Connecting Multiple Displays to Your MacBook: The Role of HDMI Adapters and Thunderbolt Docks

If you're looking to connect multiple displays to your MacBook, you may be wondering about the best way to do so. Natively over USB-C, Macs can only connect to one external display in Extended mode, which extends beyond what you can see on the laptop screen. However, if you want to connect more than one external display, a Thunderbolt connection is the way to go. With a Thunderbolt dock, you can turn your 13in laptop screen into an iMac-sized 27in or even larger monitor, or connect two large screens to extend your screen across your whole desk.

For those who use their laptop as their principal computer, attaching at least one larger display is a great way to create a hybrid desktop/laptop setup. This allows you to have all your necessary peripherals, such as a keyboard, mouse, and printer, available via a single connection to your MacBook.

If you don't require the ultimate bandwidth for the fastest data transfer and best screen frame rates or resolutions, a USB-C dock might be sufficient. However, if you're looking for more ports and want to future-proof your setup, a Thunderbolt 3 (TB3) or Thunderbolt 4 (TB4) dock is the way to go.

TB3 docks are available at various price points, with some cheaper options available. If your MacBook is equipped with Thunderbolt 4, it's recommended to buy a TB4 dock for its technical benefits, such as smarter daisy-chaining and faster PCI hard-drive connections. Additionally, TB4 docks are backwards compatible with TB3 and USB-C, making them a wise investment even for owners of TB3 Macs.

In summary, if you need to connect multiple displays to your MacBook, a Thunderbolt dock is the best option. With its ability to support two Extended mode screens over a single connection, it's ideal for those who want to create a hybrid desktop/laptop setup or extend their screen across their whole desk.

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