Apple MacBook Pro can run any computing you throw at it. You can connect it to a high-end 4K monitor or hook up an external hard drive. However, the lack of enough ports will pinch there. The best option is connecting your MacBook Pro to Thunderbolt 4 dock.
These Thunderbolt 4 docks for MacBook Pro are fast and give you faster speed when compared to regular USB-C docks. This feature is of great help, especially if you are a professional who deals with regular file transfers. On top of that, this small port can not only handle speed but can also handle power and video signals.
So, if you want to upgrade your docking station, here are the best Thunderbolt 4 docks for MacBook Pro. But first,
- Close the gap with these Thunderbolt 4 cables for MacBook Pro
- Carry your MacBook Pro in style with these bags for 16-inch laptops
- Keep off prying eyes from your screen with these privacy screens for Apple MacBook Pro
1. Anker PowerExpand 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 Mini Dock
- Ports: 1 x upstream Thunderbolt 4, 3 x downstream Thunderbolt 4, 1 x USB-A 3.1 Gen2.
- Number of ports: 5
The highlight of the Anker PowerExpand 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 dock is its small and compact size. This MacBook Pro Dock weighs just around 0.5 pounds. As suggestive of its name, it comes with 5 ports. It includes 3 downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a USB-A port. The downstream port enables you to transfer files and documents, while the USB-A port gives you the flexibility of connecting peripherals like a keyboard or mouse. This dock doesn’t come with dedicated slots for SD cards. But if you have the 14-inch M1 MacBook Pro (2nd gen) variant, this shouldn’t be a dealbreaker.
There are no HDMI or DisplayPorts connectors on this dock. You’ll need to get an adapter to use it with an HDMI or DisplayPort on a monitor.
The Thunderbolt 4 Mini dock brings the signature style of Anker Thunderbolt docks. It sports a metallic look with grooves on the sides. The best part is that it delivers an impressive performance. It works without issues when you connect an external set of monitors or transferring files and documents. Also, Thunderbolt 4Â cables can transfer files and charge connected (and compatible) peripherals in tandem. The folks at Laptop Mag didn’t find any dips in speed or lag in the connection during such tests.
The upstream Thunderbolt 4 port is the bridge between the laptop and the dock. It’s also a charging medium. If we talk numbers, it can supply up to 85W of power and is apt for the 14-inch MacBook Pro. However, the number of ports is lower than other Thunderbolt 4 docks. On the upside, you connect your cable without any issues.
Anker PowerExpand 5-in-1 dock is a little expensive, especially for the limited number of ports. If you want a compact and travel-friendly dock, this is a good pick.
2. Kensington SD5700T
- Ports: 4 x Thunderbolt 4, 4 x USB-A, 1 x Gigabit Ethernet port, 1 x UHS-II SD 4.0 card reader, 1 x 3.5mm audio
- Number of ports: 11
Another compact Thunderbolt 4 dock for MacBook Pro is the one by Kensington. It’s more expensive than the Anker PowerExpand above and brings the advantage of additional ports to the table. If we talk specifics, it comes with 3 Thunderbolt 4 ports, a UHS-II SD 4.0 slot, 3 USB-A ports, an audio jack, ethernet port, etc. The UHS slot makes it easy to store and transfer photos to SD cards.
Like the one above, it comes with 3 Thunderbolt 4 ports, which help in transferring files and data with ease. The Power Delivery rating of 90W is apt for the smaller MacBook Pro.
The one thing that separates the Kensington SD5700T from most laptop docks is its inclusion of Kensington locks. With it, you can leave this laptop dock in your office on days you don’t want to lug it home.
3. Razer Thunderbolt 4 Dock for Mac
- Ports: 1 x upstream Thunderbolt 4, 3 x Thunderbolt 4, 3 x USB-A, 1 x Ethernet, 1 x UHS-II SD Card reader, 1 x  3.5mm audio.
- Number of ports: 10
How does the idea of an RGB-glowing laptop dock sound to you? If you are excited by it, the Razer Thunderbolt 4 Dock will blend seamlessly with your desk. It’s a full-sized dock that bundles 10 ports and includes 3 USB-A ports. The USB-A port allows connecting an array of devices.
The best part is that the Thunderbolt 4 ports can charge connected devices at 15W. And when it comes to external displays, you can connect multiple displays. The M1 MacBook Pro supports a single display, while the new M1 Max processor laden models support multiple displays.
The dock is compact and flat. The discreet design means you can easily place it anywhere on your desk. The ports have ample in-between, and you shouldn’t have issues connecting the cables. It consumes around 135W of power, which passes 90W of power to your MacBook Pro for charging.
It’s built well and has amassed a good number of positive reviews. Users like its compatibility with MacBook Pro laptops and the fact that they can run dual 4K displays at full scale without any issues.
4. CalDigit TS4
- Ports: 3x Thunderbolt 4, 3x USB-C, 5x USB-A, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2.5GbE, SD & microSD UHS-II
- Number of ports: 18
CalDigit has made a good name in the docking station arena, and the TS4 is one of the most powerful Thunderbolt 4 docks. It packs a wealth of ports and is compatible with not just the MacBook Pro, but also Windows laptops (with Thunderbolt 4 ports). Despite the number of ports, it’s not humongous. It weighs just around 1.41 lb.
This Thunderbolt laptop dock has 18 ports. It comes with a mix of USB Type-C, Thunderbolt 4, and USB A ports. And the USB Type-C ports at the front let you charge smartphones at a 15W speed.
It works as advertised, and the folks at The Verge were able to run a full 49-inch screen at 120Hz. The charging process is also on par with the advertised speed. The host port is a Thunderbolt 4 port. All you need to do is connect your laptop to it, and you will be ready to begin your day.
The insane number of ports means the CalDigit TS4 needs a huge amount of power to run. For now, it bundles a 230W power adapter, and you will need to have a sufficient place on your desk or an apt under-desk accessory to place it. The good thing is that it can pass through enough power for your MacBook Pro to run efficiently.
Faster Than the Flash
Thunderbolt 4 docks are expensive compared to their USB-C counterparts. A good beefy Thunderbolt 4 laptop dock for MacBook Pro will set you back by around $300. And if you need the power to do it all by connecting just a simple cable, the effort is worth it, right?
Last updated on 06 November, 2022
The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.
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