Monitors incorporating built-in docking stations have gained significant popularity in the last couple of years due to the pandemic and the increased prevalence of remote work.
Manufacturers rushed to create competitive offerings in response to the demand, resulting in a diverse range of such monitors available in the retail market.
In this article, we will explore some of the Top Monitors with Built-in Docking Stations.
Top Monitors with Built-in Docking Stations
1. ASUS VA24ECPSN: Best Budget USB-C Docking Monitor
The ASUS VA24ECPSN stands out as an affordable yet high-quality monitor with built-in docking capabilities that are essential for a tidy and efficient setup.
Employing IPS panel technology, the ASUS VA24ECPSN, like most monitors featured in this guide, delivers precise and consistent colors with wide viewing angles of 178°, ensuring consistent image quality from different perspectives.
The monitor’s 1920×1080 Full HD resolution maintains a decent pixel density on its 24-inch screen, resulting in a good balance of screen space and sharp details. At regular viewing distances, individual pixels are virtually indistinguishable, unlike the case with 27-inch 1080p monitors.
The peak brightness reaches 300 nits, providing ample brightness for typical lighting conditions. As expected with IPS panels, there is some IPS glow, and the contrast ratio is around 1,000:1, which means the black levels won’t be as deep as those of VA panel monitors. However, VA panels have their own shortcomings, and finding one with integrated docking features is uncommon.
The ASUS VA24ECPSN covers 100% of the sRGB color gamut and supports 8-bit color depth (6-bit + 2-bit FRC) for a total of 16.7 million colors. This, coupled with its IPS panel, makes it suitable for entry-level color-sensitive tasks after proper calibration.
The monitor supports both FreeSync and G-Sync, offering variable refresh rates with a range of 48-75Hz for tear-free gaming experiences up to 75FPS. A refresh rate of 75Hz also contributes to slightly improved motion clarity compared to 60Hz.
Thanks to its swift response time, low input lag, and vibrant colors, video games are displayed smoothly and with appealing visuals. Additional features include QuickFit, which overlays alignment grids for specific document sizes, on-screen timers, and crosshair overlays.
The monitor’s stand is robust and provides full ergonomic adjustment options, including up to 130mm height adjustment, +/- 90° pivot, -5°/35° tilt, +/- 180° swivel, and VESA mount compatibility of 100x100mm.
In terms of connectivity, the monitor offers DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 1.4, USB-C with DisplayPort 1.2 Alternate Mode and 65W Power Delivery, RJ45 Ethernet port, three USB-A 3.0 ports, a headphone jack, and integrated dual 2W speakers.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Accurate colors and wide viewing angles
- Fully ergonomic stand
Cons:
- IPS glow and mediocre contrast ratio
2. Philips 279P1: Best Value USB-C Docking Monitor
When seeking a USB-C docking monitor that provides exceptional value, the Philips 279P1 emerges as a top contender.
This 27-inch monitor delivers 4K UHD resolution, offering remarkable detail clarity and an abundance of screen space, characterized by a pixel density of 163 pixels per inch (PPI). While scaling might be necessary for legible small text, the trade-off yields even sharper details.
With a peak brightness of 350 nits, a static contrast ratio of 1,000:1, approximately 122% sRGB gamut coverage (with an sRGB mode), and dithered 10-bit color depth support equating to 1.07 billion colors, the Philips 279P1 delivers an impressive visual experience. It comes factory calibrated with a Delta E of less than 2 for superb out-of-the-box accuracy.
While it maintains a 60Hz refresh rate and lacks variable refresh rate technology, the monitor’s vibrant colors, clear details, and swift response time contribute to an enjoyable gaming experience.
The monitor includes a built-in sensor that adjusts brightness based on ambient lighting and reduces it when no one is in front of the screen. Additionally, advanced image adjustment tools such as five gamma presets and six color temperature modes are available. Smart Uniformity can also be utilized, albeit at a slight cost to the contrast ratio, to enhance screen uniformity.
With a robust stand offering full ergonomic support, including up to 150mm height adjustment, +/- 90° pivot, +/- 180° swivel, -5°/35° tilt, and VESA mount compatibility (100x100mm), the Philips 279P1 ensures a comfortable setup.
Connectivity options comprise DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.0 ports, USB-C with DisplayPort 1.4 Alternate Mode and 90W Power Delivery, four downstream USB 3.0 ports, a headphone jack, RJ45 Ethernet port, and two built-in 3W speakers.
Pros:
- High pixel density
- Wide color gamut
- Accurate colors and wide viewing angles
- Fully ergonomic stand
- 90W Power Delivery and four USB ports
Cons:
- IPS glow and average contrast ratio
3. ViewSonic VG2756-2K: Affordable 1440p Monitor With USB-C Docking
The ViewSonic VG2756-2K provides an ergonomic stand for comfortable adjustment, ensuring a flexible and user-friendly setup.
The ViewSonic VG2756-2K stands as the 27″ version of the previously mentioned VG2456, offering an upgraded visual experience.
Sporting a 2560×1440 QHD resolution on its 27″ screen, the VG2756-2K delivers an impressive pixel density of 108 pixels per inch (PPI). This translates to ample screen real estate, accompanied by crisp text and intricate details, all without the need for scaling.
In comparison to the VG2456, the 27″ variant takes a leap with a heightened peak brightness of 350 nits, illuminating visuals. Moreover, it boasts true 8-bit color depth, devoid of dithering, for more accurate and vibrant color representation.
Other features and specifications remain consistent with the 24″ version, ensuring continuity in performance.
The design and connectivity options mirror those of the VG2456 model. However, a key distinction arises with the inclusion of DisplayPort-Out functionality. This innovation empowers users to daisy chain two 1440p monitors, four 1080p displays, or even a combination of two 1080p monitors alongside one 1440p display.
The Pros:
- Great value for its price
- High pixel density at 1440p
- Accurate colors and wide viewing angles
- Fully ergonomic stand
- DP-Out for daisy-chaining
The Cons:
- IPS glow and average contrast ratio
4. Philips 329P1H: Best Value 32″ 4K USB-C Docking Monitor
The Philips 329P1H presents a 32-inch version of the 279P1, enriched with additional features.
Benefiting from 4K UHD resolution on a 32-inch screen, the monitor achieves a pleasing visual experience with a pixel density of 140 pixels per inch (PPI). This results in abundant screen space and vivid details, potentially eliminating the need for scaling, depending on user preference.
Much like its 27-inch counterpart, the 329P1H maintains a peak brightness of 350 nits and a contrast ratio of 1,000:1. It also offers a slightly broader 128% sRGB gamut coverage, accompanied by a factory-calibrated sRGB emulation mode that maintains a Delta E of less than 2.
Additionally, the Philips 329P1H supports Adaptive-Sync technology, allowing for variable refresh rates within the supported 40-60Hz/FPS range for seamless gaming experiences, provided you have a compatible AMD or NVIDIA graphics card.
The monitor incorporates an integrated sensor capable of adjusting brightness based on ambient lighting or reducing it when no one is in front of the screen. Furthermore, a built-in 2MP webcam with Windows Hello support enhances convenience and security.
The monitor’s stand is sturdy and offers comprehensive ergonomic support, featuring up to 180mm height adjustment, +/- 90° pivot, +/- 180° swivel, -5°/25° tilt, and compatibility with VESA mounts (100x100mm).
Connectivity options encompass DisplayPort 1.4, two HDMI 2.0 ports, USB-C with DisplayPort 1.4 Alternate Mode and 90W Power Delivery, RJ45 Ethernet port, four downstream USB 3.0 ports (one featuring 7.5W fast-charging), a headphone jack, and integrated dual 5W speakers.
The Pros:
- High pixel density
- Wide color gamut
- Accurate colors and wide viewing angles
- Fully ergonomic stand
- 90W Power Delivery, four USB ports, webcam
The Cons:
- IPS glow and average contrast ratio
5. ViewSonic VG2456: Affordable USB-C Docking Monitor With DP-Out
The ViewSonic VG2756-2K is the larger 27-inch version of the previously mentioned VG2456, offering a step up in resolution.
Featuring a 2560×1440 QHD resolution on its 27-inch screen, the monitor boasts a high pixel density of 108 pixels per inch (PPI). This translates to ample screen real estate and crisp text and details without the need for scaling.
Compared to the VG2456, the 27-inch variant offers a brighter experience with a peak brightness of 350 nits. It also features a genuine 8-bit color depth without dithering, contributing to a more accurate color representation.
The rest of the features and specifications remain consistent with the 24-inch version.
The design and connectivity options remain unchanged from the VG2456. The notable addition is the DisplayPort-Out feature, allowing you to daisy chain two 1440p monitors, four 1080p displays, or a combination of two 1080p and one 1440p display.
6. Dell U4323QE: 43″ 4K USB-C Docking Monitor
For those seeking a sizable 43-inch 4K display with integrated docking capabilities, the Dell U4323QE stands out as the premier option. While it offers numerous beneficial features, it also comes with certain drawbacks that should be considered.
With its 4K UHD resolution, the monitor maintains sharp visuals even on its 43-inch screen, providing a pixel density of 103.6 pixels per inch (PPI).
However, it’s important to note that the U4323QE, like all 43-inch displays, adopts a BGR subpixel layout, resulting in noticeable fringing on small text and intricate details within most applications. This aspect might not be bothersome for some users, but others might find it to be a significant concern.
In terms of color space, the monitor solely covers the basic sRGB spectrum. While this means you won’t experience over-saturation, the color space is limited. The peak brightness of 350 nits and a contrast ratio of 1,000:1 are consistent with IPS monitors.
The monitor’s stand offers adjustable height up to 60mm, tilt by -5°/10°, swivel of +/- 20°, and compatibility with VESA mounts of either 100x100mm or 200x200mm.
Connectivity options comprise two DP 1.4 inputs, two HDMI 2.0 ports, USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90W Power Delivery, three upstream USB-C ports, one downstream USB-C port, four downstream USB-A ports, a headphone jack, integrated dual 8W speakers, RJ45 Ethernet port, Picture-in-Picture (PiP) and Picture-by-Picture (PbP) support, and built-in KVM (keyboard, video, and mouse) functionality.
Pros:
- Decent pixel density
- Accurate colors and wide viewing angles
- Ergonomic stand
- 90W Power Delivery, eight USB ports, KVM
Cons:
- IPS glow and average contrast ratio (typical for this panel technology)
- BGR subpixel layout
- Expensive
- Limited to sRGB gamut
7. Samsung S95UA: Super-UltraWide USB-C Docking Monitor
The Samsung S95UA emerges as an expansive 49″ super-ultrawide monitor, boasting an impressive 32:9 aspect ratio!
A 49″ 32:9 monitor essentially emulates the experience of two 27″ 16:9 monitors seamlessly aligned, without the disruption of bezels in-between. With a screen resolution of 5120×1440, the Samsung S95UA yields a comparable pixel density of around 108 pixels per inch (PPI).
The display excels in rendering rich and vibrant colors, showcasing a 95% DCI-P3 gamut coverage. Additional noteworthy specifications encompass a robust 400-nit peak brightness, a commendable 3,000:1 contrast ratio, and basic DisplayHDR 400 support.
The monitor supports a high refresh rate of 120Hz, but its USB-C port is capped at 60Hz. However, it’s important to note that variable refresh rate support is absent. For gaming enthusiasts, the AOC AG493UCX2 is recommended, as it supports 120Hz over USB-C, features 65W Power Delivery and a KVM switch, albeit excluding an RJ45 port.
The monitor’s stand offers versatility with height adjustment of up to 120mm, tilt ranging from -4° to 17°, swivel capabilities of +/- 15°, and compatibility with VESA mounts of 100x100mm.
Connectivity options encompass two HDMI 2.0 ports, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C with DisplayPort 1.4 Alternate Mode and 90W Power Delivery, three downstream USB 3.0 ports, RJ45 Ethernet port, headphone jack, integrated dual speakers, and a KVM switch.
Pros:
- High contrast ratio, decent pixel density, wide color gamut
- Comprehensive features
- Ergonomic design
- 90W Power Delivery, three USB ports, KVM
Cons:
- Moderate ghosting in darker scenes during fast-paced games
- Limited to 60Hz over USB-C
8. LG 34WQ75C: Best Value UltraWide USB-C Docking Monitor
Size: 34″
Resolution: 3440×1440
Panel: IPS
Ultrawide monitors present an expanded horizontal screen space that proves advantageous for a broader gaming field of view as well as increased screen real estate for productivity and office tasks.
The LG 34WQ75C employs an IPS panel, adhering to the standard sRGB color gamut, boasting a 1,000:1 contrast ratio, and featuring a peak brightness of 300 nits.
With a 34-inch 21:9 aspect ratio, the screen effectively equates to a 27-inch 16:9 display that’s approximately 33% wider. Its resolution of 3440×1440 strikes a balance in pixel density at 110 pixels per inch (PPI).
This configuration ensures ample screen space with crisp details and text, eliminating the need for scaling.
Additional features encompass Black Stabilizer, which enhances visibility in dark scenes, and advanced image adjustment tools, including hue/saturation, sharpness, and gamma presets.
The monitor’s stand provides height adjustment of up to 110mm, a tilt range of -5°/20°, and compatibility with VESA mounts (100x100mm).
Additionally, the screen adopts a subtle 3800R curvature, enhancing immersion.
Connectivity options consist of two HDMI 2.0 ports, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90W Power Delivery, RJ45 Ethernet port, two USB 2.0 ports, two USB 3.0 ports, USB-B port, a headphone jack, and integrated dual 7W speakers.
The monitor further supports Picture by Picture and has integrated KVM functionality.
Pros:
- Decent pixel density
- Accurate colors and wide viewing angles
- Ergonomic stand
- 90W Power Delivery, four USB ports, KVM
Cons:
- IPS glow and average contrast ratio
9. Dell U3821DW: Best 38″ UltraWide USB-C Docking Monitor
For those in search of a larger ultrawide monitor equipped with integrated docking features, the Dell U3821DW proves to be an excellent choice.
A 38″ ultrawide monitor delivers the same height as that of a 32″ 16:9 display, coupled with around 33% additional horizontal screen space. With a screen resolution of 3840×1600, the U3821DW attains a notable pixel density of 111 pixels per inch (PPI).
Furthermore, the monitor supports a wide color gamut, boasting 95% DCI-P3 color space coverage, and it arrives factory-calibrated in sRGB mode with a Delta E of less than 2.
Additional panel specifications encompass a peak brightness of 300 nits, a contrast ratio of 1,000:1, and dithered 10-bit color depth support.
The Dell U3821DW supports features such as Picture in Picture, Picture by Picture, Uniformity Compensation, and image adjustment tools for hue, saturation, and sharpness. It also integrates a KVM switch for added convenience.
The monitor’s stand is sturdy and versatile, offering height adjustment of up to 120mm, tilt ranging from -5° to 21°, swivel capabilities of +/- 30°, and compatibility with VESA mounts (100x100mm). The screen boasts a subtle 2300R curvature, enhancing the viewing experience.
Connectivity options encompass two HDMI 2.0 ports, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C with DisplayPort 1.4 Alternate Mode and 90W Power Delivery, an additional downstream USB-C port with 15W Power Delivery, a quad-USB 3.0 hub (four downstream + one upstream), a headphone jack, RJ45 Ethernet port, and integrated dual 9W speakers.
Pros:
- Decent pixel density
- Wide color gamut
- Accurate colors and wide viewing angles
- Fully ergonomic stand
- 90W Power Delivery, four USB ports, KVM
Cons:
- IPS glow and average contrast ratio
10. HP Z40c: 40″ 5K2K UltraWide USB-C Docking Monitor
The HP Z40c G3 stands out by offering a slightly larger screen compared to the Dell U3821DW, along with a higher resolution, a broader color gamut, and additional beneficial features.
With a resolution of 5120×2160, the HP Z40c achieves an elevated pixel density of approximately 140 pixels per inch (PPI). This translates to expanded screen real estate, as well as sharper details and text, when compared to the Dell U3821DW.
Effectively, the Z40c can be regarded as a 32″ 4K monitor with an additional ~33% width.
The monitor encompasses a wide 98% DCI-P3 gamut coverage, ensuring vibrant and accurate colors. Its peak brightness of 300 nits and a standard 1,000:1 contrast ratio align with typical IPS panel specifications.
Enhancing the immersive experience, the Z40c incorporates a subtle 2500R screen curvature. The stand offers versatile adjustability, including height adjustment of up to 150mm, swivel ranging from +/- 30°, and tilt spanning from -5° to 20°. Additionally, the monitor supports VESA mounts of 100x100mm.
Notably, the monitor boasts a 13MP webcam, built-in microphone, and integrated dual 5W speakers. Connectivity options comprise DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, Thunderbolt 3 input and output ports featuring 100W Power Delivery, RJ45 Ethernet port, and four downstream USB-A 3.0 ports.
The monitor supports Picture by Picture and integrates KVM functionality through the HP Device Bridge software.
Pros:
- High pixel density
- Wide color gamut
- Accurate colors and wide viewing angles
- Fully ergonomic stand
- 100W Power Delivery, four USB ports, KVM
Cons:
- IPS glow and average contrast ratio
11. Dell U4924DW: Best UltraWide USB-C Docking Monitor
The Dell U4924DW unquestionably stands as the best choice in the realm of ultrawide docking monitors.
The Dell U4924DW is outfitted with a 49″ 5120×1440 panel, leveraging the benefits of an IPS Black panel. Beyond its expansive viewing angles and consistent image quality, this panel boasts a remarkable 98% DCI-P3 wide color gamut, coupled with a high 2,000:1 contrast ratio to deliver deeper blacks.
Furthermore, the monitor is meticulously factory calibrated to achieve Delta E < 2, ensuring precise color representation right out of the box. With a respectable peak brightness of 350 nits, the monitor provides visual brilliance across various scenarios.
Distinct color modes – sRGB, Rec.709, DCI-P3, and Display P3 – are readily available, complemented by the Uniformity Compensation technology, which optimizes image uniformity, albeit at the expense of contrast ratio.
The monitor’s subtly curved screen at 3800R curvature enhances the visual experience. The stand itself offers considerable flexibility, featuring height adjustment up to 120mm, swivel capabilities spanning +/- 170°, tilt ranging from -5° to 21°, and compatibility with VESA mounts of 100x100mm.
On the connectivity front, the Dell U4924DW offers a comprehensive array of options, including two HDMI 2.1 ports, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C with DisplayPort Alternate Mode and 90W Power Delivery, a USB-C upstream port, two USB-C downstream ports, five USB-A downstream ports, a headphone jack, RJ45 Ethernet port, and dual 9W built-in speakers. All USB ports operate at 10 Gbps, and the monitor is equipped with a built-in KVM switch and Picture in Picture/ Picture by Picture support.
Pros:
- High contrast ratio, decent pixel density, wide color gamut
- Accurate colors, wide viewing angles
- Comprehensive features
- Ergonomic design
- 90W Power Delivery, eight USB ports, KVM
Cons:
- IPS glow
How to Select the Best Monitors with Built-in Docking Stations?
The crucial factor in selecting the best monitors with built-in docking stations is their overall image quality.
The inclusion of USB-C connectivity is also crucial, as it enables these monitors to function as docking stations. The term “docking” implies that the monitor can receive signal inputs from a mobile device like a laptop while simultaneously charging it. This capability to transmit signals bidirectionally is exclusive to USB-C technology.
Naturally, a “dock” wouldn’t be complete without supplementary features that enhance its versatility beyond a standard hub. The standard combination of DisplayPort and HDMI should be present, but additional features like USB ports or audio jacks are equally essential. The monitor should also offer the ability to consolidate accessories like keyboards and mice through the main port where the host device is connected.
Monitors featuring built-in docking stations generally come with a higher price tag compared to a similar monitor without the added ports. Some 1080p models can cost up to $500, whereas a standard FHD variant without USB-C ports can be found for under $150. Paying a premium for prestige and functionality is the trade-off, but as the product matures, technology prices tend to decrease.
