The Proprietary Pitfalls OEM Docks Won’t Tell You About

Ever tried using an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) docking station with a different brand of laptop? Like using a Dell dock with an HP laptop? It’s not uncommon to find that charging is limited or that certain features don’t work. That’s because many OEM docks implement proprietary features that prioritize their own devices, often at the cost of universal compatibility.

Plugable takes a different approach. As a member of the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), Plugable follows industry standards for USB and Power Delivery (PD) throughout our product stack to ensure broad compatibility. Every Plugable dock is designed and tested to work across multiple laptop brands—without unnecessary restrictions.

Let’s look at how this standards-first approach gives Plugable docks a real advantage over OEM solutions.

Proprietary Parts, Power Delivery, and Vendor Lock-In

USB-C is an open standard that, when followed properly, enables maximum compatibility. However, some OEM docks apply proprietary design principles to their accessories and laptops, which affect power delivery and lock you into their ecosystem. Here are some examples:

Dell’s Proprietary Implementations

• Dell docks like the WD19 and WD22TB4 can provide up to 130W of power, but only to Dell laptops
• When connected to other brands, power output is capped at 90W or less, even if the dock has additional power available
• Rather than use the USB PD 3.1 (EPR) standard for Power Delivery above 100W, Dell uses non-standard power profiles
• Some Dell docks require a combination of USB-C and non-standard cables between the dock and Dell host to achieve this 
• Many Dell docks use fixed, proprietary data cables hardwired to the device, limiting troubleshooting options and forcing users to buy expensive, brand-specific replacements
• Several other advertised features are only supported on Dell laptops

HP 

• Some models, like the HP Thunderbolt Dock G4 280W support higher wattage Power Delivery, but only on specific HP models
• Rather than use the USB PD 3.1 (EPR) standard for Power Delivery above 100W, HP uses non-standard power profiles
• These HP docks require a combination of USB-C and non-standard cables between the dock and HP host to achieve this 
• Hardwired, fixed cables cannot be replaced

Lenovo

• Some models support higher wattage Power Delivery, but only on specific Lenovo models
• Rather than use the USB PD 3.1 (EPR) standard for Power Delivery above 100W, Lenovo uses non-standard power profiles
• Power Delivery above 100W requires a combination of USB-C and non-standard cables between the dock and HP host to achieve this 

Plugable’s Standards-Based Approach

Plugable follows industry-standard USB-C and Thunderbolt power protocols, meaning:

• Our 100W-class USB-C docking stations provide up to 100W for any compatible laptop, without brand-specific restrictions
• Plugable 140W docks use industry-standard PD 3.1 EPR power profiles, enabling 140W charging for host platforms that support this industry standard, such as Apple and Framework.
• No proprietary cables or brand-specific firmware limitations—Plugable universal docking stations work seamlessly across brands.
• Extensive compatibility testing ensures reliable performance with Windows, Mac, Linux, and ChromeOS devices.
• Clearly communicated compatibility details about which platforms are supported, and limitations that might be faced on certain platforms.

By sticking to industry standards, Plugable docks allow users to switch between laptops or brands without worrying about charging limitations.

Compatibility Issues with OEM Docks

Many OEM docks limit functionality when connected to laptops from different brands. This means users may experience reduced charging speeds, missing display outputs, or even non-functioning ports.

Dell Docks: Inconsistent Performance on Non-Dell Laptops

• Dell’s WD19TB and WD22TB4 docks are primarily designed for Dell laptops, and users often report issues when pairing them with other brands.
• Some Dell docks disable certain features, such as power buttons or DisplayPort video output, when used with non-Dell laptops.
• Firmware updates are often required for proper functionality, but Dell does not always provide support for non-Dell devices.

HP and Lenovo Docks: Brand-Specific Features

• HP and Lenovo docks may withhold full functionality from non-HP or non-Lenovo laptops.
• Proprietary firmware updates and management tools may only be available for their laptops, making it difficult for users to apply necessary updates on other systems.

Plugable’s Universal Testing Approach

Plugable docks are designed for true cross-brand compatibility, with rigorous testing to ensure seamless operation across various devices.

• Designed to maximize available features without brand-specific restrictions.
• Consistent performance across different laptop models, ensuring that key features like charging, video output, and data transfer work as expected.
• Clear compatibility guidelines help users understand what to expect from their setup.

The Bottom Line: Plugable Offers More Flexibility

OEM Docks:

• May limit power delivery to non-matching brands.
• Some features may not work on different laptop brands.
• Often require proprietary cables or firmware updates.

Plugable Docks:

• Follow industry-standard USB and PD protocols for maximum compatibility.
• They are tested and designed to support Windows, Mac, Linux, and ChromeOS, whenever possible, with clear compatibility details about what to expect.
• Provide consistent power delivery, display output, and connectivity across brands.

By prioritizing open standards and rigorous compatibility testing, Plugable docks ensure a seamless experience—without locking you into a single brand.

Explore Plugable’s docking stations and find the right one for your setup: Plugable Docking Stations