The world of thunderbolt 3 docks has revolutionized the way we connect our devices, offering unparalleled speed, versatility, and convenience. Two prominent players in this market are the Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro and the Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station with 96W Charging. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, performance, and value of these two products to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build

The Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro boasts a sleek and compact design, measuring 8.1 x 3.4 x 1.5 inches. Its aluminum construction exudes a premium feel, while the rear-facing ports provide easy access and cable management. The Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station, on the other hand, has a slightly larger footprint (9.4 x 4.2 x 1.7 inches) and a more plastic-heavy build. However, its design is still sturdy and well-organized, with a useful LED indicator for power and connectivity status.

Ports and Connectivity

Both thunderbolt 3 docks offer an impressive array of ports, but there are some notable differences. The Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro features:

• 2 x Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports
• 1 x DisplayPort
• 1 x USB-A 3.0 port
• 1 x USB-A 2.0 port
• 1 x Ethernet port
• 1 x Audio jack

In contrast, the Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station offers:

• 2 x Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports
• 2 x DisplayPort
• 4 x USB-A 3.0 ports
• 1 x Ethernet port
• 1 x Audio jack
• 1 x SD card reader

While both docks provide ample connectivity options, the Plugable dock's additional USB-A ports and SD card reader make it a more versatile choice for users with multiple devices and storage needs.

Charging and Power Delivery

The Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro supports up to 60W power delivery, which is sufficient for most laptops. However, the Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station takes it a step further with 96W charging, making it an excellent choice for larger or more power-hungry devices.

Performance and Compatibility

Both docks deliver exceptional performance, with transfer speeds of up to 40 Gbps over Thunderbolt 3. They are also compatible with a wide range of devices, including Macs, PCs, and Chromebooks. However, the Belkin dock has been certified by Intel as a "Thunderbolt 3 Certified" product, ensuring seamless compatibility and optimal performance.

Value and Price

The Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro typically retails for around $250-$300, while the Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station is priced between $200-$250. Considering the additional features and ports offered by the Plugable dock, it seems to be the better value proposition.

Conclusion

In the world of thunderbolt 3 docks, both the Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro and the Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station with 96W Charging are excellent choices. However, the Plugable dock's additional ports, higher power delivery, and competitive pricing make it a more attractive option for users seeking a versatile and future-proof solution. Ultimately, the decision between these two products will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a premium design and Intel certification, the Belkin dock may be the better choice. But if you're looking for a feature-rich, high-performance thunderbolt 3 dock at an affordable price, the Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station is an excellent option to consider.