How to Choose a USB Type-C Dock or a USB Type-A Dock for Compatibility
Summary: The following article provides information about the best docking station that you should use with your Dell laptop.
This article applies to
This article does not apply to
This article is not tied to any specific product.
Not all product versions are identified in this article.
Instructions
Dell USB Type-A and USB Type-C Docks
USB Type-A and USB Type-C series of docking stations support DisplayPort over USB and Thunderbolt 3. This allows computers to be docked with external Keyboards, Mice, Displays, and other functions. Any computer with the required hardware works with a USB Type-A or USB Type-C dock. There are requirements for docks to be compatible or recommended for use with specific computers.
Note: Warranty support for computers that are not listed on the compatibility list for a dock may not be supported (based on your warranty entitlement).
Note: Thunderbolt 3 devices work on Thunderbolt 4 ports. The device operates at Thunderbolt 3 specifications.
Dell commercial docks are used with our commercial laptops and 2-in-1 computers. These include Latitude, Precision, and some XPS laptops. Different dock models are recommended based on power requirements and ports.
See the following links for more guidance and information:
- Dell Commercial Docking Compatibility (PDF - English Only)
- Guide to Dell Docking Stations
Dell Commercial Docks
Check the following dock compatibility lists to ensure that you select the best dock for your computer. Notebooks that are not on the compatibility list for a dock are not supported. They may experience limited functionality or errors.
Current Generation Dell Commercial Docks:
- WD Series Dell Docking Compatibility Guide (WD19, WD19TB, WD19S, WD19TBS, WD19DCS, and WD19DC, WD22TB4, HD22Q, UD22) (PDF - English Only)
- Industry Standard Compatibility (Limited functionality with computers from other manufacturers) (PDF - English Only)
Legacy Commercial Docks (WD15, TB16, and TB18DC):
Dell Universal Docks
Dell universal docks use DisplayLink software and USB to provide a solution for consumer and other computers that are not compatible with the commercial docks. They also support Windows, macOS, Android, ChromeOS, and Ubuntu. However, the USB bandwidth limits performance.
- D6000 User Guide (USB Type-A and USB Type-C compatible)
- D3100 User Guide (USB 3.0 Type-A Only)
- UD22 User Guide (USB Type-C Only)
Additional Information
Please bookmark our Support Library webpage https://www.dell.com/support/contents/category/product-support/self-support-knowledgebase/docking-stations for additional information.
Affected Products
Dell Dock WD15, Dell Dual Charge Dock HD22Q, Dell Thunderbolt Dock TB16, Dell Precision Dual USB-C Thunderbolt Dock - TB18DC, Dell Universal Dock D6000, Dell Universal Dock UD22, Dell USB3.0 dock D3100, Dell Dock WD19, Dell Performance Dock - WD19DC
, Dell Performance Dock – WD19DCS, Dell Dock – WD19S, Dell Thunderbolt Dock - WD19TB, Dell Thunderbolt Dock – WD19TBS
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Article Properties
Article Number: 000125885
Article Type: How To
Last Modified: 30 Jun 2025
Version: 22
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