A MacBook Pro docking station can expand the connectivity and functionality of your laptop, providing additional ports and features for enhanced productivity and convenience. Connecting your MacBook Pro to a docking station also allows you to connect monitors, keyboards, mice, external storage devices, printers, and more, without having to plug and unplug individual cables each time.
In this post, we’ll discuss different types of docking stations to help you buy one that meets your needs and budget. We’ll also provide our reviews of the best MacBook Pro docking stations of 2024, so you can ensure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. Our list starts with the Plugable triple-monitor docking station, our top pick for its power, performance, and multiple port options.
The best Macbook Pro docking stations
Plugable MacBook Pro docking station – Best overall
The Plugable MacBook Pro docking station is an excellent choice for those who need to maximize their productivity. It offers users the opportunity to spread out using three HDMI displays and power up with 100W charging. With five USB ports, one USB-C port, Gigabit Ethernet, SD card reader, and an audio in/out port, this docking station offers plenty of connectivity.
For multiple monitors, this docking station allows for resolutions of up to 1920×1080 at 60Hz, even on laptops that only support one monitor like M1 and M2 Macs. In addition, the USB-C port provides up to 20W charging for your devices and accessories. This 13-in-1 USB-C is compatible with systems running Windows 10 and newer, macOS 10.15+, and ChromeOS with USB4, Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, and/or USB-C. Users will need to download a driver for optimal use. This best overall docking station could be a great choice to keep users productive in both the home office or office space.
PROS
- Great for a small office space
- Includes five USB ports
- Plenty of ways to connect
CONS
- Only works with MacBooks
iVanky Macbook Pro docking station – Best performance
The iVanky MacBook docking station has a 180W power adaptor and is an incredibly versatile product, making it our top choice for this list. This docking station caters to laptops up to 96W and PD USB-C devices up to 18W, making it an essential accessory for power users. It also features dual 4K@60Hz displays to provide a superior viewing experience. The dock is especially useful to owners of the 15” MacBook Pro, 16” MacBook Pro, and Macbook 2020 Intel series, as they are the only models that can support dual 4K@60Hz displays.
This docking station provides 5Gbps data transfer capabilities with its four USB 3.0 ports, allowing you to connect multiple external pieces of equipment at the same time. The included SD/TF card slot supports up to 104Mb/s, and the RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port enables smooth and stable 1000Mb/s connections. All in all, the wide range of external connection options makes it an attractive choice for any laptop user who values convenience and speed.
PROS
- Dual USB-C connection providing power to MacBook
- Charges multiple external devices simultaneously
- Multi-monitor support with up to three displays
CONS
- Not compatible with M1 Mac Mini
Tobenone Macbook Pro docking station – Best connectivity options
The Tobenone MacBook Pro docking station offers users a powerful and convenient way to expand the capabilities of their MacBook Pro or Air. It provides fifteen ports of various types, with two 4K HDMI displays and up to 87W PD 3.0 for fast and safe charging. The 15-in-2 expansion design is compatible with the M1 Pro 2021/M1 Max 2021 MacBook Pro models and previous generations. The station supports plug-and-play functionality without any drivers needed. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need an easy-to-use solution with plenty of power and options.
The highlight of this product is its Dual Monitor support, a powerful feature that allows you to extend your laptop display over two 4K@30Hz|60Hz HDMI ports. This means you can have three displays with different content at once, turning your MacBook into a powerful multimedia hub. The four USB 3.0 5Gbps ports, a single USB-C 5Gbps port, two USB 2.0 for keyboard and mouse, and SD/TF reader all support high-speed data transfer so you can quickly access your files and data. This docking station is a great value purchase for those looking to expand their laptop’s capabilities without breaking the bank.
PROS
- Easy to set up, no configuration required
- Provides up to 100w of power
- Dual 4K monitor support for programmers
CONS
- Ethernet port may not be easily accessible
Hiearcool Macbook Pro docking station – Best for multi-monitor set-ups
The Hiearcool docking station for the MacBook Pro is an innovative, versatile accessory perfect for turning your MacBook Pro or Air into a multi-functional workstation. The 9-in-2 USB C docking station boasts 4K@60 triple extended display technology and can display up to 4K resolution on three external screens at once. This device offers an impressive array of ports, including an SD/MicroSD card reader, two 4K HDMI ports, two USB 3.0 ports, a 100W power delivery port, and a Type C Gen 1 port with up to 5Gbps data transfer speed.
This amazing docking station is designed for the 13-inch, 15-inch, and 16-inch MacBook Pro and the 13-inch Macbook Air. It has an advanced aluminum outer shell and an extended cord to help keep the temperature down. The device includes a specialized smart chip to help speed up power delivery and prevent overloads, overvoltage, overcurrents, and other potential damage. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to increase work productivity or have extra fun playing games or watching movies on external monitors.
PROS
- Supports up to 100W power output
- Dual HDMI ports for multiple external displays
- Flexible cord for easy arrangement and portability
CONS
- Thunderbolt cable is too short to keep the base
MOKiN Macbook Pro docking station – Best USB-C stability
The MOKiN MacBook Pro docking station is the perfect accessory for Mac users, offering an array of powerful features in one convenient package. This 12-in-1 USB C adapter provides advanced chip technology to quickly expand your work opportunities and deliver superior performance. Installation is extremely easy, with no drivers or software needed – you can plug and play.
This highly versatile hub converts your Macbook USB C port into 12 ports. You’ll have access to 2x4K 60Hz HDMI, VGA, Gigabit Ethernet Network, 4xUSB, SD/TF card reader, 100W PD, and 3.5mm audio. You can stream movies, presentations, or video games on two monitors in one click with the 2 HDMI ports. The VGA port supports up to 1080P @ 60HZ. Offering an impressive range of features, this docking station is a must-have for any Mac user looking for an easy way to increase productivity without sacrificing power or design quality.
PROS
- Supports up to 4K resolution at 60Hz
- Compact and lightweight design
- Offers two USB-C connection ports
CONS
- USB mice can experience choppiness
Lionwei Macbook Pro docking station – Most versatile
This Lionwei docking station is an excellent product with unique features to meet users’ needs with various devices. It is the perfect solution to connect two HDMI displays to devices such as MacBook Air/Pro M1 M1 pro M2, iMac/iMac Pro, PS4 Pro, Surface Pro, Chromebook Pixel, Dell, ASUS, HP, Lenovo, and more Thunderbolt 3/4 or USB 3.0 laptops. The docking station has an advanced chip that provides a high-quality video experience through 2 HDMI ports. It supports both SST and MST in extended or mirror mode.
This product is FCC, CE and RoHS certified, meaning it has been tested for safety and performance and provides consumers with 18 months of development and technical support. This docking station is an ideal product for those who need a quick and easy solution for connecting two monitors to their computers to improve productivity or experience ultimate entertainment with dual displays.
PROS
- Connects computers with USB-A and USB-C ports
- Has two HDMI and three USB ports
- Provides high-speed SSD array connection
CONS
- Occasional input lag can be inconvenient
Macbook Pro docking stations: A buyer’s guide
Before purchasing a Macbook Pro Docking Station, there are several important features to consider.
Compatibility
Make sure the docking station you choose is compatible with your Macbook Pro model. For example, if you have a Macbook Pro (16-inch, 2019) or later, look for docks compatible with that version.
Connectivity
Once you’ve established compatibility, consider the number and types of ports on the dock. Make sure the docking station has enough ports to accommodate all peripherals you want to connect. This includes USB, Ethernet, audio/video, and power connectors. Look for USB ports with higher bandwidths, such as USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt 3, for faster data transfer speeds.
Power supply
A third element of consideration is the power supply. Some docks require a separate power adapter, while others may include one. Determine if the included power adapter meets your MacBook’s specifications and check the wattage rating before purchasing.
Video outputs
Check what type of video outputs the dock has and if they are compatible with your display(s). For instance, some docks may offer HDMI ports while others only have DisplayPort or Thunderbolt support. Be sure that your monitor(s) are equipped with similar ports to ensure compatibility.
USB ports
Look for docks that offer USB ports with higher bandwidth, such as USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt 3, for faster data transfer speeds. This will help minimize latency between devices and reduce lag time when transferring large amounts of data.
Ethernet port
Consider models with an Ethernet port for faster internet access than wireless connections. This can be especially beneficial if you plan on using your laptop in a docking station all day long and need faster network connection speeds than Wi-Fi alone can provide.
Audio outputs
Make sure the dock offers enough audio outputs to meet the demands of your sound system or surround setup. Look for features like S/PDIF digital output support or a mini jack stereo audio output commonly found on many high-quality docking stations.
Price
Evaluate how much you will spend on a dock when looking at different models and compare features offered against cost. Quality components will have greater longevity and better performance over time than cheaper alternatives but may be more expensive upfront.
Security features
Consider models that offer security features like Kensington slots to lock down your laptop and peripheral devices while docked. This ensures that no one can remove your laptop from its dock without permission or access any sensitive information stored on it without authorization from you or your IT department.
Durability
Finally, look for a dock constructed with high-quality materials and a sturdy design for longevity and reliable performance. The ability of the dock to withstand wear and tear and remain reliable throughout its lifespan should be considered when selecting a model that meets your needs.
People also ask
What is a Macbook Pro docking station?
A Macbook Pro docking station is a device used to expand the capabilities of a MacBook Pro laptop by providing additional ports and connection options. The docking station lets users connect their laptops to other devices, peripherals, and accessories.
What types of ports does it have?
The Macbook Pro docking station typically includes USB Type-C, USB Type-A, HDMI, DisplayPort, audio jacks, Ethernet (RJ45), and power ports.
Does the Macbook Pro docking station offer additional ports for peripherals such as printers, hard drives, etc?
These docking stations offer additional ports for connecting peripherals, such as external hard drives, printers, and other devices.
Does the Macbook Pro docking station require separate power sources, or is it powered via the laptop’s USB-C connecter?
The Macbook Pro docking station is powered through the laptop’s USB-C connector, so no separate power source is necessary.
Are the docking stations compatible with my model Macbook Pro?
The compatibility of the docking station depends on the model of your MacBook Pro laptop. Check with the manufacturer of your docking station to ensure compatibility before purchase.
How many external displays can I connect to the Macbook Pro docking station?
Most Macbook Pro docking station models support up to two external displays connected via HDMI or DisplayPort connectors.
Does the Macbook Pro docking station support 4K resolution on an external monitor?
Yes, most docking station models can support 4K resolution on an external monitor. Check with your docking station’s manufacturer for more information.
Does the Macbook Pro docking station support wireless networks?
Yes, most Macbook Pro docking station models can provide wireless network access through compatible Wi-Fi adapters or Bluetooth connections.
What type of data transfer speeds does the Macbook Pro docking station provide?
The data transfer speeds a Macbook Pro docking station provides depend on several factors, including the type and speed of ports available on your laptop and dock and any connected peripherals or accessories. Generally, most models provide transfer rates of up to 10 Gbps.
Does the Macbook Pro docking station come with any additional accessories, such as cables or adapters?
Most docking station models do not include additional accessories such as cables or adapters in their package. However, some manufacturers may bundle these items with their products at additional costs.
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