The biggest problem docking stations solve is the lack of connectivity options on most laptops. Forget SD card slots or Ethernet ports -- a MacBook Air doesn't even have traditional full-sized USB-A ports. Fortunately, there is an expansive selection of docking stations you can buy, ranging from affordable USB-C dongles, all the way up to docks that double as monitor risers and have wireless charging pads built-in. If you're looking to hook your laptop or computer up to a dual 4K monitor setup, you might need to specifically grab a Thunderbolt-compatible docking station.

Though identical at first glance, there are a few differences between USB-C and Thunderbolt technologies that make the latter worth splurging a little more over. Despite using the same connector type as USB-C, the latest standards of Thunderbolt bring impressive bidirectional bandwidths of up to 40Gbps, and support output for multiple monitors. Based on expert reviews, here are five of the best Thunderbolt docks you can use to power dual 4K monitors. You can find more details about the methodology near the end of this read.