Reduce cable clutter and charge your iOS devices with AllDock
When you have multiple devices that need to be charged regularly, your desk or nightside table can become a cluttered mess of cables, iPhones, iPads, plus your Apple Watch. For those of us who prefer more organization, it’s nice to have a docking solution that accomodates multiple devices along with their chargers. AllDock, by Dittrich Design, strives to accomodate all of your devices in a stylish, convenient, organized location.
The Facts
- Company Name: Dittrich Design
- Product Name: AllDock
- Price: Starting at €59 (approximately $65)
- Compatibility: iOS devices, Android devices, smartwatches
- Website: AllDock Product Page
- Date Reviewed: Dec. 10, 2015
The Basics
AllDock is available in several sizes, from a small two-slot docking station to a large base with five slots. It comes with a USB charging hub that hides away inside the docking station, including variable numbers of 2.4-amp charging ports depending on which configuration you purchase. These charging ports will provide faster recharge times than you will typically see with the included AC adapters for your devices, allowing you to fully juice up your devices quickly and efficiently.
The cables tuck away nicely inside the base of the docking station, with convenient holes to route them out along with fitted slots to help keep the plugs handy when you need them. Your unused cable lengths disappear inside the base, giving you a much better organized appearance.
The 2015 models of the AllDock are made from your choice of bamboo or walnut, originating from sustainable forests in China and New Zealand.
Integration With iOS Devices
AllDock comes with a magnetic accessory that is supposed to allow you to plug in your iPhone or iPad one-handed. However, the cable slot is too large for typical Lightning cables, and the docking station does not ship with a suitable power lead that would allow me to truly test that feature. Dittrich Design does sell a Lightning cable that is supposed to fit perfectly in the attachment, however.
Other than that minor flaw, the docking station works perfectly for holding your iPhone or iPad steadily while it charges. The extra-large slot in the back accomodates thicker cases, allowing you to place your Otterbox-enclosed iPhone in the docking station with ease.
Use and Feel
The walnut docking station I received is beautifully made, and is quite sturdy. The removable slot insert allows easy access to the USB charging hub built into the base, allowing you to configure your cables and then reassemble the docking station for use. Overall, the AllDock looks simple but beautiful.
What’s Hot
- USB charging hub providing 2.4 amps of power to each outlet, with four to six available outlets
- Extra-large rear slot to accomodate thicker cases
- Excellent cable routing and storage capabilities within the base
What’s Not
- Magnetic one-handed attachment does not accomodate Apple Lightning cables
- Somewhat expensive docking solution
How Does It Stack Up?
The AllDock is an excellent solution for maintaining several devices charging at the same time, and even just as a place to store your technology gadgets when they aren’t in use. It’s rugged, beautiful, and does a great job of organizing all of those charging cables.
Where Can You Get It, and How Much Does It Cost?
The AllDock is available from Dittrich Designs’ Shopify store beginning at €59 (approximately $65) for the small version. The medium solution I tested retails for €99 (approximately $108) on the manufacturer’s website. From Amazon, you can get the AllDock Medium in white or black for $99.
Our Advice
If you’re looking for a simple, yet elegant, docking solution for your iOS devices that provides excellent cable management and charging options, the AllDock is a good choice.
The AllDock’s Overall Scores:
- Aesthetic Appeal: ★★★★★
- Wow Factor: ★★★★★
- Organizational quality: ★★★★★
- Value: ★★★☆☆