10 Essential USB-C Hubs for Surface Laptops: Top Picks for 2024

You're likely no stranger to the frustration of limited ports on your Surface laptop. That's where a reliable USB-C hub comes in – but with so many options available, which one is right for you? You need a hub that can keep up with your workflow, providing seamless connectivity and power delivery. In 2024, the top picks offer a range of features that can take your productivity to the next level. But what sets them apart, and which one will best suit your specific needs?

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Key Takeaways

Choose a USB-C hub that is compatible with your specific Surface laptop model for seamless integration and optimal performance.
Consider the number and types of ports you need, including display support, power delivery, and additional features like Ethernet and audio ports.
Ensure the hub can deliver sufficient power to your laptop and peripherals, and check for Thunderbolt compatibility and Power Delivery technology support.
Opt for a compact and portable design that integrates easily into your workspace, making it perfect for clutter-free environments and travel.
Evaluate the hub's data transfer speed, charging capabilities, and multi-device support to ensure it meets your productivity and connectivity needs.

RVP+ Docking Station for 3 Monitors with USB C

For Surface Laptop users seeking an all-encompassing docking solution, the RVP+ Docking Station for 3 Monitors with USB C stands out as an ideal choice, offering a 13-in-1 docking station with multiple ports and functions.

This docking station supports triple display with 4K HDMI and DisplayPort, ensuring crystal-clear visuals. Additionally, it provides 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.

With its compact design and lightweight construction, this docking station simplifies laptop setup while reducing cable clutter. Boasting an impressive 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 121 customer reviews, the RVP+ Docking Station is a reliable and convenient solution for Surface Laptop users.

Best For: Surface Laptop users seeking an all-encompassing docking solution with multiple ports and functions.

Pros:

Supports triple display with 4K HDMI and DisplayPort for crystal-clear visuals
Provides fast and powerful 100W laptop charging and effortless data transfer with USB-C 3.1 and USB 3.0
Compact and lightweight design simplifies laptop setup while reducing cable clutter

Cons:

Limited HDMI ports, which may be a minor issue for some users
No other notable drawbacks or concerns regarding performance or quality
None mentioned by customers in their reviews

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Dell WD19S Docking Station with Power Adapter

The Dell WD19S Docking Station with Power Adapter is a top choice for professionals seeking a reliable USB-C hub. It offers a robust 130W power adapter and 90W power delivery to keep their Surface laptop charged. The 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 an RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port. It supports up to 3840 x 2160 max resolution at 60 Hz.

The compact design and lightweight construction make this docking station easy to take on the go. It is an ideal solution for professionals who need a reliable and powerful USB-C hub.

Best For: Professionals seeking a reliable and powerful USB-C hub to support multiple monitors and peripherals while keeping their laptop charged on the go.

Pros:

Offers a robust 130W power adapter and 90W power delivery to keep laptops charged while supporting multiple devices.
Features a compact design and lightweight construction, making it easy to take on the go.
Supports up to 3840 x 2160 max resolution at 60 Hz, making it ideal for professionals who need high-quality visuals.

Cons:

Some users have reported receiving faulty or used products, which can be frustrating and affect the overall user experience.
The product is somewhat expensive, which may be a barrier for some individuals or businesses.
Some users may not need all the features and ports offered by this docking station, which could make it less valuable for their specific needs.

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Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station with 2 HDMI Ports

Surface laptop users seeking a versatile docking station that can support dual monitors with resolutions up to 1920×1200 will appreciate the Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station with 2 HDMI Ports.

This universal docking station provides flexible expandability for laptops, featuring two HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, audio, and six USB ports. It's compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS, making it an excellent choice for users with different operating systems.

The Plugable docking station also includes USB 3.0 and USB-C cables, ensuring easy connectivity. While it doesn't charge the host PC and isn't recommended for gaming, it's ideal for web and productivity software, making it suitable for home or office use.

Best For: Surface laptop users seeking a versatile docking station that can support dual monitors with resolutions up to 1920×1200.

Pros:

Compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS, making it an excellent choice for users with different operating systems
Includes USB 3.0 and USB-C cables, ensuring easy connectivity
Provides flexible expandability for laptops, featuring two HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, audio, and six USB ports

Cons:

Does not charge the host PC
Not recommended for gaming
Does not support HDCP or playback of encrypted/copy-protected content

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TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station for MacBook Pro/Air

Boasting an impressive 18 powerful ports, the TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station is an ideal choice for MacBook Pro/Air users seeking a complete connectivity solution.

This docking station is compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, and full-featured USB-C laptops, supporting a range of operating systems including macOS 11+, Windows 10 or later, Chrome OS 100 or later, Ubuntu, and Android.

With the ability to support triple/quad 4K extended displays, users can connect up to four monitors on Windows or three on macOS.

The included 120W power adapter enables fast laptop charging and additional device charging via USB-C ports.

Best For: MacBook Pro/Air users seeking a complete connectivity solution with multiple ports and high-speed charging capabilities.

Pros:

Offers an impressive 18 powerful ports, including triple/quad 4K extended display capabilities and super-speed data transfer.
Compatible with a range of operating systems, including macOS, Windows, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android.
Includes a 120W power adapter for fast laptop charging and additional device charging via USB-C ports.

Cons:

Requires installation of DisplayLink Drivers for some operating systems.
May require additional power for some laptops to run 3 monitors effectively.
Has limited HDMI and DisplayPort usage on macOS, with HDMI 3 and DP 3 unable to be used simultaneously.

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OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock

For users seeking a robust and versatile connectivity solution, the OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock stands out with its impressive 96W charging capability and support for up to 8K displays or multiple 5K displays.

This dock offers a complete set of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and a 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output. Additionally, it features an SD card slot, making it an ideal choice for professionals who require multiple connectivity options.

The OWC dock is compatible with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices, and its 96W power delivery guarantees efficient charging for host computers and external devices.

With its compact design and strong performance, this dock is an excellent option for users seeking a reliable and high-performance connectivity solution.

Best For: Professionals and users who require multiple connectivity options and high-performance charging for their M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices.

Pros:

Supports up to 8K displays or multiple 5K displays with 96W charging capability
Offers a complete set of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and a 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output
Compatible with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices, making it a versatile connectivity solution

Cons:

Some users may experience issues with fullscreen video playback on external monitors
The placement of the charging port may be inconvenient for some users
No specific information is provided about the product warranty

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HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter

Designed to accommodate both HP and non-HP laptops, the HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter is an excellent choice for users seeking a versatile and universally compatible docking solution. This compact dock supports charging, data transfers, and networking between devices, and can connect up to three displays.

Its small footprint (5 x 5 inches) and single-cable setup make it an ideal space-saving solution, reducing clutter and eliminating the need for extra cords and wires. Additionally, the dock provides advanced network manageability features for secure and remote management, with firmware updates pushed to the laptop for efficient updates.

With an average customer review rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, this adapter is a reliable and efficient choice for Surface laptop users.

Best For: Users seeking a versatile and universally compatible docking solution for their HP or non-HP laptops.

Pros:

Compact design with a small footprint (5 x 5 inches) and single-cable setup, reducing clutter and eliminating the need for extra cords and wires.
Supports charging, data transfers, and networking between devices, and can connect up to three displays.
Provides advanced network manageability features for secure and remote management, with firmware updates pushed to the laptop for efficient updates.

Cons:

No specific cons mentioned in the product description.
No information provided about the maximum power delivery or charging speed.
May not be compatible with older laptops that do not have USB-C or Thunderbolt capabilities.

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Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K

high quality targus usb c docking station

With its ability to support up to two monitors via HDMI 2.0 ports and deliver 65W of power, the Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K is an ideal choice for Surface Laptop users who require a reliable and high-performance docking solution.

This docking station offers a wide range of connectivity options, including USB-A and USB-C ports, Ethernet, and audio ports, making it easy to connect accessories and peripherals.

Additionally, it's compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS, ensuring seamless integration with different devices.

The Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K is also backed by a 3-year limited lifetime warranty, providing users with peace of mind and protection against defects or malfunctions.

Best For: Surface Laptop users who require a reliable and high-performance docking solution with multiple monitor support and wide-ranging connectivity options.

Pros:

Supports up to two monitors via HDMI 2.0 ports and delivers 65W of power for reliable performance
Offers a wide range of connectivity options, including USB-A and USB-C ports, Ethernet, and audio ports, making it easy to connect accessories and peripherals
Compatible with a variety of operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and Chrome OS, ensuring seamless integration with different devices

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 experienced issues with monitors turning off when the laptop goes to sleep

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Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock

Those seeking a high-speed docking station that seamlessly integrates with their Surface laptop while supporting dual 4K monitor setup will find the Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock an ideal choice.

This docking station offers lightning-fast connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 ports for 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 also supports quick charging, allowing your laptop to be powered up in just 2.5 hours. With its ability to connect up to two 4K monitors and easy port identification with raised tactile indicators, this dock provides a desktop-like experience for Surface laptop users.

Best For: Those who prioritize Microsoft's design language and need a high-speed docking station with dual 4K monitor support for their Surface laptop.

Pros:

Offers lightning-fast connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 ports for data transfer, media streaming, and device charging.
Supports quick charging, allowing your laptop to be powered up in just 2.5 hours, and features versatile compatibility with various ports.
Provides a desktop-like experience with its ability to connect up to two 4K monitors and easy port identification with raised tactile indicators.

Cons:

Lacks some features compared to other docks, such as triple/quad monitor support, HDMI, DisplayPort, and SD card readers.
Considered expensive, with a price tag of $300.
Does not have some suggested upgrades, such as higher power delivery, an SD card reader, front-facing audio port, M.2 internal storage option, and the ability to fasten the power supply unit to the dock.

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CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

High-performance seekers will appreciate the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock's 18 ports of extreme connectivity, which includes a powerful 98W charging capability, making it an ideal choice for Surface Laptop users who require fast and reliable connections.

This dock offers a range of features, including single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz display support, 2.5 gigabit Ethernet, and compatibility with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices.

While some users have reported minor issues with network connectivity and the dock running warm, overall feedback suggests ease of setup and functionality.

With its universal compatibility and impressive performance, the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock is a valuable investment for those seeking a high-end docking solution.

Best For: High-performance seekers, particularly Surface Laptop users, who require fast and reliable connections and a wide range of ports.

Pros:

Offers 18 ports of extreme connectivity, including a powerful 98W charging capability
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

Cons:

Some users have reported minor issues with network connectivity
The dock runs warm due to its high-performance capabilities
Has a high-end price range

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WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station

Ideal for Surface laptop users seeking versatile video output options, the WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station supports flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays, accommodating resolutions up to 5120x1440p60 (5K Ultrawide) or 4096x2160p60 (Cinema 4K) for dual monitors.

This docking station is compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, making it a versatile solution for users with different devices.

The WAVLINK dock also provides a Gigabit Ethernet port for fast network speeds, six USB 3.0 ports for high-speed data transfer, and a 100W power adapter for laptop charging. Additionally, it supports power delivery through the USB-C port, making it a convenient and efficient solution for Surface laptop users.

Best For: Surface laptop users seeking versatile video output options and compatibility with multiple devices and platforms.

Pros:

Supports flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays, accommodating high resolutions for dual monitors
Compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android
Provides multiple USB 3.0 ports, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and a 100W power adapter for convenient connectivity and charging

Cons:

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

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Factors to Consider When Choosing USB-C Hubs for Surface

When selecting a USB-C hub for your Surface laptop, 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 need, how much power you require, and the speed at which you need to transfer data.

Port Compatibility Matters

You'll want to make certain the USB-C hub you select is tailored to your Surface laptop's specific needs, as not all hubs are created equal. To ensure seamless connectivity, look for a hub specifically designed for Surface devices. This guarantees compatibility and eliminates potential headaches.

Next, consider the types of ports you need. Do you require a mix of USB-A, USB-C, and HDMI ports? Perhaps you need an SD card reader, Ethernet port, or audio jack? Make a list of your connectivity requirements and choose a hub that checks all the boxes.

If you need faster data transfer and dual monitor support, look for hubs with Thunderbolt 3 or 4 compatibility. This feature is essential for heavy-duty users who require high-speed data transfer and multiple display support.

Power Delivery Needs

After confirming your USB-C hub meets your port compatibility needs, it's equally vital to assess its power delivery capacity to keep your Surface laptop charged and running smoothly. You'll want to evaluate the power output rating, which typically ranges from 60W to 100W, to make sure it can efficiently charge your device.

Make sure the hub is compatible with your Surface's power requirements to avoid underpowered charging.

Look for USB-C hubs with Power Delivery (PD) technology, which enables fast and reliable charging. You should also check the number and types of ports that support power delivery, allowing you to connect multiple devices while charging your Surface.

This is important if you need to charge your laptop and other devices simultaneously. By taking these factors into account, you can make sure your Surface laptop stays powered up and ready to go, whenever and wherever you need it.

Speed and Performance

Frequently, Surface laptop users need to transfer large files, stream high-definition content, or connect multiple devices, making speed and performance important factors when choosing a USB-C hub. You'll want a hub that can keep up with your demands.

Consider the data transfer speed of the hub, with USB 3.0 offering up to 5 Gbps and USB 3.1 providing up to 10 Gbps. If you need to charge your devices quickly, look for hubs with fast charging capabilities, such as Power Delivery (PD) support.

Additionally, check the hub's compatibility with high-resolution displays, like 4K monitors, for a seamless visual experience. You'll also want to evaluate the hub's ability to support multiple peripherals simultaneously without compromising performance. This will guarantee that you can connect all your devices without any slowdowns.

Multi-Device Support

When choosing a USB-C hub for your Surface laptop, it's important to consider its ability to support multiple devices simultaneously, as this aspect can greatly enhance your productivity and flexibility.

You'll want a hub that can connect to various devices, such as monitors, external drives, and peripherals, all at once. Look for hubs that provide a variety of ports, including USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet, and SD card slots, to make sure you can connect all your necessary devices.

Take into account the number of displays the hub can handle, making sure it meets your multi-monitor setup needs. Also, ensure the hub is compatible with different operating systems, like Windows, macOS, and Chrome OS, for smooth multi-device support.

It's also important to check the hub's power delivery capabilities, so you can efficiently charge your Surface and connected devices while using the hub. By considering these factors, you'll discover a USB-C hub that can cater to all your device requirements, streamlining your workflow and boosting your overall productivity.

Compact Design Importance

As you search for the perfect USB-C hub for your Surface laptop, a compact design is essential to make sure you can easily take your expanded connectivity on the go. You want a hub that won't add bulk to your setup, but still provides the necessary ports for your devices.

A compact hub allows you to integrate it seamlessly into your workspace without taking up too much space, making it perfect for clutter-free environments.

When you're always on the move, a compact hub is a must-have. Its smaller size makes it convenient for travel and on-the-go use with your Surface laptop or tablet. You can easily slip it into your bag or pocket, and you're good to go.

With a compact design, you can enjoy expanded connectivity without sacrificing portability. It's important to take the hub's size and weight into account when choosing the right one for your Surface device. By opting for a compact design, you'll make sure that your hub is both functional and portable.