Monitor only has 60W PD - buy a hub?

[iandk]

Hi,

I got myself a LG 27UD88-W a few months ago.
Back then I had only a 13" MBP for which the 60W PD on the USB C connection were perfect.

But I'm now planing to get the new 16" MBP which would require 96W to charge, which the monitor can't handle.
I don't want put a second cable in, so I'd prefer to keep my current single cable setup.

However I'm now thinking about the cheapest way to have only one cable connected to the Macbook, but still charge it at full speed since I don't want to worry about battery wear out if I'm using power intensive applications on the Mac.

I thought about getting something like an Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Dock, but this also only has an output of 85W (probably still enough?) but actually aside from the charging I have no use for such an expensive hub.


All those cheaper USB C dongles with power passthrough only output 4k 30hz unfortunately.


Does anyone know of a better/ cheaper solution?


Thanks!
iandk

 

[maflynn]

I don't want put a second cable in

If you only want a single cable coming from the laptop then you already have your answer

 

[iandk]

Is there something like a USB C to Diaplayport cable with an additional power input?

 

[Honza1]

Just first try to use the 60W and do not worry about it - I suspect you will find out it does not matter...
Unless you are running 100% of cpu all the time (which will make your MBP fans sound like tornado), 60W is enough. Apple is providing MBPs with overkill power source.
I run my 15 inch MBP all the time on 60W power sources (in my docks) and have no issues at all - even when loaded by Parallels Windows VM and heavy duty fitting software. It does take longer to recharge, but under normal use I do not notice. There is very little additional wear on battery (if any at all) with 60W PD, slower recharge may even be better for battery life (less heat).

Most of the USB-C dongles with PD through which I have seen are limited to 60W anyway, so those will not work. And they are kind of fragile - I had already two die on me (including genuine Apple one), I suspect the power pass through is overheating the internals.

 

[iandk]

Thanks for the reply!
@Honza1 you are probably right.
Btw I just noticed Apple has an USB C to HDMI/USB/ USB C PD Adapter which is capable of 4k 60hz and charging.

It seems to be the only hub which can output 4k@60Hz does anyone know why?