The dock adds more ports at the expense of one existing Thunderbolt 3 connection, while also increasing the usefulness of the Mac at the same time, such as by adding a memory card reader, a. Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Pro Dock — for any MacBook Pros using Thunderbolt 3, this dock has you covered with all the basic ports such as Ethernet, HDMI, SD reader, and USB-A 3.0 and USB-C. VAVA USB C Hub 8-in-1 Adapter — compatible with any Mac using USB-C tech, this dock is also fairly versatile and includes everything you need to act like.
If you have the latest MacBook Pro, you may have noticed that you’re missing a lot of ports found on legacy laptops and those classic peripherals (even those made by Apple!) can no longer be connected to your Mac.
So what’s up with these new ports, and how do you use your external displays, work equipment, or even a wired mouse with this MacBook?
When you think of USB, you probably picture the flat rectangular piece that takes a few tries to insert the right way but is used for dozens of devices.
This is actually technically called USB-Type A and is gradually being replaced by USB-C ports which are much smaller and reversible (so no more struggling to insert it correctly).
Thunderbolt 3 is a technology that works through the new USB-C terminals to transfer data 4 times faster than on the latest USB-A and is being utilized in the ports on your new MacBook. You can learn more about Thunderbolt by watching this short video on YouTube.
The only downside to USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 is that many devices have not made the switch to USB-C outputs, which means you still need to connect to ports such as HDMI or SD slots that no longer exist on your Mac.
This problem can be solved by purchasing a ton of dongles or just a single dock, which is a device that contains all the legacy ports but connects to your Mac via the USB-C port. It allows you to use everything you normally would without worrying about the lack of built-in ports on your Mac.
Quick Summary
A lot goes into picking the right docking station, but a lot of times it comes down to connection type. That’s why I will be highlighting these docks by which Mac they were made for.
- Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Pro Dock — for any MacBook Pros using Thunderbolt 3, this dock has you covered with all the basic ports such as Ethernet, HDMI, SD reader, and USB-A 3.0 and USB-C.
- VAVA USB C Hub 8-in-1 Adapter — compatible with any Mac using USB-C tech, this dock is also fairly versatile and includes everything you need to act like your ports never disappeared in the first place.
- Anker USB C Hub Adapter — integrates seamlessly and appears to be an extension of your Mac, making it a truly sleek accessory. Includes the basic HDMI, SD, and USB slots (no ethernet).
- LandingZone 15″ Secure Docking Station — built for the 15″ MacBook Pro from 2012/2013, it’s meant for creating your optimal workstation at a single location.
Who Should Get This?
A dock for MacBook Pro is definitely going to be most useful if you’re using the latest MacBook Pro and can’t do your normal work without the legacy ports. Even if all you need is a USB-A mouse, a dock will be key to running that.
If you’re on an older MacBook Pro model, there are docks made for Thunderbolt 2 (has a different port and tech than Thunderbolt 3) but they may be less useful since many of the ports you need will be built in. On the other hand, if you’re using specialty ports or simply need more than are built in, a dock is still a great choice.
Buying a Dock for MacBook Pro: What to Look For in 2020?
Connection Type
For new MacBook Pros, you need a dock that runs on USB-C Thunderbolt 3 both because of the port type and because of the electronic technology it is using. Older MacBooks must utilize a Thunderbolt 2 dock, which has a specialty port. Purchasing the wrong type dock for your Mac will render it unusable since the two types of ports are not both found and different models of Macs.
Available Ports
Docks come with a variety of ports, but there’s no point in paying for extra ports you’ll never use. For example, if you just need a few classic USBs, you’d be better off with a smaller dock than one that includes a half-dozen video connections for display extension and presenting. Alternatively, if you need a wide variety of ports make sure to look for a dock that has you completely covered so that you don’t have to go searching for additional dongles unless absolutely necessary.
Size/Type
The majority of docks are freestanding and can be placed wherever you like on your desk while you’re using your MacBook. For these, make sure to pick something that fits in your current bag if you plan to use it at more than one location (such as home and the office). However, some docks also double as desktop stands which may be more useful if you don’t like to have many loose wires or have a limited workspace. These do tend to be less portable though, so it is a compromise.
The Best Dock for MacBook Pro in 2020: Our Picks
Please note: all the docks/hubs listed below are chosen based on the criteria above, plus our our personal take and preferences. They are by no means intended to rank in this order.
1. Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Pro Dock
Using a MacBook with the new Thunderbolt 3 (you probably are)? The Elgato dock has you covered. With four USB 3.0 ports, two USB-C ports, Ethernet, and HDMI, its got all the basics to keep you on track.
Pros:
- Plenty of USB-A 3.0 connections to use with legacy equipments and keeps a sleek design.
- Includes the most commonly needed types of ports without adding too many unnecessary features.
- Supports 4k resolution (dual).
Cons:
Dock Apps For Windows
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- Dual displays are only supported when using a Thunderbolt display and HDMI connector.
- It’s definitely on the pricer side for some people who are on a budget.
2. VAVA USB C Hub 8-in-1 Adapter
If you were looking for a powerhouse, you’ve found it. This hub from VAVA includes extra ports for anything you could ever be worried would disappear, even an extra audio jack that can be used for recording equipment. Creative professionals will also appreciate the revival of the SD card slot.
Pros:
- Covers all the bases in regards to port variety while also allowing you to charge your MacBook through the hub while it is in use.
- The metallic design will match your laptop and blend in with the desk.
Cons:
- Short connecting wire forces you to keep things close to home, which may be undesirable for some users.
3. Anker USB C Hub Adapter
Laying flush with the edge of your MacBook so that it almost appears to have been built in, this dock from Anker offers you a little bit of everything. You’ll regain the Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C ports it plugs into since these are also built into the dock, as well as gather an HDMI and SD slot in addition to the classic USB.
![Mac Mac](/uploads/1/3/4/2/134207260/876111188.jpg)
Pros:
- Integrates seamlessly with your MacBook for a sleek design that’s sure to catch eyes.
- Contains standard ports one would hope to recover such as HDMI and SD/TF card reader.
- Designed specifically for the 2015 (or newer) MacBook Pros with touch bar.
Cons:
- Doesn’t work with hard drives larger than 4TB.
4. LandingZone Dock 15″ Secure Docking Station
Planning to keep your dock mainly in one location? This nifty option doubles a stand and lets you keep all your cords plugged into one place rather than having to unplug all each time you move your laptop elsewhere. Now, it’s just pick up and go. Designed for 2012-2015 MacBook Pro.
Pros:
Mac Dock Alternatives
- Keeps your cords in place and your laptop portable, and even offers a comfortable incline for you to work on.
- With plenty of USB-A ports, Ethernet, HDMI, and additional Thunderbolt ports, you’re set to make your workstation work for you.
Cons:
- Designed to be stationary, so don’t expect this one to come easily with you on excursions.
Additional Tips & Resources
So, what if you already have a Thunderbolt 2 dock but just purchased a new MacBook? Luckily, you don’t need to buy a whole new dock. Apple sells a bi-directional Thunderbolt 2 to Thunderbolt 3 dongle, which means all your Thunderbolt 2 gear can be used with your new Mac. Check it out here.
Can’t find a dock with the right mix of ports to serve your needs? This list from Macworld tells you exactly which dongles to purchase for which devices and needed ports, which can then be plugged into your computer and skip the dock altogether if needed.
Can’t find a dock with the right mix of ports to serve your needs? This list from Macworld tells you exactly which dongles to purchase for which devices and needed ports, which can then be plugged into your computer and skip the dock altogether if needed.
Final Words
While it’s annoying to wait for the rest of the tech industry to catch up with the technology Apple has implemented, there are still plenty of ways to use your accessories with the modern MacBook. Do you already have a favorite dock or Thunderbolt peripheral? Tell us about it by leaving a comment below.
Clarify software for mac. The concept of an app launcher or a dock on a Windows desktop might seem redundant to some. This is especially true for Windows 10. Yet, app launchers or MacOS like docks have been quite in demand over the years on Windows. This, in turn, has led many developers to take on the challenge and deliver a good experience to users on Windows. While Mac OS docs don’t offer a lot to the Windows 10 desktop in terms of features, they do add a layer of convenience. Not to mention they look much fancier than a start menu.
A dock also manages to allow you to add many apps folders or files on your desktop without making it look cluttered. There’s also the added functionality that you can access these usually from anywhere without having to minimize currently open windows. There are quite a few docks available on Windows, and some of them are quite good. Good, but if your needs are limited to looks or simply an app launcher that complements the Windows taskbar. Here are two MacOS docs for your Windows 10 PC that should satisfy your needs.
The following 2 Mac OS like docks hugely resembles the one found on Apple’s computers. Try them to easily access your favorite apps. These docks not only look beautiful but are also highly customizable. You should also check out these cool Windows taskbar tips and tricks for a better experience.
Rocket dock – Simple and elegant
Best Mac Dock For Windows
Rocket dock has been one of the most popular dock options for Windows. The development on Rocket dock seemingly ceased years ago and there are no new features added. To be honest, it could actually use some more features. But there’s a good side to this apparent lack of features. It makes Rocket dock one of the simplest docks available for Windows. It does still have some of the basic features you might want in your dock. These include the ability to change individual icons, change the position of the dock, place it behind open windows or on top of them, etc. You can also adjust the quality of icons depending upon your hardware.
I’d suggest not changing a lot in the icon settings though since the default animation and zoom settings are quite ideal. The animations are so smooth with Rocket dock that it often feels like an integrated part of the system. It also has themes and the internet is full of them, the dock being so popular. The best place to find these is the Rocket dock’s official website. You can also extend the functionality using docklets, also available on the website. You can also let minimized windows appear on the dock if you wish to use it like the Mac OS dock. This functionality seems broken and is often not reliable though especially as long as there is a taskbar.
Also, Rocket dock will always overlap with open windows. That is, Windows will either slide over or under it, depending on your preferences. Unlike some other docks or the taskbar, Rocket dock cannot allocate a dedicated space for itself.
Winstep Nexus Dock – Feature-packed, not so simple
There’s a distance between the land and the sky, as you may have noticed. Tropico mac app store. I’m not getting philosophical here, but that’s exactly the distance, or difference between Nexus dock and Rocket dock. Although both of these are essentially docks, Nexus dock is perhaps the best there is for Windows. It has so many features that you’d just skip over many of them even if I did type them all out. As a result, though, it is not the easiest, most user-friendly dock around. Launching apps and adding them to the dock still works pretty much the same as any other dock. There is a bit of a learning curve if you wish to customize the dock to look and behave as you want.
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It has everything Rocket dock has, such as themes and docklets, and in greater numbers even. It also has numerous features and fancy animations that Rocket dock does not have. Appearance settings such as icon reflections, icon launch animations, close animations, delete animations, the duration of these animations, you can micromanage everything. All of this does come at a price though. While there is a free version too, you’d have to shell out a few bucks for the Ultimate version which has all the features. I’ve used Nexus dock for a long long time before Windows 10 came along, and I’ve customized it to my heart’s desire. It even has a start menu button!
Where Is Dock On Mac
In case you’re wondering, minimizing Windows to the dock is not reliable on this one either but it works sometimes at least. To wrap up, if you wanted to replace the taskbar entirely, you can depend on the Nexus dock. Winstep Nexus is one of the best Mac OS docks for Windows 10 out there.