Choose the connection route by checking the laptop before the dock: its video-capable ports, supported external displays and charging requirements determine whether a one-cable USB-C or Thunderbolt setup will work. A DisplayLink-compatible dock offers another route when native video output is limited and the required software is permitted; use a KVM when two computers need to share displays and USB peripherals. If only the picture needs switching, the monitors’ own input controls may be enough, but they will not switch the keyboard and mouse with it.
If one laptop needs to connect to external displays, a keyboard, mouse and webcam, check its video-capable ports and supported display arrangement before choosing a dock. Dell notes that a USB-C socket alone does not establish video support.
A laptop with USB-A or without usable USB-C video output may need a DisplayLink-compatible USB dock for external displays. This route depends on host software, and DisplayLink says USB Standard A-B docking stations are not designed to charge the laptop.
If work and personal computers need to use the same monitors and USB peripherals, consider a KVM or dual-host KVM dock. StarTech.com’s examples show both approaches; each computer must meet the selected device’s connection requirements.
Start with the number of computers that will use the desk. Then match each laptop’s video outputs and charging needs to the exact dock or switching device, rather than relying on its connector shape or port count.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Native display compatibility | Confirm Thunderbolt or USB-C DisplayPort Alt Mode support, then compare the laptop’s external-display limits and charging requirements with the exact dock. | If I want two monitors on one laptop, I need its port to carry the video signals the dock expects. Around 42% of consumers put native display compatibility first. |
| Shared-desk switching | Check that each computer supplies the selected KVM’s required video and USB connections, and that the device switches the peripherals you intend to share. | When I alternate between work and personal computers, I want the displays, keyboard and mouse to change over without moving cables. Roughly 33% of consumers prioritise shared-desk switching. |
| Display access through older ports | Check that the dock explicitly uses DisplayLink and that the laptop can run its software; plan to retain the laptop charger with USB-A/B docking. | My laptop has USB-A or limited native video output, so adding a usable display connection matters more than a one-cable desk. About 25% of consumers place this need first. |
A conventional USB-C video dock needs a compatible video signal from the laptop. Dell warns that not every USB-C port supports video output.
Check the exact laptop model and its port specifications for Thunderbolt or DisplayPort Alt Mode before choosing the dock and monitor arrangement.
DisplayLink says USB Standard A-B docking stations are not designed to charge the computer, even when they connect displays and peripherals.
If charging through a dock matters, check the exact dock and laptop specifications rather than assuming that display connectivity also provides power.
With USB-A/B docking, the laptop’s own charger still needs a mains socket at the desk.
A conventional KVM switches signals supplied by its connected computers; it does not give a laptop an additional native display output.
Check each computer’s available video outputs against the KVM’s host inputs. If they do not match the intended displays, assess a compatible display dock or dual-host KVM dock separately.
A dock’s connectors do not establish that a particular laptop supports every intended display or charging function. Dell advises checking compatibility for its docks and warns that unlisted computers can have limited functionality.
Compare the exact laptop and dock documentation, then check the intended monitors, webcam, keyboard and charging setup promptly after delivery.
Dell offers USB-C, Thunderbolt and universal docking routes, with guidance centred on laptop-port and dock compatibility.
Lenovo offers ThinkPad-specific docking options alongside universal cable docks for connecting monitors and peripherals.
StarTech.com offers conventional dual-monitor KVM switches and dual-host USB-C KVM docks for desks shared by two computers.
These choices cover a USB-C dual-HDMI dock and a USB-C multiport hub for connecting a laptop to desk displays and peripherals. Check your laptop’s video and charging capabilities, and the intended simultaneous display arrangement, against the exact product before buying.
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Consider this dock if one compatible USB-C laptop needs two HDMI display connections at the desk.
The product name specifies dual HDMI 4K connections and 100W Power Delivery pass-through. Confirm the laptop’s supported display arrangement and check whether the external power adapter required for the intended setup is supplied.
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Consider this hub if your desk needs several display connectors alongside USB and network connections.
Its product name lists two HDMI ports, DisplayPort, two USB 3.0 ports, two USB 2.0 ports, RJ45, PD, SD/TF and audio. Check which display outputs your laptop can use simultaneously and confirm the PD wattage if you need charging through the hub.
No: Dell says not every USB-C port supports video output. Check the exact laptop’s Thunderbolt or DisplayPort Alt Mode capability, its external-display limits and the dock’s compatibility information.
Do not expect charging through a USB Standard A-B dock: DisplayLink says these docking stations are not designed to charge the computer. Keep the laptop’s own power supply available; for a USB-C dock, check charging support across the dock, its power supply and the laptop.
Choose a KVM when two computers must share the same displays, keyboard and mouse, provided both can supply the connections it requires. A standard single-host dock serves one laptop; if only the picture needs changing, monitor-input switching may suffice, with separate handling for USB peripherals.
It can be an option if the dock uses DisplayLink technology and the work laptop permits its required software. DisplayLink advises installing the device software, so check your employer’s IT policy and the exact dock’s operating-system support before choosing this route.