Key Points
- The Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Mini is the best overall choice, offering 40Gbps speeds, dual displays, and a portable design.
- The Anker 575 USB-C dock is the top budget pick with 7 ports and 85W charging despite a lower price tag.
- Those needing multiple displays should choose the CalDigit TS3 Plus, which supports up to 2 4K displays.
- The Sabrent Rocket Dock gives you lightning-fast transfer speeds with Thunderbolt 4 but in a stationary, upright design.
- The Plugable UD-ULTCDL Thunderbolt 3 dock is the most affordable way to add 2x 4K 60Hz displays.
#1 Best Overall: Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Mini
The Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Mini is the best overall MacBook docking station because it offers an excellent balance of portability, ample connectivity, speedy 40Gbps transfer rates, and affordability compared to the competition.
Key Features:
- Dual 4K 60Hz display support
- 2x Thunderbolt 3 ports for connecting displays/storage
- 1x USB-C and 1x USB-A port
- Includes 0.5m Thunderbolt 3 cable
- Compact 4.1 x 1.9 x 0.6 inch size
- 0.44 lb weight makes it easy to transport
This dock scores highly for its versatile selection of ports, with dual Thunderbolt 3 inputs allowing you to daisy chain up to 6 devices, including dual 4K external displays. You also get USB-C and USB-A ports for connecting additional peripherals.
It’s also one of the most compact options out there at just 4 inches wide and 0.6 inches thick, so it‘s a great portable companion to throw in your bag when on-the-go, along with compatibility spanning most Thunderbolt 3-equipped MacBook models.
Pros:
- Lightning-fast 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 connectivity
- Support for dual external displays up to 4K@60Hz
- USB-C and USB-A ports included
- Highly portable design
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Doesn‘t offer dedicated charging capabilities
- Lacks legacy connections like HDMI, VGA, Ethernet
#2 Best Budget: Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station
Those shopping for the best MacBook docking station on a budget should check out the Anker 575 USB-C model. Despite costing well under $100, it doesn‘t compromise much on connectivity, offering 7 ports along with 85W charging.
Key Features:
- 1x USB-C port with Power Delivery up to 85W
- 2x USB-A ports (10Gbps)
- 4K HDMI and Gigabit Ethernet ports
- microSD and SD card readers
- Sleek aluminum unibody design
- Compatible with USB-C laptops like MacBook Air/Pro
You get an ample selection of ports even at this affordable price point. The USB-C port provides up to 85W charging to juice up your MacBook, with data rates hitting 10Gbps on both USB-A inputs. It can also drive 4K 30Hz displays over HDMI.
Given most competing options with similar I/O selections retail for $150+, grabbing the Anker 575 for under $100 is excellent value. It packs the connectivity most will need into a compact, aluminum-clad body making it a versatile hub for home, office, and travel.
Pros:
- Costs just a fraction of many Thunderbolt docks
- 7 port USB-C hub with 85W Power Delivery
- 4K 30Hz HDMI and 10Gbps USB ports
- High build quality and compact size
Cons:
- Limited to 4K 30Hz over HDMI
- No Thunderbolt connectivity
#3 Best for Dual Displays: CalDigit TS3 Plus
Those needing to drive multiple high-res displays should choose the CalDigit TS3 Plus thanks to its dual Thunderbolt ports that allow you to add up to two 4K 60Hz monitors.
Key Features:
- Dual Thunderbolt 3 ports enable dual 4K 60Hz displays
- 5x USB-A, USB-C, DisplayPort connections
- Supports USB 3.1 Gen 2 transfer speeds
- SD and microSD card slots
- Sturdy, stable design with non-slip feet
This docking station uses an Alpine Ridge controller to unlock Thunderbolt 3‘s capabilities, meaning you can add two external 4K monitors running at a smooth 60Hz. It also offers USB-C, 5x USB-A, and DisplayPort to hook up your favorite peripherals.
An SD card reader enables quick media offloads, while the metal chassis and non-slip feet give it a premium feel that looks great on any desktop. Just take note that this dock lacks Power Delivery, so it won‘t directly charge your MacBook.
Pros:
- Supports dual 4K 60Hz displays over Thunderbolt 3
- USB 3.1 Gen 2 and USB-C connectivity
- SD/microSD card reader built-in
- Sturdy, stable design for desk use
Cons:
- No Power Delivery for charging laptops directly
- Pricier than more compact USB-C hubs
#4 Best Stationary: Sabrent Rocket Dock Thunderbolt 4
For those who want a permanent docking solution and the fastest possible speeds, we recommend the Sabrent Rocket Dock. Its upright design takes up minimal desk space while providing Thunderbolt 4 and a wide gamut of legacy ports.
Key Features:
- Thunderbolt 4 docking station with 40Gbps speeds
- Front-facing port design minimizes desktop clutter
- Gigabit Ethernet, USB Type-C/A, 3.5mm audio
- Supports single 4K 60Hz display
- Includes Thunderbolt 4 cable in the box
The Sabrent Rocket Dock unlocks the full 40Gbps bandwidth offered by Intel‘s latest Thunderbolt 4 standard. This means lightning-fast transfer speeds when connecting external SSD storage. You also get USB-C, three USB-A ports capable of 10Gbps speeds, and Gigabit Ethernet.
The upright form factor also keeps cables and connectors front-facing, creating a clean setup. Just take note that this dock only supports a single external display up to 4K 60Hz.
Pros:
- Cutting-edge Thunderbolt 4 technology inside
- Upright design minimizes desktop clutter
- USB-C, USB-A, Ethernet connectivity
- Supports single 4K 60Hz display over Thunderbolt
Cons:
- Limited to single external display
- No SD card reader
- Pricey, but delivers fast future-proof ports
#5 Most Affordable Dual 4K: Plugable UD-ULTCDL
Those seeking the most affordable way to add dual 4K external displays should pick the Plugable UD-ULTCDL. It manages to keep costs lower than rivals while still packing dual Thunderbolt 3 ports for connecting two 60Hz 4K monitors.
Key Features:
- Dual 4K 60Hz display support from Thunderbolt 3 ports
- 1x USB-C, 4x USB 3.0 Type-A
- Gigabit Ethernet
- 3.5mm audio in/out ports
- Includes Thunderbolt 3 cable
Considering most Thunderbolt 3 docks allowing dual 60Hz 4K displays retail over $250+, finding the Plugable model often available under $200 makes it a great value choice.
It still gives you two Thunderbolt 3 ports for hooking up dual high-res monitors, with four USB 3.0 Type-A ports, USB-C, Ethernet, and audio connectivity rounding out a solid selection of I/O.
Pros:
- Dual 4K 60Hz display support
- Most affordable Thunderbolt 3 dock with dual display outputs
- USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet connectivity
- Straightforward design blends into any workspace
Cons:
- Limited to 60W host power delivery
- No SD card reader
What to Look for in a MacBook Dock
With various Thunderbolt, USB-C, and USB 3.0 docks available, choosing the right model for your needs deserves careful consideration.
Here are the core factors to weigh up:
- Ports: Carefully assess what connections you require – Thunderbolt, USB-C, USB 3/2, HDMI, Ethernet, etc. More ports means higher costs in most cases.
- Displays: If you want to drive dual external monitors, you‘ll need a dock with two Thunderbolt 3 ports capable of this. Make sure your chosen dock matches needed resolution and refresh rate.
- Power Delivery: Some docks feature charging capabilities over USB-C PD, giving you a convenient way to juice up your MacBook. This is less critical for desktop use.
- Design: Compact portable designs make tossing your dock in a bag easier for mobile workers. Stationary upright docks keep desk space tidy.
- Compatibility: Double-check socket types and ensure macOS/Windows compatibility to avoid issues.
Getting the right balance across size, connectivity, power, and price ultimately comes down to identifying your must-have and nice-to-have requirements.
5 Key Tips for Using a MacBook Dock
Based on our experience testing countless docks, follow these tips for smooth sailing:
- Carefully insert connectors: Ensure ports are clear of debris and align the dock to avoid damage.
- Use shorter cables: Shorter Thunderbolt/USB cables equal greater reliability.
- Update your Mac: Run the latest macOS or Windows software for best compatibility.
- Don‘t overload power draw: Be mindful of max power delivery ratings to avoid overload issues or browouts.
- Cable management: Use wraps, sleeves and clips to tidy wiring which also prevents port strain.
Docking Station FAQs
Here we answer some frequently asked questions about MacBook docking stations:
Should I get Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4?
For most MacBook owners, a Thunderbolt 3 dock offers the best value and widest compatibility. But you may want Thunderbolt 4 if you need absolute cutting-edge future-proofing.
Can I use Windows laptops with MacBook docks?
Yes, most docking stations offer dual compatibility for Windows and macOS, but always double-check before buying.
How many 4K displays can my dock support?
To run dual 4K 60Hz external displays you need a docking station with two Thunderbolt 3 ports and an MST chipset for multi-streaming. USB-C-only models max out at single 4K 30Hz display output.
Do docks provide enough power to charge my MacBook?
Most include at least 60W power delivery for MacBook charging. But full-blooded 95W+ charging requires a higher-end Thunderbolt 3 or 4 docking station.
