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@@pyromethious possible, but I don’t think so. If you run the same test 10 times you will have slight variations. I did it again after the video and it was basically the same on all.
I've been through four CalDigit docks at work. They keep failing. Two had HDMI ports die because the ports were too close to the power in and this evidently caused the ports to fail from heat/cool stress. They each lasted about two months. The last one, a TS3+, started getting unstable randomly after about a year, and would disconnect/reconnect. I have the OWC dock in this video for my home office setup, and it's been solid for two years now. At work I am now using the newer OWC Thunderbolt Go Dock at work and so far it has been solid.
Jerry, great timing on this video. I have been struggling to find a hub for my 2021 M1 Macbook Pro with little success. Comparing these 3 docks clarified my decision. Thanks!!
@@JerrySchulze The Caldigit TS4. Had considered the other 2 contenders, and recently tested and returned the Anker 568 USB-C Docking Station. Turned out it only did mirror mode for 2 displays on my 2021 M1 Pro. I am currently using my trusty TwelveSouth StayGo hub. It works in a minimalist fashion but needs to be retired for something better.
The front audio port was a deciding factor, well plus the higher power for charging and more ports. . I like being able to plug in headphones and watch it override the rear speaker connections.
Great review Jerry. I own the TS4 and want to warn viewers about buying this in the EU. That more powerful power supply you described comes at a painful price. It develops a high pitched squeal over time. This has been reported by multiple reviewers in Germany. Sometimes the replacement units have this defect as well. Caldigit does everything they can to discourage you from making a warranty claim. They will not provide an interim loaner. They also claim that due to Brexit that you will lose weeks of transit time in customs both directions. I am waiting to send mine back before an upcoming business trip to China. This is unacceptable quality and an unacceptable policy in a unit that costs so much more than the competition. I have moved my Synology Disk Station closer to my desk. Four Iron Wolf hard drives constantly spinning masks most of the painful TS4 power supply squeal.
I have both the OWC TD and the CalDigit TS4. I got the OWC first, before the TS4 was available and while it worked fine, it was nowhere near as elegant a solution as the TS4. Later on we got 2.5GB Internet here and the faster Ethernet port on the TS4 came in handy. My wife inherited my OWC when she switched from a Mini to a MBP and since her use case is less demanding than mine it is working just fine for her so the money did not go to waste. I have grown to really appreciate the TS4 since i have had it, it ticks all my boxes and works great.
@@tr4nnel752 The Ethernet is 1GB on the OWC, 2.5 on the TS4 (we have 2GB Internet here) and the TS4 has a DP, more USB, 3 audio ports vs 1, separate SD and uSD card slots as well as better port placement. On the OWC the computer port is on the front making for an awkward cable management situation, the TS4 is on the rear that allows you to keep the cables that are always plugged in going unseen.
For those that just need additional ports, and not a card reader / headphone socket / LAN connectivity, the Caldigit Element Thunderbolt 4 dock is excellent. Small, TB4 and USB-A, powered. I find it's an excellent expansion hub/dock for my Mac Studio.
I got the OWC Thunderbolt dock because unlike the Caldigit TS4 that I really wanted to own, it has that extra bit thunderbolt port missing on the Caldigit.
I bought a Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Dock, and have been using it for 4 months. It's been flawless. Similar looking to the OWC that you are reviewing. They may even be the same unit with a different name on it.
I don't get the idea of putting the host port in front .... dock is meant to clean up the mess and that sort of, defeats the purpose, I would never buy a dock with a host port upfront (also considering the money asked for them). Thank you for your work.
Because people sit their laptop in front of the dock and plug it in. Typically the laptop is open with the laptop screen still being used. If it is in the back, then it can fall down the back of the desk, people are lazy they don’t like to have to reach behind it. Only Mac people set their laptop on its side and don’t use the screen while docked. :)
The majority of these docks are designed for laptop people who need a desktop experience (hence the LAN port, HDMI for monitors etc.) I hate the front host port. Almost nobody takes into account the needs of desktop setups. I want: - only USB-C / TB4 ports (no LAN, no HDMI, no DP, … hell no USB A) - a built-in NVME slot at full speed (ideal as “working” drive / backup) - Cfexpress Type B … would be awesome
@@alin.danila with a desktop, why would you mind tho? It won’t be very visible, likely … for laptop people yea, but desktops have plenty ports and likely dock away from view …
Comparison of three Thunderbolt 4 docks: Cal digit ts4, OWC Thunderbolt Dock, and Anker 777 Apex. Differences in ports and materials. ✦ Comparison of three Thunderbolt docks for Mac Users 00:00 ✦ Comparison of Thunderbolt 4 docks with varying number of downstream ports 02:12 ✦ Magic Stand Case: the all-in-one phone case 04:18 ✦ Comparison of dock displays for Mac with high refresh rates and networking features. 06:32 ✦ Multiple USB ports on different docks and their capabilities 08:32 ✦ Comparison of SD card slots, audio jacks and charging ports on various docks 10:35 ✦ Choose the ts4 dock for consistent 98 watts of power 12:25 ✦ Three Thunderbolt 4 docks for Mac, each with unique features 14:26
@@JerrySchulze I love technology and sure I can help you with this video stuff here and there. Really Ive been watching your videos since the good ole SOHO dock days.. So far it's working fine with Apple Studio display but still can't convince myself 'yet" to for the need TS4 at this current price.
At first, I thought, another doc video. But this is really the best one I’ve seen. Great information. Thanks for explaining in a much better way why people actually need these. I want one but until now I didn’t really understand what I would use it for. Now I do, thank you.
You should probably outline the fact the Anker 777 doesn't support non-mirrored output on the M1/M2 macbooks. After watching this and purchasing the Anker 777, even though the product description for the Anker 777 says non-M1 (which I assumed was Thunderbolt 4 limitations) Macbooks, it won't do a non-mirrored display. Critical information in my opinion when doing a comparative between these.
Are you sure about that? Looking at product page it looks like you can. One display on one of the two HDMI ports with the other display on the TB4 port.
I'm using a Caldigit TS3+, the previous model. Very satisfied of it, and very reliable. There is really only 1 downside: the price. Especially after buying a MacBook which aren't the cheapest laptops out there either. All things considered, for me, it's worth the cost. All my stuff is connected and neatly organized thanks to this little grey box. In the mean time the MacBook stays charged, great for the battery life, and on the front ports I always have the possibility to quickly charge a mouse, or keyboard or whatever, without having to unplug anything else in my set-up.
For me the TS4 is the clear winner. I want the host port on the back, since the TB cable will be (semi) permanently connected anyway. On the front I need a variety of good ports, for temporarily connecting drives for audio sessions. (why would Anker put USB2 on the front?! They expect people to connect, what, a keyboard there?)
Excellent presentation! I went with the Caldigit T4 and used my points (I’ll keep and eye on your videos in the future!). Gotta say I’m happy as a pig in a slop jacuzzi. It’s got everything I need!
The power supplies for these docks are as large as the docks themselves. That’s why I went with the OWC Thunderbolt Go. Built in PS and host port on the side. Cheaper than the Cal Digit too.
I work in the movie industry. I manage data on set. What I needed was to expand the number of high-speed ports I had. I copy off of the original media to at least three other drives. I wanted every port to be able to run at at least 10 Gb/s. I also have at least one TB3 reader. I chose the OWC. It even has USB A ports for my external mouse and keyboard. I had one unit die on me and there was no issue getting it replaced - over the weekend!
I have Nikon Z mirrorless cameras that use XQD cards. There are only a very few docks that are XQD capable. So right up front, almost every TB4 dock has ~$100 of kit completely useless to me. The newest Thunderbolt OWC Pro Dock, with CFexpress Type B (XQD compatible) card reader at $330 looks interesting. If they added a couple of M.2 NVME slots it would be very interesting indeed.
Dont think that CF Express B reader will read your XQD cards. I shoot Nikon mirrorless too and am looking for a dock which can read both XQD and CFB. Additionally, i read somewhere else that the OWC Pro Dock (not the one being discussed in this video) is a rebranded model of another company that OWC acquired (could be rumor). Reading various negative reviews about the TS4 too (read reviews on Amazon, B&H, Adorama etc), unfortunately this is a difficult decision.I guess I am looking for a set it and forget it dock and it looks like neither OWC or Caldigit satisfy those requirements convincingly.
Really great video! I do a lot of traveling multi-camera Zoom meetings. So the TS-4 is what I was leaning toward... and this video reaffirmed that decision.
Also - I use a MBP driving a 4k TV. I learned the hard way that plugging in Mac > hub > HDMI > TV results in a picture that exceeds the boundaries of the 4k TV, and mysteriously, Apple disables the overscan setting, so I can't fix it! However, if I plug in the MBP's native HDMI port > TV, it works perfectly. I wish I knew why, and I'd be curious to know if any of these 3 docks DON'T have this problem.
As I have stated consistently… The Caldigit docks - TS3 and now TS4 - they are the best! Best feature set, best build… just the best… and they cost some money, but then again, there’s no free lunch
I have the CalDigit TS4. With my MacBook Pro M1 Pro, it will only display 3440 x 1440 when directly connected to the MacBook Pro via HDMI, or through the CalDigit but only with a 10Gbps cable. Once I plug in a 20Gbps, it jut goes black.
Returned the TS4 as the ethernet doesn't wake up correctly. Major issue for such an expensive device, and cal digit workarounds did not work for me. It also runs very hot. Ended up going with OWC dock but the TB3 version. My laptop only has TB3, and IMO this dock is much better anyway - it has all the connections on the back (but some additional on the front if required) and has both SD card sizes, and USB3 and USBC on the front. Its just a better design and Mini DisplayPort works fine. It also runs much cooler than the Caldigit, and nvme thunderbolt drive performance was marginally better. If the TB4 version ergonomics were the same I would have got that for future proofing. Didn't try the Anker. Using an i9 MacBook Pro.
I've been using a Sonnet Echo 11 Thunderbolt 4 Dock for over a year and it has been really great. No complains, always connects perfectly. I also have an older Caldigit TS3 which I still use.
Question. Running a Mac mini 2018 addition. Have three external drive string to run. I currently use 3 usb hubs to get enough ports for all my peripherals. Each at least 10-1. Could I take one of the caldigit TS4’s plug my three unpowered hubs in and get the mini to quit shutting off two of drives?
While Caldigit TS4 boasts power delivery up to 98 W or Ivanky dock with 96W power delivery but i doubt it is enough to supply enough power for 16” MBP M3 Max which Apple shipped with 140W power adapter 😢
Good video, Thanks. I just received the TS4 today after sending back the Anker. One item you may want to mention is the cable that comes with the units. I was pleased that the TS4 cable was Thunderbolt 4
I read that HDMI isn't well-regarded for M3 Macbook Pro external display use. Thunderbolt 4 direct connection is recommended; Display Port second to TB4. Do I have the right info? ... Trying to figure out things before CyberMonday tomorrow... ✌
@@JerrySchulze Sorry, I think I might have read something in a different context. I was looking for external display monitors with KVM. I think the article / forum post mentioned the nuances in choosing external display monitors for laptop use and gaming. (I'm connecting my gaming console to get the most out of my purchase.) In any case, I bought a Gigabyte monitor (built-in KVM tech) with 3 USB-A in the back, for keyboard and mouse. Right now, I'm doing research scouring the Internet to figure out whether or not I need a docking station / hub for 2 external drives, cd drive, and a printer, while my keyboard and mouse should be connected to my monitor. For futureproofing, an additional ethernet port, display port 1.4, and hdmi 2.1 might just be perfect. Too bad there's no way customize a dock to exactly one's wishes...
Great video! Just purchased a loaded MacBook Pro M3 Max 16" and I need those extra ports for ilok, MIDI keyboard, etc...the TS4 looks sleek and "travel worthy." This video gave me all the info. Subscribed! Thanks again...
Your recommendation of the CalDigit Dock solved the drive disconnect issue I was having with my 2020 27" iMac. I guess mechanical drive need a powered dock?
What if you went a completely different way, create a bag that goes from both ends of the fence, behind the saw, and a connection for hose in the middle or two hose connections on each side of the saw?
very useful video. A few things I did not notice that I would suggest could be things to cover in the next video on these topic: 1) whether one really needs a TB4 dock versus a TB3. I bet that for 99.9% of your viewers, CalDigit TS3 is a better deal than CalDigit TS4. 2) overheating do to continuos use specially 3) whether it makes sense to get two docks or to connect the most crucial TB4 device separately to the machine (e.g. when laptops have different TB4 controllers per port); 4) possibility to daisy chain. I have an older 2020 iMac 5k, and I use a CalDigit TB4 element hub (it has 3 TB ports I think) connected to the iMac and two CalDigits TS3 connected to the hub.
Hi, I covered daisy chaining in a previous video but the only issue with connecting 2 TS3s to an Element hub is that you are restricting to a single 40gb connection. if you need that many ports you would be better off load sharing between 2 ports on the Mac.
@@JerrySchulze many thanks. that makes sense. I typically leave one of the TB3 behind the iMac for whenever I connect an eGPU. I figure, if both TB3 ports on the imac Are controlled by the same TB3 controller in the motherboard, then they are anyway constrained by 40gb regardless of how many hubs I use. no?
This is a really well done video on the 3 top docks and I found it very helpful. I have been looking at the OWC Thunderbolt Pro Dock on sale that is closer to the CalDigit features but at a lower price.
Ya, that dock confuses me. 10g ethernet is awesome but one usb port, one thunderbolt port for stuff....it just doesn't have enough for the price, in my opinion.
@@JerrySchulze Yeah, I wish it had more ports too, but other 10G options cost nearly $200-$300 alone - so if 10G is important, that seems like a solid choice. Compared to 2.5G adapters are in the $70 range - which makes the TS4 a bit spendy for what you get.
Hi! Thanks tor the video! I just got a Mac Studio M2, and I'm having a hard time finding a docking station that will support 2 extended displays, most arent compatible yet with the M2 studio, or will only mirror, or will only do one display. The CalDigit looks like it might, but seems hard to get in Canada... any ideas?? Thanks!!
The extra Thunderbolt 4 ports on the TS4, would they be a good way to hookup and run external monitors as well? Not really wanting to use HDMI or Display ports for monitors. I have a MacBook M1 Pro and want dual monitors. I have dual monitors now but one keeps going to sleep randomly which I don't understand.
Have a calDigit and OWC. The calDigit has no sdCard slots but both run about the same. More heat with the smaller calDigit. Never tried the OWC internet port as I use a 10mb system at home.
The TS4 is nice but it’s over twice $$$USD the price I paid for the OWC. 😢 $399 plus tax compared to $189 with tax (⚡️Amazon Lightning deal⚡️).😊 I want the TS4. But I just don’t have that immediate need for it just yet. The OWC does serve all my needs for now. I recently/originally bought the OWC for use with my M1 MacBook Pro. Yet I use it now mainly with my 2020 27” iMac since it only has the two Thunderbolt3 ports (2x @40gbps) & the four USB-A ports (all @5gbps). I do use USB-A to USB-C adapters with the OWC & I get three more USB-C ports (@10gbps😊). Plus the extra USB-C Thunderbolt4 (@40gbps) I have the 10Gb Ethernet port on the iMac. So the 2.5gb port on the TS4 or the 1gb port on the OWC ain’t a big deal. I use a USB-C to HDMI adapter on one of the OWC Thunderbolt4 ports for my second display. So I still have two Thunderbolt4 ports on the OWC left open when needed. I use a Thunderbolt4 external hard drive (Acasis 40Gbps NMVe M.2 enclosure with a 2TB Samsung 980 pro) directly connected to the second Thunderbolt3 port on my iMac that I boot off as my main hard drive now instead of the internal (trying to preserve the internal TBW I guess). My Work flow & Performance is absolutely great between the Intel iMac, the M1 MacBook, the OWC dock, all my music gear, my other devices & my external hard drives All mainly for music making & music production. Anything needing a USB 2.0, 3.0, 3.1, or 3.2 port there is a USB port to utilize. Microphone’s & headphone to the audio interface, Montage7 synthesizer, MIDI keyboards, a few USB connected Multi-effect pedals for my guitars, FaceTime headphone & mic, DVD SuperDrive, Samsung T7’s, phone-keyboard-trackpad-mouse charging, etc. are all connected right now. “Absolutely no more cable clutter at all, anymore”. I have no need to unplug-disconnect or play around with cables because of the addition of the OWC dock. ❤I love it❤& the price I paid❤I have the extra Thunderbolt4 ports available when needed for power hungry devices like my external NMVe hard drives & T7’s. I have no real need for the SD card readers yet but it’s nice to have them available when needed. I know nothing about the Anker. I prefer the OWC. I don’t know why. Maybe because I’ve bought other OWC products already & they all work great. But all of these docks here are great. For use with my M1 MacBook Pro, eventually, I’ll be saving up for the TS4. I’m just not using it as much now because of my studio being set up so well with my Intel iMac & the OWC dock. I love RUclips channels like this. You did a great job comparing all these here. Thanks for sharing. P.S. I use a TP-Link Kasa Smart plug as an on/off switch for the OWC dock. No plugging or unplugging. Works great. 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
I've had the previous generation TS3 Plus since 2018 and it's been a champ. It's $100 cheaper than the TS4 and still a very capable device if you don't need the absolute fastest USB/TB transfer speeds.
I think that any user needs to start from what connections and workflow he/she has. I have the TS4 and it's perfect when using a MacBook + Studio Display + NAS (TB3), already there all TB are taken. That's due to video editing in 4K, which I think you need at least a 10Gbe ethernet for. I connect via TB3/4 and any other guest, connects via a Qnap TB/10Gbe converter via the 10Gbe switch in the network or thru the 2nd TB3 port on the NAS, while still enjoying 2.5Gbe thru the TS4. Then all the other ports on the TS4 goes to other equipment such as Wacom, iPhone, iPad etc etc.
I returned the CalDigit becasue it doesn't have an on/off button. So if your computer is off you can't turn it on while it's docked with the lid closed.
I have the Mac mini M2 pro. using the OWC Thunderbolt Dock, performance was good. issue I have with it is when the Mac is in sleep mode, my 2 LG 27UK850s would constantly wake and go to sleep. OWC support was no help. I happen to also. have the OWC Thunderbolt Hub and so far have not had that issue.
Sadly with the M2 Pro and Max one cannot run a dual display from just the host thunderbolt slot. One must use both the hdmi and thunderbolt port for M2 Pro Macbook 16
I have the CalDigit and Anker… CalDigit wins every time hands down. I run both, they are both always hooked up everyday at the same time running my monitors and connections. But, if I had the chance to go back I would just buy two of the CalDigits.
I just got my TS4 and hooked up two external 12TB hard drives to it today. My photography library is small. After reading the comments, I should be worry of whats to come. Well today is 5th July 2024 and everything is quiet. I've placed my unit horizontally, laying flat on a wire rack. The iunit s elevated 7 inches above my desk. I will be hooking up two monitor eventually. I belief heat might be the issue. If the squeel does show up, I think a computer fan hooked up to the bottom side of my wire rack can help cool it off a bit and not squeel like a pig, and die.
What about reliability of software and firmware. Having a older Plugable USB-C I have a lot of problems with getting display link software to run my 2 monitors. Do all 3 of these need extra software to run or does Apple just plug and play? Thanks great video!
There has been an update recently for the TS4 but in my year and a half with the ts4 I have had no issues. If the Pluggable is using displaylink to create additional fake GPUs for more displays I can see more updates being required.
I have a 24 inch iMac and I edit from external drives. I do photography and videography. So having four ports on the back just isn’t enough. This was a great video and I think I have made my decision to go with the OWC.
2:10 The host port is simply where you connect your Thunderbolt 4 to your Thunderbolt 4 port on your computer. ...If your computer has at least one of those(and its OS supports it, but assuming you are on Windows 10+, that's no problem). So your self built PC with Thunderbolt 4 is "like [....] a Macbook Pro". Well no, but, it is a Thunderbolt 4 host device. :)
I've got de TS4 like a year and a half, and definitively don't regret my purchase. It's amazing the quantity of devices it can handle. Two monitors, Apollo solo, stream deck +, item mini pro iso, web cam, midi controller, and still charge my phone or iPad, and handle pretty fast data transfer with ssd or whatever. This video just confirmed that it was the best purchase I made regarding to this docks.
@@IngriqiDin honestly, it hasn’t been a problem. I use USB-C and DisplayPort, if I need more monitors, my Mac has an HDMI output. Maybe if I didn’t have a Mac with HDMI I’d choose another one.
Hi, and thanks for the great video. I have an M1 Macbook and bought a Wavlink dock to connect it to my LG 5k2k and my RME audio interface, so I can have more real-estate when recording and mixing music. For some reason, the incoming audio is distorted in a way I'm not even sure I can describe, so recording becomes impossible, unless I unplug the screen, in which case it's perfect. The power adapter states 200w output, so I'm not sure that's what's making it fall short. Any idea if any of your offerings would solve the problem? Thanks for your time.
I've been using the OWC dock for a long time with my M1 Max Macbook Pro. I also use Anker PowerExpand 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 Mini Dock to add more thunderbolt ports.
I got one of these TS4 docks the first week it came out after some crappy experience with a Anker TB3 dock. Never had a single issue running 2 External displays one is 1440p 140hz and a 4k 60hz display. Im a software engineer and have found the 98w charging for my MBP 16 inch has been adequate although I wish it could provide the full 140W the Apple charger can provide.
I've been looking for a powered Thunderbolt dock with only USB-C-type connectors for years. Instead, there are still all (maybe 1000s) of them occupied with Jurassic USB A. Is there at least one in the market that features USB-C ports only (or mostly)? At least three or four USB-C. Would you happen to have any idea?
I have a couple few USB 2.0 capture cards. I would like them to share the bandwidth of a single TB4 port since there is more than adequate bandwidth without killing the entire USB bus. Which dick would be best? Or will they all accomplish what I want and it comes down to a question of port configuration? Is there a more cost effective solution? I have tried a couple usb 3.0 and 3.1 docks, they all seem to fail.
Work at a place that uses large volumes of the anker 777, thing is extremely buggy and frequently refuses to connect to systems or display video outs across MacOS and Windows. Requiring tons of restarts before it works again.
Hello Jerry. Found this very informative. Looking at the equipment on your desk, it is quite the set up. How is everything connected, i.e. cable/wiring diagram?
Can any of these be powered without its AC wall adapter? For example my monitor provides 100 watts of power. Can that power my doc, and in turn pass through power to my laptop. Right now I connect my monitor directly to my laptop and it's a pretty great solution, but I need Ethernet and an SD card slot.
I have been looking at getting a great solution at work but I just cannot find it. Both OWC and Anker are out because of the front facing host port. I want a clean desk, minimal and only have an M1 MBP 13.3" At this moment I use a pluggable with display link to drive two monitors and that works okay for now. Recently they upgraded one of the monitors with one that delivers power so now both TB ports on my MBP are taken. Oh, how I long for a 14 or 16" M2 but we will have to wait says CDW.... If it were up to me and I had only one choice it will have to go to CalDigit, it is the most expensive. Hey, maybe an interesting angle: What are the (price) differences between TB3 and TB4 docks? And I learned some interesting facts about the history and how Intel was involved in those days (licensing fees).
I have owned the OWC for over a year and I would say that I would not recommend it. The slightly movement seems to drop the connection with the USB C hard drives. When I try to go to add something, and I have to pull the unit towards me slightly to get behind it to plug something in I almost been variably lose my hard drives that are attached. it's very frustrating. I would not recommend the product.
I have recently bought 2 x Dell U2723QE monitors I want to connect them to my M2 Max MacBook Pro. I have just realised that neither of these monitors support Thunderbolt 3. So which of these docks would be best for doing that, if that is indeed possible? Thanks so much.
At 08:07 you say "the caldigit and the anker both come with a one gigabit ether connection" I'm guessing you meant the OWC & Anker, just so people dont get confused the TS4 comes with a built in 2.5Gbe connection, but you can also use a 10Gbe TB3 adapter to get 10Gigabit. .
Does the anker work with a Mac? The product page says it’s not compatible with m1 macs. It doesn’t mention m2 but I guess they weren’t out when this dock launched.
I’ve owned the TS3 and TS4. There really is no competition for those who need Thunderbolt 4. I wish they would put Compact Flash ports on the next version.
I have a need to connect 3 usb a devices that must connect directly to my Mac mini to work properly. Will any of these docks expand my (1) 40gb usbc port on my mini to connect all 3 usb a ports as though they were directly connected to the mini?
@@JerrySchulze Yes, worked perfectly on intel silicon, running on the latest FW. No real fix, only workarounds - apparently the issue is with Apple and not with the Caldigit product itself. Not sure if this is the same with other newer products.
Same problem with the TS4. Tons of forum posts about it. I’m using an MBP 14” M1 Max with a TS4 and two brand new Dell 27” 4k USB-C displays and every time I sit down and wake my MBP the monitors wake up and are set at 30hz and settings in the Displays control panel are reset to default. I have to unplug the Thunderbolt 4 cable from the MBP, wait 30s and then plug back in again and then everything just works. I have also been using Better Display to force settings to reconfigure on wake but that can’t force the MBP to set the correct refresh rate. This is a problem with all of the TB4 docks right now but NONE of the reviews connect two USB-C displays to these docks. Instead they rely on a single Apple Studio display or use a single 4k display connected via Display Port or HDMI. It might work if you use DP or HDMI adapters on those TB4 ports but I’m not sure.
I have one display connected to the TS3 via USB3 and one on the M1 Mini and I used to have this problem when I had one display connected but not ( hardly ever? Knock on wood) since I connected the second one via the TS3. Both displays are LG
Of course, the real question here is how stable are each of these docks. Back when I bought my OWC dock, I bought and returned a dozen other docks because they all had various issues. Such a sleep issues, where the system wouldn't sleep. Or things would disappear after sleep. Or connections to various things wouldn't work or wouldn't be stable. Reliability, stability, and functionality, are seriously big issues, and far more important to talk about in a review than just what ports are on the docks (which you can get from a spec sheet). I wish people would test the things you can only figure out by having your hands on the units. Like whether or not there were any weird behaviors over the course of a month of real world usage. Docking and undocking, sleeping, having a range of different kinds of devices plugged in, and unplugged, without power cycling the computer, etc.
@@JerrySchulze I'd sincerely like to think that feature set is the only distinguishing consideration. However, I have no idea what sort of testing you did, nor how exhaustive it was, over what period it was performed. I know from my own experience, which I have a fair amount of it, most docks have weird issues (in fact, perhaps all of them). And if you read the reviews for most docks, you see those issues come up there as well. It's not a simple matter designing a dock that works 100% as expected. Even the OWC dock you reviewed here (and which I own, and have been using extensively for over a year) is not 100% perfect in this regard. Every so often it won't detect a displace on wake (about two to three times a week), and I'll have to power cycle the display to get the display to show up again (this issue is only present through the dock). Another weird dock issue is that when you use USB-C to HDMI, through the dock, periodically it will randomly shuffle the display order when the computer wakes up, making it so which monitor is primary, and how they relate to each other is altered. Thankfully I was able to workaround this issue by buying USB-C to Display cables, otherwise the OWC dock would be going back as well. So you see, I don't have a lot of faith in your assessment, as your testing is not good enough for you to be aware of issues the OWC dock has, and thus I don't trust your assessment of the other docks either.
I dont care if you trust me and I am not trying to sell you. All I can do is offer what my experoences have been. I have used the TS4 almost exclusivley for more that 2 years (before it was publiucly released). For about 6 months I used with non-apple displays and for more than a year with the studio display. Not one single issue. I also had the TS3+ for about 2 years with the same experience. Hope that helps.
@@JerrySchulze I don't suspect you do care if I trust you or not, but the value of a review is only as good as you can trust it (I hope the reason for that is obvious). Since you are providing reviews, you should try to make those reviews trust worthy (and I don't mean that in the salesmanship "you can trust" me sense, I mean that in the engineering QA sense, that is, it's a review worthy of producing confidence), assuming you want your reviews to be valuable as reviews. If you "don't care," then perhaps you should consider doing something you do care about. 🤷🏽♂ My OP simply said I'd find your review more valuable if it reviewed elements of the experience I couldn't figure out simply by reading the product page (which was most of your review). However, if you don't want to step it up to that level that's fine, I'm sure you'll have an audience with those people who can't bother to read the product copy.
I checked with Anker. The 777 is not compatible with the M1 chipset. Additionally, they told me the Anker 777 would not support 2 monitors on my Macbook Pro with the M2 Pro chipset.
Hey Jerry. I'm so confused as to which one to get. I need a powered dock for my music studio setup. I need to connect: > 1 USB port for HDD ( I will switch to an SSD, from which I will need 10Gbps transfer speed) > 1 USB Audio Interface (I could try switching to USB-C for this one if needed) > 1 USB port for MIDI keyboard > 1 USB port for powering my LED strips > 1 USB-C for monitor DELL S2722DC (2K @ 75Hz) > 1 USB-C for connecting my 2020 Macbook Pro 13" > 2 Ethernet ports to connect my studio sound monitors (1 port would work too) > maybe an extra USB-C port just in case? Idk which Hub to get. Also another question: I have a monitor that sends 65W of power through it's USB-C connectivity cable. If the USB Hub is gonna be powered, and the monitor is also sending 65W of power, do I need to be worried about anything for the macbook?
Nice vid. Wish you had posted a graphic comparison chart (especially of port configurations), which would have made it a lot easier for me to zero in on all the factors that matter to me.
Nice balanced review. One comment though, a lot of Windows computers come with Thunderbolt now, it's not just Macs anymore. My three year old Dell XPS 17 laptop has four Thunderbolt 4 ports on it. I use a Thunderbolt dock with it to drive my display and my Thunderbolt M.2 storage drive. The only problem is the Dell wants 130 watts of power, which is more than most docks will put out.
If you are getting 87-98w of power from the dock, it should still be plenty. Even if you are maxing out your machine, as long as you have a full battery when you start, then it will drain pretty slowly.
Hello. Great video! I just got my M2 Max 16" laptop. Want to get a dock for it. Noticed the Mac power supply is 140w and these put out lower power. To be clear, I DO NOT plan to use a dock to power my Mac. I just want it to connect devices - ethernet, hard drives, audio (but not required) and I will use the HDMI connection on my Mac for the additional screen. So just the Mac display + HDMI out to second screen.... suggestions? Thanks in advance
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Wouldn't the data transfer be affected by some sort of caching done by the Mac? That might explain why the first one was slower than the others.
@@pyromethious possible, but I don’t think so. If you run the same test 10 times you will have slight variations. I did it again after the video and it was basically the same on all.
No! Beats Studio Buds are not good
I've been through four CalDigit docks at work. They keep failing. Two had HDMI ports die because the ports were too close to the power in and this evidently caused the ports to fail from heat/cool stress. They each lasted about two months. The last one, a TS3+, started getting unstable randomly after about a year, and would disconnect/reconnect.
I have the OWC dock in this video for my home office setup, and it's been solid for two years now. At work I am now using the newer OWC Thunderbolt Go Dock at work and so far it has been solid.
Dang! Considering the thicc body of CD, it should have been more durable than OWC.
Jerry, great timing on this video. I have been struggling to find a hub for my 2021 M1 Macbook Pro with little success. Comparing these 3 docks clarified my decision. Thanks!!
Awesome. Which one are you getting?
@@JerrySchulze The Caldigit TS4. Had considered the other 2 contenders, and recently tested and returned the Anker 568 USB-C Docking Station. Turned out it only did mirror mode for 2 displays on my 2021 M1 Pro. I am currently using my trusty TwelveSouth StayGo hub. It works in a minimalist fashion but needs to be retired for something better.
The front audio port was a deciding factor, well plus the higher power for charging and more ports. . I like being able to plug in headphones and watch it override the rear speaker connections.
I just noticed the tip, thank you very much!
Great review Jerry. I own the TS4 and want to warn viewers about buying this in the EU. That more powerful power supply you described comes at a painful price. It develops a high pitched squeal over time. This has been reported by multiple reviewers in Germany. Sometimes the replacement units have this defect as well. Caldigit does everything they can to discourage you from making a warranty claim. They will not provide an interim loaner. They also claim that due to Brexit that you will lose weeks of transit time in customs both directions. I am waiting to send mine back before an upcoming business trip to China. This is unacceptable quality and an unacceptable policy in a unit that costs so much more than the competition.
I have moved my Synology Disk Station closer to my desk. Four Iron Wolf hard drives constantly spinning masks most of the painful TS4 power supply squeal.
Thanks for letting us know, I'm sensitive to high frequenciers so definitely a no-buy for me then
Thanks for the warning!
Thanks boss
Do you know the new ivanky for eu?
I‘ve sent back 2 units because of this annoying ring! Waiting for the OWC dock now hoping to find peaceat last lol
I have both the OWC TD and the CalDigit TS4. I got the OWC first, before the TS4 was available and while it worked fine, it was nowhere near as elegant a solution as the TS4. Later on we got 2.5GB Internet here and the faster Ethernet port on the TS4 came in handy. My wife inherited my OWC when she switched from a Mini to a MBP and since her use case is less demanding than mine it is working just fine for her so the money did not go to waste. I have grown to really appreciate the TS4 since i have had it, it ticks all my boxes and works great.
That’s so awesome to hear! The ts4 is my preferred dock. It just has More of everything. More aluminum, more ports, more power.
I am curious, what compromises did you need to make with the OWC in comparison to the TS4?
@@tr4nnel752 The Ethernet is 1GB on the OWC, 2.5 on the TS4 (we have 2GB Internet here) and the TS4 has a DP, more USB, 3 audio ports vs 1, separate SD and uSD card slots as well as better port placement. On the OWC the computer port is on the front making for an awkward cable management situation, the TS4 is on the rear that allows you to keep the cables that are always plugged in going unseen.
@@richardcarlson127 Thanks, appreciated! I would also miss the DP port and understand the TS4 is more versatile.
@@JerrySchulzeand at significantly more cost you’d hope so.
For those that just need additional ports, and not a card reader / headphone socket / LAN connectivity, the Caldigit Element Thunderbolt 4 dock is excellent. Small, TB4 and USB-A, powered. I find it's an excellent expansion hub/dock for my Mac Studio.
Yes, the Element hub is also great!
I got the OWC Thunderbolt dock because unlike the Caldigit TS4 that I really wanted to own, it has that extra bit thunderbolt port missing on the Caldigit.
I bought a Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Dock, and have been using it for 4 months. It's been flawless. Similar looking to the OWC that you are reviewing. They may even be the same unit with a different name on it.
I don't get the idea of putting the host port in front .... dock is meant to clean up the mess and that sort of, defeats the purpose, I would never buy a dock with a host port upfront (also considering the money asked for them). Thank you for your work.
Agreed.
Wrong
Because people sit their laptop in front of the dock and plug it in. Typically the laptop is open with the laptop screen still being used.
If it is in the back, then it can fall down the back of the desk, people are lazy they don’t like to have to reach behind it. Only Mac people set their laptop on its side and don’t use the screen while docked. :)
The majority of these docks are designed for laptop people who need a desktop experience (hence the LAN port, HDMI for monitors etc.)
I hate the front host port. Almost nobody takes into account the needs of desktop setups.
I want:
- only USB-C / TB4 ports (no LAN, no HDMI, no DP, … hell no USB A)
- a built-in NVME slot at full speed (ideal as “working” drive / backup)
- Cfexpress Type B … would be awesome
@@alin.danila with a desktop, why would you mind tho? It won’t be very visible, likely … for laptop people yea, but desktops have plenty ports and likely dock away from view …
Comparison of three Thunderbolt 4 docks: Cal digit ts4, OWC Thunderbolt Dock, and Anker 777 Apex. Differences in ports and materials.
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Comparison of three Thunderbolt docks for Mac Users
00:00
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Comparison of Thunderbolt 4 docks with varying number of downstream ports
02:12
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Magic Stand Case: the all-in-one phone case
04:18
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Comparison of dock displays for Mac with high refresh rates and networking features.
06:32
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Multiple USB ports on different docks and their capabilities
08:32
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Comparison of SD card slots, audio jacks and charging ports on various docks
10:35
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Choose the ts4 dock for consistent 98 watts of power
12:25
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Three Thunderbolt 4 docks for Mac, each with unique features
14:26
Thanks. Can you do all my videos?
@@JerrySchulze I love technology and sure I can help you with this video stuff here and there. Really Ive been watching your videos since the good ole SOHO dock days.. So far it's working fine with Apple Studio display but still can't convince myself 'yet" to for the need TS4 at this current price.
At first, I thought, another doc video. But this is really the best one I’ve seen. Great information. Thanks for explaining in a much better way why people actually need these. I want one but until now I didn’t really understand what I would use it for. Now I do, thank you.
Glad it was helpful, which one are you getting?
Greatly appreciate you going into all the details on each device, thank you for making it easier to wrap my head around Thunderbolt on the Mac.
Glad to help!
Everything I needed to know, clear and concise. Thanks!
I have the CalDigit TS4, probably one of the best things I ever bought for my computing needs. Worth every penny!
Me too and I agree
hy still it is working good ? many say it has heating issue ?
Just went through this exercise and bought the Ivanky Max.
You should probably outline the fact the Anker 777 doesn't support non-mirrored output on the M1/M2 macbooks. After watching this and purchasing the Anker 777, even though the product description for the Anker 777 says non-M1 (which I assumed was Thunderbolt 4 limitations) Macbooks, it won't do a non-mirrored display. Critical information in my opinion when doing a comparative between these.
Are you sure about that? Looking at product page it looks like you can. One display on one of the two HDMI ports with the other display on the TB4 port.
Omg i've been looking for a product like the ts4 since i got my 16" m1max! Will defo get this sometime
You might want to also review Displaylink based docks for people that want to drive more then 1 display from a MB Airs and even Mini.
That rear computer port placement is the most important piece of a clean set up. 👍🏻
I'm using a Caldigit TS3+, the previous model. Very satisfied of it, and very reliable. There is really only 1 downside: the price. Especially after buying a MacBook which aren't the cheapest laptops out there either. All things considered, for me, it's worth the cost. All my stuff is connected and neatly organized thanks to this little grey box. In the mean time the MacBook stays charged, great for the battery life, and on the front ports I always have the possibility to quickly charge a mouse, or keyboard or whatever, without having to unplug anything else in my set-up.
I've purchased OWC products in the past and they've been very reliable, so I would lean toward their dock.
For me the TS4 is the clear winner. I want the host port on the back, since the TB cable will be (semi) permanently connected anyway. On the front I need a variety of good ports, for temporarily connecting drives for audio sessions. (why would Anker put USB2 on the front?! They expect people to connect, what, a keyboard there?)
Excellent presentation!
I went with the Caldigit T4 and used my points (I’ll keep and eye on your videos in the future!).
Gotta say I’m happy as a pig in a slop jacuzzi.
It’s got everything I need!
The power supplies for these docks are as large as the docks themselves. That’s why I went with the OWC Thunderbolt Go. Built in PS and host port on the side. Cheaper than the Cal Digit too.
I work in the movie industry. I manage data on set. What I needed was to expand the number of high-speed ports I had. I copy off of the original media to at least three other drives. I wanted every port to be able to run at at least 10 Gb/s. I also have at least one TB3 reader. I chose the OWC. It even has USB A ports for my external mouse and keyboard. I had one unit die on me and there was no issue getting it replaced - over the weekend!
what did you replace it with?
I have Nikon Z mirrorless cameras that use XQD cards. There are only a very few docks that are XQD capable. So right up front, almost every TB4 dock has ~$100 of kit completely useless to me. The newest Thunderbolt OWC Pro Dock, with CFexpress Type B (XQD compatible) card reader at $330 looks interesting. If they added a couple of M.2 NVME slots it would be very interesting indeed.
Dont think that CF Express B reader will read your XQD cards. I shoot Nikon mirrorless too and am looking for a dock which can read both XQD and CFB. Additionally, i read somewhere else that the OWC Pro Dock (not the one being discussed in this video) is a rebranded model of another company that OWC acquired (could be rumor). Reading various negative reviews about the TS4 too (read reviews on Amazon, B&H, Adorama etc), unfortunately this is a difficult decision.I guess I am looking for a set it and forget it dock and it looks like neither OWC or Caldigit satisfy those requirements convincingly.
Really great video! I do a lot of traveling multi-camera Zoom meetings. So the TS-4 is what I was leaning toward... and this video reaffirmed that decision.
Also - I use a MBP driving a 4k TV. I learned the hard way that plugging in Mac > hub > HDMI > TV results in a picture that exceeds the boundaries of the 4k TV, and mysteriously, Apple disables the overscan setting, so I can't fix it! However, if I plug in the MBP's native HDMI port > TV, it works perfectly. I wish I knew why, and I'd be curious to know if any of these 3 docks DON'T have this problem.
No issues with a 4k display, not sure about a tv.
@@JerrySchulze thanks for the reply. Tempting to try them...
As I have stated consistently… The Caldigit docks - TS3 and now TS4 - they are the best! Best feature set, best build… just the best… and they cost some money, but then again, there’s no free lunch
Can I use it between MacMini and PC?
@@ykmnkmi absolutely!
I have the CalDigit TS4. With my MacBook Pro M1 Pro, it will only display 3440 x 1440 when directly connected to the MacBook Pro via HDMI, or through the CalDigit but only with a 10Gbps cable. Once I plug in a 20Gbps, it jut goes black.
Returned the TS4 as the ethernet doesn't wake up correctly. Major issue for such an expensive device, and cal digit workarounds did not work for me. It also runs very hot.
Ended up going with OWC dock but the TB3 version. My laptop only has TB3, and IMO this dock is much better anyway - it has all the connections on the back (but some additional on the front if required) and has both SD card sizes, and USB3 and USBC on the front. Its just a better design and Mini DisplayPort works fine. It also runs much cooler than the Caldigit, and nvme thunderbolt drive performance was marginally better. If the TB4 version ergonomics were the same I would have got that for future proofing.
Didn't try the Anker.
Using an i9 MacBook Pro.
12:03 there is such a thing as a 4 pin 3.5 mm male jack to 2x 3 pin 3.5 mm female jacks converter available on ebay for about $4
This video is AMAZING! Excellent information, well thought out, well written, and Jerry genuinely cares. Love it! Thank you :-)
I've been using a Sonnet Echo 11 Thunderbolt 4 Dock for over a year and it has been really great. No complains, always connects perfectly. I also have an older Caldigit TS3 which I still use.
No coil whine on the Sonnet Echo 11?
Question. Running a Mac mini 2018 addition. Have three external drive string to run. I currently use 3 usb hubs to get enough ports for all my peripherals. Each at least 10-1. Could I take one of the caldigit TS4’s plug my three unpowered hubs in and get the mini to quit shutting off two of drives?
I woud guess not, they are probably pulling to much power. Something like the Element Hub might work and is a powered hub.
While Caldigit TS4 boasts power delivery up to 98 W or Ivanky dock with 96W power delivery but i doubt it is enough to supply enough power for 16” MBP M3 Max which Apple shipped with 140W power adapter 😢
Unless you are running blender renders for 6 hours straight, it is enough. You may drain your battery but it will be slow when connected to 98w.
Cool, thanks for the reply. Appreciate it 🙏🏼
Good video, Thanks. I just received the TS4 today after sending back the Anker. One item you may want to mention is the cable that comes with the units. I was pleased that the TS4 cable was Thunderbolt 4
I read that HDMI isn't well-regarded for M3 Macbook Pro external display use. Thunderbolt 4 direct connection is recommended; Display Port second to TB4. Do I have the right info? ... Trying to figure out things before CyberMonday tomorrow... ✌
I can’t say I have had or seen any issues with the built in hdmi port.
@@JerrySchulze Sorry, I think I might have read something in a different context. I was looking for external display monitors with KVM. I think the article / forum post mentioned the nuances in choosing external display monitors for laptop use and gaming. (I'm connecting my gaming console to get the most out of my purchase.)
In any case, I bought a Gigabyte monitor (built-in KVM tech) with 3 USB-A in the back, for keyboard and mouse. Right now, I'm doing research scouring the Internet to figure out whether or not I need a docking station / hub for 2 external drives, cd drive, and a printer, while my keyboard and mouse should be connected to my monitor. For futureproofing, an additional ethernet port, display port 1.4, and hdmi 2.1 might just be perfect.
Too bad there's no way customize a dock to exactly one's wishes...
Great video! Just purchased a loaded MacBook Pro M3 Max 16" and I need those extra ports for ilok, MIDI keyboard, etc...the TS4 looks sleek and "travel worthy." This video gave me all the info. Subscribed! Thanks again...
Your recommendation of the CalDigit Dock solved the drive disconnect issue I was having with my 2020 27" iMac. I guess mechanical drive need a powered dock?
That’s awesome! Ya my guess is the Mac ports just were not going it enough power.
my ts3+ died after 4 years, got a killer deal on the microsoft surface tb4 dock and it's been solid so far. didn't need all the fatures of the ts4.
thats cool!
Thanks I about to make a purchase on a dock and these were all in contention. Your review has solidified my decision in the CalDigit, thanks!
Good choice and thanks for checking it out!
This video answered all of the questions I would have had to sift through. Thank you Jerry!
Awesome!
What if you went a completely different way, create a bag that goes from both ends of the fence, behind the saw, and a connection for hose in the middle or two hose connections on each side of the saw?
Actually, I have never come across the Anker. What I did come across, though, is the Dell WD22TB4, which is rarely mentioned anywhere.
very useful video. A few things I did not notice that I would suggest could be things to cover in the next video on these topic: 1) whether one really needs a TB4 dock versus a TB3. I bet that for 99.9% of your viewers, CalDigit TS3 is a better deal than CalDigit TS4. 2) overheating do to continuos use specially 3) whether it makes sense to get two docks or to connect the most crucial TB4 device separately to the machine (e.g. when laptops have different TB4 controllers per port); 4) possibility to daisy chain. I have an older 2020 iMac 5k, and I use a CalDigit TB4 element hub (it has 3 TB ports I think) connected to the iMac and two CalDigits TS3 connected to the hub.
Hi, I covered daisy chaining in a previous video but the only issue with connecting 2 TS3s to an Element hub is that you are restricting to a single 40gb connection. if you need that many ports you would be better off load sharing between 2 ports on the Mac.
@@JerrySchulze many thanks. that makes sense. I typically leave one of the TB3 behind the iMac for whenever I connect an eGPU. I figure, if both TB3 ports on the imac Are controlled by the same TB3 controller in the motherboard, then they are anyway constrained by 40gb regardless of how many hubs I use. no?
@@DanielRodriguez-fg5ll Each port on the Mac has its own 40gb channel so you can fully saturate each port.
@@JerrySchulze oh in the 2020 iMac 5k too? wow, thanks for sharing. I will give it a try to split the two CalDigits
Great Video. I am trying to connect my M1 Mac to 2 Apple Thunderbolt Display desktops. Which one do you recommend?
This is a really well done video on the 3 top docks and I found it very helpful. I have been looking at the OWC Thunderbolt Pro Dock on sale that is closer to the CalDigit features but at a lower price.
Ya, that dock confuses me. 10g ethernet is awesome but one usb port, one thunderbolt port for stuff....it just doesn't have enough for the price, in my opinion.
@@JerrySchulze Yeah, I wish it had more ports too, but other 10G options cost nearly $200-$300 alone - so if 10G is important, that seems like a solid choice. Compared to 2.5G adapters are in the $70 range - which makes the TS4 a bit spendy for what you get.
Hi! Thanks tor the video! I just got a Mac Studio M2, and I'm having a hard time finding a docking station that will support 2 extended displays, most arent compatible yet with the M2 studio, or will only mirror, or will only do one display. The CalDigit looks like it might, but seems hard to get in Canada... any ideas?? Thanks!!
Any of these will do 2 extended displays along with the new Satechi thunderbolt dock. Have you checked the website directly?
Great insights - thanks a ton! I also need a Thunderbird dock for 4+ external 18TB discs - I'll check to see if you review this any where now...
The extra Thunderbolt 4 ports on the TS4, would they be a good way to hookup and run external monitors as well? Not really wanting to use HDMI or Display ports for monitors. I have a MacBook M1 Pro and want dual monitors. I have dual monitors now but one keeps going to sleep randomly which I don't understand.
Have a calDigit and OWC. The calDigit has no sdCard slots but both run about the same. More heat with the smaller calDigit. Never tried the OWC internet port as I use a 10mb system at home.
The TS4 is nice but it’s over twice $$$USD the price I paid for the OWC. 😢
$399 plus tax compared to $189 with tax (⚡️Amazon Lightning deal⚡️).😊
I want the TS4.
But I just don’t have that immediate need for it just yet.
The OWC does serve all my needs for now.
I recently/originally bought the OWC for use with my M1 MacBook Pro.
Yet I use it now mainly with my 2020 27” iMac since it only has the two Thunderbolt3 ports (2x @40gbps) & the four USB-A ports (all @5gbps).
I do use USB-A to USB-C adapters with the OWC & I get three more USB-C ports (@10gbps😊). Plus the extra USB-C Thunderbolt4 (@40gbps)
I have the 10Gb Ethernet port on the iMac. So the 2.5gb port on the TS4 or the 1gb port on the OWC ain’t a big deal.
I use a USB-C to HDMI adapter on one of the OWC Thunderbolt4 ports for my second display.
So I still have two Thunderbolt4 ports on the OWC left open when needed.
I use a Thunderbolt4 external hard drive (Acasis 40Gbps NMVe M.2 enclosure with a 2TB Samsung 980 pro) directly connected to the second Thunderbolt3 port on my iMac that I boot off as my main hard drive now instead of the internal (trying to preserve the internal TBW I guess).
My Work flow & Performance is absolutely great between the Intel iMac, the M1 MacBook, the OWC dock, all my music gear, my other devices & my external hard drives
All mainly for music making & music production.
Anything needing a USB 2.0, 3.0, 3.1, or 3.2 port there is a USB port to utilize.
Microphone’s & headphone to the audio interface, Montage7 synthesizer, MIDI keyboards, a few USB connected Multi-effect pedals for my guitars, FaceTime headphone & mic, DVD SuperDrive, Samsung T7’s, phone-keyboard-trackpad-mouse charging, etc. are all connected right now.
“Absolutely no more cable clutter at all, anymore”.
I have no need to unplug-disconnect or play around with cables because of the addition of the OWC dock.
❤I love it❤& the price I paid❤I have the extra Thunderbolt4 ports available when needed for power hungry devices like my external NMVe hard drives & T7’s.
I have no real need for the SD card readers yet but it’s nice to have them available when needed.
I know nothing about the Anker.
I prefer the OWC.
I don’t know why.
Maybe because I’ve bought other OWC products already & they all work great.
But all of these docks here are great.
For use with my M1 MacBook Pro, eventually,
I’ll be saving up for the TS4.
I’m just not using it as much now because of my studio being set up so well with my Intel iMac & the OWC dock.
I love RUclips channels like this.
You did a great job comparing all these here.
Thanks for sharing.
P.S. I use a TP-Link Kasa Smart plug as an on/off switch for the OWC dock.
No plugging or unplugging.
Works great.
🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Thanks so much for the comment, I think others will find this helpful!
I've had the previous generation TS3 Plus since 2018 and it's been a champ. It's $100 cheaper than the TS4 and still a very capable device if you don't need the absolute fastest USB/TB transfer speeds.
It is great and same thunderbolt speed.
If traveling and using it in a car/bus/train, will the docks work without being plugged into a battery bank or wall?
No they will not. Something like the CalDigit soho maybe a better option.
I think that any user needs to start from what connections and workflow he/she has. I have the TS4 and it's perfect when using a MacBook + Studio Display + NAS (TB3), already there all TB are taken. That's due to video editing in 4K, which I think you need at least a 10Gbe ethernet for. I connect via TB3/4 and any other guest, connects via a Qnap TB/10Gbe converter via the 10Gbe switch in the network or thru the 2nd TB3 port on the NAS, while still enjoying 2.5Gbe thru the TS4. Then all the other ports on the TS4 goes to other equipment such as Wacom, iPhone, iPad etc etc.
I returned the CalDigit becasue it doesn't have an on/off button. So if your computer is off you can't turn it on while it's docked with the lid closed.
I have the Mac mini M2 pro. using the OWC Thunderbolt Dock, performance was good. issue I have with it is when the Mac is in sleep mode, my 2 LG 27UK850s would constantly wake and go to sleep. OWC support was no help. I happen to also. have the OWC Thunderbolt Hub and so far have not had that issue.
Sadly with the M2 Pro and Max one cannot run a dual display from just the host thunderbolt slot. One must use both the hdmi and thunderbolt port for M2 Pro Macbook 16
This is incorrect. I frequently connect to 2 displays on the ts4 and other docks with a single TB connecting to the Mac.
Nice review! What about coil whine? Do any of them make some sort of electromagnetic noise when plugged? Cheers
None that I have heard.
I hope the next-gen CalDigit TS4 can add a power button, so I can turn it off to save energy when I'm not using it
I have the CalDigit and Anker… CalDigit wins every time hands down. I run both, they are both always hooked up everyday at the same time running my monitors and connections. But, if I had the chance to go back I would just buy two of the CalDigits.
Come on people. Jerry is awesome at explaining tech....let's get him to 50k Subs. Reward solid Content Creators. Great job JS
I appreciate that!
I just got my TS4 and hooked up two external 12TB hard drives to it today. My photography library is small. After reading the comments, I should be worry of whats to come. Well today is 5th July 2024 and everything is quiet. I've placed my unit horizontally, laying flat on a wire rack. The iunit s elevated 7 inches above my desk. I will be hooking up two monitor eventually. I belief heat might be the issue. If the squeel does show up, I think a computer fan hooked up to the bottom side of my wire rack can help cool it off a bit and not squeel like a pig, and die.
What about reliability of software and firmware. Having a older Plugable USB-C I have a lot of problems with getting display link software to run my 2 monitors. Do all 3 of these need extra software to run or does Apple just plug and play? Thanks great video!
There has been an update recently for the TS4 but in my year and a half with the ts4 I have had no issues. If the Pluggable is using displaylink to create additional fake GPUs for more displays I can see more updates being required.
I have a 24 inch iMac and I edit from external drives. I do photography and videography. So having four ports on the back just isn’t enough. This was a great video and I think I have made my decision to go with the OWC.
Thanks for sharing!
2:10 The host port is simply where you connect your Thunderbolt 4 to your Thunderbolt 4 port on your computer.
...If your computer has at least one of those(and its OS supports it, but assuming you are on Windows 10+, that's no problem).
So your self built PC with Thunderbolt 4 is "like [....] a Macbook Pro". Well no, but, it is a Thunderbolt 4 host device. :)
The host port on the front is a show stopper for me.I don’t want wires on my desk.Just my preference.
Very comprehensive review, good job.
I've got de TS4 like a year and a half, and definitively don't regret my purchase. It's amazing the quantity of devices it can handle. Two monitors, Apollo solo, stream deck +, item mini pro iso, web cam, midi controller, and still charge my phone or iPad, and handle pretty fast data transfer with ssd or whatever. This video just confirmed that it was the best purchase I made regarding to this docks.
how about not having hdmi port in TS4?
@@IngriqiDin honestly, it hasn’t been a problem. I use USB-C and DisplayPort, if I need more monitors, my Mac has an HDMI output. Maybe if I didn’t have a Mac with HDMI I’d choose another one.
@@johanrinconfx well, I agree with your opinion. Current MBP M3 Pro and M3 Max even have many ports of Thunderbolt 4.
Hi, and thanks for the great video. I have an M1 Macbook and bought a Wavlink dock to connect it to my LG 5k2k and my RME audio interface, so I can have more real-estate when recording and mixing music. For some reason, the incoming audio is distorted in a way I'm not even sure I can describe, so recording becomes impossible, unless I unplug the screen, in which case it's perfect. The power adapter states 200w output, so I'm not sure that's what's making it fall short.
Any idea if any of your offerings would solve the problem?
Thanks for your time.
I've been using the OWC dock for a long time with my M1 Max Macbook Pro. I also use Anker PowerExpand 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 Mini Dock to add more thunderbolt ports.
I got one of these TS4 docks the first week it came out after some crappy experience with a Anker TB3 dock. Never had a single issue running 2 External displays one is 1440p 140hz and a 4k 60hz display. Im a software engineer and have found the 98w charging for my MBP 16 inch has been adequate although I wish it could provide the full 140W the Apple charger can provide.
I can’t find any docks that allow the full 140w which is odd.
I've been looking for a powered Thunderbolt dock with only USB-C-type connectors for years. Instead, there are still all (maybe 1000s) of them occupied with Jurassic USB A. Is there at least one in the market that features USB-C ports only (or mostly)? At least three or four USB-C. Would you happen to have any idea?
I have a couple few USB 2.0 capture cards. I would like them to share the bandwidth of a single TB4 port since there is more than adequate bandwidth without killing the entire USB bus. Which dick would be best? Or will they all accomplish what I want and it comes down to a question of port configuration?
Is there a more cost effective solution? I have tried a couple usb 3.0 and 3.1 docks, they all seem to fail.
Yes thunderbolt would handle it all and any one of these are capable as long as it has the number of ports you need.
Hi Jerry, is there a dock that allows me to hook up a MacBook pro and Mac Studio?
Not a dock but I believe a thunderbolt KVM exists that could sit between the dock and 2 computers.
Can it be use for saving files into an external hard disk outside of a Mac. My thumb drive too. Thanks for helping😅
Yes, absolutely
Work at a place that uses large volumes of the anker 777, thing is extremely buggy and frequently refuses to connect to systems or display video outs across MacOS and Windows. Requiring tons of restarts before it works again.
Hello Jerry. Found this very informative. Looking at the equipment on your desk, it is quite the set up. How is everything connected, i.e. cable/wiring diagram?
Can any of these be powered without its AC wall adapter? For example my monitor provides 100 watts of power. Can that power my doc, and in turn pass through power to my laptop. Right now I connect my monitor directly to my laptop and it's a pretty great solution, but I need Ethernet and an SD card slot.
I tried using CalDigit TS4 with a dual 4K Dell monitors set up. M1 Max Mac Studio. One monitor was lagging.
I definitely have never seen that. Reach out to support and see what’s up.
Thank you. This was fantastic.
Thanks mate, hey is the card reader on these docks faster than the card reader thats built into my Mac Book Pro (M1 Max)
In my tests, yes. Maybe about 15-20%
I have been looking at getting a great solution at work but I just cannot find it. Both OWC and Anker are out because of the front facing host port. I want a clean desk, minimal and only have an M1 MBP 13.3" At this moment I use a pluggable with display link to drive two monitors and that works okay for now. Recently they upgraded one of the monitors with one that delivers power so now both TB ports on my MBP are taken. Oh, how I long for a 14 or 16" M2 but we will have to wait says CDW.... If it were up to me and I had only one choice it will have to go to CalDigit, it is the most expensive. Hey, maybe an interesting angle: What are the (price) differences between TB3 and TB4 docks? And I learned some interesting facts about the history and how Intel was involved in those days (licensing fees).
I actually have a video comparing the ts3 and ts4. Bottom line is they are both great and if you don't need the extras the ts3 is a good buy.
I have owned the OWC for over a year and I would say that I would not recommend it. The slightly movement seems to drop the connection with the USB C hard drives. When I try to go to add something, and I have to pull the unit towards me slightly to get behind it to plug something in I almost been variably lose my hard drives that are attached. it's very frustrating. I would not recommend the product.
Thanks for letting us know.
I have recently bought 2 x Dell U2723QE monitors
I want to connect them to my M2 Max MacBook Pro.
I have just realised that neither of these monitors support Thunderbolt 3.
So which of these docks would be best for doing that, if that is indeed possible? Thanks so much.
They are all backwards compatible and should work with those displays.
@@JerrySchulze Thanks so much Jerry. One other question, would I need a dock to daisy chain the monitors?
This was an excellent review.
At 08:07 you say "the caldigit and the anker both come with a one gigabit ether connection" I'm guessing you meant the OWC & Anker, just so people dont get confused the TS4 comes with a built in 2.5Gbe connection, but you can also use a 10Gbe TB3 adapter to get 10Gigabit. .
Oh sh!t. Yep. The owc and Anker have 1gb, the CalDigit has 2.5.
Does the anker work with a Mac? The product page says it’s not compatible with m1 macs. It doesn’t mention m2 but I guess they weren’t out when this dock launched.
Sorry if I missed it, I don't think you mentioned which ones are M1/M2 compatible? I know Anker docks are not M1/M2 compatible.
That's very interesting because it works just fine in all my testing and it seems for many other users.
I’ve owned the TS3 and TS4. There really is no competition for those who need Thunderbolt 4. I wish they would put Compact Flash ports on the next version.
I have a need to connect 3 usb a devices that must connect directly to my Mac mini to work properly. Will any of these docks expand my (1) 40gb usbc port on my mini to connect all 3 usb a ports as though they were directly connected to the mini?
yes, all of them, as long as they have enough usb ports for you.
Currently using the TS3+, ever since I moved to Apple M1 silicon, I've had non stop issues with waking displays from sleep... frustrating!
Really? I didn’t have any issues with the ts3. Is the firmware uodated?
@@JerrySchulze Yes, worked perfectly on intel silicon, running on the latest FW. No real fix, only workarounds - apparently the issue is with Apple and not with the Caldigit product itself. Not sure if this is the same with other newer products.
Same problem with the TS4. Tons of forum posts about it. I’m using an MBP 14” M1 Max with a TS4 and two brand new Dell 27” 4k USB-C displays and every time I sit down and wake my MBP the monitors wake up and are set at 30hz and settings in the Displays control panel are reset to default. I have to unplug the Thunderbolt 4 cable from the MBP, wait 30s and then plug back in again and then everything just works.
I have also been using Better Display to force settings to reconfigure on wake but that can’t force the MBP to set the correct refresh rate.
This is a problem with all of the TB4 docks right now but NONE of the reviews connect two USB-C displays to these docks. Instead they rely on a single Apple Studio display or use a single 4k display connected via Display Port or HDMI. It might work if you use DP or HDMI adapters on those TB4 ports but I’m not sure.
@@markeissler Great point as every time I have used dual 4k displays with them I am using adapters. I will consider testing that somehow.
I have one display connected to the TS3 via USB3 and one on the M1 Mini and I used to have this problem when I had one display connected but not ( hardly ever? Knock on wood) since I connected the second one via the TS3. Both displays are LG
Of course, the real question here is how stable are each of these docks. Back when I bought my OWC dock, I bought and returned a dozen other docks because they all had various issues. Such a sleep issues, where the system wouldn't sleep. Or things would disappear after sleep. Or connections to various things wouldn't work or wouldn't be stable. Reliability, stability, and functionality, are seriously big issues, and far more important to talk about in a review than just what ports are on the docks (which you can get from a spec sheet). I wish people would test the things you can only figure out by having your hands on the units. Like whether or not there were any weird behaviors over the course of a month of real world usage. Docking and undocking, sleeping, having a range of different kinds of devices plugged in, and unplugged, without power cycling the computer, etc.
I can honestly say, I have had Zero issues with CalDigit docks. Also, no problems with others so it comes down to features you want.
@@JerrySchulze I'd sincerely like to think that feature set is the only distinguishing consideration. However, I have no idea what sort of testing you did, nor how exhaustive it was, over what period it was performed. I know from my own experience, which I have a fair amount of it, most docks have weird issues (in fact, perhaps all of them). And if you read the reviews for most docks, you see those issues come up there as well. It's not a simple matter designing a dock that works 100% as expected. Even the OWC dock you reviewed here (and which I own, and have been using extensively for over a year) is not 100% perfect in this regard. Every so often it won't detect a displace on wake (about two to three times a week), and I'll have to power cycle the display to get the display to show up again (this issue is only present through the dock). Another weird dock issue is that when you use USB-C to HDMI, through the dock, periodically it will randomly shuffle the display order when the computer wakes up, making it so which monitor is primary, and how they relate to each other is altered. Thankfully I was able to workaround this issue by buying USB-C to Display cables, otherwise the OWC dock would be going back as well. So you see, I don't have a lot of faith in your assessment, as your testing is not good enough for you to be aware of issues the OWC dock has, and thus I don't trust your assessment of the other docks either.
I dont care if you trust me and I am not trying to sell you. All I can do is offer what my experoences have been. I have used the TS4 almost exclusivley for more that 2 years (before it was publiucly released). For about 6 months I used with non-apple displays and for more than a year with the studio display. Not one single issue. I also had the TS3+ for about 2 years with the same experience.
Hope that helps.
@@JerrySchulze I don't suspect you do care if I trust you or not, but the value of a review is only as good as you can trust it (I hope the reason for that is obvious). Since you are providing reviews, you should try to make those reviews trust worthy (and I don't mean that in the salesmanship "you can trust" me sense, I mean that in the engineering QA sense, that is, it's a review worthy of producing confidence), assuming you want your reviews to be valuable as reviews. If you "don't care," then perhaps you should consider doing something you do care about. 🤷🏽♂ My OP simply said I'd find your review more valuable if it reviewed elements of the experience I couldn't figure out simply by reading the product page (which was most of your review). However, if you don't want to step it up to that level that's fine, I'm sure you'll have an audience with those people who can't bother to read the product copy.
That was the wrong phrase to use. My point is that I can only share my experiences and it is up to you if that is helpful or not. I hope so.
I checked with Anker. The 777 is not compatible with the M1 chipset. Additionally, they told me the Anker 777 would not support 2 monitors on my Macbook Pro with the M2 Pro chipset.
Hey Jerry.
I'm so confused as to which one to get. I need a powered dock for my music studio setup. I need to connect:
> 1 USB port for HDD ( I will switch to an SSD, from which I will need 10Gbps transfer speed)
> 1 USB Audio Interface (I could try switching to USB-C for this one if needed)
> 1 USB port for MIDI keyboard
> 1 USB port for powering my LED strips
> 1 USB-C for monitor DELL S2722DC (2K @ 75Hz)
> 1 USB-C for connecting my 2020 Macbook Pro 13"
> 2 Ethernet ports to connect my studio sound monitors (1 port would work too)
> maybe an extra USB-C port just in case?
Idk which Hub to get.
Also another question: I have a monitor that sends 65W of power through it's USB-C connectivity cable. If the USB Hub is gonna be powered, and the monitor is also sending 65W of power, do I need to be worried about anything for the macbook?
Ethernet port to connect your speakers? What kind of speakers do you have?
Nice vid. Wish you had posted a graphic comparison chart (especially of port configurations), which would have made it a lot easier for me to zero in on all the factors that matter to me.
Nice balanced review. One comment though, a lot of Windows computers come with Thunderbolt now, it's not just Macs anymore. My three year old Dell XPS 17 laptop has four Thunderbolt 4 ports on it. I use a Thunderbolt dock with it to drive my display and my Thunderbolt M.2 storage drive. The only problem is the Dell wants 130 watts of power, which is more than most docks will put out.
If you are getting 87-98w of power from the dock, it should still be plenty. Even if you are maxing out your machine, as long as you have a full battery when you start, then it will drain pretty slowly.
@@JerrySchulze True, but I get nasty grams from the computer when I power up that are annoying.
Hello. Great video! I just got my M2 Max 16" laptop. Want to get a dock for it. Noticed the Mac power supply is 140w and these put out lower power. To be clear, I DO NOT plan to use a dock to power my Mac. I just want it to connect devices - ethernet, hard drives, audio (but not required) and I will use the HDMI connection on my Mac for the additional screen. So just the Mac display + HDMI out to second screen.... suggestions? Thanks in advance
Ive seen a smaller OWC hub that may suit my needs.
The Element Hub? ruclips.net/video/b2wUAb1nKMg/видео.html