Netbook docks – are they any good?

I was speaking about netbooks docks in another post last year. I am willing to consider such a device, as it brings some welcomed improvements to a standard netbook. However, most such accessories are expensive and not really worth the money you have to pay for them.

At the moment, there are a couple of good such devices on the market. I’ll only mention these three:

NU complete docking station

NU DCK001 Dock Station

Launched last autumn, this docking stations from New Universe brings a couple of goodies: two extra USB ports, digital video output, an integrated optical unit (8x DVD drive), an integrated 2.5 inch HDD enclosure for extra storage space and a cooling fan. All these in a solid built body.

Your netbook is supposed to be placed on top of the dock and the device can be used with any mini computer up to 12 inch in display size. Costs right now $99 (with a 10% discount) and you can get it online here.

Toshiba Dynadock U

Toshiba Dynadock U

Unlike the one above, this is a tower-shaped docking unit meant to stay on your desk, next to the netbook. Comes with digital video output (DVI, besides the standard VGA – thus you can connect 2 different displays to it), 6 USB slots and 7.1 audio output (there’s an integrated sound card inside too).

All these in a very stylish body and with a decent price: around $100. Might sound expensive, but this is the most popular laptop docking station on Amazon right now and can be used with any kind of mini laptops and notebooks.

Targus ACP50

You should get this one if you’re looking for a cheaper docking station, as it only costs right now $49.99 (comes with a big discount).

Like the above, this is a stand-alone station and can be used with virtually any kind of mobile computer, offering audio output, video (no digital though) and 4 USB ports. More details in here.

All in one, if you’re looking for such an accessory for your netbook, the above are probably right now the best you can pick from. From the three, it’s pretty obvious the NU solution is the best in terms of features, Toshiba’s Dynadock looks sleek, while the Targus is affordable. It’s up to you which one is better for your needs.

And more such devices will come in the near future, as Toshiba already announced a more compact Dynadock V (will sell for around $119) and other producers are also working on improved versions of their own products (like HP or Dell).

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Tags: netbook accessories, USB accessories

Last updated: September 28, 2011 | Published: January 13th, 2010 | Add the first comment!