I'm about to buy the MBP 16" but I want 2 monitors set-up! Help me!

[leokost]

Hello everyone, this is my first post within the forums so I really hope I'm posting this in the right section!

So, I'm about to buy the new 16" MBP, but I'll need to figure out a way to do this, since most Youtube videos I've watched so far don't mention any dual-monitor setups with HDMI connection. They're all focused on LG monitors which support type-C.

So, my 2 monitors are this model:

DELL U2515H ADZG 25-Inch LCD Monitor, 350 cd/m2, 2560 x 1440 at 60 Hz, IPS, 8ms, HDMI/DP/Mini DP/USB

Product Description This Full HD LED monitor with 50,000,000:1 high contrast ratio and HDMI interface is optimised for a fine image and colour quality. This approach extends to the sturdy stand and slim profile without compromising style in ensuring stability and durability. It features Smart Vie...

www.amazon.co.uk

They have 2 HDMI ports, 1 Display port mini but there's no type-C connection.

Ideally, I'd want my MBP to be used as a daily driver but also be able to unplug it in an instant and take it away from me when I leave my workstation.
I've done some research and I think that a dock-station would be a great solution, and use 2 type-C to HDMI cables.
But I'd love to hear your ideas as well and the best approach I should take on this.

I'd want the workstation to do the following:

- Laptop constantly being connected to power
- Laptop expanding to 2 external HDMI/DP monitors
- Ethernet Connection
- At least 2 USB inputs
- 1 SD card input

If there best route here to take is a dock-system, I'll most likely stick it under my desk somehow with some velcro or something.

Thanks in advance!

 

[techwarrior]

USB-C to HDMI adapters, they are available all over the place, or at a premium from Apple.

There are some "Docks" that have a USB-C connector for the Mac, USB-C for power through the Dock, and then some ports like HDMI, USB3, Ethernet, SD cards, etc. Nice thing with this route is, it is easy to undock and take the MBP with you for mobile needs.

You can find a lot of choices on Amazon for all of the above.

I have s 13" MBP that work provides, I have it set up with dual monitors and always plugged in and running, but the batteries got so heated that they expanded. The MBP was sitting on a desktop, so my advice is to get some sort of stand so the Mac can breath and stay cool.

Don't forget an external Keyboard, Mouse and\or trackpad. When the Mac is "Docked", you may not want to be reaching for it to type, etc.

 

[leokost]

I'm already using externals since I've been using the Mid-2014 MBP 15" until now, so I'd highly appreciate a few suggestions on dock-systems that people have actually tried or heard of, just so I know I'm getting something decently recommended, quality-wise at least!

Thank you for your reply

 

[DeltaMac]

USB-C to DP cables would work, also.

 

[leokost]

USB-C to DP cables would work, also.

I'd have to get a dock for connecting those USB-Cs though, since the MBP has only 4 thunderbolt ports, right?

 

[techwarrior]

I'd have to get a dock for connecting those USB-Cs though, since the MBP has only 4 thunderbolt ports, right?

I think all four TB ports can support a monitor connection. But, a dock would help free up more ports for USB3, etc.

 

[leokost]

Any workaround on the ethernet connection too?

Thank you!

 

[DeepIn2U]

Any workaround on the ethernet connection too?

Thank you!

Depending on your Thunderbolt dock ... most likely would include 10/100/1000 (or Gigabit) Ethernet as well as power.

 

[fbm3334]

Hello,

One solution you could consider is to use a DisplayLink compatible USB-C dock such as the HP USB-C/A Universal Dock G2:

Docking Stations for HP Laptops | HP® Store

Shop the latest HP G2 docking stations at the HP Store. Upgrade your setup with reliable and high-performance docking solutions. Free shipping available.

store.hp.com

That gives you two DisplayPort ports and/or a HDMI port to use with the U2515H displays, as well as all of the other ports you want apart from the SD card reader (rectified by commecting a USB one to the dock). The HP one seems to support 100W power pass through, which is more than good enough for the MBP 16.

The drawback is that you have to install the DisplayLink driver to get multiple displays to work, so I am not sure if this would introduce any issues.

It’s a shame macOS doesn’t support DisplayPort MST, as this would allow you to daisy chain the monitors together with a DP-mDP cable and possibly use a cheaper dock.