Notebook docking solutions have been popular forever. If you use a notebook as your primary system, then you’ve likely experienced the frustration of unplugging multiple cables when you’re in a hurry to head out the door.
The 2016 MacBook Pro compounds this problem, given the relative dearth of ports and a reliance on USB Type-C connections that require dongles for just about every legacy device. A number of companies are introducing solutions to this problem, and Henge Docks one of them, with a new line of docking stations that aim to make unplugging your MacBook Pro and running out the door a much less frustrating affair.
In addition, Henge Docks has entered into a partnership with Apple to become a part of Apple’s Authorized Business Solution Provider (ABSP) program. That means that Henge Docks can now sell MacBook Pros in bundles with their docking solutions, with savings up to $150. Henge Docks CEO Matthew Vroom said, “This partnership, coupled with the new products we are launching, allows us to offer our customers a complete workstation setup in one convenient spot, and at a discounted price. It’s an honor that we were selected for this program after having worked so hard to build products designed to complement and enhance the Apple user experience.”
Tethered Docking Station
The first of the new docking solutions from Henge Docks is the Tethered Dock, which matches the MacBook Pro’s design in a separate wedge that can be used alone or to prop the notebook up at a more comfortable angle. The Tethered Dock connects to the MacBook Pro via a single USB Type-C or Thunderbolt 3 port, depending on the model, and provides power to the notebook via the dock’s 85-watt power supply, while also providing access to the dock’s copious connections.
Speaking of those connections, the Tethered Dock offers a fairly comprehensive selection. Here’s a list:
- 3 x USB 3.0 ports
- 1 x USB Type-C with Thunderbolt 3
- 2 x mini-DisplayPorts
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- Audio port
- SD card reader
The Tethered Dock is made with a solid metal chassis that closely matches the MacBook Air’s aesthetic. Henge Dock plans to ship the Tethered Dock in March 2017 at retail prices starting at $199.
Vertical Docking Station for 2016 MacBook Pro
For anyone with limited space, the Vertical Docking Station for the 2016 MacBook Pro could be a solid solution. The notebook slides into the vertically oriented base and connects via a pass-through USB Type-C or Thunderbolt 3 connection. The dock is of all-metal construction and closely mimics the MacBook Pro in providing a space-saving design.
Compared to Henge Dock’s other solutions the Vertical Docking Station isn’t intended to expand the MacBook Pro’s connectivity. Rather, it’s intended to vertically orient the notebook and provide access to its existing ports. Versions will be available for the 13-inch MacBook Pro with and without Touch Bar and the 15-inch MacBook Pro. All models are expected to ship sometime in spring 2017 starting at $149.
Horizontal Docking Station for 2016 MacBook Pro
If you’re looking for the ultimate in convenience and connectivity, then you’ll want to take a look at Henge Docks’ Horizontal Docking Station for 2016 MacBook Pro. This one provides a snap-in metal-chassis docking station that props up the MacBook Pro at a comfortable angle and significantly expands its connectivity options with a full 13 ports. Power, up to four external displays, and a Kensington Lock make the Horizontal Docking Station a true plug-and-play solution.
Connections include:
- 4 x USB 3.0 ports
- 2 x USB Type-C ports with Thunderbolt 3
- 2 x mini-DisplayPorts
- Gigabit Ethernet port
- 2 x Audio jacks
- SD card reader
The Horizontal Docking Station comes in versions for the 13-inch MacBook Pro with and without Touch Bar and the 15-inch MacBook Pro. The product will ship sometime in spring 2017 and with retail pricing starting at $499.
