Best Macbook Pro Docking Stations
Having the best Macbook Pro docking stations can improve your laptop’s overall functionality with other devices. It can help unlock the full potential of your work from home setup. Apple’s Macbook Pro is one of the most widely used laptops on the market. It functions beautifully as a stand-alone laptop.
But if you need to connect your Macbook Pro to multiple monitors or other devices, a docking station is needed. Plus, all of Apple’s dongles can start to get messy (and expensive). We reviewed dozens of Mac-compatible docks to bring you the best Macbook Pro Docking Stations that will power your WFH setup.
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Conveniently connect any laptop equipped with thunderbolt USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C to the TOTU Docking Station. This advanced docking station connects your laptop to up to three additional monitors simultaneously, various external devices, and the Internet with a single cable. Designed for Ultra HD 4K resolution, the TOTU Docking Station eliminates the need for an additional power adapter—keeping your workspace clean and clutter free.
The TOTU Docking Station includes versatile features for Alternate Modes and Power Delivery. Alternate Modes allow certain non-USB data and protocols (such as host video) to be sent over a USB-C cable, while Power Delivery enables you to power the supported system without the need for a traditional proprietary OEM charger.
This upgraded Triple Display TOTU docking station allows for extended mode for Mac OS devices via two DP and one HDMI. The host device must support DP Alt Mode and Power delivery because the DP and Ethernet connects via DisplayLink DL-6950 “Alt Mode.”
The HDMI port supports up to 3840 by 2160 4K at 30Hz and the DP supports up to 4K at 60Hz. The connectivity ports include SuperSpeed USB 3.0(5Gbps) from the host laptop, Gigabit Ethernet, audio input/output, 3 USB 3.0 ports, 2 USB 2.0 ports, and a USB C 3.0 port. The updated black matte finish makes for a sleek and elegant addition to your desk setup.
With 14 ports of connectivity, this docking station provides a wide array of connectivity capabilities. Unlike many other docking stations, this station allows for a single 5K resolution display or up to 2 4K displays. It contains 85W power for the host device and up to 7.5W of power to two additional devices connected through the high powered USB Type-A ports. The hybrid headphone/mic jack allows you to connect to a variety of different audio devices such as headphones, external speakers, combination headphones with a mic, etc.
For those who are looking for high quality audio performance capabilities, this docking station also includes unique professional grade audio output through the S/PDIF Optical Audio Port.
This cost-effective docking station has an extensive array of ports, a sturdy yet portable design, and high quality functionality. The ports include 1 Ethernet/RJ-45 port, 1 USB 3. 0 Type C port, a PD charging port, 2 USB 3. 0 ports, 2 USB 2. 0 ports, 3 4K HDMI vivid video output, 1 Micro SD/SD, and 1 TF card reader. UtechSmart’s 3 HDMI ports allow you to stream 4K at 30Hz or full HD 1080P video. The highest monitor resolution supported is 3840 by 2160. It has 100W of charging capacity making it a perfect all-in-one docking station for your home or office workstation, or to bring with you on a business trip.
The device is equipped with temperature controlling technology to ensure safety and durability while supplying optimal functionality.
This docking station supports resolutions up to 3840 by 2160/30Hz with a single HDMI/DP display or 1080P if two HDMI/DP displays are attached. The port features include dual 4K HDMI, DP, Ethernet, 3.5mm Audio Mic, 3 high-speed USB 3.0, 2 USB 2.0, USB-C 3.0 for Type C device expanding and charging, SD and TF Card Reader, and 65W DC Power input.
The TOTU is compatible with newer laptop and smart device models with a Type C port, and is incompatible with the USB-A to USB-C Adapter. The 60W DC Power Adapter allows you to charge your device without connecting to your OEM charger. This docking station supports both Windows and MacOS, however only Windows systems support multiple display mode.
For a higher price point, TOTU offers an upgraded docking station to allow extended display for MacOS if this feature is something you need. However, for this low cost, the wide array of connectivity ports and sleek design of this docking station makes for a great option, and supports a productive and efficient work from home environment.
This strikingly small docking station converts your Macbook Pro USB C port into 12 ports, including: 2 4K 60Hz HDMI, VGA, gigabit ethernet network, 4 USB, SD/TF card reader, 100W PD and 3.5mm audio. The 2 USB 3.0 ports makes data transfer 10 times faster than USB 2.0, while the 1000 Mbps Ethernet port provides a fast and stable network connection.
The 100W PD charging connector provides speedy and powerful charging capabilities for the host laptop as well as any peripherals connected to USB ports. The HDMI ports allow you to transfer 4K Ultra HD at 60Hz or Full HD 1080p at 60Hz video with 3D effect from your laptop. The universal SD card slots allow for fast transfer speeds (up to 104mb/s) depending on the card quality.
The quality and versatility of this docking station will surely increase your productivity and workflow.
This is an economical option for triple display multiport docking station. It includes two 4K HDMI ports for producing high-quality video content. The other ports include a 100w PD charging port, a USB 3.0 Type-C port, 2 USB 3.0 ports, an Ethernet port, 2 Type-C connectors, and SD/TF card reader slots. The Ethernet port ensures more stable and faster (985 Mbps) network speed to allow for optimal internet surfing and gaming speed. The small, chique aluminum design is also equipped with anti-overheating technology to keep your device safe and secure. Saferell takes quality assurance seriously and implores you to contact customer service if any issues arise and to ensure you enjoy the full capabilities of their products.
This vertically stacked docking station turns one USB connection to 9 peripheral ports. The variability of ports is limited however it does offer great compatibility as it supports Windows 10, 8.1, 7 on a laptop, desktop, or tablet, and Mac OS 10.9 or later versions. The ports include 2 USB 3.0, 4 USB 2.0 ports, RJ-45 Gbit Ethernet network port, and an audio/input to connect headphones and microphones.
It essentially functions as a USB hub so it is a great option for those looking for convenient connectivity using USB-connected peripherals. There is no charging functionality with this docking station.
This light-weight double socket USB-C adapter and docking station is the perfect little (it’s roughly 5 by 2 inches) addition to your desktop to make for a more streamlined workflow. This docking station features 9 ports, including 2 USB 3.0 ports for high transfer speed, an HDMI port and a QGeeM MacBook Pro Adapter with Mini Display Port that allow for 2 display 4K video streaming, and SD/Micro SD card readers that support simultaneous reading.
It’s compact and portable design, high-speed file transfer capability, and simultaneous dual SD card reading feature make this the ideal option for photographers and designers. Not to mention, it also has a 87W PD charging port. This USB-C Hub Adapter is compatible with the 13 and 15 inch MacBook Pro 2016-2019, and MacBook Air 2018-2019.
This AUKEY docking station is an aesthetic and functional companion for your Macbook Pro. It features 12 ports to allow for fast and powerful charging capabilities (100W), 1000Mbps network speeds via the Ethernet port, two USB 3.0 ports and a USB-C data port that provide data transfer rates up to 5Gbps, and SD/ microSD card slots with high transfer rates (up to 480 Mbps). It also has 2 HDMI ports and 1 VGA port that allow you to connect three additional monitors with 4K UHD or full HD 1080P video.
While this docking station is compatible with both Windows and Mac OS, Mac OS does not support extended mode to allow for triple displays. Its aluminum alloy finish and compact design makes it look like a Mac product and is sold as a reasonable price point.
This compact dock is compatible for both Mac and Windows devices. Although it only has a 60W charging capacity, it is packed with a plethora of high speed, high quality ports. These ports allow for fast transfer speeds (up to 4000 Mb/s), high network connectivity (up to 10000 Mbps), quick file transfer abilities (USB 3.0 speeds), high photo transfer speed at 104 Mb/s, and front-facing USB ports.
This docking station is portable and sturdy, and is perfect for helping you to utilize many different peripherals simultaneously with ease.
Docking Station Buyer Guide
The sleek and compact design of your Macbook Pro makes your work environment portable and convenient. But, there are certain functionalities that are impossible to carry out without the addition of a docking station. This is due to the lack of legacy ports that come standard in Macbook Pros. A docking station connects to your Macbook Pro’s USB-C port. It provides additional ports to connect to various peripherals that enhance the functionality of your laptop. In doing so, you will be able to complete multiple tasks simultaneously. And as a result this setup will enhance your productivity.
When beginning your search for the best docking station for your Macbook Pro there are a few considerations you should take into account. First and foremost, you want to analyze and understand what functionalities you want and need. Do you want a second monitor? How about a third monitor? You should also figure out what ports you need to perform these desired tasks.
Ports to Look For Based on Functionality Requirements USB 2.0 rather than USB 3.0 ports would suffice
If you are looking to connect to simple peripherals such as a keyboard, mouse, or printer a USB 2.0 suffices. You won’t necessarily need ports that offer high data transfer rates that USB 3.0 ports provide. If fast data and file transfer is important to you you’ll need the appropriate device. You may want to consider finding a docking station with an Ethernet port that offers speedy network connectivity. Additionally, if you have no need to transfer data from an SD or TF card, a docking station with those ports is not necessary.
If you are viewing high quality content and videos and are looking to display the content on multiple screens, you will want to look for 4K or higher resolution displays and determine how many monitors you are seeking to connect. Although double and triple display connectivity is possible, not all docking stations support extended display on Mac OS. Thus, you’ll want to look out for the correct support levels for extended display.
Portability
Lots of people travel with their docking station for work. If you are planning to do so, you may want to consider a more compact design. Some docking stations are vertically stacked and better equipped for a permanent desk setup while others are smaller and more lightweight. Another function to consider is charging ability.
Some docking stations do not include a PD charging port while others have the ability to completely charge your host device and/or other connected devices. A docking station that is equipped with charging ability may make traveling more hassle-free by allowing you to leave your computer charger behind.
Other Considerations
Although you may be seeking a docking station for a specific purpose, it may be wise to invest in a docking station that offers a variety of functionalities as your needs may change over time. This means considering a docking station that has high compatibility (supported by MacOS and Windows), more high speed/high quality ports, a triple extended display option, and charging capabilities.
Choosing the best docking station to serve all of your needs has the potential to significantly expand and optimize your workflow. We hope this guide will help you make a more informed decision when choosing a docking station for your Macbook Pro.
Riley is a licensed physical therapist with almost a decade of experience in the health and wellness field. Her work has transitioned to being primarily remote in nature so she has enjoyed finding creative ways to continue to serve her patients and clients effectively from home. She hopes to help others who are making this transition to remote work do so in the most adroit and seamless manner possible through sharing what has helped her succeed while working from home.
