LandingZone dock for MacBook Pro adds 16 additional ports – video review

LandingZone is a docking station for MacBook Pro that offers 16 additional ports. Especially since the move to 100% USB-C on the latest MacBook models, the LandingZone is a handy accessory to have around.

Compared the parade of Thunderbolt 3 docks we’ve looked at, the LandingZone docking station takes a different approach. It secures the Mac, and tilts it to a comfortable angle offering ease of use, as well as security.

If you want to see the dock work for yourself, check out our hands-on video.

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Getting started

The LandingZone is a relatively simple device, with only a power cord and the dock in the box.

The body itself is made out of plastic, though there is plenty of metal on the inside. The plastic feels solid and is even color-matched to the aluminum of your MacBook.

It connects to both sides of your Mac with two USB-C plugs on the left, and one on the right. The right side also has a peg that goes in the audio jack to help make it more secure if you are using a Kensington lock.

To attach it, simply align the ports on the left, then slide the right side into place.

Around the back of the right side is a Kensington lock security slot. When a lock is in place, you cannot open it without causing severe damage to your machine. If you are using your Mac in a risky environment, whether a large office or school, this is a huge benefit.

To remove your Mac, you can simply press the lever located on the left hand side of the dock. To be honest, it isn’t the most elegant solution, but it works very simply and reliably.

Ports ports ports

The big news here is obviously the bevy of ports this docking station makes available.

You will have access to 16 additional ports, though you have to remember technically you lose a few since the dock fills them.

The ports include:

  • 3 USB 3.1 Type-C ports
  • 1 USB Type-C passthrough port
  • 3 USB 3.1 Type-A ports (1 with high power charging)
  • 2 HDMI ports
  • Mini DisplayPort
  • Gigabit Ethernet
  • SD card slot
  • Micro SD card slot
  • Two-way audio jack
  • Kensington Security slot
  • Power port

A few things to note, right off the bat.

While it does have two HDMI and one Mini DisplayPort port, you can’t use all three at the same time. You can use one, or you can use two. That means two HDMI, or one HDMI and one Mini DisplayPort.

You also lose access to Thunderbolt 3 for the most part, so if that is important to you, this might not be the right dock for you.

Lastly, I love that they have 3 Type-C ports along the back. Many docks we have looked at add a pile of USB Type-A ports, which is great for the short term. I’ve already switched most of my accessories to USB Type-C, and the vast majority of accessories will trend that way in the next year or so. If I am investing in a docking station, I don’t want to be limited to legacy ports like USB Type-A, so I’m thrilled that I have plenty of both options here.

Wrapping it up

The amount of ports added by the LandingZone is staggering. It may not look the best, and the body may be plastic, but you can’t argue with performance.

If you have a MacBook Pro and need plenty of I/O, then the LandingZone is a great solution. The added security also makes it to the short list for anyone who wants to make sure their expensive laptop is on lockdown.

If you’d like to pick one up, you can do so direct from LandingZone for $299. You can find older models for a variety of Macs, over on Amazon.

So what do you guys think? Do you prefer this solution or a separate standalone dock? Let us know below.