The world of thunderbolt 3 docks has exploded in recent years, offering users a plethora of options to expand their workflow and connectivity. Two popular products in this category are the Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro and the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, performance, and design of these two docks to help you decide which one is best suited for your needs.

Design and Build Quality

The Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro has a sleek and compact design, measuring 8.2 x 3.4 x 1.1 inches. It's built with a durable aluminum body that feels premium in the hand. The dock has a small footprint, making it easy to place on a desk or take on the go. On the other hand, the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock is slightly larger, measuring 9.5 x 4.2 x 1.5 inches. It also features an aluminum body, but with a more industrial design that may appeal to some users.

Connectivity Options

Both docks offer a wide range of connectivity options, but there are some key differences. The Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro has two Thunderbolt 3 ports, one USB-A port, one USB-C port, an HDMI port, a DisplayPort, an Ethernet port, and an audio jack. In contrast, the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock has four Thunderbolt 3 ports, two USB-A ports, one USB-C port, an HDMI port, a DisplayPort, an Ethernet port, and an SD card slot.

The OWC dock's additional Thunderbolt 3 ports make it more versatile for users who need to connect multiple devices, such as external hard drives or displays. However, the Belkin dock's single USB-A port may be a limitation for some users who require more traditional USB connectivity.

Performance

In terms of performance, both docks deliver fast data transfer speeds and reliable connectivity. The Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro supports up to 40Gbps bandwidth, while the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock supports up to 48Gbps. This means that the OWC dock can handle more demanding applications, such as 4K video editing or high-speed data transfer.

Power Delivery

Another important aspect of thunderbolt 3 docks is power delivery. The Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro can deliver up to 60W of power, while the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock can deliver up to 85W. This means that the OWC dock can charge larger laptops or devices, making it a more versatile option for users who need to keep their devices powered on the go.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro and the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock are high-quality thunderbolt 3 docks that offer a range of connectivity options and fast performance. However, the OWC dock's additional Thunderbolt 3 ports, higher power delivery, and SD card slot make it a more versatile option for users who require more connectivity and storage options.

Ultimately, the choice between these two docks will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a compact and portable dock with reliable performance, the Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro may be the better option. However, if you need a more robust dock with additional connectivity options and higher power delivery, the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock is the way to go.

In the world of thunderbolt 3 docks, it's clear that both Belkin and OWC have delivered high-quality products that cater to different user needs. Whether you're a creative professional or a business user, there's a thunderbolt 3 dock out there that can help you expand your workflow and stay productive on the go.