A desktop docking station and a port hub serve different roles, each essential depending on how and where you work.
If you consistently manage multiple devices, displays, and peripherals across locations and have been exploring solutions, you might be wondering:
- What is the difference between a docking station and a port hub?
- Which Kensington products are best for different types of work environments?
- Do I need both a docking station and a hub for hybrid work?
- How do these devices support multi-display and peripheral connectivity?
- What are the best use cases for docking stations and hubs?
This guide explains the purpose of each device, outlines key differences, and offers clear guidance on when to use one, the other, or both.
If you are ready to dive deep into our options, don't hesitate to explore our product finder and find the right docking station and/or port hub that will fit your needs.
What Is a Desktop Docking Station?
A desktop docking station is a powerful peripheral designed for fixed workstations, such as office desks or home setups, where a user needs to connect multiple displays, high-speed peripherals, and network cables with minimal clutter.
It connects to your laptop through a single USB-C® or Thunderbolt™ cable and expands its functionality.
Docking stations typically include:
- Up to 4K video output, some support single 8K
- Wired Ethernet for stable network access
- USB-A and USB-C® ports
- HDMI® ports and/or DisplayPort™
- Thunderbolt™ host, upstream and downstream facing ports
- SD and microSD card readers
- High-wattage power delivery (generally up to 100W)
Kensington's Top Docking Stations
These docks are built for users who need stability, speed, and seamless integration with multiple devices.
- Kensington SD5000T5 EQ Thunderbolt™ 5: If you need some serious speed and top-tier visuals, this dock features the latest Thunderbolt™ 5 tech with speeds up to 80Gbps. You can connect up to three 4K monitors at 144Hz—or go bigger with two 8K displays at 60Hz. It's built for anyone who demands high performance.
- Kensington SD5768T: Ideal for users who want flexible display options. You can connect a single 8K display at 60Hz, or run two 4K screens at once. It's also great if you're working with multiple Thunderbolt™ devices.
- Kensington SD5900T: Using a MacBook with an M4, M3, M2, or M1 chip? This dock uses DisplayLink® technology to let you connect up to four 4K displays at 60Hz, even on models that don't natively support that many monitors. Depending on your model, it's a great way to use more screens.
- Kensington SD5910T for Windows users: This dock is built for versatility, whether you're using a Thunderbolt™, Alt Mode, or USB-C® laptop, it supports extended displays and gives you up to 16 different ports for all your gear.
- Kensington SD5800T: Ideal for high-performance workflows on Windows and macOS as it supports Thunderbolt™ 4 and 3, USB4®, and USB-C® devices.
What Is a Port Hub?
A port hub, also known as a laptop hub, is a compact and portable connectivity solution that expands a laptop's ports on-the-go.
Unlike docking stations, hubs prioritize mobility and simplicity. They connect via USB-C® or USB-A and offer essential port access, making them perfect for temporary workspaces and hybrid setups.
Typical features include:
- Expansion to USB, USB-A, and/or USB-C® ports
- USB 3.0 technology for transfer speeds up to 5Gbps
- Plug-and-play installation with no drivers requirement
- Compact, lightweight design
Kensington's Top Port Hubs
Port hubs are plug-and-play, making them a go-to for presentations, travel, and hot-desking.
For the purpose of the article, we are also including in this list some of our mobile hubs, which also expand your ports but offer additional features like additional displays.
- CH1200 USB-C® 4-Port Hub: Simple but reliable option that allows you to use up to four USB-A accessories through a single USB-C® port and provides up to 10Gbps of data transfer speed.
- CH1000 USB-C® 4-Port Hub: Lightweight option for expanding port availability for USB and USB-C®.
- UH1400P USB-C® 8-in-1 Driverless Mobile Hub: Universal and driverless option with 4 USB ports, SD and Micro SD card-readers, and HDMI® video port. With this last one, you can also add up to a single 4K at 60Hz display.
- UH1510P EQ USB-C® 5Gbps Triple Video Mobile Dock: If you're a Windows user looking to add more screens, this mobile dock allows you to work with up to triple 1080p @ 60Hz or dual 4K @ 60Hz with up to 85W of power pass-through. It also comes with 3 USB-A, 2 USB-C®, Micro SD and SD card slots, HDMI®, DP video, and Ethernet ports.
Key Differences Between Docking Stations and Hubs
| Feature | Desktop Docking Station | Port Hub |
|---|---|---|
| Port availability | Generally extensive, up to 16 | Generally moderate, between 4 and 7 |
| Display support | Up to quad 4K monitors | May offer single display or can upgrade a USB-C® port with dual monitors in some cases |
| Network connectivity | Wired Ethernet | Doesn't generally include Ethernet |
| Portability | Stationary | Lightweight and travel-ready |
| Power Delivery | Usually charge laptop and peripherals starting at around 90W | Generally don't charge devices, or support only pass-through power |
| Ideal usage | Permanent desks and high-performance workflows | Hybrid work and temporary setups |
In other words, if your main workspace requires dual, triple, or even quad monitors, wired Ethernet, and multiple USB peripherals, use a docking station. For on-the-go expansion, keep a travel hub in your bag to support basic connectivity without the bulk.
Keep in mind that docking stations with DisplayLink® technology extend compatibility across both Windows and macOS.
When Do You Need Both a Docking Station and a Port Hub?
Professionals who work across fixed and mobile environments benefit from using both a docking station and a laptop hub.
These devices are not mutually exclusive, as they can be complementary tools for seamless work across different settings, such as:
- Hybrid professionals: You can leave a full-featured docking station at your desk and keep a hub in your bag. This ensures full connectivity in both office and travel scenarios.
- Frequent travelers: Use a compact USB-C® hub for hotel rooms, client meetings, or shared workspaces, and dock your laptop at home to access full monitor arrays and network stability.
- IT-managed environments: Deploy docks for permanent workstations and supply hubs for remote workers or hot-desk users who occasionally return to the office.
Using both ensures that you don't sacrifice productivity or port access, no matter where you're working.
Best Use Cases for Desktop Docking Stations
Dual or Multi-Monitor Workflows
Docking stations support high-resolution, multi-monitor configurations. They are ideal for professionals working in design applications, video editing, or data analysis.
Kensington also offers docking stations with DisplayLink® to support up to quad 4K outputs—even on laptops with limited native video outputs like macOS.
Wired Connectivity
A stable Ethernet connection can make all the difference for video conferencing, file transfers, and remote collaboration. Built-in Ethernet ports on docking stations provide faster and more consistent connections than Wi-Fi, which can be affected by interference, signal strength, and congestion, especially in busy environments.
By connecting your laptop to a wired network through a docking station, you can enjoy lower latency and higher speeds.
Multiple High-Speed Peripherals
You might work with external drives, cameras, input devices, and multiple displays simultaneously. Our docking stations include multiple types of ports to support your complex setups.
3 Scenarios When a Port Hub Is the Right Tool
Travel and Presentations
Laptop hubs fit easily into all bags and offer fast access to basic but expanded ports. They are perfect for travel, client visits, or simple presentation setups in which you will need more than the ports naturally integrated within your device.
Hot-Desking and Hybrid Work
In open workspaces, a port hub enables quick setup and tear-down with a single USB-C® cable, and a mobile hub can help you set a temporary second display or another peripheral.
Lightweight Connectivity
If you regularly move between workspaces and need only a couple of additional ports, a hub delivers convenience without adding unnecessary weight or complicated set-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions About Desktop Docking Station vs. Port Hub
What's the difference between a docking station and a hub?
In fewer words, a docking station supports high-performance, fixed setups with expanded video, power, and data capabilities. Mobile and port hubs are compact, travel-ready, and provide essential port access.
Can I use a docking station and hub at the same time?
Yes, they serve different purposes. A dock stays at your desk for full functionality and multiple displays, while a hub travels with you to allow comprehensive connectivity.
Which is better for dual monitors?
If you want to extend your displays, docking stations are better. Depending on the model, some can support up to quad 4K monitors, often at 60Hz. While some mobile hubs support up to triple display, most do so at a reduced refresh rate.
Will these work with macOS and Windows?
Depending on the model and your requirements, yes. Many Kensington docking stations and hubs support both operating systems. Be sure to check for DisplayLink® compatibility if your system has display limitations.
Know Your Workspace. Learn How To Leverage It.
A docking station and a port hub are not interchangeable, but they can complement one another.
Docking stations deliver full connectivity, high-speed data transfer, and multi-display support for fixed workspaces. Laptop hubs provide essential flexibility for mobile or hybrid work.
Professionals who shift between locations benefit from both: a docking station for high-performance tasks and a hub for portable setups.
Explore Kensington's full range of docking stations and mobile hubs to find the solution that meets your needs, wherever and however you work.