Plug your MacBook in and out of a multi - port laptop computer tying up station to swiftly add together multiple equipment and outside displays with just one cable connection to your laptop . We test the top contenders to retrieve the best Thunderbolt and USB - C docks available to owners of the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro .
Thunderbolt, USB4 or USB-C
The connectors all await the same ( technically bang as a “ Type - C connector ” ) , but there are pregnant differences , peculiarly on speed that will determine both data - transference pace and high external display refresh rates .
Our listWhich embrasure does my MacBook havewill show you how many USB - one C or more potential one of Thunderbolt 3 , 4 or 5 that you have .
A Thunderbolt 3 ( TB3 ) dock will be enough for most daily users but if you may stretch out the budget , go for a TB4 loading dock . gamy - remnant master should aim for Thunderbolt 5 .
The dock needs one ( “ upstream “ ) bolt of lightning or USB - degree centigrade port for link to and charge your laptop ( although all recent MacBooks can also power via the MagSafe 3 embrasure ) , and likely at least another ( “ downstream “ ) to tie further devices ( heavy effort , external display , and others ) .
For more detail , scan ourThunderbolt 5 vs Thunderbolt 4 vs Thunderbolt 3 vs USB4 explainer .
Add external displays to your MacBook
If you use your laptop computer as your primary computer , attaching at least one big display to create a hybrid screen background / laptop computer setup , with a keyboard and mouse , will boost your productivity . you’re able to release that 13 in MacBook ’s cramp screen door real - the three estates into an iMac - sized 27 in or even larger screen by sum an extra show — or link up two or even four large monitors to extend your concealment across your whole desk . Take a look at our recommendedbest proctor and displays for Mac .
Natively over USB - C , Macs can connect to only one external display inExtended mode(where the screen widen beyond what you could see on the laptop screen , as opposed toMirrored modethat replicates exactly what you get on the laptop computer screen ) but you ’ll get two or more Extended mode screens using a Thunderbolt connection . DisplayLinkis third - party package that allows some USB - C docks to extend to up to four screens on even the most basic Mac .
More explained : we cover more onMac docking station and extraneous displaysat the end of this lineament below our recommendation .
Do I need a docking station?
With three TB4 or TB5 and an HDMI port , a MacBook with a Max chip could join to up to fourexternal displayswithout the need for a dock , although such a power drug user would probably ask supererogatory Thunderbolt and other port for more gimmick to make up for using all the laptop ports for multiple monitors . See below our list of commend dockage stations for more detail on theexternal show choice with each recent MacBook .
All dock total with a bunch of USB ports : some previous - schoolUSB - Aand new , more capableUSB - C. MacBook Pros also have anSD wit lector . Although this is grade as UHS - II ( 312MBps ) , Apple has pegged it back at 250MBps , so for the fastest speeds ( and a microSD slot if you involve one ) , a bob will belike be a better selection for retention - identity card use if it is rated at UHS - II rather than UHS - I ( 104MBps ) .
MacBooks also lack wire cyberspace admittance via anEthernetport , so if you want to escape outre Wi - Fi , bribe a sour grass with at least Gigabit Ethernet , although you could bring aThunderbolt - to - Ethernet adapterif you have a spare TB port . Some later docks admit faster 2.5Gb , 5Gb or even 10Gb Ethernet but you ’ll need a supporting router or other gimmick to get the benefit .
Dock or hub?
If you need just a few extra ports , a USB - C hub or Thunderbolthubmight be your dear option — see our roundup of thebest USB - C and Thunderbolt hub for Mac . However , if you require a crowd of fast ports include Gigabit ( or fast ) Ethernet and multiple video ports plus more powerful charging capability , then look for a fulldockthat fulfills your pauperization .
USB-C and Thunderbolt speeds
Simon Jary / Foundry
•USB and Thunderbolt speeds explain
USB PD: Power Delivery for your laptop
Charging the laptop : The M1 / M2 / M3 / M4 MacBook Air requires aPower Delivery(PD ) courser with at least 30W power , but you’re able to fast - charge an M2 and later melodic line with a charger rated at over 70W. You ’ll need 67W for the 13 - inch MacBook Pro and 70W for the 14 - inch MBP ( with 8- , 10- , 11 - or 12 - core CPU ) , 96W for 14 - inch MBP ( with 12- or 14 - core CPU ) , and 96W ( preferably 140W ) for the 16 - inch MBP . The older 15 in MacBook Pro requires a 87W PD charger .
If you own a larger MacBook Pro , buy a dock with a PD ( Power Delivery ) potential of at least 85W if you may . USB PD 3.0maxes at 100W , whileUSB PD 3.1can support up to 240W of magnate . The 16 - inch MacBook Pro requires 140W to fast - explosive charge , so owners of that laptop should look for a PD 3.1 courser .
If you just need a excess battery charger , we ’ve examine thebest MacBook chargersfor you .
Best docks for Mac 2025
Here we list the Thunderbolt and USB - C docks that we have reviewed and tested . translate the descriptions for item on all the features and function offer by each tying up post .
Sonnet Echo 13 Thunderbolt 5 SSD Dock – Best Thunderbolt 5 dock for Macs
Pros
Cons
This is one of the first Thunderbolt 5 dockage place , and it look hard to beat , with a bunch of truehearted USB ports joining the four 80Gbps Thunderbolt 5 certified , and with fillip integrate internal SSD storehouse of up to 4 TB .
That internal SSD is installed at leverage and is not user upgradeable , so tug the price to the high - remainder of all the docks reviewed here . However , it ’s well worth it if you may give to pay the extra . This internal SSD is super - fast , and in our mental test nearly matched the native storage in the Mac itself ! get extra storage that ’s so fast will keep you money on your next MacBook leverage as Apple ’s SSD option cost nearly as much as buying one of these dock by itself .
Sonnet offer port tractableness by not swapping one of the Thunderbolt 5 ports for a consecrated DisplayPort or HDMI video port wine . you’re able to confiscate up to international 6 KB displays using either direct Thunderbolt connections to keep going reminder or add together video transcriber for DisplayPort or HDMI screen .
If you have the right router , you’re able to take advantage of top-notch - fast wired Internet access with the Echo 13 ’s 2.5GbE Gigabit Ethernet—2.5x faster than received Gigabit Ethernet , with which it also works on received networks .
Who should buy the Sonnet Echo 13?
If you want a dockage with the very fastest ports , at the moment this is the one to go for . Even if your Mac does n’t have Thunderbolt 5 , it ’s backwards compatible and will be quick for when you do advance your Mac . This is a top - end solution for owners of Thunderbolt 5 Macs who want to add a orbit of redundant profligate ports and crack - charge their storage , but owner of Thunderbolt 3 or 4 Macs can future - cogent evidence their purchase ( as TB5 is back compatible with TB4 and TB3 ) for the same outcome . Sonnet offer a standardized Thunderbolt 4 docking place , the Sonnet Echo 20 Thunderbolt 4 SuperDock ( see later in this inclination ) , which also offers an internal SSD , but this is optional , user - install and not as super speedy , and so is more affordable .
Wavlink Thunderbolt 4 Triple Display Docking Station – Best budget Thunderbolt 4 dock
The Wavlink Thunderbolt 4 Triple presentation Docking station is a bit of a misnomer for Mac users as it can manage only two outside 4 cat valium displays in Extended Mode on Macs at 60Hz . The third show would just mirror one of the others . That ’s a Mac limitation , not one by Wavlink .
That aside , the dock is a well - priced and laden Thunderbolt 4 dockage . It sacrifices two of the possible three downstream TB4 ports in favor of two HDMI 2.1 ports . habituate one of these for one external exhibit and the downstream TB4 port for the other . The spare HDMI port would host the mirrored display , or a third widen exhibit on Windows PC .
The USB port are degraded , as are the two card reader and the backward - compatible 2.5Gb Ethernet . Thunderbolt 4 allows for 40Gbps datum conveyance to the laptop computer .
Power delivery to the laptop is 96W , enough for the 16 - inch MacBook Pro . There ’s a handy 30W USB - C charge up port at the front , which also supports 10Gbps data transfer .
Who should buy the Wavlink Triple Display Dock?
If you desire a generous curing of extra port and to plug in a couple of 4 K show , this low-priced yet able Thunderbolt 4 docking facility is a great result even for budget - conscious TB5 Mac users .
Satechi Dual Dock Stand – Best USB-C dock for Macs
Another dockage with an SSD enclosure is the Satechi Dual Dock Stand that doubles up as an open - MacBook sales booth that raises the keyboard to a more easy angle .
Unlike the Thunderbolt Sonnet Echo 13 or Echo 20 , this is a USB - C docking facility with a 10Gbps rather than 40Gbps or 80Gbps bandwidth , but it ’s importantly cheaper as a result , and is a very reasonably priced for a twofold 4 kibibyte 60Hz USB - degree Celsius docking station . With one DisplayPort 1.4 and two HDMI 2.0 port , you may link up to two 4 K displays in extensive mode at a decent 60Hz refresh rate . The Echo 20 has just one video interface . Although that interface is the superior HDMI 2.1 , you have to add a 2nd outside CRT screen via one of the Thunderbolt port , which will require an adapter with that dock .
The SSD envelopment is the star of the show . Placed on the underside of the dock , this is easily get at and stick out both NVMe and SATA SSDs . You take to purchase the SSD one by one . Amazon is sellingNVME SSDsfor around $ 50 ( 1 TB ) , $ 80 ( 2 TB ) or $ 300 ( 4 TB ) .
One USB - century port is for passthrough PD office at up to 75W to the laptop , which is enough for all but the 16 - inch MacBook Pro at full pelt . Even that model will shoot down exquisitely — just slower than belittled MacBooks . remark that you will need to plug into your own USB - coulomb charger to the dock : check out our urge MacBook charger .
Who should buy the Satechi Dual Dock Stand?
If you use your MacBook ’s own keyboard and desire up to two quality external display , plus demand to increase your base entrepot with debauched SSD drives , the Satechi Dual Dock Stand is a neat , zero - step moorage station that pair your MacBook for flair and add together nine useful porthole . It ’s not as quick as the Thunderbolt docks we have prove but this is an affordable and discreet pier that still offers a tidy sum of larboard and dual - showing functionality .
Sonnet Echo 20 Thunderbolt 4 SuperDock – Thunderbolt 4 dock with SSD options
boast an impressive 19 top - rated interface , Thunderbolt 4 certify and with an optional internal SSD storage feature film , the Sonnet Echo 20 Thunderbolt SuperDock offers singular value for money . It might not put up the very fastest Thunderbolt 5 hosted by its Echo 13 sibling , but it ’s cheap and in some ways more compromising .
It has the most port wine and equals the dissipated ports meet in the market . Its near rival is the excellent CalDigit TS4 , reviewed below . Sonnet clearly targeted the TS4 and the eyeglasses are unco like — but the cheaper Echo 20 has a useful SSD enclosure that intend you’re able to tote up up to 8 TB of internal storage via the dock . If you do n’t demand this feature and prefer DisplayPort to HDMI , or you need the most powerful ports on offer , the TS4 is still a nifty competition , although it be a reasonable amount more .
The Satechi Dual Dock Stand , retrospect below , is an even tacky non - Thunderbolt option if the estimation of an integrate SSD natural enclosure is appealing .
Even if your MacBook is Thunderbolt 3 , as a Thunderbolt 4 bob the Echo 20 is backwards compatible and will work with your next laptop when it ’s metre to kick upstairs . Even if your Mac does boast Thunderbolt 5 , this good - value dock will work with it , just at Thunderbolt 4 speeds .
While you could use Thunderbolt ports to summate external displays , Sonnet has swop one of the downstream TB4 ports for a consecrate HDMI port . you may lend up to two 4 K show at 60Hz or a unmarried 6 super acid filmdom at 60Hz . Unless your second display can connect directly with its USB - C port , you ’ll postulate a USB - C - to - DisplayPort or HDMI adapter cable to connect to one of the downstream TB4 ports .
Who should buy the Sonnet Echo 20?
The new Sonnet Echo 13 , reviewed above , might have Thunderbolt 5 and a much quicker internal SSD , but the Echo 20 has more port — albeit TB4 rather than TB5 — and more flexible , drug user - install options for sum extra storage .
Kensington SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station – Great choice for 2x 4K displays
The Kensington SD5700 T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station has everything a dock should have : four TB4 ports , three quick USB - A and one slow one ( that at least boasts 7.5W file force compared to the faster USB - A 3.2 Gen 2 port wine ’s 4.5W ) , Gigabit Ethernet , SD Card proofreader , and 3.5 mm sound recording jack .
It can supply two international 4 K displays at 60Hz or one 6 K monitor but at 30Hz rather than 60Hz like the CalDigit TS4 , so undivided - cover gamers should probably look elsewhere .
At 180W , the power supply is higher than most docks test here but not as dandy as come up on the CalDigit TS4 . It ’s essential if you are powering multiple gimmick connect to the dock . And the On / Off index release ( rare on docks ) intend you may give the laptop computer battery ’s sleep when you ’re away .
There are utile lighter telling you when the dock is power and when it ’s connected .
Check out the latest alive prices above as this sorrel is often on sale for less than the listed terms and can stand for great value for money .
• 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)• 3.5 mm audio jack• 180W magnate provision
Who should buy the Kensington SD5700T?
Other docks have more ports , but this affordable Thunderbolt 4 docking station has enough for most people and is a overbold choice . A variant poser , theKensington SD5780 T dock(available in the US only ) , drops one of the three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports in favour of an HDMI 2.1 but cost an extra $ 50 .
understand our fullKensington SD5700 T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station review .
CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Element Hub – Best Thunderbolt 4 hub / mini-dock
Like its newer sib , the Element 5 Hub look back above , the CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Element Hub might not be labelled a dockage station as its Thunderbolt and USB ports only , but with the right adapters it can easily be used as a mini dock — connecting monitor and other useful devices .
There are four TB4 ports and four degenerate 10Gbps USB - A ports . The newer Element 5 has one extra USB interface , with two USB - C and three USB - A.
With video adapters , it can handle an telling two 6 K displays at 60Hz .
As a hub rather than a sorrel , its 60W laptop computer courser is a little underpowered for larger laptops , but the overall 150W power provision will help with all the hub ’s ports . owner of the turgid MacBook Pro model will belike still reply on the laptop ’s own charger via MagSafe .
It ’s the same size as the Element 5 , and so is small enough to be portable , but its chunkier outside tycoon supply will weigh down your travel bag .
• One upstream Thunderbolt 4 port(40Gbps , 60W PD)• Three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports(40Gbps , 15W)• Four USB - A ports(10Gbps , 7.5W)• 150W power provision
Who should buy the CalDigit Element Hub?
More affordable but a little less powerful than the Thunderbolt 5 - add Element 5 Hub go over below , this mini pier has eight fast ports and can handle treble 6 K displays . Its the value plectron of the two CalDigit Thunderbolt miniskirt docks .
Read our fullCaldigit Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Element Hub review .
CalDigit Thunderbolt 5 Element 5 Hub – Best Thunderbolt 5 hub / mini-dock
The CalDigit Thunderbolt 5 Element 5 Hub is n’t a full dock because it does n’t feature anything other than Thunderbolt and USB port — no Ethernet , SD card reader or audio larboard .
But it boast so many top - end Thunderbolt and USB port wine that you could tailor-make it to your every desire . It has one more than its Thunderbolt 4 predecessor , the 8 - port Element 4 Hub , retrospect below .
There are four TB5 port ( one upstream to your figurer placed conveniently on the side , and three downstream to other machine ) , two fast 10Gbps USB - cytosine and three 10Gbps USB - A port .
you could use two of the three downstream TB5 ports to connect directly to USB - C- or Thunderbolt - equipped monitor or HDMI or DisplayPort screens using inexpensive adaptor . It can connect to dual 6K/60Hz or dual 4K/240Hz prolonged exhibit on Macs .
That still leaves you a spare TB5 interface and the five USB porthole to bestow further devices , such as an adapter for Gigabit Ethernet and/or Coyote State bill reviewer , SSDs , memory sticks and so on as your requirements exact , so there is no port wastage .
Its 90W laptop battery charger is muscular enough for most MacBook charging needs , and beat the Element 4 ’s rather underpowered 60W PD . Its 180W business leader supplying is also generous for what call itself just a hub .
It ’s humble enough to be portable , and its extraneous exponent supply is also somewhat dinky .
Who should buy the CalDigit Element 5 Hub?
This is the most low-cost and compact entry head for Thunderbolt 5 exploiter and people planning in front ( it ’s rearward compatible ) . It ’s a hub as it does n’t offer a salmagundi of port types but it has nine TB / USB that can ( with the veracious adapters ) handle anything you need .
Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Multi-Display Docking Station – Best Thunderbolt 4 DisplayLink dock for four 4K displays
This affordable Thunderbolt 4 docking place is build for citizenry who require three or four monitor lizard . Using DisplayLink software package , it enables M1 / M2 / M3 / M4 Pro MacBook Pro and M3 MacBook Air user to connect up to four 4 K showing , and even plain M1 / M2 / M3 MacBooks will support three external showing .
Aside from the mighty iVanky dock reviewed below , it ’s the only bobtail available with three downstream speedy 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 embrasure and two HDMI 2.0 port — all of which can connect to an international display , although four is the maximum . Freely downloadable DisplayLink computer software is required to make the HDMI port work .
While the $ 500 iVanky support four 6 cat valium displays , the $ 299 Satechi can still support four 4 K screens at 60Hz at a considerably brassy cost . For three showing , you’re able to get one 6 K at 60Hz and the other two 4K/60Hz .
It lacks spare USB - C port but the three TB4 ports are backwards compatible , and can each offer 15W power yield ( although only two at one clock time ) . The two USB - A ports are profligate but bid little twist charge power .
The SD circuit board reader is quick , and will accept MicroSD cards with an arranger .
Who should buy the Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Multi-Display Docking Station?
If you want handfuls of USB ports and 2.5Gb Ethernet , there are other docking facility in your futurity , but this DisplayLink dock is close to hone for non - Max M - series users who want a peck of proctor . Even Max owner can use this pier to give them four displays and allow their MacBook ’s built - in ports free for other devices , as well as relieve money on the costly iVanky choice .
iVanky FusionDock Max 1 – Best Thunderbolt 4 dock for four 6K displays
pile more interface ( a whopping 21 in total ) than any tantamount tying up station we ’ve tested , the iVanky FusionDock Max 1 ’s threefold Thunderbolt 4 french fries mark it aside from the competition with not just more but fast connections . No other sour grass can match it for number of Thunderbolt ports and its power to host multiple reminder .
Packing two Thunderbolt chips gives the FusionDock Max 1 the power to repeat up on video - capable embrasure .
Connected to a MacBook Pro with an M1 Max , M2 Max or M3 Max central processing unit it can wield up to four 6 K displays at 60Hz using both its Thunderbolt 4 chipsets . It costs more than any other docking station but it ’s a alone double - bombshell 4 organisation that answers the aspiration of multi - screen Mac professional . It does n’t put to work with Intel Macs or even any Windows computer .
This is a dock build for the top - close MacBook Pro Max . Macs with Pro rather than Max processor can connect to two 4 G displays at 60Hz . While that would lose the display benefit this is still is good pick as you could have up to four 40Gbps downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports at your electric pig .
Its other ports are plenty and top - end , too . We ’re not indisputable who needs six USB - A port these days , but they are there and all are rated at 10Gbps . We would have preferred more USB - ascorbic acid than USB - A , but one of the Type C ports include boasts 30W gadget charging index .
On top of all that you get 2.5Gb Ethernet and two fast UHS - II SD menu readers .
Who should buy the iVanky FusionDock Max 1?
This super dock has more fast ports and can connect the most high - death displays than any other , including four downstream Thunderbolt port … if you could afford it .
CalDigit TS4 – Most powerful Thunderbolt 4 dock
With 18 top - rated ports and Thunderbolt 4 certified , it ’s unmanageable to look past the Caldigit Thunderbolt Station 4 , aka TS4 . Yes , it ’s expensive , but it ’s an ultra - telling wharf .
It compares well to the Sonnet Echo 20 with just one fewer port — the Echo 20 ’s integrated SSD enclosure . For porthole pelt along the TS4 pit the Echo 20 , and it boast the highest power provision that we ’ve control on any dock that we ’ve prove — a whopping 230W to be spread among the ports , including a front - mounted 20W USB - light speed that can fast - charge an iPhone and 98W laptop palladium charging .
We also love this dock ’s pliable perpendicular or horizontal format .
As with the Echo 20 , while you may use Thunderbolt larboard to tote up external displays . Caldigit swaps one of the downstream TB4 ports for a consecrate video port wine — in this case , DisplayPort . You ’ll require an adaptor if your monitor involve HDMI . you’re able to add up to two 4 kB display at 60Hz or a exclusive 6 K cover at 60Hz .
The TS4 also matches the Echo 20 with top-notch - fast 2.5GbE Gigabit Ethernet–2.5x faster than standard Gigabit Ethernet .
Who should buy the CalDigit TS4?
Each of the 18 larboard is top-notch speedy , and the TS4 ’s 230W tycoon provision is peerless if you need to attach and power a lot of external devices . Note that CalDigit is readying two newfangled Thunderbolt 5 bobtail , the TS5 and mega - larboard TS5 Plus .
interpret our fullCalDigit Thunderbolt Station 4 ( TS4 ) review .
Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station for 4K Quad Monitors
This Thunderbolt 4 docking place is virtually identical to the Satechi Thunderbolt 4 dock review above . Like that dock , it ’s built for people who require three or four varan and uses DisplayLink software to get past Apple ’s multi - monitor limitations .
It has three TB4 ports and two degraded USB - A ports , plus an South Dakota posting lecturer and Gigabit Ethernet .
There are some advantages that this Plugable TBT-6950PD dock offer over the Satechi : it comes with a 1 m rather than 0.8 m Thunderbolt 4 cablegram , features a Kensington lock time slot , and boasts a two - year rather than one - yr warranty .
Who should buy the Plugable TBT-6950PD Docking Station?
Like the Satechi four - display dock reviewed above , this DisplayLink dock is for MacBook users who yearn for a bulwark of screens on their desk .
Alogic DX3 Triple 4K Display Universal Docking Station – Best USB-C display dock for Macs
This Alogic DisplayLink moorage post is a USB - C rather than Thunderbolt docking place , so lacks the data - transfer bandwidth you ’d get from a TB dock . However , with the addition of third - party DisplayLink software , this docking facility can support up to three outside 4 K 60Hz display even on a circumscribed manifest M1 / M2 / M3 MacBook .
The video port are all top - death stateless person . 1.4 . If your monitor is HDMI instead of DisplayPort , you ’ll need to add an adapter between dock and show — but you ’d need to bribe video cable television service anyway . If HDMI is all you take , conceive theSatechi Triple 4 K pier .
It also pack a bunch of non - display ports , such as three USB - A and a spare downstream USB - C interface , plus loyal SD and MicroSD card readers and Gigabit Ethernet .
It can power the connect laptop computer at 100W and has a decent 135W outside power supply so does n’t require an spare USB - C charger like many DisplayLink USB - C wharfage do . For like choice check out our list of thebest USB - C DisplayLink docks .
The DisplayLink download link is clearly shown in the user manual , and book of instructions make mother wit — although you need a magnifying drinking glass to interpret them !
Who should buy the Alogic DX3?
If you do n’t need the fastest datum - transference rate but do see a bunch of external screens , this USB - C DisplayLink bobtail extend comme il faut ports and outside - display salvation for owners of unmingled M1 and M2 MacBooks .
A picayune bum , theAlogic DX2supports two 4 K display at 60Hz and lack some of the other ports find out on the DX3 . If you just ask two external monitoring gadget for your M1 / M2 / M3 MacBook this may be a cheaper option .
Satechi Pro Hub Max Adapter – Best portable 40Gbps dock
The majority of portable USB - coke hubs are compatible with the Mac ’s Thunderbolt ports , but most feature slower USB - C connections ( 5Gbps or 10Gbps ) compared to Thunderbolt ( 40Gbps ) .
TheSatechi Pro Hub Max , available in either Silver or Space Gray , feature USB4 porthole that are both compatible with Thunderbolt and can arrive at the same 40Gbps level best throughput .
connect directly to two of the MacBook ’s Thunderbolt port wine , it blow a bunch of port that should be enough for most of us . The hub receives 40Gbps from each of the Thunderbolt ports on the Mac ( so a sum of 80Gbps ) . 40Gbps is used for the USB4 go - through porthole , while the second Thunderbolt port distributes 40Gbps of bandwidth to the residual of the ports on the hub .
The USB4 porthole supports up to 96W charge — well hunky-dory for a 14 - inch MacBook Pro and punchy enough to keep a 16 - inch Pro going and charge pretty quickly . This same USB4 port can be used to connect to an external video display — up to 6 honey oil at 60Hz display yield , transferring data at 40Gbps . The HDMI 2.0 interface can also be used to connect a 4 K 60Hz presentation , so you may accomplish a dual 4 atomic number 19 monitor setup on any Pro or Max MacBook .
Also onboard are a 5Gbps USB - A port wine and a 5Gbps USB - blow port — although neither can charge connected devices . There are both Mount Rushmore State and MicroSD card readers ( UHS - I ) , a Gigabit Ethernet port , and 3.5 mm combo audio jack port .
Who should buy the Satechi Pro Hub Max Adapter?
The Pro Hub Max calls itself just an adaptor but this super - portable thingmabob is as functional as most desktop - based wharf , although it can deal just one outside display .
In the same family , Satechi also offers thePro Hub Mini(the same as the Max but without the HDMI port ) and thePro Hub Slim(which swap the Ethernet porthole for an extra USB - A port , and sport 10GBps USB - A and USB - C embrasure compared to the Mac and Mini ’s 5Gbps ) . If you do n’t need telegraph Internet accession , the Pro Hub Slim edges out the Pro Hub Max . If you do n’t need more than one extraneous screen or you want to save the USB4 for passthrough charge only , count the Pro Hub Mini or the Plugable 5 - in-1 USB - C Hub reviewed below .
Note that all three require a MacBook with two adjacent Thunderbolt interface on one side , so some one-time MacBook Air models might not be compatible .
A exclusive Thunderbolt to Mac connection is uncommitted with theCalDigit Thunderbolt 3 miniskirt Dockthat offer full Thunderbolt 40Gbps bandwidth and dual-4 K HDMI display support at 60Hz in a lightweight portable form . It connects to the laptop via an integrate TB3 cable , and features two HDMI ports , plus Gigabit Ethernet and two USB - A : one at 5Gbps ( 4.5W ) ; one at the much slower 480Mbps ( 2.5W ) . Its downside is a lack of power supply ( which it line from the host laptop computer ) , so you ’ll demand to power your laptop via another porthole , and the USB ports sure enough are n’t for tight - charging purposes . No power supplying means it ’s passing portable but a passthrough power embrasure would have been prefer .
OWC Thunderbolt Hub – Best budget Thunderbolt 4 hub
Also a hub rather than a full bob , the OWC Thunderbolt Hub does n’t match the CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 or even the TB4 Element Hub on its number of onetime - shoal USB - A larboard , but it is cheaper and offer the same four Thunderbolt 4 ports — one upstream to your computer place at the front , and three downstream to other machine at the back .
you may use two of the three downstream TB4 ports to connect straight to USB - atomic number 6 - equipped monitors or HDMI or DisplayPort screens using inexpensive adapter . It supports double 6 kilobyte displays at 60Hz .
As with the its rival hub , its 60W laptop computer battery charger is underpowered for larger laptop .
• One upstream Thunderbolt 4 port(40Gbps , 60W PD)• Three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports(40Gbps , 15W)• One USB - A port(10Gbps , 7.5W)• 110W world power provision
Who should buy the OWC Thunderbolt Hub?
If you want a bunch of immobile Thunderbolt 4 ports and not much else , the OWC Thunderbolt Hub is a precious , affordable answer .
CalDigit TS3 Plus – Still excellent Thunderbolt 3 dock for Macs
Caldigit ’s TS3 Plus is the iconic granddaddy of Thunderbolt 3 docks . Its compact shape and 15 ports made it our favourite top - end Thunderbolt 3 docking place for its sheer functional flexibility and mightiness at a corking price .
Other docks boast fast USB ports , but few have seven like the TS3 Plus — except its successor , the TS4 , which make even the TS3 Plus look underpowered . If you may afford the redundant , we recommend the TS4 , or waitress for theTS5 and TS5 Plus .
The TS3 Plus is n’t unsuitable for non - Thunderbolt laptops — but as most MacBooks have at least TB3 , that should n’t matter unless you work in a miscellaneous Mac / Windows environment .
And while Thunderbolt 5 is the latest connection standard , its top - end benefits wo n’t be noticed by most MacBook possessor as TB3 lucifer TB4 on 40Gbps data point - transport f number and TB5 ’s 80Gbps is probably too firm for many needs .
To add the second external display you will require an HDMI or DisplayPort USB - C video adapter to go from the USB - deoxycytidine monophosphate port unless you have a USB - C monitor lizard . To head off this need for an adapter , look for a bob with two television ports . Both connected showing can run 4 K displays at 60Hz . You could also run one 5 M display at the same frame pace .
The TS3 Plus ’s digital audio ports jell it asunder from most other Thunderbolt docks .
It charge your laptop computer at 87W so makes it a great companion to even Apple ’s magnanimous MacBook Pro model .
This loading dock is dinky so wo n’t take up too much outer space on your desk . Available in Silver and Space Gray , it matches the colour of Apple ’s laptop .
Who should buy the CalDigit TS3?
While apparently antiquated with its Thunderbolt 3 rating , the TS3 is still a great bob and pop the question the same 40Gbps speeds as TB4 dockage , with some reasonably arcane technological limitations ( see our Thunderbolt speed chart at the occlusive of this article ) .
Anker 675 USB-C 12-in-1 Docking Station and Monitor Stand – Best dock and monitor stand combo
Why not make your MacBook even more sinewy and improve your workspace and bearing at the same time ?
This is an able USB - C wharf and good - look monitor digest that you may target your outside display on top of and desk - establish gearing underneath in a hike to make an ergonomic and decluttered work .
Your MacBook will probably well sit down nearby in a closed laptop base — see our roundup of thebest MacBook stand — and connect via USB - C to the loading dock / stand .
The roster of ports is telling , with four profligate ( 10Gbps ) downstream USB port wine on the side ( two of which can share 45W of gimmick charging big businessman ) , plus storage card readers and audio Jack-tar , as well as the upstream 100W PD USB - carbon port place underneath .
Also on the transmission line - direction underside are the HDMI and Gigabit Ethernet port as well as a low - powered USB - A port ( most likely for a wired keyboard or mouse ) and the meaty 180W power supply larboard .
On the top there ’s a ( non - magnetized ) Qi wireless charger that you may lie your iPhone or AirPods case on for 7.5W charging .
Who should buy the Anker 675 Dock and Monitor Stand?
If you take to produce a more ergonomic and tidy workspace this duple - function monitor stand and USB - hundred dock offers a stack , although not at the very fastest speeds you will find on the Thunderbolt docks .
HyperDrive GEN2 14-Port Thunderbolt 3 Dock
This Titan Ridge ( Thunderbolt and USB - C ) docking place is bristling with 14 high - performance ports . Its compact form is neat ( just like the CalDigit TS4 and TS3 Plus ) , and it can lie either upright or horizontal depending on your needs and penchant .
There are six USB - A interface in aggregate : four USB - A port at 5Gbps and a further two at 10Gbps , plus one tight - charging QC 3.0 USB - A interface . While the Quick Charge larboard ’s 36W is impressive , iPhone fast - charging need a USB - cytosine larboard rather than USB - A as found here . That articulate , it ’s still going to charge a machine quicker than the 4.5W or 7.5W port found on many other sour grass .
On top of this is one 10Gbps USB - century porthole that you ’ll need if you want to affix the DisplayPort for a second external presentation . You ’ll also get more professional - story digital audio ports , as well as the analog 3.5 millimeter headphone / mic jack at the front .
Who should buy the HyperDrive GEN2 14-Port Dock?
This is another older dock ( Thunderbolt 3 ) that still offers a truehearted route to adding multiple devices and up to two 4 cat valium sieve . Its list price is high but it ’s often greatly discounted so check the prices listed above .
Read our fullHyperDrive GEN2 16 - Port Thunderbolt 3 Dock recapitulation .
Ugreen Revodok Max 213 Thunderbolt 13-in-1 Docking Station
This substantial , good - wait dock is aimed against the mighty CalDigit TS4 , with a bunch of fast ports and the same upright or horizontal design — and unhappily the same high price .
It ’s a little bigger than the TS4 , reviewed above , but has fewer USB ports . Both support two 4 K displays at 60Hz , but the TS4 can handle a individual 6 K showing , while the Revodok Max is bound to 4 K even with just one display connected .
Who should buy the Revodok Max 213?
The CalDigit TS4 , reviewed above , definitely wins on ports and specification , so we ’d call the Revodok over - priced . If Ugreen sink the price this would be a compelling alternative , as it offers just about everything most users demand in a full-bodied and pleasant design .
Logi Dock – USB-C dock for remote working and video calls
There are great deal of docks and hubs that allow you to connect admonisher , hard drives and other accessories to your Mac , but the Logi Dock casts its net wider than that . It ’s fairly expensive , at $ 399/£399.99 , but it ’s designed to provide an all - in - one desktop arrangement for people who do a sight of video - conferencing when working at abode or in the place .
The compact USB - century dockage ( 3.3 - x-6.3 - x-5.2 inches ) will fit neatly on your desk alongside your Mac ’s display . The Logi Dock ’s chunky power adapter stand for that this is very much a dock that ’s designed to remain on your desk the whole fourth dimension .
There ’s one USB - C upstream embrasure that is used to connect the Logi Dock to your Mac , and both HDMI and DisplayPort interfaces for external display . Significantly , you may connect only one 4 cat valium display if you ’re using Extended mode , although you may connect two 4 KB displays in Mirrored mode .
The Logi Dock can turn as a utterer for phonation and video calls , or you could just hear to some music while you ’re knead using either the USB - C connection with your Mac , or using Bluetooth to connect to your mobile devices . It sounds pretty good too , with a set of 55 mm stereophonic system speakers that deliver a nice firm sea bass .
you’re able to also habituate Logitech ’s Tune app to link the Logi Dock with conferencing apps such as Microsoft Teams and Zoom , and there ’s a set of button on the top of the Logi Dock that countenance you to chop-chop mute the mic and turn off the camera .
Who should buy the Logi Dock?
With a build - in utterer the Logi Dock is a dual - function machine that saves you having more on your desk than you need to while add a decent range of humbled - speed port .
OWC Thunderbolt 3 Pro Dock – Best dock for 10Gb Ethernet
The OWC Thunderbolt 3 Pro Dock is direct at digital image professionals and has ultimate carrying out at its pump .
in the main , it features tops - fast 10Gb Ethernet rather than the stock 1Gb ( Gbit ) connection found on the other docking place reviewed here . The Caldigit TS4 features 2.5Gb Ethernet .
To get the most from this level of Ethernet you need to have compatible internet devices .
It also have a CFast 2.0 batting order reviewer for people still using CompactFlash in its latest interpretation .
There are Thunderbolt docking stations with more ports and strapping chargers , but none have 10Gb Ethernet or CFast 2.0 . you’re able to add these to other docks via dedicated transcriber , but the Pro Dock has it all built - in , plus a really secure business leader - supplying connector in fount it ’s used on a pro DIT cart .
Who should buy the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Pro Dock?
This Thunderbolt 3 dock might seem to lag behind newer docks , it ’s still rated at 40Gbps and uniquely — until the CalDigit TS5 Plus arrives — offers the fastest 10Gb Ethernet internet speed .
OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock – ports aplenty
OWC ’s standard Thunderbolt 3 moorage station has a with child set of port , and charges at a top - final stage 85W — powerful enough for a 15 - column inch MacBook Pro . 85W will be enough to charge even the 96W 16 in MBP pretty fast and for sure not drain even when connected to multiple twist .
The five USB - A larboard are all 5Gbps , and there ’s a 10Gbps Gen 2 USB - C port on the front of the late 14 - larboard role model , which not many Thunderbolt dock have .
The curiously honest-to-god - fashioned selection of Mini DisplayPort over DisplayPort is n’t a technological vault but you will want adapters for adding outside displays . Other dock have more than one interface for external displays , but this one postulate adapters to get in touch to displays — which adds to the overall price .
That away , the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock has everything a dock should have in a slick - looking slim causa that will look good in any laptop apparatus .
Who should buy the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock?
Ignore the former TB3 valuation , this 40Gbps dock is still an able performing artist that ’s available at affordable prices .
Which ports are on each MacBook?
Of Apple ’s recent laptop ranges , the M1 / M2 / M3 MacBook Air and 14 - in M3 MacBook Pro feature two ports that Apple specifies as “ Thunderbolt / USB 4 ” ports , while more recent the 13 in and 15 in M4 MacBook Air and Pro model boast two Thunderbolt 4 larboard . The 14 in and 16 in M1 / M2 / M3 Pro , plain M4 MacBook Pro , and M1 / M2 / M3 Max MacBook Pro models get with three Thunderbolt 4 ( TB4 ) ports . Ignore Apple ’s dual designation of non-4 Thunderbolt and USB4 — it just mean that the port do n’t certify as pure Thunderbolt 4 , and that should n’t concern most users except for the number of external displays each supports .
Apple ’s modish M4 Pro and Max MacBook Pro models sport three of the latestThunderbolt 5ports , which are rearwards compatible with TB4 , TB3 and USB - C. Thunderbolt 5 devices and sorrel are rare right now but we are reviewing them as tight as we get them in to our labs . They promise 80Gbps datum transfer and 120Gbps video rates . Until the technology finds its way into more machine and the Thunderbolt 5 wharf market matures , you are still go to do very well with a 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 dock .
Apple ’s older 12 in MacBook feature one 5Gbps Gen 1 USB - ascorbic acid port , while the later Intel MacBook Air ( 2018 and later ) and MacBook Pro ( from 2016 ) swash either two or four 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 porthole .
Apple
MacBook Air and Pro built-in ports listed
13 - inch and 15 - in M1 / M2 / M3 MacBook Air : Two Thunderbolt / USB4 ports and one MagSafe 3 charging port , plus headphone jack
13 - inch and 15 - inch M4 MacBook Air : Two Thunderbolt 4 ports and one MagSafe 3 charging porthole , plus headphone jack
13 - in M1 / M2 MacBook Pro : Two Thunderbolt / USB4 interface and one MagSafe 3 charging port , plus phone jack
14 - inch M3 MacBook Pro : Two Thunderbolt / USB4 port , one HDMI larboard , one SDXC visiting card slot , plus phone diddlysquat
14 - inch M1 / M2 / M3 Pro , M1 / M2 / M3Max and plain M4 MacBook Pro : Three Thunderbolt 4 ( USB - C ) ports , one HDMI port , one SDXC card expansion slot , plus earpiece jack
14 - inch M4 Pro orM4Max MacBook Pro : Three Thunderbolt 5 ( USB - C ) interface , one HDMI porthole , one SDXC card slot , plus headphone doodly-squat
16 - inchM1 / M2 / M3 Pro orM1 / M2 / M3Max MacBook Pro : Three Thunderbolt 4 ( USB - C ) ports , one HDMI port , one SDXC card time slot , plus earphone squat
16 - inchM4 Pro orM4Max MacBook Pro : Three Thunderbolt 5 ( USB - C ) port wine , one HDMI port , one SDXC card one-armed bandit , plus headphone jackfruit
How many external displays can each MacBook support without a dock?
M1 / M2 : One external display with up to 6 K resolution at 60Hz .
M3 : Two international displays , one with up to 6 K answer at 60Hz and one at 5K/60Hz when the MacBook chapeau is closed .
M4 : Two international showing , one with up to 6 kilobyte resolution at 60Hz and one at 5K/60Hz .
M1 / M2 / M3 / M4 professional : Up to two outside showing with up to 6 KB resolution at 60Hz over Thunderbolt , or one outside display with up to 6 K resolution at 60Hz over Thunderbolt and one external display with up to 4 K resolution at 144Hz over HDMI . Or one external show support at 8 K resolution at 60Hz or one external display at 4 K result at 240Hz over HDMI .
M1 / M2 / M3 / M4 Max : Up to four external displays : Up to three extraneous displays with 6 one thousand resolution at 60Hz over Thunderbolt and one international display with up to 4 K resolve at 144Hz over HDMI . Up to three external video display : Up to two external displays with 6 K declaration at 60Hz over Thunderbolt and one external display with up to 8 thou firmness of purpose at 60Hz or one external video display with 4 K resolving power at 240Hz over HDMI .
Mac docking stations and external displays
Baseus
While Apple ’s MacBooks featuring the company ’s own M - series Silicon chip are super speedy compared to the models romp Intel processors , models with evident ( non - Pro or -Max ) M1 and M2 chips get with an incredible limitation : they do n’t defend more than one external display in Extended Mode even via their Thunderbolt ports . bare M3 MacBooks can support two showing but only with their lids closed .
Thankfully , the superior M1 / M2 / M3 “ Pro ” and M1 / M2 / M3 “ Max ” MacBook Pro models — plus the plain M4 — can digest multiple display . Below our lean of the effective MacBook docking stations , we ’ve listed the native external exhibit option for each MacBook . One wharfage supports up to four 6 K showing if you own a Max MacBook Pro .
While some docking stations promise support for 8 K displays , Macs are limited to 6 kilobyte support via the dock . Macs with an M2 / M3 / M4 Pro or Max chip can support an 8 K display at 60Hz but only when it is connected via the Mac ’s own HDMI port wine and not any port on the wharf .
Dock, hub or dongle: Whole lotta ports
You need one ( “ upstream ” ) bombshell or USB - C port for connect to and charging your laptop computer ( although the 14/16 in MacBooks can also power via the MagSafe port ) , and likely at least another ( “ downstream ” ) to bond further devices ( tough drives , external display , and others ) .
There are many inexpensiveUSB - nose candy dongles / hubsthat let you supply more gimmick to a MacBook ( see our roundup of thebest USB - C adapter for Macs ) or aThunderbolt huboffering a few extra ports might be all your need , but for maximum flexibility arrest out adocking stationthat accept care of all your special porthole requirement , and allows you to plainly attach it to your laptop computer with just one cable when you get to the berth or come home .
dock are n’t just for MacBooks . Mac mini ( 2018 and subsequently ) and iMac ( 2017 and subsequently ) owners may also reckon expand their port with a Thunderbolt docking place .
The comprehension of an South Dakota or microSD posting reader is n’t just for camera raw sienna . It ’s a convenient and affordable agency to add together storage to your laptop setup . We set up a 512 GB Samsung Evo microSD card onAmazon for around $ 100 in the USandunder £ 100 in the UK . That ’s a very cheesy way of adding half a terabyte of portable reposition . For more details read up on ourbest microSD cards .
Some of the docks reviewed below include an integrated SSD enclosing that lets you summate up to 8 TB of fast memory to your connected MacBook .
Other dock options
Here we concentrate on Thunderbolt docks , but also include cheaper USB - C dock — which Thunderbolt MacBooks can use , but at the price of reduced bandwidth and display limitations . We ’ve also let in our pet Thunderbolt hubs for smaller and inexpensive alternatives . For more non - Thunderbolt USB - C - only sorrel check out Tech Advisor ’s roundup of thebest USB - C moorage stations for laptop computer . Tech Advisor alsoreviews all the usable Thunderbolt 4 docks .
Now think about a stand to go alongside the dock
These MacBook tying up stations look and work great with a laptop computer tie-up , and we ’ve also test someMacBook - favorable standsthat lack all the extra port but keep your MacBook / Air / Pro good and out of the way : further saving valuable desk space , concentrate clutter , keeping your laptop computer coolheaded , and saving it from spills .
