The LandingZone has announced what they call “the most powerful Apple MacBook docking station to-date.” It just might be. This new docking station offers an oh-so-awesome 16 different ports and can turn your MacBook Pro with Touch Bar into a powerful workstation. At $299 it is pricey, but the added functionality is unparalleled if you want an impressive desktop computer.
Available for both the 13” and 15” MacBook with Touch Bar, LandingZone’s new docking station quickly, easily and cleanly transforms your MacBook Pro with Touch Bar into a powerful and versatile workstation. Plus, thanks to the LandingZone Docking Station’s compact size you’ll get the functionality of a full desktop computer while not losing the portability that likely prompted you to get the MacBook in the first place.
As you likely know, the MacBook Pro with Touch Bar has four USB-C ports- two on each side. That lack of ports had more than a few people initially crying “Foul!”
With this new docking station, you get additional ports such as USB 3.1 Type-C, USB 3.1 Type-A, HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, and Ethernet. That makes it easy to connect a range of external devices to your laptop. Also, as they explain, “The docking station eliminates the need for numerous dongles, as the MacBook Pro with Touch Bar offers only USB-C ports.” There’s even a Kensington Security Slot built into the dock so both the docking station and the MacBook Pro can be secured to a desk or table.
Steven Yang, CEO of LandingZone observes,
We are committed to bringing state-of-the-art technology and functionality to Apple users worldwide. Our latest docking station for the MacBook Pro with Touch Bar offers the perfect solution for the MacBooks’ limited port connectivity, while effortlessly integrating with Apple’s sleek design and compact size.
As you can see in the photo at the top of this post, the docking station allows you to connect not one but two external monitors to your laptop. And, because the dock holds the laptop in a horizontal position, you can even leave the laptop open and use the screen as a third monitor for extra scree-estate. From there it is easy to connect external hard drives, printers and more. And, when the time comes to work on the go, you simply release the MacBook from the dock and take it with you.
I have the current MacBook Pro but opted for the version without the Touch Bar. When I am in my study at home, I have a port replicator connected to it, so the laptop outputs to two AOC monitors. It works well but is not the cleanest approach. With LandindZone’s dock, I could get the same functionality in a far more streamlined manner. Unfortunately, since this dock is designed for the version WITh the Touch Bar, I’ll have to wait and hope they release something similar for mine. In the meantime, if you have the MacBook Pro with Touch Bar and think this might be a good setup for you, check it out here.
It will begin shipping in September 2017 and will also be available through select retail channels.