Thunderbolt 5 is here with the new Fusion FusionDock Pro 3, but is it worth it to upgrade? or should you get something with more ports and options like the FusionDock Max 1.
In this post, I’m going to help you decide which docking station to choose if you’re going with Thunderbolt 4 or Thunderbolt 5.
I’m not going to dive deep into specs because you find those in the links. Instead, I’ll cover the main differences between these two options to help you make the right choice.
FusionDock Max 1: The Powerhouse for Port Lovers
Let’s start with the FusionDock Max 1.
This docking station gives you a lot more ports than most docks on the market. On the front, you’ll find four USB-C ports, two USB-As, SD card readers, micro SD card slots, and an audio jack.
And on the back, it gets even better with additional USB-C, HDMI, USB-A, and Ethernet ports. One standout feature is the design—you get excellent airflow, both in between the unit and on the sides.
So with the FusionDock Max, you’re getting more ports, more port types, and the ability to run multiple monitors, even on a MacBook or Mac Studio. But there’s a catch. This dock is locked into Thunderbolt 4. Right now, we’re seeing a shift in the market away from Thunderbolt 4, as Thunderbolt 5 is almost twice as fast.
Why Not Just Get a Thunderbolt 5 Dock?
So should you just skip ahead and get a Thunderbolt 5 dock instead? Well, the problem is that docks like the FusionDock Max don’t yet exist in a Thunderbolt 5 version.
The best option available right now is the FusionDock Pro 3 (my review), which supports Thunderbolt 5 but offers fewer ports. That’s the trade-off—future-proofing vs port availability.
Is Thunderbolt 5 Worth It?
If you’re looking to future-proof your setup, Thunderbolt 5 is the better investment.
And keep in mind—you can still connect USB-C to HDMI adapters or other dongles to the FusionDock Pro 3 if you need extra outputs. That would mostly solve the port limitations.
However, the FusionDock Max is still a great choice for people who need a ton of ports right now, and don’t necessarily need Thunderbolt 5 just yet. You can always upgrade later if needed.
Why I Chose the FusionDock Max
For me, port count is everything. I’m using the RodeCaster Video (Review), which requires multiple connections to my computer. With the FusionDock Max, I can plug just one cable into my computer, and that powers all my HDMI outputs, prompters, the RodeCaster, and even multiple cameras.
Since I often run three cameras at once, I need something that can handle simultaneous charging and video feeds. This dock lets me do that without the mess of multiple adapters.
So if you need more ports and monitor outputs, the FusionDock Max is probably your best bet.
When to Choose the FusionDock Pro 3
Now, when should you choose the FusionDock Pro 3 instead of the Max?
If you want Thunderbolt 5 and don’t need tons of ports, this is the one to go with. It’s ideal for minimalists or people who just need a few more ports for a MacBook Air, Mac Mini, or Mac Studio.
You’ll still get USB-C, USB-A, Ethernet, and an audio jack—just fewer total ports compared to the Max. You can also run dual monitors, which is enough for most users.
The only major downside is that you can’t run four monitors like you can with the Max. But again, that’s part of the trade-off with Thunderbolt 5.
Why Not Use Both?
Now, here’s an interesting option—use both docking stations. Let’s say you have a ton of devices to connect and also want Thunderbolt 5 support for future SSDs or accessories.
In that case, just start with the FusionDock Max 1 now. Later, you can add the FusionDock Pro 3 when more Thunderbolt 5 gear becomes available. You’ll get the best of both worlds. You can even daisy-chain them and still use just one cable to connect everything to your MacBook or desktop.
Final Thoughts
This dual-dock setup is especially great for MacBook Air or MacBook Pro users who love their machines but hate the lack of ports. By combining both docks, you can maximize your accessories and simplify your workflow.
Just be aware—you’ll have a lot more cables on your desk (like I do!).
Ready to Choose?
I hope this helped clarify which docking station is right for you. If you’re interested, I’ve included purchase links here. You can also watch my review of both in this video here.
Thanks for reading!
