Laptop accessories

This category gathers everything that expands the capabilities of the laptop – docking stations for connecting to monitors, video and disk adapters, USB lamps and fans, as well as spare parts. With the right accessory, the laptop becomes a full-fledged workspace at home and in the office, without giving up the convenience of carrying it. Here you can find models from j5create, HAMA, Delock, ATEN, Lenovo, Dell, ASUS, and other brands.

How to choose

• Docking station. With one cable, you connect the laptop to a monitor, keyboard, mouse, network, and charger. Choose a model based on the number of monitors you want to use and the charging power.
• The input. Most new docking stations connect via USB-C or Thunderbolt. There are also models with USB-A for older laptops that use video over USB technology.
• The monitors. Check how many monitors and what resolution the station supports. For two 4K monitors at high refresh rates, you need a more powerful station and a laptop that supports it.
• Charging. Stations with Power Delivery charge the laptop through the same cable. The power should be at least as much as the original charger.
• Adapters. Video adapters convert a USB port to HDMI or VGA, while disk adapters allow you to connect a SATA disk to USB.
• Spare parts. Fans and other parts for specific laptop models help restore quiet and normal operation without replacing the entire laptop.

What to watch out for

• On macOS, some stations support only one external monitor with full functionality – check the description.
• The spare part must be for the exact laptop model specified in the description.
• For a stable network through the station, look for a port with gigabit speed.
• The cable between the laptop and the station should be long enough for comfortable desk placement.
• USB lamps and fans are convenient for travel, but they draw power from the laptop's battery.

Compatibility

Docking stations with USB-C work with most laptops running Windows, macOS, and Linux, but capabilities depend on the laptop's port. If you only need a few additional ports, a simpler option is a USB hub. For protection during transport, look at laptop bags, and for an aging battery – laptop batteries.