When it comes to expanding the capabilities of your computer, thunderbolt 2 docks are an excellent option. Two popular choices in this category are the StarTech Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station and the OWC Thunderbolt 2 Dock. In this comparison, we'll delve into the features, performance, and design of these two products to help you decide which one best suits your needs.

Design and Build Quality

The StarTech Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station has a compact and sleek design, measuring 8.4 inches in length, 3.9 inches in width, and 1.7 inches in height. It's constructed with durable plastic and features a sturdy base that prevents it from tipping over. The OWC Thunderbolt 2 Dock, on the other hand, has a more rugged design with a aluminum body, measuring 8.5 inches in length, 3.5 inches in width, and 1.5 inches in height. Both docks have a premium feel to them, but the OWC dock's aluminum construction gives it a more solid and robust build quality.

Connectivity Options

Both thunderbolt 2 docks offer a wide range of connectivity options, including two Thunderbolt 2 ports, four USB 3.0 ports, one HDMI port, one DisplayPort, and one Gigabit Ethernet port. However, the OWC dock has an additional audio input/output jack, which is not found on the StarTech dock. The StarTech dock, on the other hand, has a separate power button, whereas the OWC dock relies on the connected computer to power it on.

Performance

In terms of performance, both docks deliver fast data transfer speeds and support dual 4K display output at 60Hz. However, the OWC Thunderbolt 2 Dock has a slightly faster data transfer rate, with speeds of up to 20 Gbps, compared to the StarTech dock's 16 Gbps. Additionally, the OWC dock supports daisy-chaining of up to six devices, while the StarTech dock only supports up to five.

Power Delivery

The StarTech Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station provides up to 60W of power delivery, which is sufficient for most laptops and ultrabooks. The OWC Thunderbolt 2 Dock, on the other hand, delivers up to 85W of power, making it a better option for larger and more power-hungry laptops.

Compatibility

Both docks are compatible with Mac and PC computers, including those from Apple, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. However, the OWC dock has been specifically designed with Mac users in mind, with support for macOS's built-in display settings and audio control.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both the StarTech Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station and the OWC Thunderbolt 2 Dock are excellent options for those looking to expand their computer's capabilities. While both docks offer similar features and performance, the OWC dock has a few advantages, including its more rugged design, additional audio input/output jack, and faster data transfer speeds. However, the StarTech dock is a more affordable option and still offers great value for its price.

Ultimately, when choosing between these two thunderbolt 2 docks, consider your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a more premium build quality and advanced features, the OWC Thunderbolt 2 Dock may be the better choice. But if you're on a budget and want a reliable and feature-rich dock, the StarTech Thunderbolt 2 Docking Station is an excellent alternative.