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 perfect Thunderbolt 3 and 4 and USB-C docks out there to house owners of the MacBook Air and MacBook Professional.
Thunderbolt 3, 4 or USB-C
The connectors all look the identical (technically referred to as a Sort-C connector), however there are important variations, notably on pace—with USB-C maxing out at 10Gbps (normally 5Gbps) in comparison with the 40Gbps of Thunderbolt 3 and 4. That further bandwidth permits not only for sooner knowledge switch however greater body charges to exterior shows, plus another sensible advantages.
Of Apple’s present laptop computer vary, the M1 and M2 MacBook Air and 13in M1 MacBook Professional function two Thunderbolt 3 (TB3) ports, whereas the 14in and 16in M1 Professional or M1 Max MacBook Professional fashions include three Thunderbolt 4 (TB4) ports.
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, you then actually can purchase a TB4 dock when you want extra ports than these 14/16in laptops already possess.
Shopping for a Thunderbolt 4 dock is a sensible choice based mostly on future-proofing even for house owners of TB3 Macs as the usual is backwards appropriate with TB3 and USB-C. That mentioned, there are nonetheless some nice—and sometimes extra inexpensive—TB3 docks out there, and most Apple customers received’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, corresponding to smarter daisy-chaining and sooner PCI hard-drive connections.
We now have included some cheaper non-Thunderbolt USB-C docks. For those who don’t require the last word bandwidth for the quickest knowledge switch and greatest display screen body charges or resolutions, a USB-C dock may fit your functions and prevent cash.
Add exterior shows to your MacBook
For those who use your laptop computer as your principal pc, you’ll do effectively to contemplate attaching not less than one bigger show to create a hybrid desktop/laptop computer setup (with a keyboard, mouse and printer all out there by way of a single connection to your MacBook). You may flip that 13in laptop computer display screen into an iMac-sized 27in and even bigger monitor by including an additional show—or join two massive screens to increase your display screen throughout your entire desk.
If you wish to join multiple exterior show to your MacBook you’ll want a Thunderbolt dock, fairly than a USB-C dock. Natively over USB-C, Macs can solely join to at least one exterior show in Prolonged mode (the place the display screen extends past what you’ll be able to see on the laptop computer display screen, versus Mirrored mode that replicates precisely what you get on the laptop computer display screen) however you’ll get two Prolonged mode screens over a Thunderbolt connection.
Whereas Apple’s MacBooks that includes the corporate’s personal M1 or M2 Silicon chip are tremendous speedy in comparison with the fashions sporting Intel processors, early fashions include an unimaginable limitation: they don’t help multiple exterior show in Prolonged Mode even by way of their Thunderbolt 3 ports. Because of this when utilizing any docking station, M1 MacBook customers can not prolong their desktop over two or extra shows, and will probably be restricted to both twin Mirrored shows or one exterior show—though there are software program workarounds and devoted docks that help you add multiple exterior monitor to an M1 or M2 MacBook.
Fortunately, the superior M1 Professional and M1 Max MacBook Professional fashions can help a number of shows.
Do I want a docking station?
The brand new M1 Professional/Max MacBook Professional fashions boast a wider vary of built-in ports, so lighter customers won’t want a docking station in any respect.
With three TB4 and an HDMI port, a MacBook with an M1 Max might connect with as much as 4 exterior shows with out the necessity for a dock, though such an influence consumer would probably require further Thunderbolt ports for different gadgets to make up for utilizing all of the laptop computer ports for a number of displays.
These MacBooks 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 when you want one), a dock will probably be a better option for memory-card use whether it is rated at UHS-II fairly 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 not less than Gigabit Ethernet, though you possibly can add a Thunderbolt-to-Ethernet adapter when you’ve got a spare TB port. Some later docks embody sooner 2.5Gb Ethernet however you’ll want a 2.5GbE router or different system 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.
For those who simply want a number of further ports, a USB-C hub or Thunderbolt 4 hub could be your most suitable option. For those who require a bunch of quick ports together with Gigabit Ethernet, then search for a docking station that fulfils your wants.
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 may hook up a Thunderbolt laptop computer to a USB-C dock however you received’t entry the sooner speeds until you purchase a real Thunderbolt dock. (Thunderbolt 5, providing 80Gbps, received”t be seen on a Mac till effectively into 2024.)
• USB and Thunderbolt speeds defined
Docks with a Titan Ridge or Goshen Ridge chipset will work with each Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops. Different Thunderbolt docks received’t work with USB-C laptops, such because the 12in MacBook. With Titan Ridge and Goshen Ridge, you get all the advantages of a Thunderbolt dock, however can use it with non-Thunderbolt laptops, too.
Within the assessment listing beneath, we state on the high which kind of laptop computer (USB-C or Thunderbolt) every docking station is appropriate with.
Our sister web site Tech Advisor has individually examined all of the greatest Thunderbolt 4 hubs and docks.
USB PD: Energy Supply to your laptop computer
Look out for a dock with USB PD. The PD stands for Energy Supply.
Charging the laptop computer: The M1 and M2 MacBook Air require a PD charger with not less than 30W energy. You’ll want 67W for the 13-inch MacBook Professional and 14-inch MBP (with M1 Professional with 8-core CPU), 96W for 14-inch MBP (with M1 Professional with 10-core CPU or M1 Max), 96W (ideally 140W) for the 16-inch MBP. 13in MacBook Air. The older 15in MacBook Professional requires a 87W PD charger.
An 85W/96W MacBook Professional might 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 on a decrease wattage charger and never final all day even when plugged into an influence supply.
For those who personal a bigger MacBook Professional, purchase a dock with a PD (Energy Supply) potential of not less than 90W when you can. Extra moveable hubs are normally rated at decrease energy.
Charging the docked gadgets: Some docks don’t function an exterior energy provide however truly use your laptop computer to attract energy from. Add too many gadgets to considered one of these docks and it’s possible you’ll effectively expertise energy points, as USB-C can deal with simply 7.5W bus-device energy whereas Thunderbolt can cross again 15W.
For those who simply want a spare charger, we’ve examined the greatest MacBook chargers for you.
Complete lotta ports
You want one (“upstream”) Thunderbolt port for connecting to and charging your laptop computer (though the 14/16in MacBooks also can energy by way of the MagSafe port), and sure not less than one other (“downstream”) to connect additional gadgets (exhausting drives, exterior show, and others).
There are various low-cost adapters that allow you to add extra gadgets to a USB-C or Thunderbolt MacBook (see our roundup of the greatest USB-C adapters for Macs), however for max flexibility take a look at these docking stations that maintain all of your further port necessities, and help you merely connect it to your laptop computer with only one cable while you get to the workplace or come residence.
Right here we think about Thunderbolt docks, but in addition embody cheaper USB-C docks—which Thunderbolt MacBooks can use, however at the price of diminished bandwidth and show limitations. For extra non-Thunderbolt USB-C-only docks take a look at Tech Advisor’s roundup of the greatest USB-C docking stations for laptops. Tech Advisor additionally critiques all of the out there Thunderbolt 4 docks.
Docks aren’t only for MacBooks. Mac mini (2018 and later) and iMac (2017 and later) house owners can also take into account increasing their ports with a Thunderbolt docking station.
The inclusion of an SD or microSD card reader isn’t only for digital camera buffs. It’s a handy and inexpensive manner 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 manner of including half a terabyte of moveable storage. For extra particulars learn up on our greatest microSD playing cards.
Sonnet Echo 20 Thunderbolt 4 SuperDock – Finest Thunderbolt 4 dock for Macs
Execs
- Thunderbolt 4
- 19 ports
- Constructed-in SSD enclosure
- 100W PD
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
Cons
- Solely two downstream TB4 ports
Works with Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
Boasting a formidable 19 top-rated ports, Thunderbolt 4 licensed and with a bonus storage function, the Sonnet Echo 20 Thunderbolt SuperDock gives exceptional worth for cash.
It has essentially the most ports and equals the quickest ports seen out there. Its nearest competitor is the superb Caldigit TS4, reviewed beneath. Sonnet clearly focused the TS4 and the specs are remarkably comparable—however the cheaper Echo 20 has a helpful SSD enclosure meaning you’ll be able to add as much as 8TB of inner storage by way of the dock. For those who don’t want this function and like DisplayPort to HDMI, otherwise you want essentially the most highly effective ports on provide, the TS4 remains to be an incredible contender, though it prices a good quantity extra.
The Satechi Twin Dock Stand, reviewed beneath, is a less expensive non-Thunderbolt possibility.
Even when your MacBook is Thunderbolt 3, as a Thunderbolt 4 dock the Echo 20 is backward appropriate 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 may add as much as two 4K shows at 60Hz or a single 6K display screen at 60Hz—Macs packing a M2 Professional/Max/Extremely chip and not less than macOS Monterey help as much as 8K for the one show possibility. Except your second show can join instantly with its USB-C port, you’ll want a USB-C-to-DisplayPort or HDMI adapter cable.
In case you have the appropriate router, you’ll be able to reap the benefits of super-fast wired Web entry with the Echo 20’s 2.5GbE Gigabit Ethernet–2.5x sooner 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 assessment
Satechi Twin Dock Stand – Finest USB-C dock for Macs
Execs
- 9 ports
- Constructed-in speedy SSD enclosure
- Zero-footprint docking station
Cons
- Not Thunderbolt
- USB ports can’t cost gadgets
- No card reader
- Requires USB-C charger
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 comfy angle..
Not like the Thunderbolt 4 Sonnet Echo 20, reviewed above, it is a USB-C dock with a 10Gbps fairly than 40Gbps bandwidth, nevertheless it’s considerably cheaper because of this. The MSRP of the Satechi Twin Dock Stand is $150, which is a really affordable worth for a twin 4K 60Hz USB-C docking station.
With one DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.0 ports, you’ll be able to join as much as two 4K shows in Prolonged mode at an honest 60Hz refresh price. The Echo 20 has only one video port. Though that port is the superior HDMI 2.1, you need to add a second exterior display screen 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 could 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 advantageous—simply slower than smaller MacBooks. Notice that you’ll want to attach your individual USB-C charger to the dock: take a look at our really helpful MacBook chargers.
For those who use your MacBook’s personal keyboard and need 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 model and provides 9 helpful ports.
- Twin-USB-C upstream connector to laptop computer (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 assessment
CalDigit TS4 – strongest Thunderbolt 4 dock
Execs
- Thunderbolt 4
- 18 ports
- 98W PD
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
- 230W energy provide
Cons
- Solely two downstream TB4 ports
- Costly
Works with Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
With 18 top-rated ports and Thunderbolt 4 licensed, it’s tough to look previous the Caldigit Thunderbolt Station 4, aka TS4. Sure, it’s costly, nevertheless it’s a formidable docking sttaion.
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 (a whopping 230W to be unfold among the many ports, together with a front-mounted 20W USB-C and 98W laptop computer PD charging) that we’ve seen on any dock that we’ve examined.
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 may add as much as two 4K shows at 60Hz or a single 8K display screen at 60Hz.
The TS4 additionally matches the Echo 20 with super-fast 2.5GbE Gigabit Ethernet–2.5x sooner 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) assessment.
Kensington SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station
Execs
- 11 quick ports
- 4x TB4
- 180W energy provide
- Energy button
Works with Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
The Kensington SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station has every part a dock ought to have: 4 TB4 ports, three quick USB-A and one gradual one (that not less than boasts 7.5W charging energy in comparison with the sooner USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 port’s 4.5W), Gigabit Ethernet, SD Card reader, and three.5mm audio jack.
At 180W, the facility provide is excessive however not as nice as discovered on the Caldigit TS4. It’s important if you’re powering a number of gadgets linked to the dock. And the On/Off energy button (uncommon on docks) means you can provide the laptop computer battery’s relaxation while you’re away.
There are helpful lights telling you when the dock is powered and when it’s linked.
A variant mannequin, the Kensington SD5780T dock (out there 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.
• 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 (USHS-II, 312MBps)
• 3.5mm audio jack
• 180W energy provide
Learn our full
Kensington SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station assessment.
Anker 577 PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 Thunderbolt 3 Dock – Finest Thunderbolt 3 dock for Intel Macs
Execs
- 13 ports
- 85W PD
- 18W USB-C
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- No help for Apple Silicon (M1/M2)
Works with Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
Anker’s 577 PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 Thunderbolt 3 Dock is a superb Titan Ridge docking station for Intel-based Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops–with plenty of top-rated ports in a compact, handsome case. Sadly, it doesn’t play properly with the newer M1 and M2 MacBooks, which guidelines out all latest Macs.
It’s a severe contender for the crown of the perfect Thunderbolt 3 dock. The Caldigit TS3 Plus boasts yet one more USB-A port, however the Anker has one sooner 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 different docks, and there’s actually nothing besides worth to differentiate it from the opposite really helpful docking stations now we have examined. Within the battle of the Titan Ridge hybrid docks, the Anker wins on a cute compact design and amount of ports, together with two quick USB-C ports in addition to two TB3.
- One Thunderbolt 3 upstream port (40Gbps, 85W PD)
- One Thunderbolt 3 downstream port (40Gbps, 15W)
- Titan Ridge chipset (USB-C and T3)
- As much as two exterior shows (2 x 4K at 60Hz; or 1 x 5K at 60Hz)
- 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 assessment
CalDigit TS3 Plus – Wonderful Thunderbolt 3 dock for Macs
Execs
- 15 ports
- 87W PD
- Digital audio
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- Does not work with USB-C laptops
Works with Thunderbolt laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
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 practical flexibility and energy at an incredible worth.
Different docks boast sooner USB ports, however few have seven just like the TS3 Plus—besides its successor, the TS4, which makes even the TS3 Plus look underpowered. when you can afford the additional, we advocate the TS4.
It’s a better option than the Anker 577 dock as it really works with all fashionable Macs that use M1 or M2 chips.
The TS3 Plus exhibits its age by not having a Titan Ridge or Goshen Ridge chipset. It’s due to this fact unsuitable for non-Thunderbolt laptops—however as most MacBooks have not less than T3, that shouldn’t matter until you’re employed in a combined Mac/Home windows setting.
And whereas Thunderbolt 4 is the newest connection commonplace, its top-end advantages received’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 until 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 linked shows can run 4K shows at 60Hz. You may additionally run one 5K show on the similar body price.
The TS3 Plus’s digital audio ports set it aside from most different Thunderbolt docks.
It fees your laptop computer at 87W so makes it an incredible companion to Apple’s 15in or 16in MacBook Professional.
This dock is dinky so received’t take up an excessive amount of area in your desk. Accessible in Silver and Area Grey, it matches the colours of Apple’s laptops.
- One Thunderbolt 3 upstream port (40Gbps, 87W PD)
- One Thunderbolt 3 downstream port (40Gbps, 15W)
- As much as two exterior shows (4K at 60Hz)
- 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) assessment
CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 mini Dock – Finest moveable Thunderbolt 3 dock
Execs
- Moveable
- Twin show ports
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- No downstream TB3 port
- Unpowered
Works with Thunderbolt laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
The CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 mini Dock gives 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 the 2 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 films and gaming. Plainer USB-C docks can deal with two 4K shows, however solely at 30Hz, and just one Prolonged.
Its draw back is an absence 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.
Moveable USB-C hubs usually boast extra ports (though simply the one exterior show possibility) however lack the sooner 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 assessment
Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Component Hub – Finest Thunderbolt 4 hub
Execs
- 4x TB4
- 4x 10Gbps USB-A
- 150W whole energy
- Compact
Cons
- 60W energy possibly mild for bigger laptops
Works with Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
The Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Component Hub isn’t a dock as a result of it doesn’t function something aside from Thunderbolt and USB ports—no Ethernet, SD card reader or audio port.
Nevertheless it boasts so many top-end Thunderbolt and USB ports you can customise it to your each need.
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 use two of the three downstream TB4 ports to attach on to USB-C-equipped displays or HDMI or DisplayPort screens utilizing cheap adapters.
That also depart you a spare TB4 port and the 4 USB-A ports so as to add additional gadgets, corresponding to an adapter for Gigabit Ethernet and/or SD card reader, SSDs, reminiscence sticks and so forth.
As a hub fairly than a dock, its 60W laptop computer charger is somewhat underpowered for bigger laptops, however the general 150W energy provide will assist with all of the hub’s ports.
It’s sufficiently small to be moveable, however don’t neglect that the exterior energy provide will crush 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 Component Hub assessment.
OWC Thunderbolt Hub – Finest funds Thunderbolt 4 hub
Execs
- 4 Thunderbolt 4 ports
- One quick USB-A port
Cons
- 60W energy possibly mild for bigger laptops
Works with Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
Additionally a hub fairly than a full dock, the OWC Thunderbolt Hub doesn’t match the Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Component Hub on its variety of old-school USB-A ports, nevertheless it cheaper and gives 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 use two of the three downstream TB4 ports to attach on to USB-C-equipped displays or HDMI or DisplayPort screens utilizing cheap adapters.
As with the Caldigit Component 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 – Finest moveable USB-C dock
Execs
- Moveable
- 85W passthrough charging
Works with USB-C and Thunderbolt laptops (TB at diminished bandwidth)
It calls itself only a hub however this little light-weight field of ports has sufficient to go to battle with greater, dearer laptop computer docking stations—and is little sufficient to slot in your pocket and go travelling with you.
It boasts three USB-A ports (one with Quick Charging), USB-C ports for connecting to the laptop computer and likewise 85W of PD charging, one HDMI port, Gigabit Ethernet and SD/Micro SD card readers.
It’s USB-C fairly than Thunderbolt however will work with both sort of laptop computer connection (we examined it with a 15in MacBook Professional). After all, you’ll lose that full 40Gbps bandwidth and the choice of a second exterior show, however lighter customers won’t care, and it’s good 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)
Learn our full
Twelve South StayGo USB-C Hub assessment.
Logi Dock – USB-C dock for distant working and video calls
Execs
- 3x USB-C, 2x USB-A ports
- 100W energy for laptop computer
- Constructed-in audio system and noise-cancelling mics
- Works with Zoom and different video apps
Cons
- Costly
- Onlt one show in Prolonged mode
There are many docks and hubs that help you join displays, exhausting 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, nevertheless it’s designed to supply an all-in-one desktop system for individuals who do numerous video-conferencing when working at residence or within the workplace.
The compact 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’ll be able to solely join one 4K show when you’re utilizing Prolonged mode, though you’ll be able to join two 4K shows in Mirrored mode.
The Logi Dock can work as a speaker for voice and video calls, or you’ll be able to simply hearken to some music when you’re working utilizing both the USB-C connection together with your Mac, or utilizing Bluetooth to hook up with your cellular 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 Operating Up That Hill.
You may also use Logitech’s Tune app to hyperlink the Logi Dock with conferencing apps corresponding to Microsoft Groups and Zoom, and there’s a set of buttons on the highest of the Logi Dock that help you shortly mute the mic and switch off the digital camera.
- 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
Execs
- 14 ports
- 85W PD
- Titan Ridge
- Digital audio
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- Costly exterior US
Works with Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
This Titan Ridge (Thunderbolt and USB-C) docking station is bristling with 14 high-performance ports.
Its compact kind is neat (identical to the Caldigit TS4 and TS3 Plus or the Anker PowerExpand Elite), and it might lie both upright or horizontal relying in your wants and desire.
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.
On high of that is one 10Gbps USB-C port that you just’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)
- Titan Ridge chipset (USB-C and TB3)
- As much as two exterior shows (4K at 60Hz)
- 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 assessment.
OWC Thunderbolt 3 Professional Dock – Finest dock for 10Gb Ethernet
Execs
- 11 ports
- 10Gb Ethernet
- 6Gbps eSATA port
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- Costly exterior US
Works with Thunderbolt laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
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 fairly 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 stage of Ethernet it is advisable have appropriate community gadgets.
It additionally includes 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 may add these to different docks by way of devoted adapters, however the Professional Dock has all of it built-in, plus a extremely 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 assessment
OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock – ports aplenty
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- MiniDP
Works with Thunderbolt laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
OWC’s commonplace Thunderbolt 3 docking station has an incredible set of ports, and fees 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 positively not drain even when linked 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 style selection of Mini DisplayPort over DisplayPort isn’t a technical hurdle however you’ll require adapters for including exterior shows. Different docks have multiple port for exterior shows, however this one wants adapters to hook up with shows—which provides to the general value.
That apart, the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock has every part 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
Learn our full
OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock assessment
Anker Apex Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station
Execs
- 12 ports, inc two HDMI ports
- TB4
- 20W USB-C
- Energy button
Cons
- No help for Apple silicon (M1/M2)
- Macs cannot totally use each HDMI ports
- Just one downstream TB4 port
- 4.5W USB-A charging
Works with Thunderbolt and USB-C laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
With its two HDMI ports, the Anker Apex Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station seems an incredible selection if it is advisable join multiple exterior show to your laptop computer.
Most different Thunderbolt 4 docks we’ve examined rely solely on the TB4 ports for show connections. Because of this in order for you two exterior screens, you lose two of the three downstream TB4 ports, plus you will want HDMI or DisplayPort adapters until the shows have a USB-C connection.
In case your exterior shows use HDMI, you don’t want any USB-C adapters to attach shows. One draw back is that there’s only one downstream TB4 port, however that’s all you’d have left when you linked two shows to one of many different docks or hubs.
The opposite is extra important for Mac customers. There are methods across the limitation however, out of the field, Macs can’t use each HDMI ports with Prolonged mode shows; solely Mirrored. And Anker warns off house owners of Macs that boast an M1 or M2 processor.
For those who aren’t planning on including two screens, this dock is much less versatile than different hubs and docks the place the TB4 ports can be utilized for show or no matter else you need.
We’re followers of the inclusion of an influence button in order that your laptop computer isn’t receiving a possible cost when it’s not wanted, and maintaining the dock’s temperature down at evening.
• One upstream Thunderbolt 4 port (40Gbps, 90W PD)
• One downstream Thunderbolt 4 port (40Gbps, 15W)
• One USB-C port (10Gbps, 20W)
• Two USB-A ports (10Gbps, 4.5W)
• Two USB-A ports (480Mbps, 4.5W)
• Two HDMI 2.0 ports (4K at 60Hz)
• Gigabit Ethernet
• SD Card reader (UHS-II, 312MBps)
• 3.5mm audio jack
• 120W energy provide
Learn our full
Anker Apex Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station assessment.
StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 Twin-4K Docking Station – Filled with ports
Works with Thunderbolt laptops (TB at full bandwidth)
The StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 Twin-4K Docking Station is, because the title suggests, for laptops that sport the quick (40Gbps) Thunderbolt 3 model of USB-C. It received’t work for slower (5-10Gbps) USB-C laptops, such because the 12in MacBook, however will connect with newer Thunderbolt 4 laptops.
It’s additionally appropriate with Home windows laptops and Chromebooks like the opposite Thunderbolt docks now we have examined.
Being constructed for Thunderbolt 3, it might join two exterior 4K shows at 60Hz, so is nice for wealthy graphics and quick gaming motion. One of many displays can join by way of the DisplayPort. You’ll probably want an adapter to attach the second port by way of the spare Thunderbolt 3 port until the show has a USB-C port too.
The listing worth is steep, however you’ll discover it cheaper at Amazon.
- One Thunderbolt 3 upstream port (40Gbps, 85W PD)
- One Thunderbolt 3 downstream port (40Gbps)
- As much as two exterior shows (4K at 60Hz)
- DisplayPort 1.2 port
- One USB-C port (5Gbps)
- 5 USB-A ports (5Gbps; one at 7.5W)
- SD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II, 312MBps)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- Entrance-facing mixture 3.5mm Audio In & Out port
- 180W energy provide
Learn our full
StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 Twin-4K Docking station assessment.
Linedock – Finest USB-C dock for desk area
Execs
- 10 ports
- Further battery
- Further SSD storage choices
Cons
- USB-C not Thunderbolt
- Costly
Works with USB-C and Thunderbolt laptops (TB at diminished bandwidth)
The Linedock seems to be totally different to most USB-C docks. In reality, you’ll hardly discover it because it sits beneath a 13in, 15in or 16in MacBook Professional or Air.
It seems to be identical to a closed MacBook, apart from a row of ports on both aspect, and a charging USB-C port on the again (it requires a separate charger, however the one which shipped together with your MacBook will probably be advantageous).
It connects to the MacBook with a nifty little U-shaped connector, with one USB-C connector for the dock and one other for the laptop computer.
It’s a desk-space saver however not a cash saver. It doesn’t simply seem like an Apple product, it’s priced like one, and is the costliest dock on take a look at right here.
Nevertheless it does have two distinctive and extremely helpful options lacking from different docking stations: as much as a 27,000mAh battery and the choice so as to add as much as 2TB of SSD reminiscence inside it – an virtually unbelievable quantity of battery capability and storage for a laptop computer. You may depart the Linedock with no SSD, or add a 256GB, 1TB or 2TB SSD relying on the mannequin.
These are nice concepts, however in different methods the Linedock appears somewhat old-fashioned in locations.
The 13in mannequin has a Mini DisplayPort (in addition to the extra widespread HDMI) however no Gigabit Ethernet, for instance. Including a fats Ethernet port would possibly make this flat dock too excessive for its goal.
Whereas the 13in Linedock can help just one exterior show, the 15in and 16in fashions can deal with two—though, for now, all M1 Apple laptops can help just one exterior monitor anyway.
The newer 16in mannequin is aimed toward M1 / M1 Professional / M1 Max ditches the MiniDP for full-size DisplayPort and HDMI ports, though it might have disbursed with video ports solely if customers have been really helpful to make use of a USB-C-to-USB-C cable for appropriate shows or an adapter for HDMI or DisplayPort displays.
And it’s USB-C fairly than Thunderbolt, so nowhere close to the top-end 40Gbps bandwidth of the Apple laptops. That is meant to maintain prices down, and the Linedock is already loads costly sufficient.
For those who can afford it, the Linedock is a superb hybrid of dock, battery and storage. The shortage of Thunderbolt received’t hassle lighter customers, and respectable Wi-Fi will imply the lacking Ethernet port received’t matter both.
- Cross-through laptop computer charging at as much as 100W
- Two exterior shows (4K at 60Hz)
- HDMI 2.0 port (on all fashions)
- DisplayPort (on 15in and 16in mannequin)
- Mini DisplayPort 1.4 (on 13in mannequin)
- Three USB-C (5Gbps) ports (13in)
- Three USB-C (10Gbps) ports (15/16in)
- Three USB-A (5Gbps) ports (13/15/16in)
- SD Card Reader (UHS-I, 104MBps) on 13in
- Two SD Card Readers (UHS-II, 312MBps) on 15/16in
- 19,350mAh battery (13in)
- 27,000mAh battery (13in)
- 0GB, 256GB or 1TB SSD choices (13in)
- 0GB, 1TB or 2TB SSD choices (15/16in)
Learn our full
Linedock assessment
Moshi Symbus Q Compact USB-C Dock – Finest USB-C dock with wi-fi charging
Execs
- 15W Wi-fi charging
- Compact
Works with USB-C and Thunderbolt laptops (TB at diminished bandwidth)
The Symbus Q compact USB-C dock has a genius, distinctive promoting level.
The highest of the dock includes a cushioned and non-slip wi-fi charging pad you can relaxation your telephone on and begin charging it with out the necessity to take up one of many USB slots or discover that pesky charging cable.
It options one HDMI (4K@30Hz, 1080p@60Hz), one Gigabit Ethernet, and two old-school USB-A ports (5Gbps USB 3.1 Gen 1).
Qi-certified, it might cost by means of instances as much as 5mm in thickness, and helps Apple’s 7.5W and Samsung’s 10W quick charging.
It helps full USB PD (Energy Supply) performance for fast-charging (as much as 50W) your laptop computer.
- PD laptop computer charging at as much as 60W
- One exterior show (4K at 30Hz)
- HDMI port
- Two USB-A ports (5Gbps)
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- Qi wi-fi charging (15W)
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 best way: additional saving priceless desk area, decreasing muddle, maintaining your laptop computer cool, and saving it from spills.
Learn our greatest MacBook equipment function for extra important laptop computer gear.
