When it comes to expanding the connectivity options of your computer, thunderbolt 2 docks have become an essential tool for many professionals. Two popular options in this category are the Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock and the CalDigit Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station. 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 Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock has a sleek and compact design that measures 8.4 inches wide, 3.1 inches deep, and 1.7 inches tall. It's made of a durable aluminum alloy that gives it a premium feel. The dock has a simple and minimalistic look, with a single Thunderbolt 2 port on the back and several other ports on the front and sides.

The CalDigit Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station, on the other hand, has a more rugged design that's built to withstand heavy use. It measures 8.5 inches wide, 3.5 inches deep, and 1.9 inches tall, making it slightly larger than the Elgato dock. The CalDigit dock is also made of aluminum, but it has a more industrial look with a focus on functionality over aesthetics.

Connectivity Options

Both thunderbolt 2 docks offer a range of connectivity options, but there are some differences in the types and numbers of ports available. The Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock has two Thunderbolt 2 ports, one USB 3.0 port, one HDMI port, one Gigabit Ethernet port, and one audio jack.

The CalDigit Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station has three Thunderbolt 2 ports, two USB 3.0 ports, one HDMI port, one DisplayPort, one Gigabit Ethernet port, and one audio jack. The CalDigit dock also has a built-in power supply, which allows it to charge laptops and other devices without the need for an external power adapter.

Performance

In terms of performance, both docks are capable of delivering fast data transfer speeds and reliable connectivity. The Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock supports data transfer rates of up to 20 Gbps, while the CalDigit Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station supports rates of up to 20 Gbps as well.

However, the CalDigit dock has a slight edge when it comes to charging power. It can deliver up to 85W of power, which is enough to charge most laptops, including MacBook Pros and MacBook Airs. The Elgato dock, on the other hand, can deliver up to 60W of power, which may not be enough to charge larger laptops.

Compatibility

Both docks are compatible with Mac and PC computers that have Thunderbolt 2 ports. However, the CalDigit Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station has a broader range of compatibility, including support for Windows and Linux operating systems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock and the CalDigit Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station are high-quality thunderbolt 2 docks that offer a range of connectivity options and fast data transfer speeds. However, there are some key differences between the two products.

The Elgato dock is more compact and has a simpler design, making it a good choice for those who want a minimalistic look. It also has a lower price point than the CalDigit dock.

The CalDigit Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station, on the other hand, offers more connectivity options, including three Thunderbolt 2 ports and a built-in power supply. It's also compatible with a broader range of operating systems and can deliver more charging power.

Ultimately, the choice between these two thunderbolt 2 docks will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a compact and affordable dock with basic connectivity options, the Elgato Thunderbolt 2 Dock may be the better choice. But if you need a more robust dock with advanced features and broader compatibility, the CalDigit Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station is worth considering.