If you’ve ever had to decide between buying a laptop or a desktop computer, you understand how difficult it can be to choose between the two. A desktop generally offers more upgradeable options and more overall functionality.

On the other hand, laptops deliver convenience and mobility for productivity on the go. Fortunately, there is a solution to consider if you love the portability of notebooks, but you’d like a wider range of capabilities: docking stations.

Docking stations are a great compromise in the desktop versus laptop debate because they provide laptop users with a desktop-like experience. A laptop docking station provides you with additional charging power and allows you to connect to laptop accessories such as additional PC monitors or computer speakers.

If you’re looking for a great HP laptop docking station to create a better laptop experience, there are a range of HP options for you to choose from based on your needs.

Docking station ports

The ideal laptop docking station is the one that fits your workflow and lifestyle. When you’re shopping for docks, pay attention to what connections the docking station offers, so you’ll know what sort of auxiliary accessories you can use with it.

Before we dive into the best HP laptop docking stations, let’s take a look at the common ports and monitor cable types you might see mentioned in the specifications section for a dock.

• HDMI: Connects your PC to a high-definition television or another high-definition monitor

• RJ-45: Used for Ethernet networking; “RJ” stands for registered jack and “45” denotes the number of the interface standard [1]

• USB-C Dock: Considered the industry standard to transfer both data and power between devices [2]

• USB 3.0: Data transfer rate of 5 gigabits per second; better power management and data transfer speeds over USB 2.0 [3]

• USB 2.0: Limited data transfer rate of 480 megabits per second; older generation technology [4]

• DisplayPort: Supports multiple displays and can connect to almost any type of monitor [5]

• VGA: Video Graphics Array connects standard monitors of display interfaces [6]

The 7 best HP laptop docking stations

1. HP EliteBook Ultraslim docking station

A sleek solution to enhance your workflow, the HP EliteBook Ultraslim docking station is designed for the modern professional. HP®’s EliteBook series is built from the ground up with the entrepreneur in mind. It’s compatible with many models of the HP EliteBook, HP ProBook, and HP ZBook families.

Weighing in at 1.69 lbs, this dock is a heavyweight but only in terms of functionality. Business never stops, why should your laptop?

Ports:

• 4 USB 3.0 ports (3 USB 3.0 ports, 1 Charging port)

• 1 RJ-45 jack

• 2 DisplayPorts 1.2

• 1 VGA port

• 1 Line-in jack

2. HP USB-C Universal laptop docking station

Make the most of your laptop with the HP USB-C Universal dock which can connect to a virtually limitless amount of auxiliary devices. It features USB-C charging and connections for your network, dual 4K displays, and other externals with a single cable connection.

Ports:

• 1 USB 3.0 charging port

• 3 USB 2.0 ports

• 1 USB-C charging/data port

3. HP Thunderbolt™ G2 230W docking station

Take your productivity to new heights with this incredible HP Thunderbolt G2 laptop docking station.

You have the option for integrated audio and other flexible features such as network manageability and USB-C device connectivity. Its low-profile construction will be at home in any modern office environment.

Ports:

• 1 USB-C with data and power out (15W)

• 1 USB-C cable to connect to the host system

• 1 USB 3.0 port

• 1 combo audio jack

• 1 Kensington lock slot

• 1 Thunderbolt port

• 1 USB-C DisplayPort data and power out (15 W)

• 2 DisplayPorts

• 1 VGA Port

• 2 USB 3.0 ports

• 1 RJ-45 jack

• 1 AC adapter connector

4. HP USB Travel laptop docking station

Say goodbye to dongles for good with an always-connected PC. You can travel with a laptop confidently with a conveniently portable HP USB Travel dock. It’s compact enough to easily slip into your carry-on and won’t take up any extra room.

Despite its small size, it’s packed with PC connectivity options. Use an external display for better multi-tasking, connect to Ethernet, and browse the internet with an external wireless mouse, the options are endless.

Ports:

• 2 USB-C ports

• 1 VGA

• 1 HDMI

• 1 RJ-45 jack

5. HP Thunderbolt™ G2 120W docking station (with audio)

If you want crystal-clear sound and lightning-fast connections to your wired network, video, data, and charging, then look no further than the HP Thunderbolt G2 docking station with the audio module. This small dock helps open up your desk real estate without sacrificing functionality.

Worried about security? You can remotely manage a variety of HP laptops as well as the dock itself with the integrated network manageability features.

6. HP Z VR Backpack G1 docking station

Ready to experience an entirely new world of virtual reality and power? The HP Z VR Backpack G1 docking station delivers even more oomph by expanding your work capabilities.

7. HP USB-C G4 laptop docking station

Charge your personal or work laptop, connect to a wired network, and multi-task with auxiliary accessories with the convenient power offered by the HP USB-C G4 laptop docking station. It’s among the best USB-C docking stations for HP laptops.

Ports:

• 1 HDMI

• 2 DisplayPort

• 1 combo audio jack

• 2 USB Type-C ports

• 2 USB 3.0 ports

• 2 USB 2.0 ports

• 1 RJ-45 jack

• 1 AC adapter connector

Connect and do more

The best HP docking station for your laptop depends on your needs and what peripheral devices you plan to use. However, with the right docking station setup, you can efficiently expand the functionality of your laptop and accomplish all of your work tasks - and then some.

Experience enhanced sound with external speakers, open up an entirely new frame of productivity with an extra display, and enjoy advanced capabilities to take your workday to the next level.

[1] Tech Terms; RJ45 Definition

[2] PCMag; What is USB-C? An Explainer

[3] Diffen; USB 2.0 vs. USB 3.0

[4] AVADirect; USB 3.1 vs 3.0 vs USB Type-C – What’s the difference?

[5] PCWorld; HDMI vs. DisplayPort: Which display interface reigns supreme?

[6] Lifewire; What Does VGA Mean?