Tag Archives: Tech Buyer's Guide

Top 10 Universal Docking Stations Under $100

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Do you have a tight budget for your Universal Docking Station purchase? And you are wondering if you can get a decent product at that price?

High-end docking stations are very expensive, and it is quite understandable if you do not have the funds for one right away. But there are still brands that offer quality products, and you can make do with them in the meantime.

Here, we review 10 of the best Universal Docking stations under the $100 mark you can choose

What are the Top 10 Universal Docking Stations under $100?

  • Pluggable Thunderbolt 3
  • Pluggable UD-3900
  • UtechSmart Triple Display
  • Hiearcool USB C Hub
  • WAVLINK USB 3.0
  • Acodot USB 3.0
  • Kensington USB 3.0
  • TOTU 9 in 1
  • Microsoft Surface
  • Rayrow USB C

Pluggable Thunderbolt 3

Pluggable Thunderbolt is one of the best docking stations that are under $100 out there. It can power up a maximum of two 4k monitors and one 5K monitor. It also comes with several USB 3.0 docks that allow fast charging and data transfer.

Another advantage of the Pluggable Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station is that you can position it standing upright or on its flat surface. This allows you to save space whenever you want to.

Its features include:

  • An HDMI and DVI ports.
  • Two USB 3.0 and four USB 2.0
  • A headphone jack and a microphone jack
  • An Ethernet port

Pros

  • Pluggable Thunderbolt has ten ports for various uses.
  • Product users love the fact that it is not expensive.

Cons

  • There are complaints about Pluggable Thunderbolt not having a forward-positioned Type-C port.

Pluggable UD-3900

If you want a Docking Station that will give almost all that a high-end product can provide at a lower price, Pluggable UD-3900 is the answer.

It is designed to work with two displays with HD supports fully. It has almost all the ports that high-end docking stations boast. It is one of the under $100 products you should go for if you need your docking station for many uses.

Some of its features include:

  • An HDMI and DVI port
  • A headphone and microphone jack
  • Four USB 2.0 and Two USB 3.0 ports
  • A power output port
  • An Ethernet port

Pros

  • Product users love the fact that Pluggable UD-3900 has a lot of ports to meet their various needs.
  • They also appreciate the fact that it is a cheap docking port with high performance.

Cons

  • Pluggable UD-3900designed to be positioned only vertically, and some users seem to have an issue with this
  • A lot of users complain about its inability to support 4K displays.

UtechSmart Triple Display

UtechSmart Triple Display is one of the docking stations out there under $100 that allows the display of a maximum of 3 monitors with HD supports.

It is also compatible with 4k displays and can connect with two monitors. UtechSmart Triple Display can work with laptops that come with type C USBs. And it increases the network speed for a Wi-Fi connection.

Other features include:

  • A VGA port and 2 HDMI ports
  • Two ports for USB 2.0 and 3.0
  • A Microsoft SD and SD slot
  • An Ethernet Port.

Pros

  • Product users love the fact that this product offers a lot of display options.
  • They also like the fact that it has a type C USB.

Cons

  • There are reports from Mac owners that this product does not work well with their system.

Hiearcool USB C Hub

Hiearcool USB C Hub is another docking station specially designed to carry out many functions at a very low cost. Aside from its USB c hub, one of its selling points, it has other essential features for seamless usage.

It allows the connection of two 4k displays, and with the USB C hub, you can enjoy a triple display. For Mac users, it allows display in mirror mode. Hiearcool USB C Hub is built to be portable and lightweight.

Some of its other features are:

  • A PD charging port
  • A VGA port and 2 HDMI ports
  • An SD card reader
  • Two USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports
  • An Ethernet port

Pros

  • Users love that the USB ports are backward-compatible, which makes it easy to set up.
  • There are reports of the product coming with an 18 months warranty, which is enough time to be satisfied.

Cons

  • There are numerous online complaints about the HDMI port.

WAVLINK USB 3.0

WAVLINK USB 3.0 does not need any software or drivers’ installation to perform. It is a plug and play docking station that is perfect for home use, professional settings, and random work stations.

One of its significant advantages is that it works with many popular OS and even previous Windows versions. Its HDMI and DVI are inbuilt, but for flexibility reasons, it has DVI to VA adapters.

Some of its features include:

  • An Ethernet port
  • Four USB 2.0 Ports and 2 USB 3.0 ports
  • LED Display
  • DVI, HDMI, and LAN outputs.

Pros

  • Product users love the fact that WAVLINK USB 3.0 has many USB ports to connect devices at a go.
  • There are also reports of its multi-function performance, making it perfect for a non-pricey docking system.
  • Being a plug and play product and very easy to set up makes it perfect for a lot of non-techie users.

Cons

  • A lot of users complain about having to download drivers before getting it to work.
  • There are also reports of HDMI issues after using it for a while.

Acodot USB 3.0

With the Acodot USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station, just one connection to your PC can grant you access to endless devices such as scanners, printers, speakers, and more USB connections.

This product offers you a dual monitor display and works perfectly with Windows OS as far back as 7. But you must first install drivers before you start using them.

Some other important features include:

  • USB 2.0 and six USB 3.0 ports
  • Two HDMI and DVI/VGA ports
  • An Ethernet port
  • A Headphone and Microphone jack

Pros

  • Users enjoy the fact that Acodot USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station has six USB 3.0 ports for connecting multiple devices.
  • Also, there are reports that its Ethernet port supports internet speeds of about 1000Mbps.

Cons

  • Users do not like the fact that the Acodot USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station is not compatible with a lot of OS
  • Also, there are many reports about it not being an excellent product for gaming.

Kensington USB 3.0

Over the years, Kensington has proven to be a trustworthy brand, especially in docking stations. With the USB 3.0 Docking Station that is slightly below $100, they have proven that they have the minimalists in mind as well.

The product’s compatibility with both Macs and Windows PCs is a delight. It also has a double display connector for two monitors. It is designed to sit vertically and is one of the best-priced docking stations you can find.

Some of its features are: 

  • A USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 ports
  • An HDMI and DVI ports
  • An Ethernet port.

Pros

  • Products users love the fact that Kensington USB 3.0 Docking Station is straightforward to use.
  • There are also reports of fast data transfer due to the USB 3.0 port.

Cons

  • It is one of the most expensive options for docking stations less than $100, discouraging many potential users.

TOTU 9 in 1

TOTU 9 in 1 Docking Station is as sleek and perfect as they come. It can fit into your pocket or bag; hence you can take it along while traveling.

It also provides multi-display and 4k displays with the ability to exhibit on projectors and high definition displays. One of its most interesting integrations that you will love is the collage feature that will help you save enough power. This will improve performance in Windows OS.

It is also compatible with a wide range of laptops, including the MacBook.

Some other important features include:

  • Three USB ports
  • A VGA and 2 HDMI ports
  • An SD card reader for type C laptops and MacBook
  • A USB type C Hub

Pros

  • It is relatively cheap compared to most under $100 laptops
  • Product users love the fact that it is very portable and mobile

Cons

  • Some online complaints about TOTU 9 in 1 Docking Station not detecting displays devices connected to it.

Microsoft Surface

Microsoft Surface Docking Station has a 6 USB hub. This can extend a USB 3.0 port to external ports for compatibility with multiple devices. It is a compact product that makes arrangements clean and tidy.

It comes with an aluminum case coat to maintain the shape and prevent overheating. It is portable enough to be moved around during travels. It is also one of the best on this list for surface work with OS such as Windows, MAC, and androids.

Its features include:

  • Three USB 3.0 and two USB 2.0 ports
  • An HDMI port
  • A Micro SD and A SD reader

Pros

  • Users love the Microsoft Surface Docking Station because of the port option performance for a very cheap docking system.
  • They also like the fact that it is portable and extremely lightweight, making it possible to quickly move around with it.
  • There are also reports that it is plug and play with no need for driver installations.

Cons

  • There are a lot of complaints about the port not aligning with surface five pro accessories
  • Also, a lot of users claim that it is not good enough for a professional setting.

Rayrow USB C

This is a 13 in 1 ports docking station, and as you can imagine, it has a lot of features you need. The multiple USB ports also help you save time by connecting easily to many devices.

Its body is designed with aluminum alloy, making it perfect, protecting against fall and dispersing heat faster. Its display ports also make it compatible with conventional and latest monitors.

Its features include:

  • An HDMI and VGA port
  • An Ethernet port
  • Two USB 3.0 and three USB 2.0
  • An 87W PD port
  • An audio jack that works for microphones and headphones

Pros

  • Users love the transfer speeds and how the HDMI easily mirrors a display.
  • They also love the fact that it is very easy to use.

Cons

  • There are a lot of online complaints about overheating and the screen shutting off after using for a while

Top 10 KVM Switches

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Top 10 KVM Switches

You’ve probably read one of the articles on working remotely or an article on suggestions to keep a neat work area in your home office. Now you are trying to decide which KVM switch is best for you? To be fair, it can be quite confusing to choose a simple yet complex piece of equipment. This is even more difficult because there are a lot of great KVM switch manufacturers.

Don’t stress.  We have reviewed for you the top 10 KVM Switches you can find today.

What are The Top 10 KVM Switches?

  • CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM
  • IOGEAR GCS5DP
  • Rijer 8 Port KVM Switch
  • Rosewill RKV-2UC
  • ULBRE Soho
  • UGREEN USB Switch Selector
  • JideTech VGA KVM Switch
  • ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box
  • TESmart HDMI KVM Switch
  • Rybozen USB 3.0 KVM switch

CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM

If you are more concerned about your KVM switch’s display properties, you should look to this option. CKLau 4Kx2K HDMI KVM works well with 4k display units, and you can also share between 4 systems.

Developers choose this KVM because it works with a wide range of operating systems, including Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, etc. It is one of the most high-end KVM Switches, perfect for AI models, multitasking, and other activities.

It works well with apple keyboards. This is a standout functionality because not many KVM Switches are capable of this.

Its features include:

  • 4 HDMI ports
  • A push switch and remote
  • USB 2.0 ports
  • Touch displays

Pros

  • Products users love the fact that it has an excellent cost to performance percentage.
  • Also, they love the fact that it supports both 4k and 2k displays.
  • Its compatibility with conventional OS makes it an excellent option for techies.

Cons

  • There are complaints about the product’s basic design.

IOGEAR GCS5DP

IOGEAR GCS5DP is one of the best-designed KVM Switches. Its aesthetics is one of the features that will first attract you before its functionalities. It also works well with all operating systems and is perfect for programmers.

Being a plug and play device, you do not need any particular expertise to operate IOGEAR GCS5DP. Hence, it is a great choice for novices who can control with a remote and seamlessly work within devices.

IOGEAR GCS5DP is not limited to home or office uses. Its size also means that you will not have to bother about space for it.

Other features it has included:

  • Incorporated cables to connect with more than one system
  • An accommodating HDCP DisplayPort
  • Multiple USB for keyboard and mouse connections
  • Multiple audio jacks that make it easy to connect with various computers

Pros

  • A lot of product users love the fact that IOGEAR GCS5DP is compatible with various OS.
  • There are reports of free technical support and a warranty of 3 years for IOGEAR GCS5DP.
  • It is a plug and play KVM switch

Cons

  • Products users complain about the fact that customer support on this product is not good enough.
  • There are a number of reports about the freezing up of the Mouse and keyboard when trying to switch from one device to another.

Rijer 8 Port KVM Switch

As the name implies, this KVM Switch will allow you to switch between as many as eight computers at a time. So, if you have been looking for a product with a large number of ports, this switch is an option for you.

The Rijer 8 Port KVM Switch fits into all types of office settings. Its design is also very simple and basic, nothing extraordinary.

It is built to deal with high voltage, and it does not require any external power supply.

Rijer 8 Port KVM Switch features include:

  • A remote switch and Button press
  • A safeguard feature to protect from lightning

Pros

  • There are reports of its nickel-plated connectors, and in most online reviews, users like this.
  • Product users also like Rijer 8 Port KVM Switch design’s simplicity, mainly because it allows the product to fit office settings.
  • The cable positioning is another thing that users enjoy.

Cons

  • A lot of people are discouraged by its high price.
  • Even though it is a pricey product, there are reports of it not having a manufacturer warranty.

Rosewill RKV-2UC

Rosewill RKV-2UC is another great KVM Switch option you can buy. It comes with all the necessary features expected of a KVM Switch.

If you need a KVM Switch for Windows and iOS operating systems, then Rosewill RKV-2UC is not a bad idea. But for Linux, you have to accept it at a reduced resolution of 1024x768p.

However, if you are in search of high-end products you might want to look beyond Rosewill RKV-2UC. It is a perfect choice for those with a tight budget.

As a KVM Switch, it does not have any feature that will blow your mind. But, you get what you pay for, and that is perfectly fine.

Its features include:

  • An incorporated connector
  • Multiple USB ports
  • Resolution of about 2048 X 1536 with compatible operating systems
  • A switch ON feature to detect any operational issue

Pros

  • Rosewill RKV-2UC is reportedly cheap
  • Product users love it because of the ease in handling and operating

Cons

  • Users complain about the fact that Rosewill RKV-2UC is not audio compatible
  • There are also complaints about the general aesthetics of the product

ULBRE Soho

Another KVM Switch you can put your money on is the ULBRE Soho. It has features that make it very easy to use for non-techies. ULBRE Soho is one of the best office KVM Switches because of its simplicity.

It is relatively compact and perfect if you do not have a lot of space to spare. It also allows the seamless transition between computers. One exciting feature that makes this product fanciable is the power unit. It has enough capacity for other office devices such as scanners, fax machines, printers, and Digital cameras.

Other features you can expect from this product include the following:

  • Four USB 3.0 ports.
  • A Micro USB port.
  • A selector box.

Pros

  • Users enjoy the fact that this product is straightforward to operate, especially during the initial set-up.
  • They also love its USB 3.0 features that help to save time during the transfer of extensive data.

Cons

  • There have been complaints of disturbing sounds when using this product with a mechanical keyboard.

UGREEN USB Switch Selector

The UGREEN USB Switch is another KVM Switch you want to consider if you have a tight budget to work with. However, it can still rival even the most expensive products.

UGREEN USB Switch Selector is more compact than a lot of KVM Switches. Apart from connection to multiple computers, it is also compatible with devices like printers and scanners through its USB Ports.

UGREEN USB Switch Selector works well with almost all operating systems. 

Its features include the following:

  • A switch button for seamless transitions
  • Four various ports for USB 2.0
  • LED pointers
  • A Micro USB for an additional supply of power

Pros

  • UGREEN USB Switch Selector is reported to be versatile and perfect for a lot of settings
  • Product users love the fact that it is relatively inexpensive compared to other products
  • They also appreciate that it is windows, Linux, Mac, and chrome compatible.

Cons

  • There are a lot of complaints about the UGREEN USB Switch Selector’s lack of power supply.

JideTech VGA KVM Switch

JideTech VGA KVM Switch allows you to share with as many as four computer systems at a go. It is also compatible with other devices like game consoles, speakers, and microphones.

JideTech VGA KVM Switch does not need any drivers or software to operate; simply plug it in, and it works. The KVM box is also compact enough to fit into offices. It also has a rigid design. Although this is not very appealing, it helps keep the box safe with the metal designs.

Other interesting features are:

  • USB 2.0 HUB ports.
  • An upgraded chipset that helps with issues concerning crash or freezing
  • Four ports for connection with various devices

Pros

  • The fact that JideTech VGA KVM Switch does not need an additional power supply makes many users love it
  • There are reports of JideTech VGA KVM Switch supporting high resolutions, as much as 2048 x 1536p for 2k displays

Cons

Product users complain about the fact that this KVM Switch is not compatible with MultiMedia keyboards.

ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box

For tech-savvy people that need a KVM Switch for as many as four systems rather than the usual 2, this is another great option.

Like others on the list, ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box is plug and play and designed to look aesthetically pleasing. It is perfect for many operating systems, but the most surprising thing is that it works well with even the older versions of window OS.

It is probably the best versatile KVM Switch. You can use it for online meetings, office operations, and gamers love it too!

Its features include:

  • Integrated USB ports for USB compatible devices
  • LED pointers
  • 4x VGA cables

Pros

  • Many Users love the fact that ieGeek USB KVM Switch Box does not need external power.
  • There are reports that it is perfect for display resolutions as much as 1920 X 1440.

Cons

  • There are a lot of online complaints about the incorporation of the buttons.
  • Product users do not like the cable arrangement.

TESmart HDMI KVM Switch

This is another great option for a 4k display. TESmart HDMI KVM Switch allows the transition between computers and devices to be as easy as possible.

Sharing for this product is between 4 devices, and it also allows hot switching. It comes in many colors, so you can choose the one that best suits your home or office.

Some of its most important features are:

  • USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports
  • A remote switch.
  • 4K display features

Pros

  • Its image sensor makes it a favorite for tech lovers.
  • There are reports of an incorporated cooling system to prevent heating.
  • A lot of users also like its lightweight and aluminum makeup.

Cons

  • Its price is a major constraint for most people who want to buy
  • Product users do not like its basic design
  • There are also complaints about its lack of compatibility with some keyboards.

Rybozen USB 3.0 KVM switch

Rybozen USB 3.0 KVM switch is very effective, easy to operate, and is simply plug and play. It is also compatible with all operating systems, either old or new.

Its design is easy on the eyes, and this makes it a great choice for office use. It allows seamless sharing for two computers and supports the usage of power with its MicroUSB feature. It is one of the best KVM Switch for high-end gaming.

Other features include:

  • USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports
  • LED pointers
  • A single-button switch
  • Multiport connectivity

Pros

  • Users fancy its USB 3.0 ports because of the fast transfer of data.
  • A lot of people choose them over other products because they can operate with many OS.

Cons

  • Some users do not like the fact that its design is average.
  • There are also complaints about short cables.