03/04/2026 9:15 pm
Topic starter
Notifications
Clear all
Computer Accessory Forum
3
Posts
4
Users
0
Reactions
26
Views
0
What are the absolute must-have accessories for a new laptop that actually make it functional? I just dropped nearly 1500 bucks on this new XPS and im honestly so frustrated because it only has two usb-c ports and nothing else fits. I cant even plug in my old mouse or my backup drive without some stupid dongle that I dont have yet. Im starting a new remote job here in Chicago next Monday and i really need a setup that doesnt feel like a total mess on my desk. I already spent way too much so I dont want to go crazy but what do I actually need to stop being so annoyed with this thing... maybe a hub or a better stand?
3 Answers
12
03/04/2026 9:40 pm
Quick reply while I have a sec... unfortunately, those ports are such a headache. I had issues with cheap adapters constantly disconnecting my backup drives, which was super frustrating. To keep your desk clean without spending too much, ditch the wired mouse for a Logitech Pebble M350 Wireless Mouse. It uses Bluetooth so you dont need a dongle. Then grab an Anker 332 USB-C Hub 5-in-1 for your drive and you're set.
11
03/04/2026 9:40 pm
Late to the party but I dealt with this exact XPS port situation last year. Honestly, I was worried about frying my motherboard with some cheap adapter because those things get scary hot. I wanted something with decent power delivery safety.
- Thunderbolt vs USB-C: Since you have an XPS, look for Thunderbolt gear. It handles data more reliably for those backup drives.
- Power Delivery: Make sure your hub supports pass-through charging. If it doesnt, you lose one of your only two ports just for the power brick.
- Cable Stress: I prefer a dock with a flexible cable so the weight doesnt pull on the laptop port and cause wear. I eventually settled on the Anker 555 USB-C Hub 8-in-1 because it handles my old drives without dropping the connection. Its a solid option for a pricey machine.
1
03/04/2026 9:15 pm
I totally feel your pain! I went through the exact same thing when I switched to a slim laptop last year and it was such a headache at first. Getting a dedicated hub made my setup feel amazing though!
- A multiport adapter for my mouse and drives
- A simple riser to keep things cool Honestly, once I hid all the cables behind the stand, it felt like a dream workspace. Youll get it sorted!
