using external monitor with retina macbook pro

[tobypb]

I recently replaced my 2011 iMac with a 2014 15" retina macbook pro that I want to be able to use as both a laptop and a desktop. I'm planning to get a 27" monitor and a hengedock docking station, and also use a apple wireless keyboard and trackpad. One of my main constrains is I want there to be minimal effort when plugging the laptop in and using it as a desktop; as such I have a few questions:

1. If the laptop is in clamshell mode in the dock I presume if I want to be able to turn it on and off like a desktop without taking it out of the dock I will have to sleep and wake from sleep using an external keyboard/mouse, is this correct?

2. Is there an advantage to getting a thunderbolt display from the point of view of this setup and keeping effort to a minimum when using it as a desktop?

3. If I simply connect the laptop to an external display and put it in clamshell mode will it just work like a desktop immediately?

thanks for your help in advance

 

[MCAsan]

1. If the laptop is in clamshell mode in the dock I presume if I want to be able to turn it on and off like a desktop without taking it out of the dock I will have to sleep and wake from sleep using an external keyboard/mouse, is this correct?

Correct. My rMBP sits in a BookArc stand and is connected to my Apple Thunderbolt Display. I use the Magic Mouse in the morning to wake the rMBP.

2. Is there an advantage to getting a thunderbolt display from the point of view of this setup and keeping effort to a minimum when using it as a desktop?

Yes. Only the ATD provides a single cable that provides recharging power and a TB connection. Only the ATD had a built in TB docking station that multiples video, sound, mic, camera, FW, USB 2, and eithernet. Of course we wish the USB ports were USB 3. And personally I have zero need for FW. So the decision you have to make is does the ATD make a good value for you. At least in the States we can get referred units from Apple that are a little below list price and have full warranty.


3. If I simply connect the laptop to an external display and put it in clamshell mode will it just work like a desktop immediately?

It should. Mine does connected to ATD. The only delay should be waking it when is asleep...just like any other computer than sleeps.

 

[AllergyDoc]

In clamshell mode your rMBP will operate like a desktop, unless you're on WiFi. Your WiFi speed will be reduced in clamshell mode. I have a late-2013 13" rMBP and my WiFi drops almost in half (~12Mbps) in clamshell mode.

Update: I moved my workstation from the basement to the top floor and was getting terrible connection speeds, clamshell mode or not. I got a great deal on an Airport Express ($172 out the door at Best Buy), hooked my rMBP to the 5GHZ network, and I'm getting my best connection speed ever, in clamshell mode, no doubt. I couldn't be happier. Now to add an Apple TV...

 

[pietrov]

For point 2 you have to notice also that the iSight will be in front of you...

 

[mjfutures]

I have a Dell P2715Q 4K monitor with a Retina Macbook Pro Mid 2014. Does it perform best if the laptop is in clamshell mode? I would often use the laptop as a 2nd monitor.