Universal USB Docking Stations

Docking Stations are ideal when you are using your device for productivity tasks by allowing you to connect to a larger display or span multiple displays while also being able to leverage a full-size keyboard and mouse at the cost of a reduction in mobility as you will be tied to your desk.

Your ChromeOS Device will work with several "Display Link" based USB Docking Stations via a USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 connection to connect your device to a second display. Many Universal Docking Stations add support for Ethernet, audio and additional USB 2.0 or 3.0 ports via the dock.

Universal USB Docking Stations should only be used if you need legacy support or if your devices does not have a USB-C port, as Universal USB Docking Stations introduce additional overhead to your devices's processor which may cause a slight decline in performance, especially when using the attached display to watch video.

In addition to the performance considerations introduced by a Universal USB Docking Station, these docking stations also suffer from several limitations, specifically being unable to display "HDCP" protected content. HDCP protection is used in several streaming media applications such as Netflix, but it is also commonly found in many password managers and financial applications.

You can access our list of Universal USB Docking Stations by vising our ChromeOS Guide Accessories Database.