When it comes to expanding the connectivity options of your computer, thunderbolt 2 docks are an excellent solution. Two popular options in this category are the OWC Thunderbolt 2 Dock and the Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express Dock HD. Both devices offer a range of ports and features that can enhance your workflow and productivity, but they also have some key differences.

Design and Build

The OWC Thunderbolt 2 Dock has a sleek and compact design, measuring 6.4 inches wide, 3.9 inches deep, and 1.1 inches tall. It's made of durable aluminum and has a solid build quality that can withstand heavy use. The Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express Dock HD, on the other hand, is slightly larger at 7.5 inches wide, 4.8 inches deep, and 1.3 inches tall. It also has an aluminum body, but it feels slightly lighter and less premium than the OWC dock.

Port Selection

Both docks offer a range of ports to connect your devices, but there are some differences in their selection. The OWC Thunderbolt 2 Dock features:

• 2 x Thunderbolt 2 ports
• 4 x USB 3.0 ports
• 1 x HDMI port
• 1 x Gigabit Ethernet port
• 1 x Audio-out port

The Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express Dock HD, on the other hand, has:

• 2 x Thunderbolt 2 ports
• 3 x USB 3.0 ports
• 1 x HDMI port
• 1 x Gigabit Ethernet port
• 1 x Audio-in port
• 1 x Audio-out port

As you can see, the OWC dock has an additional USB 3.0 port, which may be useful for connecting more devices at once.

Performance

Both docks support up to 20 Gbps of bandwidth over Thunderbolt 2, making them ideal for demanding applications like video editing and data transfer. However, the OWC dock has a slight edge in terms of performance, thanks to its more robust power delivery system. This means that you can connect more devices to the OWC dock without experiencing any significant drops in performance.

Compatibility

Both docks are compatible with Macs and PCs that have Thunderbolt 2 ports, including MacBook Pros, iMacs, and Windows laptops. However, it's worth noting that the Belkin dock may require a firmware update to work properly with certain devices.

Price

The OWC Thunderbolt 2 Dock is generally priced around $250-$300, while the Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express Dock HD is priced around $200-$250. This makes the Belkin dock a more affordable option for those on a budget.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the OWC Thunderbolt 2 Dock and the Belkin Thunderbolt 2 Express Dock HD are excellent options for anyone looking to expand their computer's connectivity options with thunderbolt 2 docks. While they share many similarities, there are some key differences in terms of design, port selection, performance, and price. The OWC dock is a more premium option with a robust build quality and additional USB 3.0 ports, but it comes at a higher price point. The Belkin dock, on the other hand, is a more affordable option that still offers great performance and features, making it an excellent value for those on a budget. Ultimately, the choice between these two docks will depend on your specific needs and priorities.