Everybody wants a clean and organized desk, and this is possible even if you use a lot of tools for editing. This docking station might be a good option if you like to keep things simple.
Sometimes the biggest hindrance to getting any editing work done is having to set up and plug in all your devices and tools individually every single time. We photographers vary in our preference for editing workflows as well as the tools involved in them. The goal is always to find the set of tools that will boost your efficiency and enhance the overall experience of working, especially when you have to deal with hundreds of images from huge photography projects.
The tools we use focus on expanding and managing the storage capacity that we have on our computers, making available multiple displays for better multitasking, and connecting physical tools to make the process of editing and post-production more efficient. On top of all that, the feeling of having a neat and tidy desk can have a huge impact on our mood as we work.
The Baseus Spacemate Docking Station
The Baseus 11-in-1 Spacemate Docking Station is a coffee-cup sized (4.75x2.57 in) device made of grey aluminum. This sits on top of a magnetically attached (and detachable) base that has a nano-adhesive bottom that firmly sticks to the surface of your desk to prevent any unwanted movement.
On the front panel is a digital LED backlit display that serves as an indicator of which ports are currently being used and, indirectly, what devices are connected. Below this screen is a single 10 Gbps USB-C port right next to a single 10 Gbps USB-A port, both serving as the high-speed inputs that are best for connecting external digital storage.
At the back is a more extensive array of ports. It consists of a 100 W PD charging USB-C port (charger and input cable not included), another 10 Gbps USB-A port, a slower 480 Mbps USB-A port for less demanding wired or wireless accessories such as keyboards and mice, and a 3.5 mm auxiliary audio input/output port.
Beside this column is a set of two HDMI ports capable of up to 4K 60 Hz and a pair of DisplayPorts also capable of up to 4K 60 Hz. However, these can only be simultaneously used either with two HDMI and one DP or two DP and one HDMI ports at one time. Below all of the ports is a built-in non-removable USB-C host cable to connect to the laptop or even a mobile device.
Triple external display only allows two unique desktops on mac
On the top part of the dock is a single backlit button that acts as a quick shortcut for putting the device and all connected displays to sleep. When using devices in public, this can be a way to quickly hide any private information. At the same time, when in use in a private space, this button is a quick tool to put the devices to rest without entirely powering off the computer.
User Experience
Docking stations are made to virtually expand the connectivity of our computers, especially laptops, to be used with more devices at one time. The Baseus Spacemate docking station certainly does the job in such a way that it conveniently converges all input and output devices into a single USB-C cable to the host computer. This allows quickly connecting the laptop onto a relatively fixed desktop setup that can comprise up to three additional displays.
Speed is always a huge factor to consider when using such tools, especially if any of the accessories to be plugged in are for external storage. This docking station offers three 10 Gbps ports; however, with the growing popularity of USB-C as a more universal connectivity option, it would have been better, in my opinion, to have more high-speed USB-C ports than USB-A. Currently, the Spacemate offers three ports; however, only one of them is USB-C and the other two are USB-A. It seems that the Baseus Spacemate (as the name suggests) was made to be compact and portable for the added option of being brought anywhere; however, it might be good to have more ports, or alternatively, a more expansive version especially made for higher demand users.
In terms of using multiple displays, it’s great that this can allow up to three simultaneous 4K 60 Hz displays. This is great for multitasking or even extending workspaces across multiple monitors. Perhaps if a higher variant, as mentioned in the previous paragraph, were to exist, it can/should also be able to support higher resolution displays and possibly even faster refresh rates. In addition, it’s great that the docking station already has its own 3.5 mm audio port which is perfect for users who prefer listening through external speakers or headphones.
Perhaps as a casual user, maybe those who use their workstations for productivity, making documents, or even gaming, this docking station would be sufficient for regular use. However, as a photographer (and considering that this is a photography publication), I would have to say that it is a huge factor that this dock does not have an SD or even a micro SD card reader slot. This adds up to the impact of the fact that there is a limited number of high-speed slots. I personally use a USB-C card reader (the Pgytech Createmate memory card reader and holder) when I have to, specifically if the laptop I’m using is not equipped with a card reader and I’m not using my other docking stations that have card readers (such as when I was testing this one). This would mean that if I have a connected portable SSD, it will take the high-speed slot and to be able to use another USB-C device such as my card reader, I would have to use an adapter with the USB-A slot, which I think defeats the purpose of having a docking station.
Overall, the Baseus Spacemate is a great tool to consider if you want to keep your desk organized and easy to connect with even with multiple devices. The indicator display is also helpful to keep track of what is plugged in on the back part and adds to the aesthetic as well. Depending on what devices and tools you use, this docking station can help keep things organized and expand your computer’s connectivity.
What I Liked
- 10 Gbps ports
- Can support up to three 4K displays
- Handy indicator display and quick sleep button
What Can Be Improved
- More high speed USB-C ports
- Built in SD and Micro SD card reader
One USB c port 🙁
One word
No