How to choose a docking station: tips and an overview of models

Docking Station is a tool that helps you do the work of your gadgets, be it phone, laptop, or even a car, it is much more convenient. With the docking station, you can manage your devices remotely, ensure the charging, connect the speakers to listen to music and perform other useful functions.

Docking stations for different platforms

Selected docking station in accordance with the type of the platform of the device that will be connected with a communicator.

for Android

For smartphones running on the Android operating system, the most interesting and useful option is a multimedia docking station. electronic gadgets market offers a range of functionality with a variety of built-in speakers and connectors.

Station management based on Android is done by USB-connection. To do this, the phone is installed a special application, which after starting the docking station is connected to the phone. Then, using the remote control, without problems include music, adjust the sound volume, adjust the equalizer, watching your favorite movie.

for IOS

For easy placement of Apple products, there are various docking station made in different designs, because of which are ideal for a variety of interior styles.

Consider some examples of such devices:

1. COTEetCI Charging Cradle for Apple iPhone and Apple Watch - docking station used for a one-time charge iPhone and smart watches. It is shaped pedestal, suitable for installation on any horizontal surface. To activate it, just plug the cord back in, or notebook computer.
   
2. Belkin Power House Charge Dock - compact docking station that allows the iPhone to find their place in your workspace, and the angle of holding the screen in sight.
   
3. Belkin Express Dock - multifunction docking station provides charging multiple gadgets. It allows you to avoid a large number of wires and chargers.
   

laptop

Docking stations for laptops reduce the number of wires on your desk - the universality of the station allows you to combine them into a single network. Also, it can help to connect to other screens, projectors and peripherals via wireless internet.

Modern stations have ports for Internet connection, an HDMI connection for high quality images. Have at least two USB ports for other devices.

Another criterion when selecting a computer's location distance away from the unit - most often it is 15-20 meters, which is enough for office work.

tablet

The most convenient docking station for the tablet are the ones that are made in the form of a keyboard. They have become increasingly popular after the release of Windows 8, which should provide a good job, both on desktop computers, and tablets.

At the same time we released the first such transformers with stand-keyboard. To it can be connected to the tablet, and even have an extra battery in some stands.

Dock convenient that its total weight of the tablet is less than that of a laptop. This is a convenient thing for people, often business travelers or holidaymakers away from home.

Flatbed docking station extends the functionality of the plate - this may be a column, and charging and keyboard. On the Dock has all the necessary connectors.

Car

Installing the docking station in the machine easier to use a mobile phone, as well as complements the vehicle a number of useful functions:

• you can use the phone as a navigator that will prevent you from buying an appropriate instrument;
• built-in radio and audio replace the radio;
• a microphone and optional speakers for the call in handsfree mode.

Types of docking stations

Depending on the options, there are several types of docking stations.

Multimedia

This variant station for those who love to travel and actively spend time - always handy to have with a powerful portable system, if you are going to the beach, nature or festivals with friends.

Docking station for listening to music should be fairly universal. To combine with a large number of devices it must be slots for memory cards, audio line, USB-connectors, and so on.

Power speakers in the range of 10-25 watts is enough to play the music loud and clear. A system must meet the standard of sound Stereo 2.0.

universal

Universal Dock serves not only to charge the gadget function. Also, it is connected through a keyboard, speakers, and other elements that are combined in a single housing.

Charging

One name you can guess the device, which uses this type - dock fits exclusively for charging phones and tablets, and given it a lot of power, you can even charge robot vacuum cleaner.

Wireless

Wireless version of the dock every year is becoming increasingly popular, since it corresponds to the modern requirements.

The absence of wires allows you to place it anywhere, whether a room or a car interior, and the sole criterion for selection is the range of work - different models can work through Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Wired

Wired docking station is used for phone or tablet. The device operates from a network, or the battery from the computer via a cable.

By what criteria to select the docking sta?

When choosing a docking station, pay attention to the following criteria:

1. Pick a device in accordance with the technical specifications of your gadget - pay attention to compatibility with the operating system (if your smartphone is based on IOS or Android, then select the station is for her).
2. power and capacity of the battery type. It is better to choose those stations that operate on the network - it delivers more power, which is enough to several devices.
3. Explore station functionality, based on your personal needs. If you need a good speaker, then the station must be an equalizer, speakers, subwoofer. To view high-quality video on a big screen - HDMI, the cooler for cooling a smartphone or a laptop while watching.
4. Dimensions of the device to the docking station it was convenient to move or carry with them when necessary.
5. The remote control is easy to use in a multimedia docking station with sound system, as music can be switched remotely.
6. The angle of inclination of the stand must not exceed 15-25 degrees to provide comfortable viewing level.
7. The number of ports for possible subsequent switching cables - multiple USB ports, connectors, PS / 2, video output VGA, HDMI, S-Video and DVI, COM and LPT ports, PCMCIA slot;
8. The transmission method for secure connection and ensuring smooth operation.

Do not buy the cheapest model of docking stations, as they are often not able to cover all needs. Remember the 4 basic rules that should be followed by acquiring the device:

1. Qualitative station is not is cheap.
2. Purchase only in specialized stores.
3. Trust only trusted manufacturers.
4. Pawn reliable operation lies in the attention to detail.

Review of popular models

Choosing a docking station in the shop, learn which models are now the most popular:

1. ATIKgroups GRAY + - docking station with cells, calculated by 4 device. You can simultaneously charge the iPhone, hours, tablet and wireless headphones from Apple. Stand distinguished by the fact that when you create instead of plastic used wood, coated with beeswax and natural oils. Cost - 4240 rubles.
   
2. Samsung DeX Station - docking station, created the brand Samsung phones (models S8 / S8 +). Connect the phone keyboard, mouse and other accessories that turn the device into a full-fledged computer. Cost - 7587 rubles.
   
3. Belkin Wireless Charging for iPhone 8/8 Plus. Belkin will collaborate closely with Apple and got an efficient and high-speed device for iPhones. To begin charging, simply put it on a non-slip surface of the charger. Cost - 6500 rubles.
   
4. ThinkPad Basic Dock - docking station for a laptop, with the help of which you have access to an external display, keyboard, mouse and printer. One of the ports provides a mobile device constant charging that says that you can charge the phone when the notebook is not connected to the station. Cost - 11 500 rubles.
   
5. Belkin Gharge + Sync Android Dock XL. Dock for storage of smartphones and tablets. It has a port micro-USB, which makes it a suitable device for most phones, tablets, e-readers and smartphones, has the same connector.
   It supports gadgets at a comfortable viewing angle for use in the office or at home, next to the bed. It has an adjustable disc which allows you to adjust the device to fit your gadget, raising or lowering the fork. Cost - 1670 rubles.
   
6. Yamaha YBA-10 Silver - a wireless adapter that plugs into a conventional receiver. You can enjoy excellent quality of music that is transmitted via Bluetooth to the phone that operates on the basis of Windows and Macintosh. Cost - 10 500 rubles.
   

Video tips on choosing the dock

From this video you will learn how to choose a docking station, as well as what opportunities offers this device:

Docking Station is not a must-have tool for your gadgets, but it significantly expands the functionality and makes use of much more comfortable. The modern market offers a wide choice with any design parameters and different price categories.