13-in-1 vs 14-in-1 Docking Stations: Which Should You Buy?
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Choosing between a 13-in-1 vs 14-in-1 docking station depends on your specific port needs. Both devices offer triple display support and 100W charging capabilities for modern laptops. The main difference lies in the port configuration and video output options. One model includes a detachable hub for travel, while the other adds VGA connectivity and more USB ports. You should select the dock that matches your monitor and peripheral requirements.
Key differences
| Aspect | Anker Nano 13-in-1 Dock with Detachable Hub | Selore 14-in-1 USB-C Docking Station |
|---|---|---|
| Port Count | 13 | 14 |
| Video Ports | 2x HDMI, 1x DisplayPort | 2x HDMI, 1x VGA |
| Power Delivery | 100W | 87W |
| Unique Feature | Detachable 6-in-1 hub | VGA port included |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Anker Nano 13-in-1 Dock with Detachable Hub if
- You need a DisplayPort for your monitor setup
- You want a detachable portable hub for travel
- You require full 100W power delivery to your laptop
Choose Selore 14-in-1 USB-C Docking Station if
- You need a VGA port for older monitors
- You prefer more USB-A ports for peripherals
- You want a simple plug-and-play dual HDMI setup
Verdict: The Anker Nano is better for users who need a DisplayPort and a travel-ready detachable hub. The Selore model suits those who require VGA connectivity or extra USB-A ports. Your choice should depend on the specific ports your monitors and devices require.
Port Count and Video Options
Port Count
The Anker Nano offers 13 ports, while the Selore provides 14 ports. The Anker achieves this through a detachable design, combining a 13-in-1 dock with a separate 6-in-1 hub. This allows you to use the main unit for your desk and the small hub for travel. The Selore integrates all 14 ports into a single unit, including two HDMI ports, a VGA port, three USB-C/A data ports, four USB-A ports, and card readers. The Selore gives you one extra physical port in the main dock, whereas the Anker gives you a portable secondary hub. Both setups provide extensive connectivity for your peripherals.
Video Ports
Video output options differ significantly between the two models. The Anker Nano includes two HDMI ports and one DisplayPort. This configuration supports flexible triple display setups, allowing you to connect three monitors simultaneously. The Selore features two HDMI ports and one VGA port. While VGA is useful for older projectors or monitors, it generally offers lower resolution than digital connections. The Anker’s inclusion of a DisplayPort provides more modern compatibility for high-resolution displays. If you need to connect legacy equipment via VGA, the Selore has an advantage. Otherwise, the Anker offers more versatile digital video options.
Power Delivery
Both docking stations support 100W Power Delivery input to charge your laptop. However, the actual power delivered to your device varies. The Anker Nano delivers up to 100W PD to charge your laptop while running peripherals. It includes a 140W power adapter to ensure stable performance under full load. The Selore also lists 100W PD input, but notes that output charging is limited to 87W for safety. This means the Selore may not charge your laptop as quickly under heavy load compared to the Anker. If you need maximum charging speed for your laptop, the Anker provides a clear advantage.
Display Support
Both docks support triple display output. The Anker Nano supports up to 4K@60Hz on a single display, dual 2K@60Hz on two displays, or triple 1080p@60Hz on three displays. This offers flexibility in resolution settings for your workflow. The Selore supports triple display modes as well, with 4K resolution capability. It supports mirror and extend modes on Windows and mirror mode on macOS. Both models require your laptop to support DisplayPort Alternate Mode or Thunderbolt for video output. The Anker specifies 2K@60Hz for dual displays, which may be preferable for higher clarity compared to standard 1080p.
Data Speed
Data transfer speeds are comparable on both devices. The Anker Nano features one USB-C data port capable of 10Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes two other USB-C data ports at 5Gbps and 10Gbps. The Selore offers USB 3.1 ports with speeds up to 10Gbps. It also includes USB 2.0 ports at 480Mbps for peripherals like mice and keyboards. Both docks support fast file transfers for large videos or documents. The Anker highlights its 10Gbps port specifically for high-speed data, while the Selore provides a mix of high and standard speeds. Both are sufficient for most professional data transfer needs.
Connectivity
Both docks include Gigabit Ethernet ports for stable wired internet connections. The Anker Nano includes one Gigabit Ethernet port. The Selore also features a 1000M Ethernet port. Both models connect to your laptop via a single USB-C upstream cable. The Anker includes a 3ft 10Gbps USB-C cable in the package. The Selore does not specify the included cable length or speed in its key specs, though it mentions plug-and-play functionality. Both support SD and microSD card readers for media transfer. The wired network connection is identical in speed for both devices, ensuring reliable connectivity for work.
Which docking station fits your workflow
Travelers needing portable hub
The Anker Nano features a detachable 6-in-1 hub. You snap off the portable section for on-the-go use. This design replaces two devices. It covers desktop needs and mobile work. The 100W Power Delivery charges your laptop. You get flexible setups without carrying extra gear.
Users needing VGA support
The Selore includes a VGA port. This helps you connect older monitors. It offers 14 ports total. You get dual HDMI and VGA options. The 100W input provides stable charging. It supports triple displays in extend mode. This is ideal if you have legacy display equipment.
Desk-bound productivity users
The Anker Nano supports triple displays. You can run dual 2K@60Hz monitors. It features a 10Gbps USB-C data port. This moves large files quickly. The dock includes a Gigabit Ethernet port. You get a stable wired connection. The 140W adapter ensures performance under full load.
Users preferring compact form
The Selore is a single unit. It measures 0.48 inches in height. You get a compact footprint. The grey color blends into setups. It supports Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C devices. You connect multiple peripherals easily. The integrated design suits fixed desk positions.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anker Nano 13-in-1 Dock with Detachable Hub | Users needing desktop and portable hub functionality | Check price of Anker Nano 13-in-1 Dock with Detachable Hub on Amazon |
| 2 | Selore 14-in-1 USB-C Docking Station | Windows users needing triple displays and 10Gbps data | Check price of Selore 14-in-1 USB-C Docking Station on Amazon |
The products compared
Anker Nano 13-in-1 Dock with Detachable Hub
Best for: Users needing desktop and portable hub functionality
- Port Count
- 13-in-1 (what this guide is about)
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Triple
- Max Resolution
- 4K@60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 100W
- Video Ports
- HDMI, DisplayPort
View on Amazon: Anker Nano 13-in-1 Dock with Detachable Hub Affiliate link
This 13-in-1 docking station features a detachable 6-in-1 USB-C hub for travel. It supports triple displays with up to 4K@60Hz resolution on a single screen. The dock includes a 10Gbps data port and delivers 100W power delivery to your laptop. It connects via a single USB-C upstream cable. This setup suits users needing a desktop workstation that converts to a portable hub.
Pros
- Detachable 6-in-1 hub for mobile use
- Supports triple displays up to 4K@60Hz
- 100W Power Delivery for laptop charging
- 10Gbps USB-C data transfer speed
- Includes 140W power adapter
Cons
- macOS supports mirrored mode only on multiple displays
- Blue light strip and ports require laptop connection
- No built-in battery for standalone hub use
Good fit if
- You need a desktop dock that becomes a portable hub
- You require triple monitor support for productivity
- You want 100W charging for your laptop
Skip if
- You use macOS and need independent extended displays
- You need wireless connectivity like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi
- You prefer a dock that works without a host laptop
Verdict: Anker Nano 13-in-1 Dock with Detachable Hub offers a unique two-in-one design for users who switch between office and travel. It fits those who need triple display support and fast data transfer in a single USB-C connection.
Selore 14-in-1 USB-C Docking Station
Best for: Windows users needing triple displays and 10Gbps data
- Port Count
- 14-in-1 (what this guide is about)
- Host Interface
- USB-C
- Display Support
- Triple
- Max Resolution
- 4K
- Power Delivery
- 87W
- Video Ports
- HDMI, VGA
View on Amazon: Selore 14-in-1 USB-C Docking Station Affiliate link
This Selore dock offers 14 ports, including dual HDMI and VGA outputs for triple display support on Windows laptops. It features 10Gbps data transfer speeds, a 1Gbps Ethernet port, and 87W power delivery for connected devices. The grey unit connects via USB-C and requires no drivers. It suits users needing multiple video outputs and high-speed data access from a single connection point.
Pros
- Supports triple display with two HDMI and one VGA port
- 10Gbps data transfer on USB 3.1 ports
- 87W power delivery output for laptops
- 1Gbps Ethernet connectivity
- Includes SD and microSD card readers
Cons
- Mac M1/M2 chips only support mirror mode, not extended triple displays
- Video output requires Thunderbolt 3 or DisplayPort Alternate Mode on host device
- USB ports do not support video output
Good fit if
- You need three simultaneous screens on a Windows laptop
- You require 10Gbps data speeds for external drives
- You want to charge your laptop while docking
Skip if
- You use a Mac with M1 or M2 chips and need extended mode
- Your laptop USB-C port lacks DisplayPort Alternate Mode
- You need video output from the USB-A ports
Verdict: Selore 14-in-1 USB-C Dock provides a comprehensive port selection for Windows users needing triple displays. It fits professionals who require high-speed data and stable Ethernet connections alongside video expansion.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Anker Nano 13-in-1 Dock with Detachable Hub | Selore 14-in-1 USB-C Docking Station |
|---|---|---|
| Host Interface | USB-C | USB-C |
| Display Support | Triple | Triple |
| Max Resolution | 4K@60Hz | 4K |
| Power Delivery | 100W | 87W |
| Port Count | 13 | 14 |
| Video Ports | HDMI, DisplayPort | HDMI, VGA |
| Max Data Speed | 10Gbps | 10Gbps |
| Ethernet Speed | Gigabit | 1000M |
| Connectivity | USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort, Ethernet, USB-A | USB-C, HDMI, USB-A, VGA |
| Use | Office | not stated |
| Recommended Use | Home | not stated |
| Dimensions | 3.74 × 1.57 × 5.51 inches | not stated |
| Color | Black | Grey |
| Model | A83C3 | not stated |
| Size | not stated | 14-in-1 |
Frequently asked questions
Can a 13-in-1 docking station support three monitors?
Yes, the Anker Nano 13-in-1 Dock supports triple display output. It connects via a single USB-C link. This allows you to expand your workspace significantly. The detachable hub adds extra connectivity without compromising video performance. You get flexible screen arrangements for complex workflows.
Does the Selore 14-in-1 dock work with Mac computers?
The Selore 14-in-1 is primarily designed for Windows users. Its marketing highlights triple displays and high-speed data transfer for that ecosystem. While USB-C docks often have broad compatibility, this specific model targets Windows professionals. You should verify Mac support with the manufacturer before purchasing for Apple devices.
What is the main advantage of the Anker Nano's detachable design?
The detachable design lets you separate a 6-in-1 hub from the main dock. You can take the smaller hub for travel while leaving the main unit at your desk. This two-in-one approach saves space. You avoid carrying two separate devices when you move between office and remote locations.
Which dock offers more ports overall?
The Selore 14-in-1 offers more ports than the Anker Nano. It provides 14 connection points in a single unit. The Anker Nano provides 13 ports in its dock configuration. However, the Anker system includes an additional 6-in-1 hub when combined. You must consider if you need the extra hub for your setup.
Do these docks support 100W laptop charging?
Yes, both docks support 100W Power Delivery charging. This power level is sufficient for most modern laptops. You can charge your computer while using the dock. This reduces cable clutter on your desk. You only need one cable connecting your laptop to the dock for power and data.
Is the Selore dock better for Ethernet connectivity?
The Selore 14-in-1 is described as providing stable Ethernet connections. It targets professionals who need reliable wired networking. The description emphasizes stable Ethernet alongside video expansion. You should check the specific Ethernet speed in the full specifications to ensure it meets your network requirements.
How compact is the Anker Nano dock?
The Anker Nano measures 3.74 inches in length. It is 1.57 inches wide and 5.51 inches high. These dimensions make it relatively compact for a multi-port dock. The detachable hub is even smaller. You can easily fit the components in a laptop bag or briefcase for mobile work.
Can I use the detachable hub separately from the main dock?
Yes, the Anker Nano features a detachable 6-in-1 hub. You can snap it off for portable use. This allows you to use it with other devices like tablets or phones. It functions independently when separated. You gain flexibility by having two distinct connectivity solutions in one package.