The computers are getting thinner nowadays. And, the number of connectivity ports is also decreasing. Let’s take the example of MacBook Pro. This laptop is power-packed with high-end features. But, when it comes to connecting other devices to it, you find a shortage of ports. Thanks to the best Thunderbolt 3 dock for MacBook Pro that will help you overcome this issue.
The top-rated Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station for MacBook Pro offers you with multiple services. They let you charge your MacBook Pro, connect to multiple monitors, and even enhance the speed of data transfer. All this is possible with just a single connection. Though these docks are expensive, they provide you an opportunity to connect to other peripherals without installing any software. To help you pick the pick the right dock for you, here is a roundup of a best USB-C hub with Thunderbolt 3 Port for MacBook Pro.
If you are proud owner of MacBook Pro/Air M1, then checkout the reviews of the best thunderbolt 4 dock.
Which is the best Thunderbolt 3 Dock for MacBook Best Overall: CalDigit - “A durable Thunderbolt 3 Dock with multiple ports to make connectivity easier. It is ideal for fast data transfer and lets you extend the displays as well". Most Loved: Cable Matters - “A docking station that has PD ports for faster data transfer and charging. You can use this hub with a 4K monitor and headsets”. Budget Pick: Cable Matters - “A compact Thunderbolt 3 dock with a Gigabit Ethernet port. It works well with Mac as well as Windows, and doesn’t require using any software”.
Table of Contents
What is Thunderbolt 3?
Best Thunderbolt 3 Dock for MacBook Pro
#1. CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 Mini Dock
CalDigit is a robust Thunderbolt 3 dock for MacBook made up of sturdy aluminum for added durability. Also, the dock has an integrated heat sink that disperses the heat out of the dock without any cooling fan. Moreover, it has multiple connectivity ports, so all of your purposes will be served with this efficient dock for MacBook.
Number of Connectivity Ports
CalDigit has 15 connectivity ports that incorporate 2 Thunderbolt 3 Ports, 5 USB Type-A Ports, one USB Type-C 3.1 Gen 1, One Display Port, one USB Type C Gen 2 Port, one Ethernet port, one 3.5 mm audio in-out jack, Optical Audio (S/PDIF), and UHS-II SD Card Slot (SD 4.0). You can also charge your MacBook or iPad using the Thunderbolt Type C port that supplies 85W of charge.
Fast Data Sharing
The Thunderbolt Ports of this 85w Thunderbolt 3 dock allows you to transfer your data at a lightning-fast speed of 40 GB/s. Moreover, you can use the USB C ports for achieving up to 10 GB/s, and USB A ports for achieving 5GB/s. Overall, you can connect multiple devices simultaneously to transfer tons of data without any difficulties.
PD Charging and Audio Support
If your laptop lacks in the audio jack, then CalDigit will solve your problem. The dock comes loaded with a 3.5 mm audio jack so you can plug any regular headphones for enjoying uninterrupted music. The power delivery feature lets you charge your laptops and tablets without the charger.
Pros
- Entirely made using aluminum for superb durability.
- Works well with Thunderbolt 3 compatible Macs
- Multiple display ports help you extend displays.
Cons
- It does not have SDCard slots.
Price: $237.00
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#2. OWC 14-Port Thunderbolt 3 Dock with Cable
OWC is a sleek Thunderbolt 3 hub, and you can carry it in your backpack or pouch easily. The body is manufactured with sturdy material, so you can rest assured that it will deliver decent longevity. Additionally, connecting multiple devices is easy because of the handy design of the best Thunderbolt 3 hub.
Number of Connectivity Ports
OWC Thunderbolt 3 travel hub comes loaded with 4 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, one optical audio out port, one gigabit Ethernet port, 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports, one mini display port, one USB 3.1 Gen 2 port, one USB 3.1 Gen 1, and one analog audio in/out port. You can connect multimedia devices, Ethernet cables, and can charge your laptop or phone with ease when you have OWC Thunderbolt Dock by your side.
Transfer Data Quickly
With the three Thunderbolt cables included inside the packaging, you can transfer data much quicker. You can achieve up to 40 GB/s of transfer rate with this USB C Thunderbolt hub based on your system configuration.
Connect Multiple Displays
Also, you can connect headphones and other multimedia devices using the 3.5 mm audio jack. Additionally, you can connect multiple displays to your laptop with this Mac Thunderbolt dock without using any secondary devices.
Pros
- Sleek and compact design.
- It supports 4K displays.
- Very durable and sturdy.
Cons
- Some users said the connection is unstable intermittently.
Price: $299.99
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#3. Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Pro Dock
Elgato is an ultimate Thunderbolt 3 dock for MacBook pro that comes loaded with a plethora of connectivity ports. You will get everything you need, and you can achieve excellent data transfer speed with this elegant dock from Elgato.
Number of Connectivity Ports
Elgato Thunderbolt Dock has 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports, 2 USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, one headphone output (3.5mm), one display port, 2 USB 3.1 gen one port, one Gigabit Ethernet port, one headset port, and one MicroSD/Sd port. You can use the Thunderbolt Port for transferring data as well as charging your laptop or tablets.
Incredible Transfer Speed
The data transfer speed you can attain with Elgato Dock is approximately 40 GB/s when using the Thunderbolt 3 Port. Also, there are 4 USB ports so you can connect multiple External SSDs and other devices on the go.
Dual 4K support
You can stream 4K content using the Thunderbolt and display ports. There is a 50 cm Thunderbolt cable available with the dock, so there is no need to buy one separately.
Pros
- It comes with a long and flexible connectivity cable.
- Multiple Thunderbolt ports for faster data transfer.
- The audio quality of the aux port is amazing.
Cons
- Better options are available at a lower price.
Price: $344.00
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#4. Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Dock with Charging Compatible with MacBook Pro
Plugable Thunderbolt hub Mac is a tower-like device that offers a number of connectivity options at a budget-friendly price. The dock comes with a built-in stand, and it improves the stability of the device when connected with multiple peripherals. The stand is removable so you can use it vertically and horizontally based on your requirements.
Number of Connectivity Ports
Plugable Thunderbolt Dock has 5 USB 3.0 ports, 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports, one gigabit Ethernet port, one display picture port, and one bluetooth headphone jack (3.5mm). You can charge your devices as it offers 60W of power delivery through the Thunderbolt 3 port.
Bright LED Lights
The bright LED lights will help you in checking whether the setup is done appropriately or not. It comes with a blue and green LED that lights up when you connect the dock with the power supply.
Fast Data Transfer
Transfer your data on the go by connecting your devices with Thunderbolt 3 port of this dock. You can attain a transfer speed of up to 10 GB/s using the Thunderbolt port, and 5 GB/s while using the USB 3.0 ports.
Pros
- The tower-like design makes connectivity easier.
- The USB 3.0 port supports fast charging and higher data transfer.
- The aux port serves you as in and out.
Cons
- A few users had issues with the customer service.
Price: $193.00
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#5. StarTech Dual 4K Monitor Thunderbolt 3 Dock with DisplayPort
StarTech Thunderbolt Dock offers excellent connectivity options with fast charging via USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3. You can charge your Android phones and tablets with USB 3.0, while the USB Type C is suitable for charging your MacBook.
Number of Connectivity Ports
This Thunderbolt 3 hub 4k 60hz has 5 USB 3.0 ports, one Ethernet port, one USB type C 3.0, 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports with one as host and another one support peripheral, one display port, one SD card reader, and one 3.5 mm audio jack.
Power Delivery and Fast Charging
The Thunderbolt port offers power delivery charging for charging MacBook and laptops. Also, you can connect your Android phone or laptop with USB 3.0 fast-charging port for charging purposes.
Dual Monitor Docking
You can connect another monitor to the display port or with the Thunderbolt port using the Type C cable available with the dock. It supports 40 GB/s speed with 4K resolution and 60Hz refresh rate. You can also attain 5K resolution by connecting the Thunderbolt 3 dock dual monitor to a single monitor.
Pros
- The unique design dissipates heat quickly.
- It has got plenty of ports.
- The Ethernet port is gigabit certified.
Cons
- It has a tiny LED indicator.
Price: $245.00
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#6. Cable Matters Aluminum Thunderbolt 3 Dock with HDMI 2.0 and 60W Laptop Charging
This Thunderbolt Dock belongs to Cable Matters which is a renowned manufacturer of computer peripherals. The device only weighs 3.25 pounds, and you can carry it with ease without feeling any bulk.
Number of Connectivity Ports
The Cable Matters MacBook pro 2018 USB C dock comes with 5 USB 3.0 ports, one gigabit Ethernet port, 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports, one HDMI port, one 3.5 mm audio jack, and one UHS-1 card reader slot. You can use the USB 3.0 for data transfer as well as for charging purposes. Also, the Thunderbolt ports will enable you to transfer data or to connect to other monitors and systems.
PD Charging and 4K Streaming
The dock offers power delivery of 60W, which is enough to charge your laptops or tablets. Moreover, connecting to the HDMI 2.0 port will help you in streaming devices 4K content with ease.
Fast Data Transfer and Internet
The Ethernet port will allow you to connect to the internet while rewarding you with a top internet speed of up to 1000 MB/s. Also, transferring data is a breeze because with the USB 3.0 ports you can achieve approximately 5 GB/s transfer speed. There is a Thunderbolt cable available, and you can transfer data up to 40 GB/s by connecting it to the Thunderbolt Port.
Identifying the internet connection is easy because the Host Link LED turns to blue as soon as you connect the dock with the internet successfully.
Pros
- The dock supports faster charging with PD ports.
- Works well with high-resolution displays.
- You get a durable cable with the hub.
Cons
- It does not have an SD card reader port.
Price: $227.00
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#7. Cable Matters 10Gbps USB C and Thunderbolt 3 Dock
Here is another Thunderbolt 3 docking station MacBook pro from Cable Matters that is worth your attention. It also comes with a stand so you can use it vertically or horizontally based on your requirements. If you are not looking to spend a considerable amount, then this dock station is ideal for you.
Number of Connectivity Ports
Cable Matters dock station has 2 USB 2.0 ports, 2 USB 3.0 ports, one dynamic bandwidth switch, 2 display ports, one USB Type C (host) port, one USB 3.1 Gen 1 port, one USB 3.1 Gen 2, one audio in/out jack, one Ethernet port, one audio in microphone jack 3.5mm, one USH-II card slot, and one Micro SD Card slot.
You have the option to connect a mouse and keyboard while transferring tons of data using other USB ports. Moreover, you can connect to two monitors by using the display ports available on the docking station.
Dynamic Bandwidth Switch
The dynamic bandwidth switch will help you in switching between HD and 4K quality. You don’t have to rely on monitor settings because a single switch will make things easier for you.
PD, 4K Streaming and Fast data Transfer
The USB Thunderbolt port provides 80W of power so you can charge your laptop without a separate charger. Also, there is a dedicated Type C port that supplies 18W charge for charging iPads and tablets. When we talk about data transfer, then you can use the Thunderbolt ports and USB ports.
The data transfer speed can vary between 40 GB/s-10GB/s based on what connectivity port you use, and with what system configuration. You can stream 4K content at 1920×[email protected] using the display ports.
Pros
- Ideal for extending displays.
- The hub has a UHS-II card reader.
- It comes with a docking stand.
Cons
- Not very portable due to its big dimensions.
Price: $179.99
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Also, Check:
- Best Internal SSD For MacBook Pro
- Best External Hard Drives For MacBook Pro
- Best USB C Charger For MacBook Pro
- Best USB-C Power Banks For MacBook Pro
- Best Portable Chargers For MacBook Pro
- Best Wireless Mouse for MacBook Pro
- Best Computer Speakers Under $100
Which thunderbolt 3 dock for MacBook are you going to buy? Do write to us about your choices and views in the comments section.