When it comes to expanding the capabilities of your computer, thunderbolt 2 docks have become an essential accessory for many users. Two popular options in this category are the Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock and the Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express Dock HD. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, performance, and design of these two devices to help you decide which one is best suited for your needs.

Design and Build Quality

The Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock has a sleek and compact design, measuring 8.4 inches wide, 3.1 inches deep, and 0.9 inches tall. It's made of high-quality aluminum and features a sturdy build that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The dock has a minimalistic aesthetic, with a simple LED indicator on the front and a row of ports on the back.

In contrast, the Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express Dock HD is slightly larger, measuring 8.6 inches wide, 3.4 inches deep, and 1.1 inches tall. It's also made of aluminum, but has a more angular design with a prominent Belkin logo on the front. The dock has a series of LED indicators on the front, which provide visual feedback on the status of connected devices.

Ports and Connectivity

Both docks offer a comprehensive range of ports to connect your devices. The Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock features two Thunderbolt 2 ports, one HDMI port, one DisplayPort, one Gigabit Ethernet port, one audio in/out jack, and two USB 3.0 ports. This provides ample connectivity options for users who need to connect multiple displays, storage devices, and peripherals.

The Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express Dock HD has a similar port configuration, with two Thunderbolt 2 ports, one HDMI port, one DisplayPort, one Gigabit Ethernet port, one audio in/out jack, and three USB 3.0 ports. The additional USB port on the Belkin dock may be a deciding factor for users who need to connect multiple devices simultaneously.

Performance

Both docks are capable of delivering high-speed data transfer rates, thanks to the Thunderbolt 2 interface. The Elgato dock supports speeds of up to 20 Gbps, while the Belkin dock supports speeds of up to 20 Gbps as well. In real-world testing, both docks performed admirably, with fast file transfers and smooth video playback.

Display Support

One key area where these docks differ is in their display support. The Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock can support up to two displays at resolutions of up to 4K (3840 x 2160) @ 60Hz, while the Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express Dock HD can support up to two displays at resolutions of up to 4K (3840 x 2160) @ 30Hz. If you need to connect multiple high-resolution displays, the Elgato dock may be the better choice.

Power Delivery

Both docks offer power delivery over Thunderbolt 2, but the Belkin dock has a slight edge in this regard. It can deliver up to 85W of power, while the Elgato dock is limited to 60W. This means that the Belkin dock may be better suited for users who need to charge larger devices, such as 15-inch laptops.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock and the Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express Dock HD are excellent options for users who need to expand their computer's capabilities. When it comes to thunderbolt 2 docks, these two devices stand out from the competition due to their high-quality design, comprehensive port selection, and fast performance.

Ultimately, the choice between these two docks will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize display support and a compact design, the Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock may be the better choice. However, if you need additional USB ports and higher power delivery, the Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express Dock HD is worth considering. Regardless of which dock you choose, you can be confident that you're getting a high-quality product that will meet your needs for years to come.