters

Cons:

• May experience minor malfunctions after extended use (over a year)
• Requires manual selection of the headphone jack in System Preferences
• Limited information available on the product's durability and long-term reliability

Plugable Universal Laptop Docking Station with 2 HDMI Ports

For users seeking a versatile and reliable docking solution that can support dual monitor setups with resolutions up to 1920×1200, the Plugable Universal Laptop Docking Station with 2 HDMI Ports is an excellent choice.

This docking station features two HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, audio, and six USB ports, making it compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS. It provides flexible expandability for laptops and supports wired Gigabit Ethernet and 3.5mm audio jack.

The Plugable Universal Laptop Docking Station is suitable for web and productivity software, ideal for home or office use, and reduces the need for extra cables.

With a 2-year warranty and positive user reviews, it's a reliable option for those seeking a reliable docking solution.

Best For: Those seeking a versatile and reliable docking solution for web and productivity software, ideal for home or office use.

Pros:

• Compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS, making it a versatile option for various laptop users
• Supports dual monitor setup with resolutions up to 1920×1200, ideal for multitasking and productivity
• Includes both USB 3.0 and USB-C cables, providing flexibility and convenience

Cons:

• Not recommended for gaming due to potential performance issues
• Does not support HDCP or playback of encrypted/copy-protected content, limiting its use for certain multimedia applications
• Not compatible with Linux, limiting its use for users of this operating system

Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock

The Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock stands out as an ideal choice for Inspiron 15 3520 users seeking high-speed connectivity and dual 4K monitor support in a single, sustainable device.

This high-performance docking station boasts Thunderbolt 4 ports for rapid data transfer, media streaming, and device charging. Additionally, it features versatile compatibility with USB-C and USB-A ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, 2.5G Ethernet, and a security lock slot.

The dock's commitment to sustainability is evident in its construction, which incorporates 20% recycled ocean-bound plastic. With quick charging capabilities and easy port identification, this dock is an excellent option for those seeking a reliable and eco-friendly solution.

Best For: Those seeking a high-performance, eco-friendly docking station with dual 4K monitor support and versatile connectivity options.

Pros:

• Offers lightning-fast connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 ports for data transfer, media streaming, and device charging
• 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 $40 more than the launch price of the older Dock 2
• Does not have some suggested upgrades, such as higher power delivery, front-facing audio port, and M.2 internal storage option

Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station

Busy professionals seeking an all-encompassing docking solution will appreciate the Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station's 13-in-1 expansion, which includes simultaneous charging for laptop and phone, extensive media display support for up to three monitors, and more.

This docking station offers a huge expansion of multiple ports and slots, providing a thorough media display experience. Users have reported positive feedback on the build quality and performance, with compatibility across different devices and operating systems.

The Anker 575 also stands out from other docks, such as the Dell TB16 Dock, with its ease of use, lack of driver installation, and superior size, connectivity, and functionality.

Best For: Busy professionals seeking an all-encompassing docking solution for their laptops and devices.

Pros:

• Huge expansion of multiple ports and slots for a comprehensive media display experience
• Simultaneous charging for laptop and phone, with compatibility across different devices and operating systems
• Ease of use, with no need for driver installation, and superior size, connectivity, and functionality compared to other docks

Cons:

• Confusion with USB-C formats and PD support may cause initial misunderstandings
• Accidental power disconnection may occur, requiring replacement or defect resolution
• Limited display resolution and refresh rate may affect performance with certain devices

Microsoft Surface Dock 2

Ideal compatibility with Microsoft Surface products makes the Microsoft Surface Dock 2 an attractive option for those seeking a seamless integration experience. This docking station boasts a range of features that cater to the needs of users.

With six USB ports, including two USB-C ports that support 10 Gbps data transfer and video display, users can connect multiple devices with ease. The dock also features a network RJ-45 port, a headphone/microphone combo port, and supports up to three monitors.

Weighing just 1.13 pounds, the Surface Dock 2 is compact and portable, making it perfect for work-from-home setups or on-the-go use. With a maximum power supply wattage of 199 W, users can power their devices with confidence.

Overall, the Microsoft Surface Dock 2 is a reliable and versatile docking solution.

Best For: Those who use Microsoft Surface products and need a seamless integration experience with multiple devices and monitors.

Pros:

• Ideal compatibility with Microsoft Surface products for a seamless integration experience
• Compact and portable design with a range of features, including six USB ports and a network RJ-45 port
• Supports up to three monitors and has a maximum power supply wattage of 199 W for reliable device powering

Cons:

• Some users have reported difficulties with multiple monitors and sound output
• Screen dimming issue has been reported, and online resources for troubleshooting are limited
• Dropping monitors and issues with the first dock have been reported by some users

Factors to Consider When Choosing Docking Stations for Inspiron 15 3520

When selecting a docking station for your Inspiron 15 3520, you'll want to ponder a few key factors to make sure you get the right one for your needs.

You'll need to contemplate the types of ports you require, whether you want to link multiple displays, and how much power you need to deliver to your laptop.

Port Compatibility Matters

Your docking station's port lineup must align with your Inspiron 15 3520's connectivity options to guarantee smooth integration and maximum productivity. You'll want to look for docking stations with the necessary ports to match your laptop's connectivity options, such as USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and Ethernet. This guarantees you can connect all your peripherals and accessories without any issues.

When selecting a docking station, also consider the power delivery capabilities. Can it effectively charge your Inspiron 15 3520 while connected to other devices? You don't want your laptop's battery to drain quickly, so make sure the docking station can handle the power requirements.

Lastly, check for compatibility with your specific laptop model to avoid any connectivity issues or limitations when using the docking station. You don't want to end up with a docking station that can't connect to your laptop or doesn't support its display resolution.

Multi-Display Support Needed

As you set up your workspace, you'll likely want to connect multiple monitors to your Inspiron 15 3520, making a docking station with robust multi-display support a must-have feature. You'll need to contemplate the type and number of video outputs on the docking station, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, or USB-C, to guarantee compatibility with your monitors. Check the maximum resolution supported by the docking station to ensure it meets the requirements of your monitors. Additionally, make sure the docking station has enough ports to connect all your external displays without compromising performance.

When researching, look for user reviews or feedback that specifically mention successful multi-display setups with the docking station. This will give you confidence that the docking station can handle your Inspiron 15 3520's display needs. Don't settle for a docking station that can only support a single monitor or low resolutions.

With a docking station that can handle multiple high-resolution displays, you'll be able to increase your productivity and take your workflow to the next level.

Power Delivery Capacity

Its power distribution capacity is crucial to keep in mind when selecting a docking station for your Inspiron 15 3520, as it directly impacts the station's ability to efficiently charge your laptop. You need to guarantee the docking station can provide sufficient power to support all your connected devices and peripherals while charging your laptop.

When choosing a docking station, verify that it provides the required wattage to meet the power demands of your Dell Inspiron 15 3520. Look for a docking station with Power Delivery (PD) support, which secures fast and reliable charging for your laptop. You don't want to end up with a docking station that can't keep up with your laptop's power needs, leading to slow charging or compatibility issues.

Make sure you check the docking station's power distribution capacity and align it with your Inspiron 15 3520's power requirements. This will guarantee that your laptop charges efficiently and you can enjoy uninterrupted productivity.

Connectivity Speed Options

When selecting a docking station for your Inspiron 15 3520, consider the connectivity speed options that meet your needs for high-speed data transfer, reliable network connections, and multi-monitor support. You'll want to look for docking stations with USB 3.0, USB-C, Thunderbolt, or HDMI connectivity for rapid data transfer.

Additionally, opt for docking stations that support swift Ethernet connections for dependable network speeds. Having multiple USB ports is also crucial, as it allows you to connect various peripherals simultaneously.

Moreover, consider the display options available on the docking station. Do you need HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA connections for your external monitors? Confirm the docking station supports the necessary resolutions for your display setup, such as 4K or dual monitor support.

Compact Design Importance

Considering your Inspiron 15 3520's docking station, you'll want to prioritize a small design to maximize desk space and maintain an uncluttered workspace that enhances your productivity. A small docking station is vital for saving desk space and reducing mess, allowing you to concentrate on your tasks.

Additionally, a smaller docking station is often more portable and convenient for use on the go or in limited spaces, making it ideal for users who value mobility and minimalist setups.

You'll be pleased to know that compact designs often offer the same functionality as larger docks, making them versatile and effective. The size of the docking station can significantly affect its portability and ease of use in different environments, so it's important to take into account small designs that can adapt to your requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Docking Station With a Non-Usb-C Laptop?

You're wondering if you can use a docking station with your non-USB-C laptop. Yes, you can! You'll need a docking station with an adapter or converter that matches your laptop's port type, such as HDMI or VGA.

Do Docking Stations Wo