The Jsaux HB1201/HB0801 series docks,
Simply the best.
If there's any question we see asked more than anything else, it's always "what dock should I buy for my handheld", and let's be clear from the start, for more than a year now we've exclusively recommended the HB1201 and HB0801 series of docks, but why?
The differences
Let's start with the differences. Currently, Jsaux offers two models, each with two variants: the HB1201, HB1201S, HB0801, and finally the HB0801S.
Between the HB1201 and the HB0801, they both share a 1Gbps Ethernet port, 100W passthrough charging, and three available USB ports in various configurations. What makes the HB1201 special is that it also packs a USB-C 3.2 port which supports up to 10Gbps, while the cheaper HB0801 alternative offers USB-C 3.0 with 5Gbps transfer speeds. The more premium HB1201 model also packs an SD card reader, HDMI 2.1 with 4K/120Hz, and a DisplayPort 1.4 port as well, while the cheaper HB0801 has HDMI 2.0, which is limited to 4K/60 and has no DisplayPort.
The 'S' models are simply updated models of these docks, having added VRR and HDR compatibility. A pretty unique advantage of the HB0801S compared to its slightly older HB0801 counterpart is that they updated this model with the HDMI 2.1 port, which also supports VRR and HDR.
They all support RGB (which can be turned off or customized in OpenRGB software), and they are all available in a range of different colors.
The build quality
In terms of build quality and cosmetics, all of the models are basically identical, which is to say, very good. The external housings are made from a mixture of ABS and polycarbonate plastics and have a silicone base, which honestly feels like silk. It's a wonderful protective texture that'll keep both the dock sturdy and any furnishings scratch-free beneath the dock.
In terms of colors, there are three to choose from: a painted black model, which suits systems like the Steam Deck, Legion Go, and MSI Claw perfectly; a white model that pairs perfectly with the ROG Ally; and my personal favorite, the "transparent" model, which, as luck would have it, is a perfect one-to-one color match with the Limited Edition Steam Deck OLED.
Each of those colors also comes with some of the best RGB we've seen in any gaming product, period. It's vivid and bright, and there are no visible "LED Hotspots"; the RGB looks seamless. However, we also know RGB isn't for everyone, which is quite lucky because the docks all include a capacitive touch-sensitive button that'll turn off the RGB without any need for software. And for those looking to customize that RGB, that can be done by free, open-source "OpenRGB" software, although we didn't use that software ourselves as we were happy with the default rainbow effect.
If we were forced to complain about something, and we really need to nitpick to do this, it's the spring-loaded pop-out tray that's designed to hold your handheld console. The "rails" don't feel particularly smooth in either of our models and require you to pull the tray all the way out with your fingers. This is by design and isn't a QC issue, but if we're forced into critiquing the almost perfect build quality, we'd have to nitpick down to this level.
Are they good value?
While not substantial enough to warrant individual reviews, we couldn't overlook the impact of the black silicone grips, along with the Skullcandy thumbstick covers. The added comfort provided by both of these products cannot be overlooked.
With the most premium of the bunch being the 1201S, coming in at $99 USD (roughly $151) and the cheapest being the HB0801 at $55.99 USD (roughly $85), it's no secret that these aren't the cheapest docks you can find on the market. However, considering the 1201S boasts 8K/60, 4K120 ports, it's undoubtedly overbuilt for most handhelds. But what you're paying for is versatility and compatibility.
From our understanding, these are the only docks that support HDMI 2.1 and VRR, while also having extremely rare features such as HDR. They also include a 40Gbps/240w removable USB-C cable that's extremely high quality, replaceable, and importantly, long enough to actually plug into EVERY handheld on the market, even the behemoth handhelds like the Legion Go, AYANEO Kun, and the largest devices from OneXPlayer.
The spring-loaded "tray" that pops out and holds your handheld is also, as you'd imagine, able to be popped back into the dock, turning the device into a portable USB hub that can be used for anything, on almost any device. You could connect a laptop and support dual monitors, extra USB ports for peripherals, plug in an Ethernet cable, and an SD card. This level of versatility and functionality means the docks aren't just perfect for handheld gamers but also for business users and everyone in between.
As an example, at the start of the year, my primary work device became a Razer Blade laptop. When I purchased a dock from Razer, with inferior specs to the Jsaux mind you, it set me back $499. My Razer dock doesn't have an HDMI port, let alone an HDMI 2.1 port and a DP1.4 port.
In short, if you're just looking to dock your handheld and play games with no frills, the $85 HB0801 is likely more than you'll ever need for that purpose. The small price premium over alternative Amazon/AliExpress docks is by far, without any doubts, worth the premium. And if you're a versatile user who could see yourself using this dock beyond handheld gaming, the 1201S offers a value premise that's nothing short of extreme. Whether you're a handheld gamer, video editor, or on-the-go worker, these docks offer an incredible value proposition that, to our knowledge, is frankly unmatched.
To sum it up, we are genuinely impressed with Jsaux's dock offerings. From their comprehensive feature sets to their robust build quality, seamless compatibility, appealing aesthetics, and compelling value proposition, they stand out as exceptional products. In every aspect, they hit the mark, and as of the time of writing, we haven't encountered comparable alternatives to these fantastic docks.
So should you buy one?
The answer is an astounding yes, you absolutely should.
If you're eyeing these docks, you can grab yours right HERE!
Don't forget to also use our discount code, "HandheldSpace" at checkout for free shipping and 5% off!
You can also view our Steam Deck Accessory Guide to see other great accessories or our Steam Deck Buyers Guide if you haven't yet purchased yourself one of these fantastic systems.
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