Desktop Computer Review: Kensington Notebook Stand with USB Hub (K60723US) Review

I recently started to work from home and wanted to set up a dual monitor system and use my ergo keyboard and trackball. I have a Dell Inspiron which doesn't have a docking station so figured I would try a stand instead of a universal docking station because I was hoping to save a bit on desk space. Despite an earlier review that indicated that this stand has a footprint as large as the laptop itself, I decided to take a chance.

The other reviewer was right. This actually takes up more desk space than just the laptop itself. However, it also raises the total height of the unit to where if you have bookshelves above where your monitor would stand (as is common with many cubicle spaces), you would probably hit the bottom of the shelves as well.

In addition, the USB port/docking port is lacking a 9-pin (or is it 15-pin) monitor connector so you still have to plug and unplug an external monitor into the laptop. So using this docking station I still wind up having to plug 3 separate items into the computer every time I dock it: The monitor plug, the USB cable for the docking station and the power plug. To me, that isn't saving much in the way of setting up or take down.

The build quality is solid -- my laptop is 15.4" (screen) and it fits easily into the stand. The entire is very solid feeling and it looks nice. I just wish it made things a bit more compact or convenient from a plug perspective. About the only "net benefit" is that the stand hides the keyboard (turning it into a "copy stand" and it raises the height of the laptop display to be at a more ergonomic angle.

I am keeping the unit despite its shortcomings. I guess my advice is just be aware of what you are looking for in a universal docking station. If it is for ease of grabbing your laptop and going and to save space, this isn't going to be the write solution for you.

[NCJAR]

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Product Description:
Add comfort and connectivity in seconds.Simply slide your notebook into the stand, connect one USB plug and you´ll have instant access to all of your peripherals. A built-in 4-port hub makes connection easy and expands your peripheral connectivity. Plus, you´ll enjoy the added comfort and productivity of an elevated notebook screen.Connect up to 4 Hi-Speed peripherals.Black translucent front cover allows you to operate your notebook multimedia IR remote.Built-in copy holder.Use this product with an external keyboard and mouse