Yes, docking station switchboxes do exist.
Yes, docking station switchboxes do exist.
I own this docking station from Kensington and have found it very satisfactory. It enables me to connect via USB-C to most of my laptops and charge them simultaneously through USB-C. It’s quite convenient. Additionally, it supports USB-3.0, allowing older laptops without USB-C to still benefit from this connection. With four laptops, it’s ideal that each can be linked directly to the docking station.
My issue is that I frequently switch between these four devices. Using one machine to remotely access each isn’t practical for several reasons, and changing cables regularly is becoming tedious. I’ve been searching for a switchbox that could rotate among all of them, but haven’t located anything suitable. Do you know if such a product exists?
I considered KVM switches but wasn't able to find one with a display feature. The one Lutfij recommended works for that purpose but only supports two machines. Still, it's at least an improvement. It doesn't quite meet my needs for four laptops, so I think I'll need to think more about this.
Do you need one docking station connected to four laptops? A KVM isn't really suitable for this setup, as it's meant for a single keyboard/mouse and monitor across multiple computers. Since your laptops already have built-in screens and keyboards, using a KVM here doesn't make much sense. However, you can connect the laptop video output and USB ports to the KVM, allowing you to use any keyboard, mouse, or screen you prefer. They'll just need separate power sources.
You can easily locate four-port KVMs online by searching. In my experience, the more affordable options often have reliability and display problems, while models in the $150-200 range offer better performance.
I think it’s possible that "they" created a product that could handle everything. I’m not sure why there isn’t a demand for it, but maybe I’m the only one who sees it that way.
A KVM already covers some of what a docking station offers, such as connecting to external devices like monitors, displays, and keyboards. Docking stations often go further by supporting Ethernet and various ports (USB, USB-C, etc.). Combining them could make more sense since they share common technology. In short, I’d like a docking station with switching capabilities. That would be ideal for me.
Thanks for the suggestion. I agree it’s worth exploring.
For now, I’m considering buying a quality KVM switch and trying it out. I only need 2K for video output and Ethernet on one device, while WiFi could handle the others. Ideally, the HDMI should stay connected even when the lid is closed—though I’ll have to test that myself.
Appreciate your help.