Plug your MacBook out and in of a multi-port docking station to swiftly add gadgets and exterior shows to your laptop computer. We examined a bunch to search out the most effective Thunderbolt and USB-C docks accessible to house owners of the MacBook Air and MacBook Professional.
Thunderbolt 3, 4, USB4 or USB-C
The connectors all look the identical (technically often called a “Kind-C connector”), however there are important variations, notably on data-transfer pace—with USB-C maxing out at 10Gbps (often 5Gbps) in comparison with the 40Gbps of Thunderbolt 3 and 4. Extra like Thunderbolt than USB-C, USB4 will be both 20Gbps or 40Gbps. That further bandwidth permits not only for quicker knowledge switch however increased body charges to exterior shows, plus another sensible advantages.
Of Apple’s present laptop computer vary, the M1/M2/M3 MacBook Air and 14-inch M3 MacBook Professional characteristic two ports that Apple specifies as “Thunderbolt / USB 4” ports, whereas the 14in and 16in M1/M2/M3 Professional or M1/M2/M3 Max MacBook Professional fashions include three Thunderbolt 4 (TB4) ports. Ignore Apple’s twin designation of non-4 Thunderbolt and USB4—it simply implies that the ports don’t certify as pure Thunderbolt 4, and that shouldn’t fear most customers aside from the variety of exterior shows every helps.
Apple’s older 12in MacBook options one 5Gbps Gen 1 USB-C port, whereas the later Intel MacBook Air (2018 and later) and MacBook Professional (from 2016) boast both two or 4 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 ports.
In case your MacBook is supplied with Thunderbolt 4, then you definitely actually can buy a TB4 dock should you want extra ports than these 14/16in laptops already possess. USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 docks will work as Thunderbolt 4 is backwards suitable. Certainly, shopping for a Thunderbolt 4 dock is a sensible choice for everybody, based mostly on future-proofing even for house owners of Thunderbolt 3 (TB3) Macs.
That stated, there are nonetheless some nice—and infrequently extra inexpensive—TB3 and USB-C docks accessible, and most Apple customers gained’t see a lot distinction between TB3 and TB4—the Thunderbolt 4 commonplace was primarily about getting Home windows laptops in control, though there are technical advantages for MacBook Professional customers, equivalent to smarter daisy-chaining and quicker PCI hard-drive connections.
For extra element, learn our Thunderbolt 4 vs Thunderbolt 3 vs USB4 explainer.
We have now included some cheaper (non-Thunderbolt) USB-C docks. Should you don’t require the last word bandwidth for the quickest knowledge switch and greatest display body charges or resolutions, a USB-C dock may fit your functions and prevent cash.
Add exterior shows to your MacBook
Should you use your laptop computer as your principal pc, you’d do effectively to think about attaching at the least one bigger show to create a hybrid desktop/laptop computer setup (with a keyboard, mouse and printer all accessible by way of a single connection to your MacBook). You possibly can flip that 13in laptop computer’s display real-estate into an iMac-sized 27in and even bigger monitor by including an additional show—or join two and even 4 giant screens to increase your display throughout your entire desk. Check out our really useful greatest screens and shows for Mac.
If you wish to join a couple of exterior show to your MacBook with out including third-party software program you’ll want a Thunderbolt dock, relatively than a USB-C dock—except you put in third-party DisplayLink software program. Natively over USB-C, Macs can solely join to at least one exterior show in Prolonged mode (the place the display extends past what you possibly can see on the laptop computer display, versus Mirrored mode that replicates precisely what you get on the laptop computer display) however you’ll get two Prolonged mode screens over a Thunderbolt connection.
Whereas Apple’s MacBooks that includes the corporate’s personal M1/M2/M3 Silicon chip are tremendous speedy in comparison with the fashions sporting Intel processors, fashions with plain (non-Professional or -Max) M1 and M2 and a few M3 chips include an unbelievable limitation: they don’t help a couple of exterior show in Prolonged Mode even by way of their Thunderbolt ports.
This limitation implies that when utilizing any docking station, M1 and M2 MacBook customers can’t prolong their desktop over two or extra shows, and will probably be restricted to both twin Mirrored shows or one exterior show—though including third-party DisplayLink or InstantView software program to the Mac and connecting to a devoted USB-C dock will mean you can add a couple of exterior monitor to an M1, M2 or M3 MacBook. Comply with that hyperlink for our roundup of the greatest USB-C DisplayLink docks, and we’ve included our favourite in our roundup under.
Apple has fastened this limitation with its newest M3 MacBook Air and Professional fashions—though it nonetheless requires you to shut the MacBook’s lid to make use of a second exterior show. That isn’t the case when utilizing DisplayLink.
Fortunately, the superior M1/M2/M3 Professional and M1/M2/M3 Max MacBook Professional fashions can help a number of shows. Under our listing of the most effective MacBook docking stations, we’ve listed the native exterior show choices for every MacBook. One dock helps as much as 4 6K shows should you personal a Max MacBook Professional.
Whereas some docking stations promise help for 8K shows, Macs are restricted to 6K help by way of the dock. Macs with an M2/M3 Professional or M2/M3 Max chip can help an 8K show at 60Hz however solely when it’s related by way of the Mac’s personal HDMI port and never any port on the dock.
Do I would like a docking station?
All the newest MacBook Professional fashions boast a wider vary of built-in ports, so lighter customers won’t want a docking station in any respect. Under the listing of our really useful Mac docks is an in depth take a look at the ports that every latest MacBook contains as commonplace.
With three TB4 and an HDMI port, a MacBook with a Max chip might hook up with as much as 4 exterior shows with out the necessity for a dock, though such an influence consumer would possible require further Thunderbolt ports for different gadgets to make up for utilizing all of the laptop computer ports for a number of screens. See under our listing of really useful docking stations for extra element on the exterior show choices with every latest MacBook.
All docks include a bunch of USB ports: some old-school USB-A and newer, extra succesful USB-C.
MacBook Professionals even have an SD card reader. Though that is rated as UHS-II (312MBps), Apple has pegged it again at 250MBps, so for the quickest speeds (and a microSD slot should you want one), a dock will possible be a more sensible choice for memory-card use whether it is rated at UHS-II relatively than UHS-I (104MBps).
MacBooks additionally lack wired Web entry by way of a Gigabit Ethernet port, so if you wish to escape flaky Wi-Fi, purchase a dock with at the least Gigabit Ethernet, though you would add a Thunderbolt-to-Ethernet adapter when you have a spare TB port. Some later docks embrace quicker 2.5Gb Ethernet however you’ll want a 2.5GbE router or different machine to get the profit. As Gigabit Ethernet’s pace is 1Gbps, a less expensive 5Gbps USB-C to Ethernet adapter will work simply as effectively.
Dock or hub?
Should you simply want just a few further ports, a USB-C hub or Thunderbolt 4 hub is perhaps your most suitable option—see our roundup of the greatest USB-C and Thunderbolt hubs for Mac.
Nonetheless, should you require a bunch of quick ports together with Gigabit (or quicker) Ethernet and a number of video ports plus extra highly effective charging functionality, then search for a full dock that fulfills your wants, and you’re in precisely the appropriate place to find which dock is greatest on your and also you MacBook.
USB-C and Thunderbolt speeds
Thunderbolt vs USB-C dock compatibility
Plain USB-C runs at both 5Gbps or 10Gbps, whereas Thunderbolt (TB3 and TB4) hits speeds of 40Gbps. You possibly can hook up a Thunderbolt laptop computer to a USB-C dock however you gained’t entry the quicker speeds except you purchase a real Thunderbolt dock. (By the way in which, Thunderbolt 5, providing 80Gbps, gained’t be seen on a Mac till effectively into 2024.)
• USB and Thunderbolt speeds defined
USB PD: Energy Supply on your laptop computer
Look out for a dock with USB PD. The PD stands for Energy Supply.
Charging the laptop computer: The M1/M2/M3 MacBook Air requires a PD charger with at the least 30W energy, however you possibly can fast-charge an M2 Air with a charger rated at over 70W. You’ll want 67W for the 13-inch MacBook Professional and 14-inch MBP (with 8-, 10- or 11-core CPU), 96W for 14-inch MBP (with 12-core CPU), and 96W (ideally 140W) for the 16-inch MBP. The older 15in MacBook Professional requires a 87W PD charger.
An 85W/96W MacBook Professional will be charged by a 30W or 60W charger, however slower than it could be with its native charger. A bigger MacBook with a heavy workload may begin fading even whereas being prices on a decrease wattage.
Should you personal a bigger MacBook Professional, purchase a dock with a PD (Energy Supply) potential of at the least 85W should you can. Transportable hubs are often rated at a decrease energy equivalent to 60W.
USB PD 3.0 maxes at 100W, whereas USB PD 3.1 can help as much as 240W of energy. The 16-inch MacBook Professional requires 140W to fast-charge by way of its MagSafe 3 cable, so house owners of that laptop computer ought to search for a PD 3.1 charger.
Should you simply want a spare charger, we’ve examined the greatest MacBook chargers for you.
Dock, hub or dongle: Entire lotta ports
You want one (“upstream”) Thunderbolt or USB-C port for connecting to and charging your laptop computer (though the 14/16in MacBooks may also energy by way of the MagSafe port), and sure at the least one other (“downstream”) to connect additional gadgets (onerous drives, exterior show, and others).
There are numerous cheap USB-C dongles/hubs that allow you to add extra gadgets to a MacBook (see our roundup of the greatest USB-C adapters for Macs) or a Thunderbolt hub providing just a few further ports is perhaps all of your want, however for max flexibility try a docking station that takes care of all of your further port necessities, and means that you can merely connect it to your laptop computer with only one cable whenever you get to the workplace or come dwelling.
Right here we think about Thunderbolt docks, but additionally embrace cheaper USB-C docks—which Thunderbolt MacBooks can use, however at the price of diminished bandwidth and show limitations. We’ve additionally included our favourite Thunderbolt hubs for smaller and cheaper alternate options. For extra non-Thunderbolt USB-C-only docks try Tech Advisor’s roundup of the greatest USB-C docking stations for laptops. Tech Advisor additionally critiques all of the accessible Thunderbolt 4 docks.
Docks aren’t only for MacBooks. Mac mini (2018 and later) and iMac (2017 and later) house owners might also think about increasing their ports with a Thunderbolt docking station.
The inclusion of an SD or microSD card reader isn’t only for digicam buffs. It’s a handy and inexpensive means so as to add storage to your laptop computer setup. We discovered a 512GB Samsung Evo microSD card on Amazon for round $100 within the US and beneath £100 within the UK. That’s a really low cost means of including half a terabyte of moveable storage. For extra particulars learn up on our greatest microSD playing cards.
Among the docks reviewed under embrace an built-in SSD enclosure that allows you to add as much as 8TB of quick storage to your related MacBook.
Sonnet Echo 20 Thunderbolt 4 SuperDock – Greatest Thunderbolt 4 dock for Macs
Professionals
- Thunderbolt 4
- 19 ports
- Constructed-in speedy SSD enclosure
- 100W PD laptop computer charging
- 2.5Gb Ethernet
Value When Reviewed:
$299.99
Kind: 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 Dock
Ports: 19
Energy: 100W PD 3.0; 150W max
Exterior shows: 2x 4K at 60Hz or 1x 6K at 60Hz
Boasting a powerful 19 top-rated ports, Thunderbolt 4 licensed and with a bonus inner SSD storage characteristic, the Sonnet Echo 20 Thunderbolt SuperDock affords outstanding worth for cash.
It has essentially the most ports and equals the quickest ports seen out there. Its nearest competitor is the wonderful Caldigit TS4, reviewed under. Sonnet clearly focused the TS4 and the specs are remarkably related—however the cheaper Echo 20 has a helpful SSD enclosure which means you possibly can add as much as 8TB of inner storage by way of the dock. Should you don’t want this characteristic and like DisplayPort to HDMI, otherwise you want essentially the most highly effective ports on supply, the TS4 continues to be an incredible contender, though it prices a good quantity extra.
The Satechi Twin Dock Stand, reviewed under, is a less expensive non-Thunderbolt possibility if the thought of an built-in SSD enclosure is interesting.
Even when your MacBook is Thunderbolt 3, as a Thunderbolt 4 dock the Echo 20 is backwards suitable and can work together with your subsequent laptop computer when it’s time to improve.
Whereas you should use Thunderbolt ports so as to add exterior shows, Sonnet has swapped one of many downstream TB4 ports for a devoted HDMI port. You possibly can add as much as two 4K shows at 60Hz or a single 6K display at 60Hz. Except your second show can join straight with its USB-C port, you’ll want a USB-C-to-DisplayPort or HDMI adapter cable to connect with one of many downstream TB4 ports.
When you’ve got the appropriate router, you possibly can make the most of super-fast wired Web entry with the Echo 20’s 2.5GbE Gigabit Ethernet—2.5x quicker than commonplace Gigabit Ethernet, with which it additionally works on commonplace networks.
- One Thunderbolt 4 upstream port (40Gbps, 100W PD)
- Two Thunderbolt 4 downstream ports (40Gbps, 15W)
- As much as two exterior shows (4K at 60Hz)
- HDMI 2.1 port
- 4 USB-C ports (10Gbps, 7.5W)
- 4 USB-A ports (10Gbps, 7.5W)
- SD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- 2.5GbE Gigabit Ethernet port
- 3.5mm Combo Audio In/Out port (entrance)
- Two (proper and left channels) line out RCA jacks (again)
- 3.5mm microphone jack (again)
- 150W energy provide
Learn our full
Sonnet Echo 20 Thunderbolt 4 SuperDock evaluation
Satechi Twin Dock Stand – Greatest USB-C dock for Macs
Professionals
- 9 ports
- Constructed-in speedy SSD enclosure
- 100W PD laptop computer charging
- Zero-footprint docking station
Cons
- USB-C not Thunderbolt
- USB ports can’t cost gadgets
- No card reader
- Requires USB-C charger
Value When Reviewed:
$149.95
Kind: 10Gbps USB-C Dock
Ports: 19
Energy: 100W PD 3.0; 150W max
Exterior shows: 2x 4K at 60Hz or 1x 6K at 60Hz
One other dock with an SSD enclosure is the Satechi Twin Dock Stand that doubles up as an open-MacBook stand that raises the keyboard to a extra snug angle..
In contrast to the Thunderbolt 4 Sonnet Echo 20, reviewed above, this can be a USB-C dock with a 10Gbps relatively than 40Gbps bandwidth, however it’s considerably cheaper consequently. The MSRP of the Satechi Twin Dock Stand is $150, which is a really cheap value for a twin 4K 60Hz USB-C docking station.
With one DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.0 ports, you possibly can join as much as two 4K shows in Prolonged mode at an honest 60Hz refresh charge. The Echo 20 has only one video port. Though that port is the superior HDMI 2.1, you must add a second exterior display by way of one of many Thunderbolt ports, which would require an adapter.
The SSD enclosure is the star of the present. Positioned on the underside of the dock, that is simply accessed and helps each NVMe and SATA SSDs. You’ll want to purchase the SSD individually. Amazon is promoting NVME SSDs for round $50 (1TB), $80 (2TB) or $300 (4TB).
One USB-C port is for passthrough PD energy at as much as 75W to the laptop computer, which is sufficient for all however the 16-inch MacBook Professional at full pelt. Even that mannequin will cost high quality—simply slower than smaller MacBooks. Be aware that you’ll want to attach your individual USB-C charger to the dock: try our really useful MacBook chargers.
Should you use your MacBook’s personal keyboard and want as much as two high quality exterior shows, plus want to extend your base storage with quick SSD drives, the Satechi Twin Dock Stand is a neat, zero-footprint docking station that matches your MacBook for type and provides 9 helpful ports.
- Twin-USB-C upstream connector to laptop computer (10Gbps, 75W PD 3.0)
- Passthrough energy USB-C port
- Two USB-C (one at 10Gbps, one at 5Gbps)
- Two USB-A (one at 10Gbps, one at 5Gbps)
- One DisplayPort 1.4
- Two HDMI 2.1 ports
- Gigabit Ethernet
Learn our full
Satechi Twin Dock Stand evaluation
CalDigit TS4 – strongest Thunderbolt 4 dock
Professionals
- Thunderbolt 4
- 18 ports
- 98W PD laptop computer charging
- 2.5Gb Ethernet
- 230W energy provide
Value When Reviewed:
$399.95
Kind: 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 Dock
Ports: 18
Energy: 98W PD 3.0; 230W max
Exterior shows: 2x 4K at 60Hz or 1x 6K at 60Hz
With 18 top-rated ports and Thunderbolt 4 licensed, it’s troublesome to look previous the Caldigit Thunderbolt Station 4, aka TS4. Sure, it’s costly, however it’s an ultra-impressive dock.
It compares effectively to the Sonnet Echo 20 with only one fewer port—the Echo 20’s built-in SSD enclosure. For port speeds the TS4 matches the Echo 20, and it boasts the very best energy provide that we’ve seen on any dock that we’ve examined—a whopping 230W to be unfold among the many ports, together with a front-mounted 20W USB-C that may fast-charge an iPhone and 98W laptop computer PD charging.
We additionally love this dock’s versatile vertical or horizontal format.
As with the Echo 20, whereas you should use Thunderbolt ports so as to add exterior shows. Caldigit swaps one of many downstream TB4 ports for a devoted video port—on this case, DisplayPort. You’ll want an adapter in case your monitor requires HDMI. You possibly can add as much as two 4K shows at 60Hz or a single 6K display at 60Hz.
The TS4 additionally matches the Echo 20 with super-fast 2.5GbE Gigabit Ethernet–2.5x quicker than commonplace Gigabit Ethernet.
- One Thunderbolt 4 upstream port (40Gbps, 98W PD)
- Two Thunderbolt 4 downstream ports (40Gbps, 15W)
- As much as two exterior shows (4K at 60Hz)
- DisplayPort 1.4 port
- 5 USB-A ports (10Gbps, 7.5W)
- One USB-C port (10Gbps, 20W)
- Two USB-C ports (10Gbps, 7.5W)
- SD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- microSD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- 2.5GbE Gigabit Ethernet port
- 3.5mm Combo Audio In/Out port at entrance
- 3.5mm Audio In & Out ports at again
- 230W energy provide
Learn our full Caldigit Thunderbolt Station 4 (TS4) evaluation.
Kensington SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station – Nice alternative for 2x 4K shows
Professionals
- 11 quick ports
- 4x Thunderbolt 4 ports
- 90W PD laptop computer charging
- 180W energy provide
- Energy button
Value When Reviewed:
$314.99
Kind: 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 Dock
Ports: 11
Energy: 90W PD 3.0; 180W max
Exterior shows: 2x 4K at 60Hz or 1x 6K at 30Hz
The Kensington SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station has every little thing a dock ought to have: 4 TB4 ports, three quick USB-A and one sluggish one (that at the least boasts 7.5W charging energy in comparison with the quicker USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 port’s 4.5W), Gigabit Ethernet, SD Card reader, and three.5mm audio jack.
It may well provide two exterior 4K shows at 60Hz or one 6K monitor however at 30Hz relatively than 60Hz just like the Caldigit TS4, so single-screen players ought to most likely look elsewhere.
At 180W, the ability provide is increased than most docks examined right here however not as nice as discovered on the Caldigit TS4. It’s important in case you are powering a number of gadgets related to the dock. And the On/Off energy button (uncommon on docks) means you may give the laptop computer battery’s relaxation whenever you’re away.
There are helpful lights telling you when the dock is powered and when it’s related.
Try the newest stay costs above as this dock is usually on sale for lower than the listed value and might characterize nice worth for cash.
• One upstream Thunderbolt 4 port (40Gbps, 90W PD)
• Three Thunderbolt 4 downstream ports (40Gbps, 15W)
• Three USB-A ports (10Gbps, 4.5W)
• One USB-A port (480Mbps, 7.5W)
• Gigabit Ethernet
• SD Card reader (UHS-II, 312MBps)
• 3.5mm audio jack
• 180W energy provide
A variant mannequin, the Kensington SD5780T dock (accessible within the US solely), drops one of many three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports in favor of an HDMI 2.1 however prices an additional $50.
Learn our full Kensington SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station evaluation.
iVanky FusionDock Max 1 – Greatest Thunderbolt 4 dock for 4 6K shows
Professionals
- 21 ports
- Two Thunderbolt 4 chips
- As much as 4 6K shows at 60Hz
- 2.5 gigabit ethernet
Cons
- Dear
- Requires Max processor for 4 shows
Value When Reviewed:
$549.99
Kind: 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 Dock
Ports: 21
Energy: 96W PD 3.0; 180W max
Exterior shows: 4x 6K at 60Hz
Packing extra ports (a whopping 21 in whole) than any equal docking station we’ve examined, the iVanky FusionDock Max 1’s twin Thunderbolt 4 chips mark it aside from the competitors with not simply extra however quicker connections. No different dock can match it for variety of Thunderbolt ports and its capability to host a number of screens.
Packing two Thunderbolt chips offers the FusionDock Max 1 the flexibility to double up on video-capable ports.
Linked to a MacBook Professional with an M1 Max, M2 Max or M3 Max processor it may possibly deal with as much as 4 6K shows at 60Hz utilizing each its Thunderbolt 4 chipsets. It prices greater than some other docking station however it’s a singular dual-Thunderbolt 4 system that solutions the goals of multi-screen Mac professionals. It doesn’t work with Intel Macs and even any Home windows pc.
This can be a dock constructed for the top-end MacBook Professional Max. Macs with Professional relatively than Max processors can join to 2 4K shows at 60Hz. Whereas that may lose the show profit that is nonetheless is nice alternative as you would have as much as 4 40Gbps downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports at your disposal.
Its different ports are a lot and top-end, too. We’re unsure who wants six USB-A ports today, however they’re there and all are rated at 10Gbps. We might have most well-liked extra USB-C than USB-A, however one of many Kind C ports included boasts 30W machine charging energy.
On prime of all that you simply get 2.5Gb Ethernet and two quick UHS-II SD card readers.
- Two upstream Thunderbolt 4 ports (40Gbps, 96W)
- 4 downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports (40Gbps, 15W)
- Two HDMI 2.0 video ports
- Six USB-A ports (10Gbps, 7.5W)
- Two USB-C ports (10Gbps, one at 30W, one at 7.5W)
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
- UHS-II SD card reader (312MBps)
- UHS-II MicroSD card reader (312MBps)
- 3.5mm combo Audio jack (entrance)
- 3.5mm Audio out jack (again)
- Optical Audio
- 180W energy provide
Learn our full
iVANKY FusionDock Max 1 evaluation
Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Multi-Show Docking Station – Greatest Thunderbolt 4 DisplayLink dock for 4 4K shows
Professionals
- 11 quick ports
- As much as 4x 4K at 60Hz shows
- 6K at 60Hz show
- 180W energy provide
Cons
- U.Ok. patrons require native plug
Value When Reviewed:
$299.99
This inexpensive Thunderbolt 4 docking station is constructed for individuals who require three or 4 screens. Utilizing DisplayLink software program, it permits M1/M2/M3 Professional MacBook Professional and M3 MacBook Air customers to attach as much as 4 4K shows, and even plain M1/M2 MacBooks—usually restricted to only one monitor—will help three exterior shows.
Other than the mighty iVanky dock reviewed above, it’s the one dock accessible with three downstream speedy 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 ports and two HDMI 2.0 ports—all of which might hook up with an exterior show, though 4 is the utmost. Freely downloadable DisplayLink software program is required to make the HDMI ports work.
Whereas the $500 iVanky helps 4 6K shows, the $299 Satechi can nonetheless help 4 4K screens at 60Hz. For 3 shows, you will get one 6K at 60Hz and the opposite two 4K/60Hz.
It lacks spare USB-C ports however the three TB4 ports are backwards suitable, and might every supply 15W energy output (though solely two at one time). The 2 USB-A ports are quick however supply little machine charging energy.
The SD card reader is quick, and can settle for MicroSD playing cards with an adapter.
If you’d like handfuls of USB ports and a pair of.5Gb Ethernet, there are different docks in your future, however this dock is near excellent for non-Max M-series customers who need a number of screens. Even Max house owners can use this dock to offer them 4 shows and depart their MacBook’s built-in ports free for different gadgets, in addition to lower your expenses on the pricier iVanky various.
- One upstream Thunderbolt 4 port (40Gbps, 96W)
- Three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports (40Gbps, 15W)
- Two HDMI 2.0 video ports
- Two USB-A ports (10Gbps, 4.5W)
- Gigabit Ethernet
- UHS-II SD card reader (312MBps)
- 3.5mm combo Audio jack (entrance)
- 180W energy provide
Learn our full
Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station with DisplayLink evaluation
CalDigit TS3 Plus – Glorious Thunderbolt 3 dock for Macs
Professionals
- 15 ports
- 87W PD laptop computer charging
- Digital audio
- 180W energy provide
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- Doesn’t work with USB-C laptops
Value When Reviewed:
$239.95
Kind: 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 Dock
Ports: 15
Energy: 87W PD 3.0; 180W max
Exterior shows: 2x 4K at 60Hz or 1x 5K at 60Hz
Caldigit’s TS3 Plus is the granddaddy of Thunderbolt 3 docks. Its compact form and 15 ports made it our favourite top-end Thunderbolt 3 docking station for its sheer purposeful flexibility and energy at an incredible value.
Different docks boast quicker USB ports, however few have seven just like the TS3 Plus—besides its successor, the TS4, which makes even the TS3 Plus look underpowered. should you can afford the additional, we advocate the TS4.
It’s a more sensible choice than the Anker 577 dock as it really works with all fashionable Macs that use M1/M2/M3 chips.
The TS3 Plus isn’t unsuitable for non-Thunderbolt laptops—however as most MacBooks have at the least TB3, that shouldn’t matter except you’re employed in a combined Mac/Home windows setting.
And whereas Thunderbolt 4 is the newest connection commonplace, its top-end advantages gained’t be observed by most MacBook house owners as TB3 matches TB4 on data-transfer pace.
So as to add the second exterior show you’ll require an HDMI or DisplayPort USB-C video adapter to run from the USB-C port except you might have a USB-C monitor. To keep away from this want for an adapter, search for a dock with two video ports.
Each related shows can run 4K shows at 60Hz. You can additionally run one 5K show on the identical body charge.
The TS3 Plus’s digital audio ports set it aside from most different Thunderbolt docks.
It prices your laptop computer at 87W so makes it an incredible companion to Apple’s bigger MacBook Professional fashions.
This dock is dinky so gained’t take up an excessive amount of house in your desk. Out there in Silver and House Grey, it matches the colours of Apple’s laptops.
- One Thunderbolt 3 upstream port (40Gbps, 87W PD)
- One Thunderbolt 3 downstream port (40Gbps, 15W)
- DisplayPort 1.2 port
- 5 USB-A ports (5Gbps, 7.5W)
- One USB-C (10Gbps) port
- One USB-C (5Gbps) port
- SD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- Entrance-facing 3.5mm Audio In & Out ports
- One Digital Optical Audio (S/PDIF) port
- 180W energy provide
Learn our full
CalDigit Thunderbolt Station 3 Plus (TS3 Plus) evaluation
Alogic DX3 Triple 4K Show Common Docking Station – Greatest USB-C show dock for Macs
Professionals
- 12 ports
- 100W PD laptop computer charging
- Triple 5K shows
Cons
- USB-C not Thunderbolt
- Requires DisplayLink software program
Value When Reviewed:
$299.99
Kind: 10Gbps USB-C Dock
Ports: 12
Energy: 100W PD 3.0; 135W max
Exterior shows: 3x 5K at 60Hz
This Alogic DisplayLink docking station is a USB-C relatively than Thunderbolt docking station, so lacks the data-transfer bandwidth you’d get from a TB dock. Nonetheless, with the addition of third-party DisplayLink software program, this dock can help as much as three exterior 4K 60Hz shows even on a restricted plain M1/M2/M3 MacBook.
The video ports are all top-end DP. 1.4. In case your monitor is HDMI as an alternative of DisplayPort, you’ll want so as to add an adapter between dock and show—however you’d want to purchase video cables anyway. If HDMI is all you want, think about the Satechi Triple 4K dock.
It additionally packs a bunch of non-display ports, equivalent to three USB-A and a spare downstream USB-C port, plus quick SD and MicroSD card readers and Gigabit Ethernet.
It may well energy the related laptop computer at 100W and has an honest 135W exterior energy provide so doesn’t require an additional USB-C charger like many DisplayLink USB-C docks do. For related choices try our listing of the greatest USB-C DisplayLink docks.
The DisplayLink obtain hyperlink is clearly proven within the consumer handbook, and directions make sense—though you want a magnifying glass to learn them!
- One USB-C port (10Gbps, 100W PD)
- Three DisplayPort 1.4 port
- One USB-C (10Gbps) port (7.5W)
- Three USB-A (5Gbps) ports (one at 7.5W)
- SD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- microSD 4.0 Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- Hybrid 3.5mm audio port
- 135W energy provide
A little bit cheaper, the Alogic DX2 helps two 4K shows at 60Hz and lacks a number of the different ports discovered on the DX3. Should you simply want two exterior screens on your M1/M2/M3 MacBook this can be a less expensive possibility.
Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Factor Hub – Greatest Thunderbolt 4 hub
Professionals
- 4x TB4
- 4x 10Gbps USB-A
- 150W whole energy
- Compact
Cons
- 60W energy perhaps gentle for bigger laptops
Value When Reviewed:
$199.95
Kind: 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 Hub
Ports: 8
Energy to laptop computer: 60W PD 3.0; 150W max
Exterior shows: 2x 6K at 60Hz
The Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Factor Hub isn’t a dock as a result of it doesn’t characteristic something apart from Thunderbolt and USB ports—no Ethernet, SD card reader or audio port.
But it surely boasts so many top-end Thunderbolt and USB ports which you can customise it to your each want.
There are 4 TB4 ports (one upstream to your pc positioned handily on the aspect, and three downstream to different gadgets) and 4 quick 10Gbps USB-A ports.
You should utilize two of the three downstream TB4 ports to attach on to USB-C-equipped screens or HDMI or DisplayPort screens utilizing cheap adapters. It may well deal with two 6K shows at 60Hz or one 6K monitor on the identical refresh charge.
That also depart you a spare TB4 port and the 4 USB-A ports so as to add additional gadgets, equivalent to an adapter for Gigabit Ethernet and/or SD card reader, SSDs, reminiscence sticks and so forth as your necessities demand, so there is no such thing as a port wastage.
As a hub relatively than a dock, its 60W laptop computer charger is a bit underpowered for bigger laptops, however the general 150W energy provide will assist with all of the hub’s ports. House owners of the 16-inch MacBook Professional will probbaly nonetheless reply on the laptop computer’s personal 140W charger by way of MagSafe. Not one of the different docks examined right here can provide the 140W required for 16in MBP fast-charging so it’s not as massive a limitation as first seems.
It’s sufficiently small to be moveable, however don’t neglect that the exterior energy provide will overwhelm your journey bag.
• One upstream Thunderbolt 4 port (40Gbps, 60W PD)
• Three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports (40Gbps, 15W)
• 4 USB-A ports (10Gbps, 7.5W)
• 150W energy provide
Learn our full Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Factor Hub evaluation.
OWC Thunderbolt Hub – Greatest finances Thunderbolt 4 hub
Professionals
- 4 Thunderbolt 4 ports
- One quick USB-A port
Cons
- 60W energy perhaps gentle for bigger laptops
Value When Reviewed:
$139.99
Kind: 40GbpsThunderbolt 4 Hub
Ports: 5
Energy to laptop computer: 60W PD 3.0; 110W max
Exterior shows: 2x 6K at 60Hz
Additionally a hub relatively than a full dock, the OWC Thunderbolt Hub doesn’t match the Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 and even the TB4 Factor Hub on its variety of old-school USB-A ports, however it’s cheaper and affords the identical 4 Thunderbolt 4 ports—one upstream to your pc positioned on the entrance, and three downstream to different gadgets on the again.
You should utilize two of the three downstream TB4 ports to attach on to USB-C-equipped screens or HDMI or DisplayPort screens utilizing cheap adapters. It helps twin 6K shows at 60Hz.
As with the its rival hub, its 60W laptop computer charger is underpowered for bigger laptops.
• One upstream Thunderbolt 4 port (40Gbps, 60W PD)
• Three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports (40Gbps, 15W)
• One USB-A port (10Gbps, 7.5W)
• 110W energy provide
Twelve South StayGo – Greatest moveable USB-C dock
Professionals
- Transportable
- 85W passthrough charging
Cons
- USB-C not Thunderbolt
- Assist for just one exterior show
Value When Reviewed:
$99.99
Kind: 5Gbps USB-C Dock
Ports: 8
Energy: 85W PD 3.0; requires USB-C charger
Exterior shows: 2x 4K at 30Hz
It calls itself only a hub however the StayGo USB-C Hub is a bit light-weight field of ports that has sufficient to go to battle with larger, dearer laptop computer docking stations—and is sufficiently small to slot in your pocket and go travelling with you.
It boasts three USB-A ports (one at 7.5W), a USB-C port for connecting to the laptop computer and one other for 85W passthrough PD charging, one HDMI port, Gigabit Ethernet and SD/Micro SD card readers.
The HDMI port will help a 4K show however at 30Hz relatively than 60Hz that you simply’ll discover on extra highly effective docks.
It’s 5Gbps USB-C relatively than 40Gbps Thunderbolt however will work with both kind of laptop computer connection. After all, you’ll lose that full 40Gbps bandwidth and the choice of a second exterior show, and newer USB-C hubs and docks have moved to 10Gbps relatively than 5Gbps, however lighter customers won’t care, and it’s excellent for portability.
- One USB-C upstream port (5Gbps)
- One USB-C port (5Gbps) for passthrough 85W PD charging; requires charger
- One exterior show (4K at 30Hz)
- HDMI port (4K at 30Hz)
- Three USB-A ports (5Gbps; one at 7.5W)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- SD Card Reader (UHS-I, 104MBps)
Should you don’t want as many further USB-A ports, Twelve South additionally affords the cheaper StayGo mini USB-C Hub, which has the USB-C connection to your laptop computer, 85W passthrough USB-C port and 4K HDMI however only one USB-A port.
Learn our full Twelve South StayGo USB-C Hub evaluation.
CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 mini Dock – Greatest moveable Thunderbolt 3 dock
Professionals
- Transportable
- Twin 4K show HDMI ports
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- No downstream TB3 port
- Unpowered
Value When Reviewed:
From $149.99
Kind: 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 Dock
Ports: 18
Energy: attracts energy from laptop computer
Exterior shows: 2x 4K at 60Hz
The CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 mini Dock affords full Thunderbolt 40Gbps bandwidth and dual-4K HDMI show help at 60Hz in a light-weight moveable kind. It connects to the laptop computer by way of an built-in TB3 cable.
The Mini Dock Twin HDMI options two HDMI ports, plus Gigabit Ethernet and two USB-A: one at 5Gbps (4.5W); one on the a lot slower 480Mbps (2.5W).
It runs 4K shows at 60Hz in Prolonged mode—greatest for high-action motion pictures and gaming. Plainer USB-C docks can deal with two 4K shows, however solely at 30Hz, and just one Prolonged.
Its draw back is a scarcity of energy provide (which it attracts from the host laptop computer), so that you’ll have to energy your laptop computer by way of one other port, and the USB ports actually aren’t for fast-charging functions. No energy provide means it’s tremendous moveable however a passthrough energy port would have been most well-liked.
Transportable USB-C hubs typically boast extra ports (though simply the one exterior show possibility) however lack the quicker Thunderbolt 3 connection.
- Bus-powered, so no PD charging
- Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) upstream cable
- As much as two exterior shows (4K at 60Hz)
- Two HDMI 2.0 ports (4K at 60Hz)
- Two USB-A port (5Gbps & 4.5W, one 480Mbps & 2.5W)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
Learn our full
CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 miniDock evaluation
Anker 675 USB-C 12-in-1 Docking Station and Monitor Stand – Greatest dock and monitor stand combo
Professionals
- Fashionable Stand / 11-port Hub
- Raises monitor peak
- 5x 10Gbps USB ports
- Wi-fi telephone charging
- HDMI 4K at 60Hz
- 180W whole energy
Value When Reviewed:
$199.99
Why not make your MacBook much more highly effective and enhance your workspace and posture on the identical time?
That is an in a position USB-C dock and handsome monitor stand which you can place your exterior show on prime of and desk-based gear beneath in a lift to create an ergonomic and decluttered office.
Your MacBook will most likely greatest sit close by in a closed laptop computer stand—see our roundup of the greatest MacBook stands—and join by way of USB-C to the dock/stand.
The roster of ports is spectacular, with 4 quick (10Gbps) downstream USB ports on the aspect (two of which might share 45W of machine charging energy), plus storage card readers and audio jack, in addition to the upstream 100W PD USB-C port positioned beneath.
Additionally on the cable-management underside are the HDMI and Gigabit Ethernet ports in addition to a low-powered USB-A port (probably for a wired keyboard or mouse) and the meaty 180W energy provide port.
On the highest there’s a (non-magnetic) Qi wi-fi charger which you can relaxation your iPhone or AirPods case on for 7.5W charging.
- One USB-C upstream port (10Gbps, 100W PD)
- Two USB-C ports (10Gbps, shared 45W)
- One exterior show (4K at 60Hz)
- HDMI 2.0 port
- Three USB-A ports (10Gbps, one at 7.5W)
- Qi wi-fi charging pad (10W max, 7.5W iPhone)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- SD Card Reader (SD UHS-I, 104MBps)
- microSD Card Reader (SD UHS-I, 104MBps)
- 3.5mm Combo Audio In/Out port
- 180W energy provide
Learn our full
Anker 675 USB-C 12-in-1 Docking Station and Monitor Stand evaluation
Ugreen Revodok Max 213 Thunderbolt 13-in-1 Docking Station
Professionals
- Thunderbolt 4
- 13 top-end ports
- 2.5Gb Ethernet
- Devoted DisplayPort 1.4 port
- 90W PD on 180W energy provide
Cons
- Just one USB-C port
- Costly
Value When Reviewed:
$399.99
This strong, handsome dock is aimed in opposition to the mighty CalDigit TS4, with a bunch of quick ports and the identical vertical or horizontal design—and sadly the identical excessive value.
It’s a bit larger than the TS4, reviewed above, however has fewer USB ports. Each help two 4K shows at 60Hz, however the TS4 can deal with a single 6K show, whereas the Revodok Max is restricted to 4K even with only one show related.
The TS4 positively wins on ports and specs, so we’d name the Revodok over-priced. If Ugreen dropped the value this could be a compelling various, because it affords nearly every little thing most customers want in a strong and nice design.
- One Thunderbolt 4 upstream port (40Gbps, 90W PD)
- Two Thunderbolt 4 downstream ports (40Gbps, 15W)
- As much as two exterior shows (4K at 60Hz)
- DisplayPort 1.4 port
- Two USB-A ports (10Gbps, 7.5W)
- Two USB-A ports (5Gbps, 7.5W)
- One USB-C port (10Gbps, 20W)
- 2.5GbE Gigabit Ethernet port
- SD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- microSD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- 3.5mm Combo Audio In/Out port at entrance
- 180W energy provide
Learn our full
Ugreen Revodok Max 213 Thunderbolt 13-in-1 Docking Station evaluation
Anker 577 PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 Thunderbolt 3 Dock – Greatest Thunderbolt 3 dock for Intel Macs
Professionals
- 13 ports
- 85W PD laptop computer charging
- 18W USB-C
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- No help for Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3)
Value When Reviewed:
$299.99
Kind: 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 Dock
Ports: 13
Energy: 85W PD 3.0; 180W max
Exterior shows: 2x 4K at 60Hz or 1x 5K at 60Hz
Anker’s 577 PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 Thunderbolt 3 Dock is a good docking station for Intel-based Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops–with a lot of top-rated ports in a compact, handsome case. Sadly, it doesn’t play properly with the newer M1/M2/M3 MacBooks, which guidelines out all latest Macs.
It’s a critical contender for the crown of the most effective Thunderbolt 3 dock however just for older Intel-based Macs. The Caldigit TS3 Plus boasts yet another USB-A port, however the Anker has one quicker USB-C port plus the flexibility to additionally work with non-Thunderbolt USB-C laptops.
All of the Energy Increase Elite’s ports are top-end: each USB-C ports, for instance, are Gen. 2 at 10Gbps, whereas some docks boast simply 5Gbps C-type ports.
The On/Off button on the entrance is a pleasant contact we haven’t seen on many different docks, and there’s actually nothing besides value to differentiate it from the opposite really useful docking stations we’ve got examined. It’s a cute compact design with an honest amount of ports, together with two quick USB-C ports in addition to two TB3.
The one actual draw back is the shortage of help for newer Macs.
- One Thunderbolt 3 upstream port (40Gbps, 85W PD)
- One Thunderbolt 3 downstream port (40Gbps, 15W)
- One HDMI 2.0 port
- Two USB-C (10Gbps) ports (one at 18W)
- 4 USB-A (5Gbps) ports (one at 7.5W)
- SD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- microSD 4.0 Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- Hybrid 3.5mm audio port
- 180W energy provide
Learn our full
Anker PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 Thunderbolt 3 Dock evaluation
Logi Dock – USB-C dock for distant working and video calls
Professionals
- 3x USB-C, 2x USB-A ports
- 100W PD laptop computer charging
- Constructed-in audio system and noise-cancelling mics
- Works with Zoom and different video apps
Cons
- USB-C not Thunderbolt
- Costly
- Just one show in Prolonged mode
Value When Reviewed:
$199
Kind: 5Gbps USB-C Hub
Ports: 8
Energy: 100W PD 3.0; 230W max
Exterior shows: 1x 4K at 60Hz
There are many docks and hubs that mean you can join screens, onerous drives and different equipment to your Mac, however the Logi Dock casts its web wider than that. It’s pretty costly, at $399/£399.99, however it’s designed to offer an all-in-one desktop system for individuals who do lots of video-conferencing when working at dwelling or within the workplace.
The compact USB-C dock (3.34-x-6.3-x-5.18 inches) will match neatly in your desk alongside your Mac’s show. The Logi Dock’s chunky energy adaptor implies that that is very a lot a dock that’s designed to remain in your desk the entire time.
There’s one USB-C upstream port that’s used to attach the Logi Dock to your Mac, and each HDMI and DisplayPort interfaces for exterior show. Considerably, you possibly can solely join one 4K show should you’re utilizing Prolonged mode, though you possibly can join two 4K shows in Mirrored mode.
The Logi Dock can work as a speaker for voice and video calls, or you possibly can simply take heed to some music when you’re working utilizing both the USB-C connection together with your Mac, or utilizing Bluetooth to connect with your cell gadgets. It sounds fairly good too, with a set of 55mm stereo audio system that ship a pleasant agency bass thud on Kate Bush’s Working Up That Hill.
It’s also possible to use Logitech’s Tune app to hyperlink the Logi Dock with conferencing apps equivalent to Microsoft Groups and Zoom, and there’s a set of buttons on the highest of the Logi Dock that mean you can rapidly mute the mic and switch off the digicam.
- 1x USB-C upstream port (5Gbps, 100W)
- 2x USB-C downstream ports (5Gbps, 4.5W)
- 1 x USB-C downstream ports (5Gbps, 7.5W)
- 1x USB-A (5Gbps, 4.5W)
- 1x USB-A (5Gbps, 7.5W)
- 1x HDMI 2.0
- 1x DisplayPort 1.4
- 2x 55mm audio system (stereo)
- 6x noise-cancelling microphones
- 230W energy provide
- Licensed for Zoom, MS Groups, Google Meet
HyperDrive GEN2 14-Port Thunderbolt 3 Dock
Professionals
- 14 ports
- 85W PD laptop computer charging
- Digital audio
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- Costly outdoors US
Value When Reviewed:
$349.99
Kind: 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 Dock
Ports: 14
Energy: 85W PD 3.0; 180W max
Exterior shows: 2x 4K at 60Hz
This Titan Ridge (Thunderbolt and USB-C) docking station is bristling with 14 high-performance ports.
Its compact kind is neat (similar to the Caldigit TS4 and TS3 Plus or the Anker PowerExpand Elite), and it may possibly lie both upright or horizontal relying in your wants and choice.
There are six USB-A ports in whole: 4 USB-A ports at 5Gbps and an additional two at 10Gbps, plus one fast-charging QC 3.0 USB-A port. Whereas the Fast Cost port’s 36W is spectacular, iPhone fast-charging requires a USB-C port relatively than USB-A as discovered right here. That stated, it’s nonetheless going to cost a tool quicker than the 4.5W or 7.5W ports discovered on many different docks.
On prime of that is one 10Gbps USB-C port that you simply’ll want if you wish to complement the DisplayPort for a second exterior show.
You’ll additionally get extra professional-level digital audio ports, in addition to the analogue 3.5mm headphone/mic jack on the entrance.
- One Thunderbolt 3 upstream port (40Gbps, 85W PD)
- One Thunderbolt 3 downstream port (40Gbps, 15W)
- One DisplayPort 1.4 ports (4K at 60Hz)
- Three USB-A ports (5Gbps, 4.5W)
- Two USB-A ports (10Gbps, 4.5W)
- One USB-A port (QC 3.0, 36W)
- One USB-C port (10Gbps, 7.5W)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- Entrance-facing 3.5mm Analogue Audio In & Out port
- One Digital Optical Toslink Audio (S/PDIF) port
- One Digital Coaxial Audio (S/PDIF) port
- 180W energy provide
Learn our full HyperDrive GEN2 16-Port Thunderbolt 3 Dock evaluation.
OWC Thunderbolt 3 Professional Dock – Greatest dock for 10Gb Ethernet
Professionals
- 11 ports
- 10Gb Ethernet
- 6Gbps eSATA port
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- 60W energy perhaps gentle for bigger laptops
- Costly outdoors US
Value When Reviewed:
$379.99
Kind: 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 Dock
Ports: 11
Energy: 60W PD 3.0; 150W max
Exterior shows: 2x 4K at 60Hz or 1x 5K at 60Hz
The OWC Thunderbolt 3 Professional Dock is aimed toward digital picture professionals and has final efficiency at its coronary heart.
Principally, it options super-fast 10Gb Ethernet relatively than the usual 1Gb (Gigabit) connection discovered on the opposite docking stations reviewed right here. The Caldigit TS4 options 2.5Gb Ethernet.
To get essentially the most from this degree of Ethernet that you must have suitable community gadgets.
It additionally incorporates a CFast 2.0 card reader for individuals nonetheless utilizing CompactFlash in its newest model.
There are Thunderbolt docking stations with extra ports and beefier chargers, however none have 10Gb Ethernet or CFast 2.0. You possibly can add these to different docks by way of devoted adapters, however the Professional Dock has all of it built-in, plus a very safe power-supply connection in case it’s used on a professional DIT cart.
- One Thunderbolt 3 upstream port (40Gbps, 60W PD)
- One Thunderbolt 3 downstream port (40Gbps, 15W)
- As much as two exterior shows (2 x 4K at 60Hz; or 1 x 5K at 60Hz)
- DisplayPort 1.2 port
- Three USB-A ports (5Gbps)
- SD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- CFast 2.0 Card Reader
- 10Gb Ethernet port
- 6Gbps eSATA port
- 150W energy provide
Learn our full
OWC Thunderbolt 3 Professional Dock evaluation
OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock – ports aplenty
Professionals
- 14 ports
- 85W PD laptop computer charging
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- MiniDP
Value When Reviewed:
$149.99
Kind: 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 Dock
Ports: 14
Energy: 85W PD 3.0; 180W max
Exterior shows: 2x 4K at 60Hz or 1x 5K at 60Hz
OWC’s commonplace Thunderbolt 3 docking station has an incredible set of ports, and prices at a top-end 85W—highly effective sufficient for a 15-inch MacBook Professional. 85W will probably be sufficient to cost even the 96W 16in MBP fairly quick and definitely not drain even when related to a number of gadgets.
The 5 USB-A ports are all 5Gbps, and there’s a 10Gbps Gen 2 USB-C port on the entrance of the newest 14-port mannequin, which not many Thunderbolt docks have.
The curiously old school alternative of Mini DisplayPort over DisplayPort isn’t a technical hurdle however you’ll require adapters for including exterior shows. Different docks have a couple of port for exterior shows, however this one wants adapters to connect with shows—which provides to the general price.
That apart, the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock has every little thing a dock ought to have in a slick-looking slim case that may look good in any laptop computer setup.
- One Thunderbolt 3 upstream port (40Gbps, 85W PD)
- One Thunderbolt 3 downstream port (40Gbps)
- As much as two exterior shows (2 x 4K at 60Hz; or 1 x 5K at 60Hz)
- Mini DisplayPort 1.2 port
- One USB-C port (10Gbps)
- 5 USB-A ports (5Gbps; two at 7.5W)
- SD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- MicroSD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- Hybrid 3.5mm audio port
- S/PDIF digital audio output port
- 180W energy provide
Which ports are on every MacBook?
13-inch and 15-inch M1/M2/M3 MacBook Air: Two Thunderbolt/USB4 ports and one MagSafe 3 charging port, plus headphone jack
13-inch M1/M2 MacBook Professional: Two Thunderbolt/USB4 ports and one MagSafe 3 charging port, plus headphone jack
14-inch M3 MacBook Professional: Two Thunderbolt/USB4 ports, one HDMI port, one SDXC card slot, plus headphone jack
14-inch M1/M2/M3 Professional or M1/M2/M3 Max MacBook Professional: Three Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, one HDMI port, one SDXC card slot, plus headphone jack
16-inch M1/M2/M3 Professional or M1/M2/M3 Max MacBook Professional: Three Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, one HDMI port, one SDXC card slot, plus headphone jack
What number of exterior shows can every MacBook help with out a dock?
M1/M2: One exterior show with as much as 6K decision at 60Hz.
M3: Two exterior shows, one with as much as 6K decision at 60Hz and one at 5K/60Hz when the MacBook lid is closed. The 14-inch M3 MacBook Professional continues to be caught with single-display help right now till Apple releases a software program repair.
M1/M2/M3 Professional: As much as two exterior shows with as much as 6K decision at 60Hz over Thunderbolt, or one exterior show with as much as 6K decision at 60Hz over Thunderbolt and one exterior show with as much as 4K decision at 144Hz over HDMI. Or one exterior show supported at 8K decision at 60Hz or one exterior show at 4K decision at 240Hz over HDMI.
M1/M2/M3 Max: As much as 4 exterior shows: As much as three exterior shows with 6K decision at 60Hz over Thunderbolt and one exterior show with as much as 4K decision at 144Hz over HDMI
As much as three exterior shows: As much as two exterior shows with 6K decision at 60Hz over Thunderbolt and one exterior show with as much as 8K decision at 60Hz or one exterior show with 4K decision at 240Hz over HDMI.
Now take into consideration a stand to go alongside the dock
These MacBook docking stations look and work nice with a laptop computer stand, and we’ve additionally examined some
MacBook-friendly stands that lack all the additional ports however hold your MacBook/Air/Professional upright and out of the way in which: additional saving priceless desk house, lowering muddle, protecting your laptop computer cool, and saving it from spills.
Learn our greatest MacBook equipment characteristic for extra important laptop computer gear.
