How to Choose a USB Type-C Dock or a USB Type-A Dock for Compatibility

Summary: Learn about the different types of Dell docking stations and the supported docks available to use with a 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.
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Instructions

Dell docking station compatibility depends on whether your laptop supports USB Type-A or USB Type-C docks, commercial docks, or universal docks. This guide gives references to which computers these docks support.

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, mouses, 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).
  • 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 Dell Pro, Dell Pro Max, Dell Pro Precision, 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 Docks

Check the following dock compatibility lists to ensure that you select the best dock for your computer. Laptops 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:

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.

Additional Information

Please bookmark our Support Library webpage Dell 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 ...
Article Properties
Article Number: 000125885
Article Type: How To
Last Modified: 12 Feb 2026
Version:  23
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