USB Docks that work with Macbook Air (Intel)

[mjt57]

I'm using my Macbook Air (intel, 2 port USB-C) to do photo processing.

The issue that I have is that there are only 2 USB-C (or Thunderbolt?) ports. I have one of those adapters with two USB plugs to mate with the MBA's ports. It has HDMI, SD card reader and USB-A ports.

I've tried a couple of different brands and different styles but all have their shortcomings.

I can't run power and video and camera tether at the same time as all three are USB-C connections. So, I charge the MBA then get to work.

I can't seem to find a dock that will allow multiple USB-C connections. I want to also connect one of my portable SSD drives to it so I can back up photos when I'm away from home (at home I back up across the Wifi network to my NAS).

Who here uses a Macbook (any model with only 2 ports) in a similar situation? What do you do to get around these glaring omissions?

I'm starting to regret buying the MBA now.

 

[tekfranz]

I am trying to figure this out too. I have the official Apple Multiport A/V adapter and it has trouble with charging and running a 1980x 1200 screen while charging. My solution for now is just plug in power and the external display to separate usb-c ports and leave TimeMachine and Ethernet adapter un-plugged.

Wish there was a recommended Dock or Hub for these Intel MacBook Airs.

I also understand USB-C cannot be split into two connections. It has to be converted to USB-A, Ethernet or hdmi.

 

[tommyparadise]

Literally came to the forums to post a thread about this same question. Would love to know an USB C hub that enables screen, storage, power and phon transfers at once on the air. Will follow this with keen interest!

 

[mjt57]

The adapter that I'm currently using has the two USB-C ports to plug into the MBA. It has an HDMI port but my monitor has only VGA, DP or DVI. So, I have a DP to USB-C cable. I might look to see if there is a HDMI to DP that will work.B

I find too, that when I plug the adapter in then plug in either the tether cable from the camera or the power one and then the video cable to the monitor one or the other may not work. If I then swap the cables around it then works.

I still cannot fathom why Apple went backwards here. If I had an older MBA with a Magsafe power connector I'd be right. No problems.

Photographers place great importance on what they call "workflow". As I'm taking it up as a retirement hobby it isn't really that important to me, but more of a PITA having to swap over cables and whatnot.

Anyway, I'll persevere.
thanks folks for your input. It's appreciated.

 

[JPack]

I don’t get it. Why won’t a dock work? This dock offers 3 USB-C ports and it delivers power to your MacBook.

Computer Accessories and Peripherals

Shop Dell’s high-quality computer accessories like keyboards, mice, webcams, batteries and more. Enjoy great deals and build your ideal PC setup for home or business.

www.dell.com

 

[mjt57]

I don’t get it. Why won’t a dock work? This dock offers 3 USB-C ports and it delivers power to your MacBook.

Computer Accessories and Peripherals

Shop Dell’s high-quality computer accessories like keyboards, mice, webcams, batteries and more. Enjoy great deals and build your ideal PC setup for home or business.

www.dell.com

That appears to be for a Dell computer. And it's over $500 USD (about $800 AUD at present).

Anyway, I don't get it either.

 

[JPack]

That appears to be for a Dell computer. And it's over $500 USD (about $800 AUD at present).

Anyway, I don't get it either.

I’ve got the TB3 version of that dock and it works fine with my Air. It’s also certified to work with Mac.

https://www.delltechnologies.com/asset/en-us/products/electronics-and-accessories/briefs-summaries/dell-thunderbolt-dock-wd19tb-apple-certification.pdf

If price is a concern, there are plenty of other less expensive dock brands like Plugable and Startech. There are lots of technical solutions for this port “problem.”

 

[tekfranz]

Would love some feedback on the cheaper options. After all it is a MacBook Air. A bit of a shame to spend half of the total price on a dock?

 

[mjt57]

There are lots of technical solutions for this port “problem.”

So, I take it then that you don't see it as a problem.

And as posted above, how crazy is that - to spend nearly half or maybe more, market depending, on a dock to fix a problem that Apple should never have created.

Of course, we did buy these things, so I suppose that we, the consumers, are to blame.

Sorry, but for me it becomes a hassle, especially if I have to run it on mains power and can't do much else at the same time.