10 Best Usb C Hubs for Apple

As you're seeking to enhance your Apple device's capabilities, you're likely pondering which USB-C hub is the best match for your requirements. With numerous options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to navigate the market. You're probably considering factors like multi-monitor support, rapid data transfer speeds, and power delivery options. But which hubs truly stand out from the crowd? From the Microsoft Surface Dock 2 to the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock, we've got your needs covered. Let's delve into the top 10 USB-C hubs for Apple devices that can transform your workflow.

Key Takeaways

• When choosing a USB-C hub for Apple devices, consider compatibility with MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and iPad Pro.
• Look for hubs with Thunderbolt 3 or 4 for faster data transfer speeds and multi-monitor support.
• Select a hub with a port selection tailored to your needs, including USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet, and SD card slots.
• Ensure the hub can deliver sufficient power for charging your devices, with features like Power Delivery (PD) and high power output capabilities.
• Consider design features such as compactness, sustainability, and build quality to ensure a seamless integration with your Apple ecosystem.

Microsoft Surface Dock 2 for PC/Smartphone/Monitor

If you're a Microsoft Surface user seeking a versatile docking station that can connect your PC, smartphone, and monitor, the Microsoft Surface Dock 2 is an excellent choice. It features six USB ports, including two 10 Gbps USB-C ports with video display capabilities.

You'll appreciate the ease of setup and functionality that allows you to expand your workspace with multiple monitors and peripherals. With a maximum power supply wattage of 199W, this dock can handle your device's power needs.

Additionally, it's built with a Kensington security slot and has a compact design that won't clutter your workspace. Overall, the Microsoft Surface Dock 2 is a reliable and high-performance docking station that's perfect for your Surface device.

Best For: Microsoft Surface users seeking a versatile docking station to connect their PC, smartphone, and monitor.

Pros:

• Easy setup and functionality for expanding workspace with multiple monitors and peripherals
• High-performance docking station with a maximum power supply wattage of 199W
• Compact design with a Kensington security slot, ideal for clutter-free workspaces

Cons:

• Some users experience difficulties with multiple monitors and sound output
• Screen dimming issue reported by some users, with limited helpful information online
• Dropping monitors and issues with the first dock reported by some users

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

You'll likely find the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock to be the best choice for Apple users who need an extremely versatile and high-performance hub, offering an unparalleled 18 ports of extreme connectivity. This dock provides powerful 98W charging, single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays, and 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, making it a game-changer for those who need a reliable and high-speed connection.

You'll appreciate its universal compatibility with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices, including Apple M2, M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max, M1 Ultra, Intel-based Macs, Windows PCs, and Chrome OS devices. Although it may run warm due to its high-performance capabilities, the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock is considered worth the investment for its ease of setup, functionality, and great value.

Best For: Apple users who need an extremely versatile and high-performance hub with multiple ports and high-speed connectivity.

Pros:

• 18 ports of extreme connectivity, including powerful 98W charging, single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays, and 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet
• Universally compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices, including Apple M2, M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max, M1 Ultra, Intel-based Macs, Windows PCs, and Chrome OS devices
• Easy to set up and use, with a great value for its function and looks

Cons:

• Runs warm due to its high-performance capabilities
• Some users have experienced network connectivity issues
• Would be improved with additional USB ports instead of memory slots

Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock

With its ability to support up to two 4K displays, the Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock is an excellent choice for professionals who need a reliable and high-performance docking solution for their Apple devices.

You'll appreciate the dock's versatility, which includes two DisplayPort 1.2 ports, two HDMI ports, and a USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C port. Additionally, you'll find three USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A ports and two USB 2.0 Type-A ports, ensuring you can connect all your peripherals.

The dock also features a 10/100/1000 Mb/s Ethernet port and comes with a USB Type-C cable with a Type-A adapter. Measuring 3.15 x 1.18 x 8.27 inches and weighing 1.06 pounds, this compact dock is easy to take on the go.

Best For: Professionals who need a reliable and high-performance docking solution for their laptops.

Pros:

• Supports up to two 4K displays for an excellent multi-monitor experience
• Offers a wide range of ports, including DisplayPort, HDMI, USB-A, and Ethernet, to connect all necessary peripherals
• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to take on the go

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with the monitor ports becoming non-functional after a few months of use
• Customer support can be difficult to communicate with, leading to frustration
• May require additional power cords and docking stations to be purchased separately

USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor for MacBook Pro

For MacBook Pro users seeking a seamless dual-monitor experience, this USB C Docking Station stands out as a top choice, boasting 15-in-2 expansion and compatibility with a range of devices.

You'll appreciate the versatility of this dock, which supports two 4K monitors at 60Hz or 30Hz in extend mode. With four USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C port, and two USB 2.0 ports, you'll have plenty of room to connect your peripherals.

The dock also features a USB C PD 3.0 port that supports up to 87W charging for your MacBook Pro or Air. Plus, the compact design and Space Gray color match your MacBook perfectly, making it a sleek addition to your workspace.

Best For: MacBook Pro users seeking a seamless dual-monitor experience with a reliable and versatile docking station.

Pros:

• Offers 15-in-2 expansion and compatibility with a range of devices, including two 4K monitors at 60Hz or 30Hz in extend mode.
• Features a compact design and Space Gray color that matches MacBook Pro, making it a sleek addition to the workspace.
• Provides a USB C PD 3.0 port that supports up to 87W charging for MacBook Pro or Air.

Cons:

• May experience minor malfunctions after extended usage (over a year).
• Headphone jack requires manual selection in System Preferences.
• No specific details on warranty or durability beyond customer service experience.

Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station

If you're searching for a docking station that can support dual monitors with resolutions up to 1920×1200, the Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station is the best choice. This docking station is a versatile and reliable option that provides flexible expandability for your laptop.

It comes with two HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, audio, and six USB ports, making it an ideal solution for dual-monitor setups. You'll appreciate the inclusion of both USB 3.0 and USB-C cables, which guarantees compatibility with a wide range of devices.

Plus, it's compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS, making it a great option for work or home use.

Best For: Those who need a reliable and versatile docking station for dual-monitor setups with resolutions up to 1920×1200, compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS.

Pros:

• Provides flexible expandability for laptops with two HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, audio, and six USB ports
• Compatible with a wide range of devices and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS
• Includes both USB 3.0 and USB-C cables for easy setup and compatibility

Cons:

• Does not charge the host PC and is not recommended for gaming
• Does not support HDCP or playback of encrypted/copy-protected content
• Not compatible with Linux operating systems

Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station (13-in-1)

You'll find the Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station to be an ideal choice when you need a single hub that can simultaneously charge your laptop and phone while connecting up to three monitors.

This 13-in-1 dock offers extensive expansion with multiple ports and slots, making it perfect for desktop use. Users rave about the build quality and performance, and it's compatible with different laptops and devices, including the Surface Pro 7.

You'll appreciate the thorough media display support and the fact that it works seamlessly with macOS and iPadOS. Plus, Anker's customer service is exceptional, so you can trust that any issues will be resolved efficiently and hassle-free.

Best For: Professionals and individuals who need a reliable and versatile docking station for desktop use with multiple devices and monitors.

Pros:

• Offers extensive expansion with 13 ports and slots, including simultaneous charging for laptop and phone
• Compatible with different laptops and devices, including Surface Pro 7, and supports up to three monitors
• Exceptional customer service with efficient and hassle-free defect resolution process

Cons:

• May cause confusion with USB-C formats and PD support
• Initial issues with accidental power disconnection may occur
• May not be suitable for users who are not familiar with display resolution and refresh rate differences

OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock

With its 96W charging capability and support for up to 8K display or two 5K displays, the OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock is an ideal choice for Apple users who need a reliable multi-connectivity solution for their devices.

You'll appreciate the variety of ports it offers, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output.

This dock is compatible with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices, making it a versatile option for your setup. You'll also benefit from its 96W power delivery to your host computer and 15W to external devices.

With its plug-and-play functionality, you won't need any software to get started. Overall, the OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock is a high-quality choice that's earned a 4.3-star rating from 356 customer reviews.

Best For: Apple users who need a reliable multi-connectivity solution for their devices, particularly those with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices.

Pros:

• Offers a wide range of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output
• Supports up to 8K display or two 5K displays, making it ideal for users who need high-resolution displays
• Provides 96W power delivery to the host computer and 15W to external devices, making it a convenient and efficient option

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with fullscreen video playback on external monitors
• The placement of the charging port may be inconvenient for some users
• No specific information is provided about the product warranty, which may be a concern for some customers

WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station

Looking for a docking station that can support dual 5K monitors and high-speed data transfer? The WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station is an excellent choice. It supports flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays, allowing you to connect two monitors with a maximum resolution of 5120x1440p60 (5K Ultrawide) or 4096x2160p60 (Cinema 4K).

You'll also appreciate the six USB 3.0 ports for fast data transfer and a Gigabit Ethernet port for reliable network speeds. Plus, it comes with a 100W power adapter for laptop charging and supports power delivery through the USB-C port.

With its compatibility with various platforms, including macOS, Windows, and Chrome OS, this docking station is a great investment for your Apple device.

Best For: Professionals and users who need a reliable docking station to connect multiple high-resolution monitors and peripherals to their laptop.

Pros:

• Supports dual 5K monitors with flexible video interfacing options (DP and HDMI)
• Offers high-speed data transfer with six USB 3.0 ports and a Gigabit Ethernet port
• Compatible with various platforms, including macOS, Windows, and Chrome OS, and comes with a 100W power adapter for laptop charging

Cons:

• Limited to USB 3.0 ports, no USB 3.1 or newer options
• No audio jacks or SD card slots
• Warranty period is limited to 18 months

Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station for Laptops

This Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station is an ideal choice for Apple users who need to connect multiple monitors, as it supports up to three displays for multitasking. With dual HDMI and DisplayPort, you can expand your port options and enjoy high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones.

You'll also appreciate the fast file transfer with USB-C and USB-A ports. Measuring just 6.7 x 3.15 x 0.96 inches and weighing 1.6 ounces, this docking station is compact and portable.

Anker's reputation for quality and reliability is backed by an 18-month warranty and customer service. With over 4.2-star ratings from 163 customers, you can trust this product to meet your needs.

Best For: Apple users who need to connect multiple monitors for multitasking and require high-speed charging for their laptops and phones.

Pros:

• Supports up to three monitors for multitasking with dual HDMI and DisplayPort
• Fast file transfer with USB-C and USB-A ports and high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones
• Compact and portable design with an 18-month warranty and customer service for added reliability

Cons:

• Requires DisplayLink driver download for Mac compatibility
• Some users experience USB connection inconsistency and display resolution issues
• Limited refresh rate of 60Hz for 2K and 4K monitors

Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock

You'll find the Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock is an excellent choice if you need a high-speed docking station that supports dual 4K monitors and offers lightning-fast connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 ports.

With its versatile compatibility, you can connect your devices using USB-C and USB-A ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, and a 2.5G Ethernet port. Plus, the dock features a security lock slot for added peace of mind.

You'll appreciate the quick charging capability, which can power up your laptop in just 2.5 hours. The dock's design is also sustainable, made with 20% recycled ocean-bound plastic.

With its compact size and raised tactile indicators on each port, this dock is perfect for streamlining your workspace.

Best For: Those who need a high-speed docking station with dual 4K monitor support and prioritize Microsoft's design language.

Pros:

• Offers lightning-fast connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 ports for data transfer, media streaming, and device charging
• Supports quick charging, allowing your laptop to be powered up in just 2.5 hours
• Made with 20% recycled ocean-bound plastic, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility

Cons:

• Lacks some features compared to other docks, such as triple/quad monitor support, HDMI, DisplayPort, and SD card readers
• Priced at $300, which is $40 more than the launch price of the older Dock 2
• Does not have higher power delivery, an SD card reader, front-facing audio port, M.2 internal storage option, or the ability to fasten the power supply unit to the dock

Factors to Consider When Choosing USB C Hubs for Apple

When shopping for a USB-C hub for your Apple device, you'll want to think about several key factors to make sure you get the right one.

You'll need to ponder what devices you want to connect, how quickly you need them to transfer data, and how you want to power them.

From compatibility and port selection to design and multi-monitor support, you've got some important decisions to make.

Compatibility With Apple Devices

To ensure a seamless experience, choose a USB-C hub that's specifically designed to work with your Apple devices, including MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and iPad Pro. You'll want to make sure the hub is compatible with macOS and iOS to avoid any integration issues.

Additionally, look for hubs that support Thunderbolt 3 or 4, which will give you faster data transfer speeds on your Apple devices.

When selecting a USB-C hub, consider the types of ports you need. As an Apple user, you may require specific ports like USB-A, HDMI, and SD card slots. Make sure the hub has these ports to meet your needs.

Another important factor is power delivery. You'll want a hub that can efficiently charge your Apple devices while they're connected. Verify that the hub supports power delivery, so you can keep your devices powered up without any hassle.

Port Selection and Speed

As you shop for a USB-C hub for your Apple device, the variety of ports and their speeds become important factors that can greatly impact your overall user experience. You'll want to ponder about the types of ports you need, such as USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, Ethernet, and SD card slots, to make sure you've got the right connections for your peripherals.

When it comes to speed, look for hubs with fast data transfer speeds like USB 3.0 or higher for efficient file transfers. You might also want to contemplate hubs with specific port speeds, such as Thunderbolt 4, which offers ultra-fast data transfer and high-resolution display support.

Make sure to check the hub's specifications to confirm it's compatible with your Apple device, whether that's a MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, or iPad. By choosing a hub with the right ports and speeds, you'll be able to stay productive and connected on the go.

Power Delivery and Charging

With reliable power delivery and charging capabilities, you can effectively fuel your Apple devices on the move, making it a crucial aspect when selecting a USB-C hub. You'll want a hub that supports Power Delivery (PD) for rapid and effective charging of your MacBook Pro/Air and other devices.

Look for hubs with high power output capabilities, such as 100W, to make certain you can charge your devices swiftly. It's also convenient to have a hub that provides simultaneous charging for both laptops and phones, so you can power up multiple devices at the same time.

When selecting a hub, check if it has USB-C PD 3.0 ports that offer up to 87W charging for your MacBook Pro/Air models. This will guarantee you can charge your laptop promptly and efficiently. Furthermore, ensure the hub supports power delivery through USB-C ports, so you can charge your Apple devices while using other peripherals.

Design and Build Quality

You'll want a USB-C hub that echoes the sleek, sophisticated design of your Apple devices, blending seamlessly into your workspace. To achieve this, consider a hub that matches your Apple device's color scheme, such as Space Gray or Silver.

High-quality materials like aluminum or durable plastics are also essential for a hub that can withstand daily use and transportation. A compact and sleek design is a must, as it will fit neatly on your desk or workspace without taking up too much room.

Look for a hub with a sturdy build that can handle the demands of frequent use. Additionally, opt for a hub with a minimalistic design that eliminates the need for multiple adapters and cables. This will help keep your workspace organized and clutter-free.

Multi-Monitor Support

Your Apple device's limited ports don't have to restrict your productivity – a USB-C hub with robust multi-monitor support can significantly enhance your workflow.

With the ability to connect multiple external monitors, you can expand your workspace, mirror displays for presentations, or create a versatile setup for different tasks.

Some USB-C hubs support dual 4K or even 5K resolution displays, providing high-quality visuals for work or entertainment.

As a professional, gamer, content creator, or anyone who requires a larger digital workspace, multi-monitor support is a game-changer.

You'll appreciate the flexibility to set up your ideal configuration, whether it's for heavy-duty editing, gaming, or multitasking.

When choosing a USB-C hub, consider the type of devices you'll be connecting and the resolution you need. Look for hubs that are compatible with your Apple device, as well as other laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

With the right multi-monitor support, you'll discover new levels of productivity and elevate your workflow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a USB-C Hub With an Older Macbook Model?

You're wondering if you can use a USB-C hub with an older MacBook model. The answer is, it depends on the model and its ports. If your MacBook has USB-C or Thunderbolt 3, you're good to go!

Are All USB-C Hubs Compatible With Ipads and Iphones?

You're wondering if all USB-C hubs work with your iPad or iPhone. Unfortunately, not all hubs are compatible due to power delivery and data transfer limitations, so you'll need to check the hub's specs before buying.

Do USB-C Hubs Support USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 Devices?

You're wondering if USB-C hubs support older devices. The good news is that most USB-C hubs are backward compatible, meaning you can plug in USB 3.0 and 2