TB4 Hub for 14 Inch M1Max MBP

[N9JIG]

My new M1Max MacBook Pro 14 inch is expected to arrive in a month or so. The computer will mainly be my desktop replacement but I plan on traveling with it down the road so will look at travel solutions later.

I will need a desk solution with the following ports:

• Ethernet port
• Audio Output (Headphone) jack
• Extra USB-C ports (for my TM drive, phone, etc.) 3 would be great, more if possible!
• USB-A ports (At least 3 preferably for my Watch, mic etc.)
• SD Card slot
• Monitor connectivity (2 2K monitors with the possibility to upgrade to 4K down the road)
• Enough power delivery to not need the MagSafe plugged in so I can keep it in the travel bag.

While I suppose I could utilize the HDMI port and one of the TB ports on the computer itself for the monitors I would prefer a single connection point.

Additionally, I could daisy-chain an "almost there" solution with the additional dongle/hub etc. I would really prefer a single device over a couple. For example, if i have a device that ticks most of the boxes I might lose an important port to accommodate Ethernet or more USB-A ports etc.

Having looked at the various offerings from OWC, CalDigit, Anker etc. I am more confused than ever.

Will I be OK with a TB3 solution that has more ports or should I go with a TB4 one?

Is there a single item solution or should I get more than one device to accommodate my needs?

 

[beach bum]

I have the Caldigit TS3 Plus for my 16” M1 Pro and it delivers 87w and depending on how many peripherals you have plugged into the the TS3 and active will determine if you need the MagSafe to power your M1 Max.

Depending on what I have active, I do find that I need to have the MagSafe plugged in if I have too much going on at the same time. When I don’t have too much plugged into the TS3, I don’t use the MagSafe.

Others may find different. Also, I kept the TS3 because of the 15 ports instead of upgrading to a TB4 hub.

 

[jmgag03]

I have the Caldigit TS3 Plus for my 16” M1 Pro and it delivers 87w and depending on how many peripherals you have plugged into the the TS3 and active will determine if you need the MagSafe to power your M1 Max.

Depending on what I have active, I do find that I need to have the MagSafe plugged in if I have too much going on at the same time. When I don’t have too much plugged into the TS3, I don’t use the MagSafe.

Others may find different. Also, I kept the TS3 because of the 15 ports instead of upgrading to a TB4 hub.

Wouldn't I need a new monitor with this setup? Neither of my monitors are thunderbolt or USB-C.

 

[rex450se]

Wouldn't I need a new monitor with this setup? Neither of my monitors are thunderbolt or USB-C.

You could just get new cables for the monitor. I’m guessing the monitors use HDMI. You can use an HDMI to DisplayPort for one and an HDMI to USB-C for the other. There are a few options that wouldn’t require new monitors.