Satechi unveils Aluminum Mini Docking Station for Windows and Mac
When it comes to computing, I always prefer a desktop when possible. I like using a big monitor, mechanical keyboard, and mouse. If I am not at a desk in a comfortable chair, my productivity drops. While I do use a laptop when on the go, a trackpad and small screen are pain points for me.
Not everyone can afford to have both a desktop and laptop, so luckily, it is easier than ever nowadays to use the latter as a makeshift of the former. Unfortunately, docking stations from laptop manufacturers are often expensive and proprietary. USB variants are sometimes preferable, and today, Satechi announces the beautiful Aluminum Mini Docking Station.
"It seems like computers get more and more ports and peripherals as time goes on. Keeping track of all your connected devices can be cumbersome -- thankfully, we've engineered a solution. Introducing the Aluminum Mini Docking Station; this sleek hub connects to your computer via USB and offers four USB 3.0 ports, a gigabit ethernet port, HDMI and DVI video connections, and a 3.5mm port. Enjoy a clean and organized desk with the Aluminum Mini Docking Station", says Satechi.
The company further says, "The Aluminum Mini Docking Station allows users to use one centralized docking station to connect multiple peripherals and devices. Its small form factor, measuring just under 4x4x2 inches, gives users valuable desk space without the hassle of hiding important ports".
True, you could connect a monitor, mouse, keyboard, and more directly to your laptop (depending on the types, and number of ports), but that is not convenient. Every time you need to take the laptop with you, you must disconnect everything one by one, and reconnect them again when you return. Not to mention, it looks bad to have a spaghetti-like mess of wires.
The Satechi Aluminum Mini Docking Station connects to all of your things -- mouse, keyboard, monitor (including 4K), USB hard drive, Ethernet cable, speakers -- so you only need to disconnect and reconnect a single USB cable. It will not charge your laptop battery, however, as some proprietary docks may.
Unfortunately, it is not USB Type C, nor is it USB 3.1 gen 2. Instead, it uses the slower USB 3.0 interface, with a type B connector. The included cable connects to the Type A port on your computer. For owners of a computer like Apple's MacBook that only has Type C, an adapter or replacement cable (Type B to Type C) will be needed.
This diminutive Mini Docking Station for Windows and Mac is available now for $149. You can buy it here.