When it comes to expanding the connectivity options of your laptop or computer, thunderbolt 3 docks have become an essential tool for many users. Two popular options in this category are the CalDigit TS3 Plus Thunderbolt 3 Dock and the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, performance, and design of these two products to help you decide which one is best suited for your needs.

Design and Build Quality

The CalDigit TS3 Plus Thunderbolt 3 Dock has a sleek and compact design that measures 5.15 inches wide, 1.18 inches tall, and 3.58 inches deep. It's made of aluminum and has a premium feel to it. The dock is also relatively lightweight, weighing in at just 6.9 ounces.

The OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock, on the other hand, has a slightly larger footprint, measuring 5.7 inches wide, 1.4 inches tall, and 3.8 inches deep. It's also made of aluminum, but it has a more rugged design with a textured finish. The OWC dock is slightly heavier than the CalDigit, weighing in at 10.2 ounces.

Connectivity Options

Both docks offer a wide range of connectivity options, including multiple Thunderbolt 3 ports, USB-A ports, HDMI ports, and audio jacks. However, there are some key differences between the two.

The CalDigit TS3 Plus has a total of 5 USB-A ports, with two of them being USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports that can deliver speeds of up to 10 Gbps. It also has two Thunderbolt 3 ports, one DisplayPort, and one HDMI port. Additionally, it has an SD card slot and a combo audio jack.

The OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock has a total of 4 USB-A ports, with two of them being USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports that can deliver speeds of up to 10 Gbps. It also has one Thunderbolt 3 port, one DisplayPort, and one HDMI port. However, it lacks an SD card slot, which may be a drawback for some users.

Performance

In terms of performance, both docks are capable of delivering fast data transfer speeds and can handle multiple displays with ease. The CalDigit TS3 Plus can deliver speeds of up to 40 Gbps over Thunderbolt 3, while the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock can deliver speeds of up to 20 Gbps.

The CalDigit dock also has a built-in DisplayPort 1.4, which allows it to support up to two 4K displays at 60Hz or one 5K display at 60Hz. The OWC dock, on the other hand, supports up to two 4K displays at 30Hz or one 5K display at 60Hz.

Power Delivery

Both docks offer power delivery over Thunderbolt 3, but the CalDigit TS3 Plus has a higher power delivery capacity of up to 85W. The OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock can deliver up to 60W of power, which may not be enough for larger laptops or devices that require more power.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the CalDigit TS3 Plus Thunderbolt 3 Dock and the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock are high-quality products that offer a wide range of connectivity options and fast data transfer speeds. However, there are some key differences between the two that may make one more suitable for your needs than the other.

If you're looking for a dock with a compact design, multiple USB-A ports, and an SD card slot, the CalDigit TS3 Plus may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a rugged design and don't mind sacrificing some connectivity options, the OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock may be the way to go.

Ultimately, when it comes to thunderbolt 3 docks, it's essential to consider your specific needs and choose a product that meets them. With so many options available on the market, doing your research and comparing different products like these two can help you make an informed decision and find the perfect dock for your setup.