The US$109.99 Kensington UH1440P USB-C Mobile Dock combines features of a docking station and a USB-C hub, mostly to good effect.
It’s a plug and play solution for USB-C based devices (Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C Alt Mode) running macOS 11 or later, iPadOS 13 or later, and Windows 10 or later.
There’s no need to download or install drivers. The 5Gbps USB-C mobile dock provides five ports of connectivity. There are three USB-A 3.2 Gen1 ports (5Gbps with one 5V/1.5A and two 5V/0.9A), a dedicated 3.5mm audio jack, UHS-I SD3.0 Micro and SD card slots, and one Gigabit Ethernet port.
You can extend visual productivity with the resolution, contrast, and color depth of Ultra HD (Single 4K @ 30Hz) via the DP or HDMI video ports. Note that dual video output (1080p @ 60Hz) requires you to first connect a DisplayPort monitor, then pick either HDMI or VGA for the second monitor on Windows devices. And only single monitor support is available for iPadOS up to 4K @ 60Hz. macOS supports single 4K @ 60Hz but dual video is only supported in mirror mode (not extended) up to 4K @ 60Hz.
The video output options for Apple devices is disappointing but the ability to plug your Mac laptop’s USB-C power adapter (85W or greater) into the dock for pass-through power to the laptop (USB-C device must support Power Delivery) is a great feature. Or you can power the dock and connected devices using the laptop’s battery when traveling. Optional 100W Power Adapter sold separately.
I also like the size of the UH1440P. It easily fits into your backpack or carrying case for productivity on the go. And Kensington throws in a 6.7-inch USB-C cable.
The Kensington SD1600P USB-C Mobile Dock is a good travel companion for folks who need a small device for expanding their laptop or tablet’s port options, though its visual output functionality for Apple divide users leaves something to be desired.
Review overview
The Pros
- USB-C pass-through power
- convenient portable design
- 4K output
The Cons
- Video output limited for Macs and iPads
summary
8.4Overall, the UH1400P USB-C 8-in-1 Driverless Mobile Dock delivers the connectivity you need when on the go or at home.