USB-C docks compatibility with Surface

Hi,

does anyone know about compatibility issues of USB-C docks with surface devices? At work we have Dell USB-C docks on every desk connected to monitor, mouse, keyboard and LAN. They work perfectly with Dell laptops (obviously) but also with any Lenovo and HP laptop I tried. When I connect my surface book 2, it’s just dead. Nothing works, the laptop continues to operate as only the internal monitor is connected. I don’t see any of the devices attached to the dock. Is this a known compatibility issue for the SB2? Is there any workaround besides using the surface dock?

Thank you,

Vladimir

Conversation 5 comments

  • lvthunder

    Premium Member
    05 September, 2019 - 2:42 pm

    <p>I think the USB-C port on the Surface Book 2 is just Display and charge. I could be wrong, but I don't think you can even plug in a USB-C external hard drive.</p>

  • paradyne

    08 October, 2019 - 10:13 am

    <p>I can plug my Surface Go into a LG monitor with integrated hub and it works great. 4k 60Hz display, USB data to the USB ports the monitor also has and it charges the Go at the same time.</p><p><br></p><p>There do seem to be some USB docks/hubs that require Thunderbolt 3 though, but none of the Surface devices have that.</p><p><br></p><p>But you should still be able to use a cheap USB C hub that has video out, power and USB ports (with a USB to ethernet adapter built in too).</p>

  • wunderbar

    Premium Member
    08 October, 2019 - 12:47 pm

    <p>A USB-C dock will work.</p><p><br></p><p>A Thunderbolt 3 dock will not work.</p>

  • WarWizard

    Premium Member
    08 October, 2019 - 11:57 pm

    <p>We've successfully used Lenovo USB-C (it has a USB-A converter for connection with devices without USB-C ports) docks with SB1&amp;2, SP3 – 6 and Surface Go.</p><p>The thing with SB2 is, it doesn't charge via USB-C</p><p>As @Wunderbar mentions, a Thunderbolt dock doesnt work, only a USB-C/USB-A 3.0 dock does.</p>

  • anoldamigauser

    Premium Member
    09 October, 2019 - 11:21 am

    <p>This <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Plugable-Charging-Support-Power-Delivery-Thunderbolt/dp/B01FKTZLBS&quot; target="_blank">Plugable docking station</a> indicates that it will work with Surface Book 2, and has decent reviews. I have had good luck with the Plugable UD-3900 USB 3 dock.</p>

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