I was seriously considering the TS4 up until I realised that it only has 2 thunderbolt ports in addition to the actual port connecting it to the Mac. The OWC Thunderbolt dock has 3 Thunderbolt ports in addition to the connection to the Mac. I needed 3 thunderbolt ports to run my display and 2 dedicated thunderbolt drives. In all other respects, the TS4 is certainly the more capable unit than the OWC but its also quite a bit more expensive so you certainly get what you pay for. Great video and keep up the great work!
I just purchased (October 15 2022) this product for use on my MacBook pro M1 Max which is also new. The TS4 came with version 38.1 firmware, which has known issues concerning sleep/wake with apple chip sets. After a sleep, I lose my drive and display connections and a reboot is required. Caldigit has a firmware upgrade to version 39.1 which was released in July 2022. The problem is that the firmware upgrade supplied by Caldigit only runs on windows OS and must run on hardware with thunderbolt or USB C. I am not a windows user but I tried applying the update via VM windows and an old windows box and was not successful. If you are purchasing this product for your MAC, I advisie waiting until Caldigit produces a native Mac firmware upgrade utility. Why they would release a fix without this in the first place is indicative of the support provided to Mac users.
They now have a Mac firmware updater as of 1/19/23. I haven’t tried it but just letting it be known. Would be curious to hear if it addresses your sleep issues!
It's ironic watching this today as I'm still using my Caldigit TS2 dock with my late 2013 MacBook Pro!!! I've used it everyday since late 2013 and it works perfectly... even after it fell off my desk today (for the first time) while I was reconfiguring my cables around my desk. Still works perfect! I plan to get this new TS4 with an M1 mobile MacBook purchase later in 2022. Thanks for posting this informative review.
Nice details and breakdown...Now with all these ports, do they share bandwidth or are the all independent and each will get the full 10Gbit/s or 40Gbit/s. In other words, If I connect 2 TB4 cables will the ports share and now I am down to 20GBits/s? Thank you...
At around 06:30 you mention the charging capabilities of the dock, in particular the ability to charge a 16" MacBook Pro (I assume this includes the 2019 version with the M1 chip). You made reference to the fact that for fast charging the stock 140W adapter should be used. I am very interested in getting this dock for my laptop, and am not that bothered about fast charging as it will be used when I am working from home. My only concern is long term 'damage' to the battery if it's plugged into power all the time - should I be worried?
For anyone else looking for the answer to this - no, your battery will not take damage from it. The m1's can automatically limit SoC to 80% when it senses it's been plugged in for a while, so it will take care of itself.
I've lost so much confidence in CalDigit. I bought two of the CaDigit 3 for my office set up. They consistently fail with sound and microphone operation. I currently bypass the dock and go direct to my desktop mac for video and audio. It also completely fails with external storage and it fails to distribute ethernet across devices. The only device the dock can handle is my external monitor. Unless I can see evidence these issues are being addressed, I would stay well clear of these devices.
It’s a lemon. I have so many problems with it after it sleeps . All the usb devices disappeared and 9/10 times the Ethernet cable says it’s disconnected. I hope they fix the issues soon otherwise stick with your ts3+
Does the SD card slot heat up your cards fairly quickly? My TS3 has done that from the start-so hot/fast that I opt for a plain old USB 3 card reader. The heat is generates on my cards isn't enough to burn, but it's enough to be concerning. Hoping that's not the case with the TS4.
Doesn't make any noise, no start button, just hook up your device and everything connects. If you use is to charge the device as you use it, temps can get pretty hot, but otherwise its cool to the touch.
Great review! Technical question not found anywhere: connecting an LG 5K display supplies power to the MacBook. What happens if the TS4 is hooked up? I am afraid of frying the MacBook internal circuits 😳
I have the LG 5k ultra wide that has a built in dock that can also power my MacBook. Power wise, you’ll be fine if you do that. But I think it makes much more sense to plug in the monitor via DisplayPort or Thunderbolt to the dock, and then connect the dock to Mac via thundrrbolt. That way only one cable is going to your MacBook.
Jeff! you nailed it again! thanks brotha! just got today my new TS4!!! I CANT WAIT TO USE IT! THANKS FOR YOUR AWESOME HELP AND AWESOME EXPLANATION ON THIS VID! OF COURSE THANKS FOR YOUR HOW TO AND AWESOME GUIDES! :D
I completely agree with you! I think CalDigit always had a great dock with the TS series and this newest version is absolutely worth it if you want the newest and best dock that is available. All ports are faster! -Ethernet goes from 1Gb to 2.5GB. -DisplayPort goes from 1.2 to 1.4 -2 downstream TB4 instead of 1 downstream TB3! -USB-C has now 10Gb instead of 5Gb (i think?) Not sure, but even if not. These improvements are just great! Just as this review!
I want this, but i already have the TS3, just need additional TB ports, or i could just use the additional ports on my Macbook, but i like having one cable only 😅.
Does it wake up from sleep reliably? I’ve heard the TS3+ had some issues with that… And if I plug a USB keyboard/mouse, will they also be able to wake my MacBook up from sleep reliably?
This would be the perfect dock for me but if your Mac is M1 silicon based then it has a fatal flaw. When the Mac comes out of sleep mode the drives and other devices are potentially unmounted. Caldigit recommends doing a reboot of the Mac or disabling sleep mode. They are working on a fix but there is no indication of a date yet.
Is there some share switch available in the market in oder to connect this dock with 2 or more computers at once allowing quickly switching on will ? If not, I think in the future models they should give an option to connect to 2 computers at once with a switch button to quickly switch between 2 connected computers (like it is in KVM switches).
I have 10 non powered external drives (for photo storage) and wish to know whether I can safely piggyback 1 or 2 hubs to the dock (when editing photo's) without impairing performance of the main dock.
Is there anything in between this and the inexpensive “dongle” type hubs. I don’t know if I need something this robust (and expensive) but the crappy dongle hanging out of my MacBook Air (on a stand) seems like an accident waiting to happen.
Just ordered 1 and waiting for it to be shipped out! For the given ports and flexibility, it is well worth it's price (albeit still expensive). Also, comparing to other TB4 docks (Anker 777/Razer/Belkin/Kensington) on the market it handily beats them with its features while being priced the same. It's also TB4/TB3/USB-C compatible so you can use it across different platforms (although it makes more sense for TB3/TB4).
Is it your understanding that I can connect TWO Apple Studio Displays to the two thunderbolt 4 ports on the back of the TS4 and get the same performance as if I used to two of the thunderbolt 4 ports on the M1 Max MacBook Pro?
Idk if it works because I don’t have the studio displays but 4K 60hz on two 27 inch LGUN850 displays only one works connected at 60hz through DisplayPort and usb c. I can’t get the usbc monitor to work at 60hz straight from the dock. I’ve contacted support and they told me to buy adapters which on my ts3+ it worked perfectly fine lol. They should give adapters in the box for almost 400 dollars. Extremely disappointed smh.
I got this one and the shop even sent me a second but it didn't work well on my macbook air. As soon as i used it my external screen didn't work anymore. The screen didn't work even when i hooked in the 2nd TB poort. As soon as i took off the dock everything works... I think ny screen is the issue but there noway i an ready to replace that ... 😅
Hello there, right note I have San iMac and upgrading to Mac Studio M2. Will this help me out and even though it has all what you’re speaking of footed out save libraries or do I have to go to a Samgung T2?
While the TS4 is advertised as backwards compatible with TB3, I'm not sure this is true. I tried switching from a TS3 Plus to a TS4 (same port usage) with a TB3 laptop and it didn't go well. Mouse especially stuttered like crazy.
Got it yesterday, great dock for Macbook Pro M1 Pro! Everything works perfectly, connected to it a 10GBe adapter from OWC, DAC, 4K monitor, external drives, speakers, headset and other devices, a recommendation for anyone looking for the perfect dock!,
if i have a m1/m2 max macbook pro which can supposedly handly 4 external displays, how does this dock help without having to resort to crappy software driven displaylink or plugging one or more monitors directly into the mac?
@@9to5Mac 😭 i won't buy a monitor until the gaming monitors start making oled 4k 120hz because I know it will be in like 3 to 5 years and I don't won't to wanted my money on it's monitors even do there good buy it want the finnest i was looking at the lg 43 inch tv oled as monitor buy it's to big i want a 32 inch monitor oled Docked with a gaming pc that dose that is 1440p 120hz but when docked it get 4k 120hz
Ive been a happy macbook 16" Max user. I do heavy colorgrading in Davinci Resolve that really stresses the Macbook to its limits...but even so, i can easily charge the Mac with 60W USB-Power all the time without ever dropping the battery... it seems that even under heavy load, the Macbook Pro almost never actually draws more than 60w unless you do a Benchmark that specifically uses EVERYTHING at the same time (Which imo is rarely the case in practical day to day use...)
TS3 was a disaster for me on 2020 M1 MacBook Air - multiple issues: unit ran alarmingly hot/caused MacBook to run hot as well, multiple random wired display dropouts, Bluetooth disconnects, un-commanded drive dismounts - had to return it. Reading TS4 reviews am finding (M1) folks having similar issues to my TS3 issues. I opted for an OWC TB4 Thunderbolt Dock (OWCTB4DOCK). No issues whatsoever with this unit over the 30 days I've been using it.
"un-commanded drive dismounts" I had these constantly with one TS3+, and occasionally with another one. As far as I'm concerned they are not fit for purpose. I certainly won't buy a TS4.
@@mavfan1 With respect, that's not a massively useful data point. Do you work in tech support? You will be connecting different devices to different ports. If it's a firmware bug, who knows what devices trigger it? If it's a hardware problem, does yours have the same batch components as my two? Are you in the same country (this is relevant if it's a power supply issue). Do you have yours in the same orientation (relevant if it's a thermal issue). etc.
Save your money and check out other solutions - at least if you're a M1 MBP-User. I bought it to extend SDD space through external ssd drives... to bad that they are randomly disconnected... The Dock does not awake from sleep, their "solution" is: "Option #1: Turn off Sleep Mode in macOS:". Maybe it works with Windows, but don't buy it if your on MacOS.
I had horrible problems with the TS4 for months. I tried 3 of them thinking it must be the dock. Nope, did not work exeactly the same. Basically none of the USB ports would work for some studio gear, SSL UF8, RME Fireface UFX III, Elektron Overhub and Akai Force computer mode. I was using a 2023 MBP. I even tried reinstalling MacOS from scratch. Other problems involved waking up to black screens for several minutes and hard drives failing to eject. OWC 14 Port Thunderbolt dock doesn’t have any of these issues. All 3 TS4 firmware was up to date 39.1 or whatever it is. It’s very unfortunate too, because I really like the caldigit on paper. Just didn’t work. And very expensive.
If you use this docking station with devices that only have Thunderbolt 3 (like the MB Air 2020 or an external monitor) would this affect the device's connectivity, make it get heated or run slower?
That’s not how that works. The only reason the M1 MBA doesn’t say it is Thunderbolt 4, is because it doesn’t support dual external monitors. It supports everything else about Thunderbolt 4. TB4 has the same bandwidth as TB3 anyways, both at 40gbps.
I returned my TS3 last year because it didn't work all my devices. Now i'm considering on buying this one because of the fact that it will work with everything including my ipad for when i want to game on it and have a one cable solution. The price tag is alot to consider but i feel like this dock will last for the years to come.
I’m new to tech. I just want to buy a dock so I can leave my predator triton 300 closed and use it like a desktop for gaming, will this dock make my PC perform worse for gaming? Would this be able to handle a 4K Monitor with 240 hz and a second screen 1080p at 60hz?
Why a Display Port which is so so rare and not sure any newer monitors have. And not an HDMI instead? What’s the advantage of this. Please enlighten me. I also wish Ethernet was 10gbit
DisplayPort is most definitely still around… The reason to use DisplayPort, is because of USB-C and its support for DisplayPort Alt mode, so it’s less likely to go wrong. You would rather that your DP to HDMI cable broke, than the internal DP to HDMI adapter be buggy or break etc. TLDR: Less things to go wrong.
The best thing about a PC with thunderbolt 4 now... If you run internal graphics, you can: - add up to 4 or 5 Nvme drives per 16 x expansion slot with things like the Asus Hyper card and DeLock has one for five, but I trust the Asus - have at least 4 SATA ports, but some motherboards have 6 or 8 and have many USB 10 Gb/s ports ... And then extend the Thunderbolt 4 with this dock - and still run DisplayPort or USB-c out of it to connect monitors. Along with the HDMI on the system.
And no, you don't have do that. But you can. I think you can only assign 24 volumes on Windows, but if you were to assign all your drives just as a single volume, you can run 10-20 just internally in the box... And another 10-20 via USB 10 GB/s externally. So between those... You probably need at least a few driveletters for your USB-sticks and external back-up. If someone knows if Windows 11 can have more than 26 driveletters (but no one uses A: and B: anymore)... Please reply.
So cool for the power user. However, if you still plan on using your MacBook on your desk I feel like the CalDigit element 4 is worthy of consideration for £100 less. Smaller footprint with all the I/O for most people's needs.
I have the Element and it won't charge my 14" MBP laptop after using it on battery for a while. It connects, starts charging, but then disconnects. It never connects enough to get the external display to work. I have tried at various battery charge states. Unless it is over 95% charged, it never fully initates. It would be perfect if the power delivery was higher. I was hoping it would slow charge my Mac like my wife's M1 MBA charger does when we are traveling together and I may have forgot my charger.
Maybe I am wrong, but with the amount of negative review and problems that this device have on Amazon Canada and watch this video see how marketing deceive us. Why you not tell the thru about it.
I appreciate 9to5 reporting; BUT, you think we’re made of MONEYSSSSSS? Review more low cost options. How about testing Dell, Levino, HP thunderbolt docks? 400.00 CalDigit vs a used 30.00 Dell dock….I’M INTRIGUED
@@kaukospots Glad you questioned! I was wrong- I didn’t realize DisplayPort came around in 2006 while hdmi was closer to 2002. Figured it was the opposite. But also didn’t know all the specs on dp 1.4 and 2.0. Lol Last time I act like on know anything on the internet.
I like that you call it a Thunderbolt Dock. It is useful for any device with thunderbolt, wether laptop or desktop, wether it runs Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS or Linux. Yes, Linux supports Thunderbolt 3 under the latest kernels. And those Linux enthusiast can figure out how to use Thunderbolt 4 :-)
I just don't see the point in buying this when my TS3+ does everything I need with my M1 Max MacBook Pro. It's a cool upgrade... but not necessary for TS3+ owners.
The TS3 Plus dock is good but longevity is an issue. Had mine for 2 years and it stopped working. Now looking for a replacement. Will not buy another Caldigit again. Too expensive for only 2 years of use.
Caldigit just said a day or two ago they’ll have some Monday morning. They’re also been available to preorder in Amazon currently delivery is March 10-19.
@@mavfan1 what does that have anything to do with them being sold out? And pre-order isn't an order. So that's useless. They will be on amazon AFTER they are on the cal digit site. Why would someone that wants one preorder? lol
@@mavfan1 Also Caldigit has never said they will have some Monday morning. What they said was "expected delivery date". It might be there, might not... why do you care? All I said is they've been sold out which it true.
This dock is half baked. Internet disconnects when my Mac M1 laptop sleeps and requires a power reset to reconnect. Also the Thunderbolt connection to my new monitor doesn’t work at all. These are common problems with this dock and Caldigit blames Apple. Save your money or wait until they work out the bugs.
8:50 lol I've actually used my caldigit ts3 + for over a year and blue led goes on and off intermittently and complained an issue w/ that and you want to turn it off in option hahaha. my ts3+ served me well for sure. Wish I could recall my hub and get TS4. Oh and this doesn't happen all the time, but I wish it had power plug with locking mechanism. Especially during configuring cables and what not, it plugged off few times.
Too bad it doesn't come with an HDMI port, which means using the display port doesn't transmit the audio to the display device! Also, it doesn't turn onto idle mode when the source computer is not plugged in! So I am not sure how could someone call this the best Thunderbolt Dock!!
You CAN disable the LED on the front of the unit. It's called "Electrical Tape."
i used black pentelpen. solved within 1 sec
I was seriously considering the TS4 up until I realised that it only has 2 thunderbolt ports in addition to the actual port connecting it to the Mac. The OWC Thunderbolt dock has 3 Thunderbolt ports in addition to the connection to the Mac. I needed 3 thunderbolt ports to run my display and 2 dedicated thunderbolt drives. In all other respects, the TS4 is certainly the more capable unit than the OWC but its also quite a bit more expensive so you certainly get what you pay for. Great video and keep up the great work!
I have this dock and absolutely LOVE it!!! This is a great investment for anyone who wants a ton of ports and great speed.
I just purchased (October 15 2022) this product for use on my MacBook pro M1 Max which is also new. The TS4 came with version 38.1 firmware, which has known issues concerning sleep/wake with apple chip sets. After a sleep, I lose my drive and display connections and a reboot is required. Caldigit has a firmware upgrade to version 39.1 which was released in July 2022. The problem is that the firmware upgrade supplied by Caldigit only runs on windows OS and must run on hardware with thunderbolt or USB C. I am not a windows user but I tried applying the update via VM windows and an old windows box and was not successful.
If you are purchasing this product for your MAC, I advisie waiting until Caldigit produces a native Mac firmware upgrade utility. Why they would release a fix without this in the first place is indicative of the support provided to Mac users.
They now have a Mac firmware updater as of 1/19/23. I haven’t tried it but just letting it be known. Would be curious to hear if it addresses your sleep issues!
I have this dock and man it gets hot!
It's ironic watching this today as I'm still using my Caldigit TS2 dock with my late 2013 MacBook Pro!!! I've used it everyday since late 2013 and it works perfectly... even after it fell off my desk today (for the first time) while I was reconfiguring my cables around my desk. Still works perfect! I plan to get this new TS4 with an M1 mobile MacBook purchase later in 2022. Thanks for posting this informative review.
Just get a thunderbolt 3 to thunderbolt 2 adpater and the TS2 will still work like a charm, that’s what I’m doing.
You're lucky. My TS3 lasted 2 years and stopped working. Will be looking at another manufacturer for a new dock.
Nice details and breakdown...Now with all these ports, do they share bandwidth or are the all independent and each will get the full 10Gbit/s or 40Gbit/s. In other words, If I connect 2 TB4 cables will the ports share and now I am down to 20GBits/s? Thank you...
Now there's Ivanky, it's really great.
At around 06:30 you mention the charging capabilities of the dock, in particular the ability to charge a 16" MacBook Pro (I assume this includes the 2019 version with the M1 chip). You made reference to the fact that for fast charging the stock 140W adapter should be used. I am very interested in getting this dock for my laptop, and am not that bothered about fast charging as it will be used when I am working from home. My only concern is long term 'damage' to the battery if it's plugged into power all the time - should I be worried?
For anyone else looking for the answer to this - no, your battery will not take damage from it. The m1's can automatically limit SoC to 80% when it senses it's been plugged in for a while, so it will take care of itself.
I've lost so much confidence in CalDigit. I bought two of the CaDigit 3 for my office set up. They consistently fail with sound and microphone operation. I currently bypass the dock and go direct to my desktop mac for video and audio. It also completely fails with external storage and it fails to distribute ethernet across devices. The only device the dock can handle is my external monitor. Unless I can see evidence these issues are being addressed, I would stay well clear of these devices.
It’s a lemon. I have so many problems with it after it sleeps . All the usb devices disappeared and 9/10 times the Ethernet cable says it’s disconnected. I hope they fix the issues soon otherwise stick with your ts3+
Does the SD card slot heat up your cards fairly quickly? My TS3 has done that from the start-so hot/fast that I opt for a plain old USB 3 card reader. The heat is generates on my cards isn't enough to burn, but it's enough to be concerning. Hoping that's not the case with the TS4.
What about the temperature of the device? Does it make some kind of noise? Does it have a start button? Thank you for your time.
Doesn't make any noise, no start button, just hook up your device and everything connects. If you use is to charge the device as you use it, temps can get pretty hot, but otherwise its cool to the touch.
Great review! Technical question not found anywhere: connecting an LG 5K display supplies power to the MacBook. What happens if the TS4 is hooked up? I am afraid of frying the MacBook internal circuits 😳
I have the LG 5k ultra wide that has a built in dock that can also power my MacBook. Power wise, you’ll be fine if you do that. But I think it makes much more sense to plug in the monitor via DisplayPort or Thunderbolt to the dock, and then connect the dock to Mac via thundrrbolt. That way only one cable is going to your MacBook.
Mine arrives Monday. Can’t wait!
Can I use dual montior on my m1 air with this ?
Great dock. Works flawless with win 11 pc also
I kept watching your TS3 video last year, but it was an older tech. I am glad I held out. Gonna get this TS4 now!
you should is like magic! 😭😭😭❤❤❤✨✨✨
can you use this dock to link 2 monitors on an M2?
Jeff! you nailed it again! thanks brotha! just got today my new TS4!!! I CANT WAIT TO USE IT! THANKS FOR YOUR AWESOME HELP AND AWESOME EXPLANATION ON THIS VID! OF COURSE THANKS FOR YOUR HOW TO AND AWESOME GUIDES! :D
Have they resolved the sleep kernel panics yet ?
Can you please do a video comparing Caldigit TS4 versus Ivanky Fusion Dock?
I completely agree with you! I think CalDigit always had a great dock with the TS series and this newest version is absolutely worth it if you want the newest and best dock that is available. All ports are faster!
-Ethernet goes from 1Gb to 2.5GB.
-DisplayPort goes from 1.2 to 1.4
-2 downstream TB4 instead of 1 downstream TB3!
-USB-C has now 10Gb instead of 5Gb (i think?) Not sure, but even if not. These improvements are just great! Just as this review!
I want this, but i already have the TS3, just need additional TB ports, or i could just use the additional ports on my Macbook, but i like having one cable only 😅.
same 🙃
Yooo is this an HDR video?! It looks incredible, well done!
Does it wake up from sleep reliably? I’ve heard the TS3+ had some issues with that… And if I plug a USB keyboard/mouse, will they also be able to wake my MacBook up from sleep reliably?
Hey, did you find out if it woke properly?
Kernel panic
No it does not. Their "solution" is: "Option #1: Turn off Sleep Mode in macOS"
Does this allow the M1 Macbooks to have two displays running from the dock?
This would be the perfect dock for me but if your Mac is M1 silicon based then it has a fatal flaw. When the Mac comes out of sleep mode the drives and other devices are potentially unmounted. Caldigit recommends doing a reboot of the Mac or disabling sleep mode. They are working on a fix but there is no indication of a date yet.
Fix is available now with a Mac installer.
Can you connect the Dell UltraSharp U2723QE to the usb thunderbolt port of this dock in the back?
Is there some share switch available in the market in oder to connect this dock with 2 or more computers at once allowing quickly switching on will ?
If not, I think in the future models they should give an option to connect to 2 computers at once with a switch button to quickly switch between 2 connected computers (like it is in KVM switches).
I have 10 non powered external drives (for photo storage) and wish to know whether I can safely piggyback 1 or 2 hubs to the dock (when editing photo's) without impairing performance of the main dock.
Is there anything in between this and the inexpensive “dongle” type hubs. I don’t know if I need something this robust (and expensive) but the crappy dongle hanging out of my MacBook Air (on a stand) seems like an accident waiting to happen.
alone the 2.5gbit Ethernet Adapter makes me smile 😍
Will the caldigit ts4 support one monitor running at 300hz or is it capped at 240hz?
Just ordered 1 and waiting for it to be shipped out! For the given ports and flexibility, it is well worth it's price (albeit still expensive). Also, comparing to other TB4 docks (Anker 777/Razer/Belkin/Kensington) on the market it handily beats them with its features while being priced the same.
It's also TB4/TB3/USB-C compatible so you can use it across different platforms (although it makes more sense for TB3/TB4).
How did you order one!? It's been out of stock all day.
@@leifashley still out of stock
@@ssanc6 I got mine finally through B&H photo
Is it your understanding that I can connect TWO Apple Studio Displays to the two thunderbolt 4 ports on the back of the TS4 and get the same performance as if I used to two of the thunderbolt 4 ports on the M1 Max MacBook Pro?
Idk if it works because I don’t have the studio displays but 4K 60hz on two 27 inch LGUN850 displays only one works connected at 60hz through DisplayPort and usb c. I can’t get the usbc monitor to work at 60hz straight from the dock. I’ve contacted support and they told me to buy adapters which on my ts3+ it worked perfectly fine lol. They should give adapters in the box for almost 400 dollars. Extremely disappointed smh.
The bandwidth of a single 8bit 5k display according to an online calculator is 26gbps. 26*2 exceeds 40gbps, so it doesn’t sound like it’ll work.
I got this one and the shop even sent me a second but it didn't work well on my macbook air. As soon as i used it my external screen didn't work anymore. The screen didn't work even when i hooked in the 2nd TB poort. As soon as i took off the dock everything works... I think ny screen is the issue but there noway i an ready to replace that ... 😅
Which color is closer, silver or space gray?
Looks cool, but MSRP $450 is crazy especially when i can get a full ledge Mac Mini for $150 more
Hello there, right note I have San iMac and upgrading to Mac Studio M2. Will this help me out and even though it has all what you’re speaking of footed out save libraries or do I have to go to a Samgung T2?
Sorry for the miss spelling 🙏🏾
The TS4 looks great but I do agree, the price will hold me from upgrading till the old one dies.
While the TS4 is advertised as backwards compatible with TB3, I'm not sure this is true. I tried switching from a TS3 Plus to a TS4 (same port usage) with a TB3 laptop and it didn't go well. Mouse especially stuttered like crazy.
Got it yesterday, great dock for Macbook Pro M1 Pro! Everything works perfectly, connected to it a 10GBe adapter from OWC, DAC, 4K monitor, external drives, speakers, headset and other devices, a recommendation for anyone looking for the perfect dock!,
Does it work with USB 3.0 video capture cards?!
What about the temperature of the device? Does it make some kind of noise? Does it have a start button? Thank you for your time.
I don’t see it on their site… discontinued?
Would this support two external monitors using HDMI to USB-C. I’m using a 13" MacBook Air with M1 chip. Thanks!
No m1 can’t
Does it work with usb 3.0 capture cards?!
Anyone know when it will be available I live in Canada and I can't seem to locate want to purchase.?
if i have a m1/m2 max macbook pro which can supposedly handly 4 external displays, how does this dock help without having to resort to crappy software driven displaylink or plugging one or more monitors directly into the mac?
Can you do 4k 120hz through hdmi
Sadly, Nope.
@@9to5Mac 😭 i won't buy a monitor until the gaming monitors start making oled 4k 120hz because I know it will be in like 3 to 5 years and I don't won't to wanted my money on it's monitors even do there good buy it want the finnest i was looking at the lg 43 inch tv oled as monitor buy it's to big i want a 32 inch monitor oled
Docked with a gaming pc that dose that is 1440p 120hz but when docked it get 4k 120hz
Ive been a happy macbook 16" Max user. I do heavy colorgrading in Davinci Resolve that really stresses the Macbook to its limits...but even so, i can easily charge the Mac with 60W USB-Power all the time without ever dropping the battery... it seems that even under heavy load, the Macbook Pro almost never actually draws more than 60w unless you do a Benchmark that specifically uses EVERYTHING at the same time (Which imo is rarely the case in practical day to day use...)
Mine only lasted a few months before it started turning off anytime it was moved or had a new device plugged in
TS3 was a disaster for me on 2020 M1 MacBook Air - multiple issues: unit ran alarmingly hot/caused MacBook to run hot as well, multiple random wired display dropouts, Bluetooth disconnects, un-commanded drive dismounts - had to return it. Reading TS4 reviews am finding (M1) folks having similar issues to my TS3 issues. I opted for an OWC TB4 Thunderbolt Dock (OWCTB4DOCK). No issues whatsoever with this unit over the 30 days I've been using it.
"un-commanded drive dismounts" I had these constantly with one TS3+, and occasionally with another one. As far as I'm concerned they are not fit for purpose. I certainly won't buy a TS4.
TS3 works great on my M1 Mac mini.
@@mavfan1 With respect, that's not a massively useful data point. Do you work in tech support?
You will be connecting different devices to different ports. If it's a firmware bug, who knows what devices trigger it? If it's a hardware problem, does yours have the same batch components as my two? Are you in the same country (this is relevant if it's a power supply issue). Do you have yours in the same orientation (relevant if it's a thermal issue). etc.
My m1 macbook air getting charge through monitor.. is it bad for battery health?? Coz it keep it 100% always
Save your money and check out other solutions - at least if you're a M1 MBP-User. I bought it to extend SDD space through external ssd drives... to bad that they are randomly disconnected... The Dock does not awake from sleep, their "solution" is: "Option #1: Turn off Sleep Mode in macOS:". Maybe it works with Windows, but don't buy it if your on MacOS.
I had horrible problems with the TS4 for months. I tried 3 of them thinking it must be the dock. Nope, did not work exeactly the same. Basically none of the USB ports would work for some studio gear, SSL UF8, RME Fireface UFX III, Elektron Overhub and Akai Force computer mode. I was using a 2023 MBP. I even tried reinstalling MacOS from scratch. Other problems involved waking up to black screens for several minutes and hard drives failing to eject. OWC 14 Port Thunderbolt dock doesn’t have any of these issues. All 3 TS4 firmware was up to date 39.1 or whatever it is. It’s very unfortunate too, because I really like the caldigit on paper. Just didn’t work. And very expensive.
at almost $400 and no CFAST port?
If you use this docking station with devices that only have Thunderbolt 3 (like the MB Air 2020 or an external monitor) would this affect the device's connectivity, make it get heated or run slower?
That’s not how that works. The only reason the M1 MBA doesn’t say it is Thunderbolt 4, is because it doesn’t support dual external monitors. It supports everything else about Thunderbolt 4. TB4 has the same bandwidth as TB3 anyways, both at 40gbps.
@@GreeniusGenius Ohh didn't know that, thanks for the info.
I returned my TS3 last year because it didn't work all my devices.
Now i'm considering on buying this one because of the fact that it will work with everything including my ipad for when i want to game on it and have a one cable solution.
The price tag is alot to consider but i feel like this dock will last for the years to come.
Would this support two external monitors using HDMI to USB-C. I’m using a 2018 MBP. Thanks!
Yes, it should, just be sure to connect to the Thunderbolt ports, as those pass display data.
Does it support 5k Samsung g9 @120hz?
I’m new to tech. I just want to buy a dock so I can leave my predator triton 300 closed and use it like a desktop for gaming, will this dock make my PC perform worse for gaming? Would this be able to handle a 4K Monitor with 240 hz and a second screen 1080p at 60hz?
I like to buy but this device is not available in Turkey :(
Does anyone know if they’re compatible with Apollo universal audio interfaces?
Why a Display Port which is so so rare and not sure any newer monitors have. And not an HDMI instead? What’s the advantage of this. Please enlighten me. I also wish Ethernet was 10gbit
DisplayPort is most definitely still around… The reason to use DisplayPort, is because of USB-C and its support for DisplayPort Alt mode, so it’s less likely to go wrong. You would rather that your DP to HDMI cable broke, than the internal DP to HDMI adapter be buggy or break etc.
TLDR: Less things to go wrong.
The best thing about a PC with thunderbolt 4 now... If you run internal graphics, you can:
- add up to 4 or 5 Nvme drives per 16 x expansion slot with things like the Asus Hyper card and DeLock has one for five, but I trust the Asus
- have at least 4 SATA ports, but some motherboards have 6 or 8 and have many USB 10 Gb/s ports
... And then extend the Thunderbolt 4 with this dock - and still run DisplayPort or USB-c out of it to connect monitors. Along with the HDMI on the system.
And no, you don't have do that. But you can. I think you can only assign 24 volumes on Windows, but if you were to assign all your drives just as a single volume, you can run 10-20 just internally in the box... And another 10-20 via USB 10 GB/s externally. So between those... You probably need at least a few driveletters for your USB-sticks and external back-up. If someone knows if Windows 11 can have more than 26 driveletters (but no one uses A: and B: anymore)... Please reply.
good stuff Jeff 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Excellent review!
Any cheaper equivalents
No more Toslink out?! Too bad.
That's crazy expensive for sure. But I like the look of it and how well it functions. Sadly enough can't find any use case for myself.
I was interested until the cost was announced 🤦🏾♂
So cool for the power user. However, if you still plan on using your MacBook on your desk I feel like the CalDigit element 4 is worthy of consideration for £100 less. Smaller footprint with all the I/O for most people's needs.
I have the Element and it won't charge my 14" MBP laptop after using it on battery for a while. It connects, starts charging, but then disconnects. It never connects enough to get the external display to work. I have tried at various battery charge states. Unless it is over 95% charged, it never fully initates. It would be perfect if the power delivery was higher. I was hoping it would slow charge my Mac like my wife's M1 MBA charger does when we are traveling together and I may have forgot my charger.
Personally I'm an Anker fan but the Anker 577 had overheating problems.
Maybe I am wrong, but with the amount of negative review and problems that this device have on Amazon Canada and watch this video see how marketing deceive us. Why you not tell the thru about it.
no hdmi?!
I appreciate 9to5 reporting; BUT, you think we’re made of MONEYSSSSSS? Review more low cost options. How about testing Dell, Levino, HP thunderbolt docks? 400.00 CalDigit vs a used 30.00 Dell dock….I’M INTRIGUED
Great review as always! Though, Display port instead of HDMI? Seems to be moving backward there..
backward?? lol
@@kaukospots Glad you questioned! I was wrong- I didn’t realize DisplayPort came around in 2006 while hdmi was closer to 2002. Figured it was the opposite. But also didn’t know all the specs on dp 1.4 and 2.0. Lol Last time I act like on know anything on the internet.
It would be cool if the new upcoming mac mini is the same width as this dock :)
I like that you call it a Thunderbolt Dock.
It is useful for any device with thunderbolt, wether laptop or desktop, wether it runs Windows, Mac OS, Android, iOS or Linux.
Yes, Linux supports Thunderbolt 3 under the latest kernels. And those Linux enthusiast can figure out how to use Thunderbolt 4 :-)
I just don't see the point in buying this when my TS3+ does everything I need with my M1 Max MacBook Pro. It's a cool upgrade... but not necessary for TS3+ owners.
My m1 mac mini connete to TS4 can't get the auto Ethernet connection unlike my MacBook pro. Does anyone how can I solve this?
Is your MBP an Apple Silicon version or an Intel?
A "normal" size SD card.. I guess it's next to the "speedy" USB port.
The iPad Pro has Thunderbolt 3, not Thunderbolt 4.
The TS3 Plus dock is good but longevity is an issue. Had mine for 2 years and it stopped working. Now looking for a replacement. Will not buy another Caldigit again. Too expensive for only 2 years of use.
Looks good to me.
Nice dock, I would buy it for $35.
Wow I’d like one… but they’ve been sold out all year :(
Caldigit just said a day or two ago they’ll have some Monday morning. They’re also been available to preorder in Amazon currently delivery is March 10-19.
@@mavfan1 what does that have anything to do with them being sold out? And pre-order isn't an order. So that's useless. They will be on amazon AFTER they are on the cal digit site. Why would someone that wants one preorder? lol
@@mavfan1 Also Caldigit has never said they will have some Monday morning. What they said was "expected delivery date". It might be there, might not... why do you care? All I said is they've been sold out which it true.
The wold does hot revolve around mac or apple. It does not even hdmi 2.0
So we are going backwards
Miss when Mac Pro could do all that without a brick
Yeah. The price is the determining factor here. It literally comes down to, do I actually need this specific device? Or can I find something cheaper.
Where can i buy Thunderbolt 4 cable for IPAD PRO
OWC
@@JDFloyd what does the mean ?
@@JTFAISTL other world computing it’s a brand
Both are amazing, The only thing missing is a power button, that’s it!
This dock is half baked. Internet disconnects when my Mac M1 laptop sleeps and requires a power reset to reconnect. Also the Thunderbolt connection to my new monitor doesn’t work at all. These are common problems with this dock and Caldigit blames Apple. Save your money or wait until they work out the bugs.
Same here - and even worse: HDDs get disconnected randomly.
no hdmi :(
8:50 lol I've actually used my caldigit ts3 + for over a year and blue led goes on and off intermittently and complained an issue w/ that and you want to turn it off in option hahaha.
my ts3+ served me well for sure. Wish I could recall my hub and get TS4. Oh and this doesn't happen all the time, but I wish it had power plug with locking mechanism. Especially during configuring cables and what not, it plugged off few times.
🙌
Too bad it doesn't come with an HDMI port, which means using the display port doesn't transmit the audio to the display device! Also, it doesn't turn onto idle mode when the source computer is not plugged in! So I am not sure how could someone call this the best Thunderbolt Dock!!
Alternative?
USB 4 is not the same as Thunderbolt 4! at 02:12
Nice, very nice! However, way too expensive! I can’t afford something like that! My hat is off to those that can! I just can’t! Nice review! Peace.
The New Mac Studio pretty much killed this... haha
This already had many questionable amazon returns
Def need Ethernet 5G, it’s 2022, pretty disappointing how all these docks try to limit from making one ultimate doc
No 10GbE for that price makes it deficient in my eyes.