DockOrb: Stylish laptop docking station sports MagSafe charging pad with 15W

A new docking solution is currently crowdfunding on Kickstarter. Specifically, the DockOrb is being offered in return for a pledge of $109, but it should be noted that the usual financial risks of crowdfunding campaigns apply. Shipping is expected to start in August.

With that out of the way, this docking solution has the shape of a ball that’s been flattened on two sides. On the user-facing side, it offers a charging pad with Qi2 support that can charge compatible handsets at up to 15 watts while built-in magnets hold the device in place. Still, smartphones can be rotated on the charging pad.

Several additional ports can be found on the back. There are three USB Type-A 3.0 ports, as well as two USB 3.1 Type-C ports with a bandwidth of 10 and 5 Gbit/s, respectively. In terms of video output, there are two HDMI ports which can run 4K monitors with up to 60Hz. A Gigabit Ethernet port is available as well and allows laptops to easily access wired networks.

Notebooks or even gaming handhelds can be hooked up via a single USB-C cable, and the docking station can charge and power the main device with up to 100 watts. Last but not least, the DockOrb measures approximately 3.5 x 3.7 inches and sports a practical 3.5mm headphone jack.

Regular docking stations with similar connectivity options can be found for $39 on Amazon