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 seek out the most effective Thunderbolt and USB-C docks out there 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 “Sort-C connector”), however there are important variations, notably on data-transfer velocity—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 may be both 20Gbps or 40Gbps. That additional bandwidth permits not only for quicker information switch however increased body charges to exterior shows, plus another sensible advantages.
Of Apple’s present laptop computer vary, the M1 and M2 MacBook Air and 14-inch M3 MacBook Professional function two ports that Apple specifies as “Thunderbolt 3 / USB 4” ports, whereas the 14in and 16in M1 Professional or M1 Max MacBook Professional fashions include three Thunderbolt 4 (TB4) ports. Ignore Apple’s twin designation of TB3 and USB4—it simply signifies that the ports don’t certify as pure TB4, 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 provided with Thunderbolt 4, then you definitely actually can buy a TB4 dock should you want extra ports than these 14/16in laptops already possess.
Shopping for a Thunderbolt 4 dock is a sensible resolution for everybody, based mostly on future-proofing even for house owners of Thunderbolt 3 (TB3) Macs as TB4 is backwards appropriate with TB3 and USB-C. That stated, there are nonetheless some nice—and infrequently extra reasonably priced—TB3 and USB-C docks out there, 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 now have included some cheaper (non-Thunderbolt) USB-C docks. In case you don’t require the final word bandwidth for the quickest information switch and finest display body charges or resolutions, a USB-C dock would possibly fit your functions and prevent cash.
Add exterior shows to your MacBook
In case you use your laptop computer as your principal laptop, you’ll do nicely to think about attaching a minimum of 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’ll be able to 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 giant screens to increase your display throughout your complete desk. Check out our really helpful best monitors and displays 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, somewhat than a USB-C dock. Natively over USB-C, Macs can solely join to 1 exterior show in Prolonged mode (the place the display extends past what you’ll be able to 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 or M2 Silicon chip are tremendous speedy in comparison with the fashions sporting Intel processors, fashions with plain (non-Professional or Max) M1, M2 and M3 chips include an unimaginable limitation: they don’t help a couple of exterior show in Prolonged Mode even by way of their Thunderbolt 3 ports.
Because of this when utilizing any docking station, M1/M2/M3 MacBook customers can not lengthen their desktop over two or extra shows, and can 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 let you add more than one external monitor to an M1 or M2 MacBook. Observe that hyperlink for our roundup of the most effective USB-C DisplayLink docks, and we’ve included our favourite in our roundup under.
Fortunately, the superior M1/M2/M3 Professional and M1/M2/M3 Max MacBook Professional fashions can help a number of shows. Under our checklist of the most effective MacBook docking stations, we’ve listed the native exterior show choices for every MacBook.
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 linked 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 may not want a docking station in any respect. Under the checklist of our really helpful Mac docks is an in depth have a look at the ports that every latest MacBook consists of as commonplace.
With three TB4 and an HDMI port, a MacBook with a Max chip may connect with as much as 4 exterior shows with out the necessity for a dock, though such an influence person would probably require additional Thunderbolt ports for different gadgets to make up for utilizing all of the laptop computer ports for a number of displays. See under our checklist of really helpful docking stations for extra element on the exterior show choices with every latest MacBook.
MacBook Execs 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 probably be a more sensible choice for memory-card use whether it is rated at UHS-II somewhat 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 a minimum of Gigabit Ethernet, though you could possibly add a Thunderbolt-to-Ethernet adapter when you have a spare TB port. Some later docks embody quicker 2.5Gb Ethernet however you’ll want a 2.5GbE router or different system to get the profit. As Gigabit Ethernet’s velocity is 1Gbps, a less expensive 5Gbps USB-C to Ethernet adapter will work simply as nicely.
In case you simply want a couple of additional ports, a USB-C hub or Thunderbolt 4 hub could be your most suitable option. In case you require a bunch of quick ports together with Gigabit Ethernet, then search for a full dock that fulfils your wants.
USB-C and Thunderbolt speeds
Foundry
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’ll be able to hook up a Thunderbolt laptop computer to a USB-C dock however you gained’t entry the quicker speeds until you purchase a real Thunderbolt dock. (By the way in which, Thunderbolt 5, providing 80Gbps, gained’t be seen on a Mac till nicely into 2024.)
• USB and Thunderbolt speeds explained
USB PD: Energy Supply in your laptop computer
Look out for a dock with USB PD. The PD stands for Energy Supply.
Charging the laptop computer: The M1/M2 MacBook Air requires a PD charger with a minimum of 30W energy, however you’ll be able to 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 may 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 would possibly begin fading even whereas being prices on a decrease wattage.
In case you personal a bigger MacBook Professional, purchase a dock with a PD (Energy Supply) potential of a minimum of 85W should you can. Moveable 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.
In case you simply want a spare charger, we’ve examined the best MacBook chargers for you.
Dock, hub or dongle: Entire lotta ports
You want one (“upstream”) Thunderbolt port for connecting to and charging your laptop computer (though the 14/16in MacBooks can even energy by way of the MagSafe port), and certain a minimum of 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 best USB-C adapters for Macs) or a Thunderbolt hub providing a couple of additional ports could be all of your want, however for max flexibility take a look at a docking station that takes care of all of your additional 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 in addition embody cheaper USB-C docks—which Thunderbolt MacBooks can use, however at the price of lowered 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 take a look at Tech Advisor’s roundup of the best USB-C docking stations for laptops. Tech Advisor additionally reviews all the available Thunderbolt 4 docks.
Docks aren’t only for MacBooks. Mac mini (2018 and later) and iMac (2017 and later) house owners may 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 reasonably priced method so as to add storage to your laptop computer setup. We discovered a 512GB Samsung Evo microSD card on Amazon for around $100 in the US and under £100 within the UK. That’s a really low cost method of including half a terabyte of transportable storage. For extra particulars learn up on our best microSD cards.
A few of the docks reviewed under embody an built-in SSD enclosure that permits you to add as much as 8TB of quick storage to your linked MacBook.
Sonnet Echo 20 Thunderbolt 4 SuperDock – Finest Thunderbolt 4 dock for Macs
Execs
- Thunderbolt 4
- 19 ports
- Constructed-in speedy SSD enclosure
- 100W PD
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
Worth When Reviewed:
402,40 €
Sort: 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 formidable 19 top-rated ports, Thunderbolt 4 licensed and with a bonus inside SSD storage function, the Sonnet Echo 20 Thunderbolt SuperDock affords exceptional worth for cash.
It has essentially the most ports and equals the quickest ports seen available in the market. Its nearest competitor is the superb 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’ll be able to add as much as 8TB of inside storage by way of the dock. In case you 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 a fantastic contender, though it prices a good quantity extra.
The Satechi Twin Dock Stand, reviewed under, is a less expensive non-Thunderbolt possibility if the concept 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 appropriate and can work along 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’ll be able to add as much as two 4K shows at 60Hz or a single 6K display at 60Hz. Until your second show can join instantly 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.
You probably have the best router, you’ll be able to 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 review
Satechi Twin Dock Stand – Finest USB-C dock for Macs
Execs
- 9 ports
- Constructed-in speedy SSD enclosure
- Zero-footprint docking station
Cons
- USB-C not Thunderbolt
- USB ports can’t cost gadgets
- No card reader
- Requires USB-C charger
Sort: 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 comfy angle..
Not like the Thunderbolt 4 Sonnet Echo 20, reviewed above, this can be a USB-C dock with a 10Gbps somewhat 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 cheap 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 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. It’s worthwhile 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 advantageous—simply slower than smaller MacBooks. Notice that you will want to attach your personal USB-C charger to the dock: take a look at our really helpful MacBook chargers.
In case you 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 fashion 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 Dual Dock Stand review
CalDigit TS4 – strongest Thunderbolt 4 dock
Execs
- Thunderbolt 4
- 18 ports
- 98W PD
- 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
- 230W energy provide
Worth When Reviewed:
384,66 €
Sort: 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, nevertheless it’s an ultra-impressive dock.
It compares nicely 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’ll be able to 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) review.
Kensington SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station
Execs
- 11 quick ports
- 4x Thunderbolt 4 ports
- 180W energy provide
- Energy button
Worth When Reviewed:
Dès 240,21 €
Sort: 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 thing a dock ought to have: 4 TB4 ports, three quick USB-A and one gradual one (that a minimum of 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 might provide two exterior 4K shows at 60Hz or one 6K monitor however at 30Hz somewhat than 60Hz just like the Caldigit TS4, so single-screen avid gamers 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 linked 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 linked.
• 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 (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.
Learn our full Kensington SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station review.
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
Worth When Reviewed:
284,97 €
Sort: 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 practical flexibility and energy at a fantastic worth.
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 suggest the TS4.
It’s a more sensible choice than the Anker 577 dock as it really works with all trendy Macs that use M1/M2/M3 chips.
The TS3 Plus isn’t unsuitable for non-Thunderbolt laptops—however as most MacBooks have a minimum of TB3, that shouldn’t matter until you’re employed in a blended Mac/Home windows surroundings.
And whereas Thunderbolt 4 is the newest connection commonplace, its top-end advantages gained’t be seen by most MacBook house owners as TB3 matches TB4 on data-transfer velocity.
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’ve gotten 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 can additionally run one 5K show on the similar 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 a fantastic 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 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)
- 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 TS3 Plus review
Alogic DX3 Triple 4K Show Common Docking Station – Finest USB-C show dock for Macs
Execs
- 12 ports
- 100W PD
- Triple 5K shows
Cons
- USB-C not Thunderbolt
- Requires DisplayLink software program
Sort: 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 somewhat 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, take into account 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 might energy the linked 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 take a look at our checklist of the best USB-C DisplayLink docks.
The DisplayLink obtain hyperlink is clearly proven within the person 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 bit cheaper, the Alogic DX2 helps two 4K shows at 60Hz and lacks a few of the different ports discovered on the DX3. should you simply want two exterior displays in your M1/M2/M3 MacBook this can be a less expensive possibility.
Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Aspect Hub – Finest Thunderbolt 4 hub
Execs
- 4x TB4
- 4x 10Gbps USB-A
- 150W complete energy
- Compact
Cons
- 60W energy perhaps gentle for bigger laptops
Worth When Reviewed:
Dès 212,33 €
Sort: 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 Aspect Hub isn’t a dock as a result of it doesn’t function 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 that you could customise it to your each need.
There are 4 TB4 ports (one upstream to your laptop positioned handily on the facet, and three downstream to different gadgets) and 4 quick 10Gbps USB-A ports.
You need to use two of the three downstream TB4 ports to attach on to USB-C-equipped displays or HDMI or DisplayPort screens utilizing cheap adapters. It might deal with two 6K shows at 60Hz or one 6K monitor on the similar refresh charge.
That also go away 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 isn’t a port wastage.
As a hub somewhat than a dock, its 60W laptop computer charger is a little bit underpowered for bigger laptops, however the total 150W energy provide will assist with all of the hub’s ports. Homeowners 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 huge a limitation as first seems.
It’s sufficiently small to be transportable, 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 Element Hub review.
Twelve South StayGo – Finest transportable USB-C dock
Execs
- Moveable
- 85W passthrough charging
Cons
- USB-C not Thunderbolt
- Assist for just one exterior show
Worth When Reviewed:
106,80 €
Sort: 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 little bit light-weight field of ports that has sufficient to go to battle with greater, costlier 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 somewhat than 60Hz that you just’ll discover on extra highly effective docks.
It’s 5Gbps USB-C somewhat than 40Gbps Thunderbolt however will work with both sort of laptop computer connection. In fact, you’ll lose that full 40Gbps bandwidth and the choice of a second exterior show, however lighter customers may not 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)
In case you don’t want as many additional 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 review.
CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 mini Dock – Finest transportable Thunderbolt 3 dock
Execs
- Moveable
- Twin 4K show HDMI ports
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- No downstream TB3 port
- Unpowered
Worth When Reviewed:
Dès 149,20 €
Sort: 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 transportable 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—finest 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. No energy provide means it’s tremendous transportable however a passthrough energy port would have been most popular.
Moveable 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 Mini Dock review
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)
Worth When Reviewed:
399,99 €
Sort: 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 number 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 one more 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 Broaden 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 worth to tell apart it from the opposite really helpful docking stations now we have 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-en-1 Thunderbolt 3 review
OWC Thunderbolt Hub – Finest price range Thunderbolt 4 hub
Execs
- 4 Thunderbolt 4 ports
- One quick USB-A port
Cons
- 60W energy perhaps gentle for bigger laptops
Worth When Reviewed:
€149
Sort: 40GbpsThunderbolt 4 Hub
Ports: 5
Energy to laptop computer: 60W PD 3.0; 110W max
Exterior shows: 2x 6K at 60Hz
Additionally a hub somewhat than a full dock, the OWC Thunderbolt Hub doesn’t match the Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 and even the TB4 Aspect 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 laptop positioned on the entrance, and three downstream to different gadgets on the again.
You need to use two of the three downstream TB4 ports to attach on to USB-C-equipped displays 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
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
- USB-C not Thunderbolt
- Costly
- Just one show in Prolonged mode
Sort: 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 let you join displays, onerous drives and different equipment to your Mac, however the Logi Dock casts its internet wider than that. It’s pretty costly, at $399/£399.99, nevertheless it’s designed to offer an all-in-one desktop system for individuals who do a whole lot 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 signifies 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 should 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 take heed to some music when you’re working utilizing both the USB-C connection along with your Mac, or utilizing Bluetooth to connect 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 can too 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 let you rapidly 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
- Digital audio
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- Costly exterior US
Worth When Reviewed:
334,21 €
Sort: 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 could lie both upright or horizontal relying in your wants and choice.
There are six USB-A ports in complete: 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 somewhat 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 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)
- 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 review.
OWC Thunderbolt 3 Professional Dock – Finest dock for 10Gb Ethernet
Execs
- 11 ports
- 10Gb Ethernet
- 6Gbps eSATA port
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- 60W energy perhaps gentle for bigger laptops
- Costly exterior US
Worth When Reviewed:
Dès 409 €
Sort: 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 geared toward digital picture professionals and has final efficiency at its coronary heart.
Principally, it options super-fast 10Gb Ethernet somewhat 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 you’ll want to have appropriate community gadgets.
It additionally encompasses a CFast 2.0 card reader for folks 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’ll be able to 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 Station d’accueil Thunderbolt 3 Pro review
OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock – ports aplenty
Cons
- Thunderbolt 3 not 4
- MiniDP
Worth When Reviewed:
301,60 €
Sort: 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 a fantastic set of ports, and prices at a top-end 85W—highly effective sufficient for a 15-inch MacBook Professional. 85W can be sufficient to cost even the 96W 16in MBP fairly quick and definitely 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 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 thing a dock ought to have in a slick-looking slim case that can 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 Station d’accueil review
Apple
Which ports are on every MacBook?
13-inch and 15-inch 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/M3: One exterior show with as much as 6K decision at 60Hz.
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 maintain your MacBook/Air/Professional upright and out of the way in which: additional saving precious desk house, decreasing muddle, holding your laptop computer cool, and saving it from spills.
Learn our best MacBook accessories function for extra important laptop computer gear.
