Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, Dual Display, 160W) review
The Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, Dual Display, 160W) is a highly integrated dock that provides a neat, more efficient way to manage all your devices.
First of all, this is much more than just a charger. This station includes two HDMI ports, enabling dual 4K displays, but that’s not all. There are multiple USB-C and USB-A ports that enable quick data transfer. Two of the USB-C ports support 10Gbps data transfer, although it’s worth noting that only one USB-A port can match this, with the other three restricted to 480Mbps. On top of this, you get a 3.5mm audio, ethernet, and upstream port – the latter can be used to connect the station to your laptop or PC.
This is a pretty comprehensive set of options – with the only obvious exception being an SD or MicroSD card reader. This is a pretty minor issue though, especially given you can buy an external reader to insert into one of the USB-C ports.
One of the highlights here is the trio of dedicated charging ports – ideal for juicing up all sorts of devices, including some of the best power banks or the best phones. Two of these are USB-C and have a maximum power output of 100W each, with an additional USB-A port offering a maximum output of 12W. When I tried plugging in my Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4, fast charging activated, enabling the device to go from 0% to 100% in under 1 hour and 30 minutes – the expected timeframe. By pressing the button on top of the station you can switch between an overview of output across all ports, or just view data concerning one port.
How does this 14-in-1 station fare design-wise, though? Well, I was a fan of its slim, tower-like look and textured metal outer-casing. However, there are some minor disappointments: the screen is quite small and has fewer built-in options than Anker’s 6-Port Desktop Charging Station and the power cable is attached, meaning it’s not perfectly compact when packing into a bag. The front of the station is made from plastic and admittedly looks a little cheap, but it’s not particularly grating to the eye. The configuration of the ports does make the design very practical though and I found my desk was neater with the station in use, a key benefit of the product.
Finally, it’s worth acknowledging that this station – although by no means inexpensive at $249.99 / £199.99 (about AU$360) – is pretty good value. Competitors like UGreen’s 13-in-1 Docking Station or Lenovo’s ThinkPad Thunderbolt 4 Workstation Dock are considerably more expensive. Overall, this is a competent, well-equipped, practical dock that will meet the needs of most professionals seeking out a more efficient and tidy way to manage their devices.
Anker Prime Charging Docking Station (14-in-1, Dual Display, 160W) review: Price & specs
