TB/USB-C dock for MBA (PD, DP, USB3/C, maybe HDMI ...)

[agregson]

Hi,

I am looking for a dock to allow simple expansion of MBA and easy one cable connect. Plan to use with LG monitor - either 21:9 3440x1440p or 16:9 3840x2160. Would also like non-trapped cables and a configuration that would allow neat cable management on desk. Video should be 60Hz minimum on DP. HDMI would be handy if included. Sound breakout also handy as would SD card reader though neither essential.

I am leaning towards the Plugable Thunderbolt™ 3 and USB-C Dual Display Dock with 96W Host Charging. It is not cheap but I can be confident it will work and will not cause any issues or damage to MacBook. I would also like to buy it once and not have any doubts or changes - even if that means paying more.

Plugable Thunderbolt™ Docking Station, Dual HDMI with DisplayPort, 96W

The Plugable Thunderbolt™ 3 and USB-C Dual Display Dock with 96W Host Charging (TBT3-UDC3) allows you to drive up to two 4K displays, add three USB 3.0 ports, add two USB-C ports, gigabit Ethernet connectivity, a combo headset jack, and up to 96W of charging to your compatible USB-C or...

plugable.com

Has anyone any experience of this dock or can anyone suggest alternatives? I have no real experience of these. I had thought to go for a monitor with USB-C connectivity but I am trying to keep things modular so I can mix, match and upgrade components as I decide.

Thanks in advance for any assistance.

Kind regards
A

 

[jdb8167]

I use the Caldigit USB-C SOHO dock with my M1 MacBook Air. Not TB3 but it ticks all the boxes on your list except sound output.

• DP 4K 60 HZ
• HDMI 4K 60 Hz
• USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps)
• USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps)
• 90 W PD (you supply the PD Charger)
• SD Card slots

Inexpensive at around $80. M1 can only use one video out. Other TB Macs can use both but only at 30 Hz. Apparently Macs can’t use two monitors over USB-C even if the Mac is capable of multiple displays.