please bro, what can you say about the elgato camlink, does it get hot or have any issues with the Mac mini M1, is there any other capture card you can recommend for me, thanks. i wait for your reply
I've only tried one other capture card before, didn't like it and returned it. I did a lot of research and seems everyone is happy with the CamLink. It's doesn't get hot and works perfectly. The only thing I can say is it doesn't seem to work with most Thunderbolt 4 hubs and docks. That being said, the best is always to plug directly into your computer anyway for the best, uninterrupted connection. Hope this helps.
Thank you for sharing. I am in the rabbit hole of which thunderbolt dock I need for the MBP M1 16gb/256GB SSD storage. I am more inclined to get the OWC dock. I am wondering about an external SSD for this configuration. I found the Samsung T7 can be an good and affordable option. Any thoughts regarding a SSD option to work with a MBP M1 16gb/256GB SSD and the OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock? I would like to edit music and cut videos from an external SSD for personal creative projects. Thank you.
Welcome to the channel. I've purchased a number of these drives over time. I recently did a review on a couple of the drives i thought were best. The Pluggable Thunderbolt drive is super fast and is reliable. Also the Sabrent enclosure is an awesome option. In my opinion it's best to go for a thunderbolt drive if you plan to work off it. Keep in mind the T7 is a USB drive, it's going to be a slower than the Thunderbolt. The price difference isn't dramatic between the T7 & say the Sabrent enclosure + M.2 as an example.
As for what dock to buy, i feel both the OWC & Caldigit are awesome choices. You really can't go wrong with either dock. Plus, check out the Element from Caldigit, could be a good option.
If you don't need the many thunderbolt ports, the Caldigit TS3 plus is an awesome dock. It's the gold standard. Most of the problems i reported were software related and apple has resolved. Welcome to the channel!
Hi!, can you connect your computer from the one of the 3 Thunderbolt ports in the back of the dock? I have a MacMini and I want to have all the connections done from behind, Thank you
Dude … you truly should try to understand what you are doing …. the front and back connections are not INTERCHANGEABLE just because they look the same … geeez
Hello #CHECKTHISOUT! How is you Elgato Facecam working right now? Are you using this dock right now? I am looking for one right now and I use Facecam too. So, I would like to buy a dock which will allow me to use my camera plugged to it.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA hello hello! Thanks for your answer. So fortunately for me I decided to buy CalDigit TS4, after update of its firmware and updates that Mac OS took recently ElgatoFacecam and Elgato Wave 3 mic works pretty well plugged into TS4 docking station. Once again, thanks for answer!
I feel the issue is more with Apple than OWC. This dock was designed to meet the thunderbolt 3 & 4 standard. The M1 controller is somewhat proprietary. I tested it with the Intel version and it worked great. In my opinion there’s so much custom drivers/software, it’s hard keep compatibility with third party devices. Also I’m sure Apple has had challenges working with their low power chips, and making everything work.
Apple skimped on their manufacturing cosr… you cant expect external vendors to make up for that shitty decision .. many things about the m1 machines are like that… from the mini to the studio. And as usual they are very silent about it all. But to be fair, docking & wake from sleep are not tb3 requirements, but only tb4 reqs… and apple decided to include them with the m1 tb3. But the flip side is that the m1 tb perf is not at the level of tb4 either (half the data transfer speed - per tb3)
RE monitor not coming up right. I have the same issue on mac mini without this dock. I use two monitors. I have usb c to hdmi for 2nd monitor. First one comes up from sleep looking like an old tv quite often. Apple issue I'd say.
Yeah, I believe their new graphics controller is completely proprietary and it's going to be a while before some of these issues are solved. I'm surprised Apple hasn't fixed this yet. I'm feeling this might be a harder fix than first anticipated. I ended up boxing this dock up and installing a Pluggable one which is currently working better, at least until a fix is released.
Hi thank you so much! Question..should I connect my 24” drawing table to the dock or to my laptop? and do you know if my drawing tablet is considered a monitor?
Thanks for this review/unboxing. If ever, do you know the dimensions of the box for this? Also, the weight of the entire package (box + dock + accessories/power)? Thanks
I believe all the display glitches are fixed but unfortunately CamLink issues remain. It seems like most Thunderbolt4 docks and hubs are having problems with CamLink.
It’s actually an older Swatch model. I purchased in Asia so not even sure you could buy it here. In any case, the model number is 11-07747601-5, hope that helps you find it. It’s a cool watch which includes an Altimeter.
Question about the audio jack. That is for audio out and a microphone in? Can it also be a line in too? Although if you bring audio into lets say Audacity . . . . how do you monitor?
I think the best would be to line in from one of the back USB ports, you can dongle USB to 3.5. They’re inexpensive on Amazon. I actually do that, but line out to my speakers.
Hi, I’m new to the whole thunderbolt dock thing. Do you know if this will work with the Apple XDR pro display, an external thunderbolt SSD, the M1 Max MacBook Pro and USB C XQD Card reader? Thanks for your help, having trouble finding the right info.
Absolutely. Every device you mentioned will work fine with this. All of the docks I’ve reviewed are pretty good, they’re the best in the industry. I’ve been using the Caldgit as my daily driver.
Enjoyed the video. Would you still recommend this for an M1 PRO I have two HDMI monitors so I would have to use adapters but really looking for a 1 plug solution (curious to what what the new MacBook Airs are going to look like - was also looking at CalDigit but never in stock. Thank you!
Thank you for this review. I would be interested in knowing what speeds you’re actually getting hooking up a M.2 type SSD card to this dock, for instance? Right now I’m getting around 900 Mb/s with my Samsung EVO 970 in an ORICO M.2 enclosure hooked up to the Thunderbolt port on the Mac Mini M1. When I use it connected to a regular dock with Thunderbolt i can get maximum 500 Mb/s out of it. The drive itself is capable of 3400 Mb/s when connected directly to an internal PCIe port on my old Mac Pro. Big difference, wouldn’t you say? Also, I have glitches too with my monitor when waking the Mac Mini M1 up from sleep. It either wants to only open my secondary screen or non of them at all. So now I have established a routine where I switch of the power (temporarily) on both screens prior to waking the computer up and then I only switch the primary on again right before I hit any key on my keyboard to wake the computer up again. Only when the login window appears on the screen do I switch on the second monitor to have them both open after sleep. It’s a cumbersome procedure for sure but it seems to get everything in the right sequence for a satisfactory wake-up. I hope Apple can fix this soon though!
Welcome to the channel. What dock are you using? In my video I said my dock reduced drive speed by 30%. It’s actually more. Normally my Pluggable drive writes at about 2000 and reads at 2400. Through the dock it writes at 900 and reads at 2400, so only affects the write. I’m sure Apple will be fixing most of the issues with wake. It just takes them a while to get it done.
I got an early copy of this device, and like it a lot. It works well with my M1 MacMini, though I have experienced some of the glitches you note. Truly, my only real issue is the front USB-C port to the computer. Why put it on the front??? I suppose this is probably good placement for laptop use, in cases where users are constantly cabling/un-cabling their laptop. But for a MacMini, having the cable stick out, and circle around the back to the M1 MacMini is pretty ugly, and cumbersome. I also suppose the front location of this particular port reduces the chances you will mix it up with the other USB-C ports. Thank you for the update. Please update further if you discover additional issues or fixes.
Hey, glad to have you in my channel. Are you using a single monitor? I imagine you’d experience less issues with a single screen. And I also find the cable coming out the front a strange design choice. I like to hide all my cables, front facing makes it a bit harder.
I have a curved 34 dell monitor that DOES NOT have a usb output. If I had a hdmi to usb c cable would I be able to use this dock? I perform work on ipad os, Windows OS, and Mac OS. Thank you for any info.
Hi, Giovanni, that should absolutely work fine. The monitor i'm actually using right now is an older LG 4K monitor. I'm currently running a cable USBC to Display Port. I did test it USBC to HDMI and it worked just fine.
I believe it's backordered. I had purchased it in presale, when they receive shipments they send out based on their purchase list. There are so many electronics in demand which are backordered at this time.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA I am Using a Mc mini and its connected to a monitor and I have to use a the HDMI for the display. Do you think it would work for me?
@@Robinlan Robin, still nothing yet, i'm a bit disappointed. The issues i've been having have caused me to pack this dock away until there's a fix. For me, not being able to use my Camlink to connect my camera is a problem.
Great video! Have the issues of waking up from sleep fixed? Also, is possible to daisy chain toowc Thunderbolt hub? Will there’s be any significant downsides? Thanks. Btw owc has now increased the price from 250 to 280!
Hi Francesco, sorry for the late reply, the performance of the OWC is actually not as good as the TS3 Plus, unfortunately. Some of the small issues i'm having it supposed to be fixed with software updates from Apple. I've been waiting for it...still nothing. It's mostly performance related with the new M1 Macs.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA OK. I'm just wondering if it's worth getting a TB4 dock over the TS3+ if the performance is the same and the TS3+ is a well built device.
@@hawtboi1 To be honest i'd say both are really good, believe they're about the same price too. The TS3 has been out for a while and tested and proven to be reliable.
It's usually best to take advantage of a USBC, Thunderbolt, or if you don't have those, display port. Hit Amazon for a cable if you do need one, you can find some reasonable prices.
Hello, congratulations for the good video, detailed and technical. I kindly ask you, what are the technical problems that Apple has to solve, if it concerns the speed of external SSDs. In my case, I tested a great and essential CalDigit Soho, but testing my SanDisk Extreme Pro V2, directed to the MacBook Air (M1) port, from a speed of about 900MB /s, while with the CalDigit Soho mini dock, it has a slower speed, on average 650MB /s, while the speed on WD-Element HDDs remains unchanged. Thank you
Hi, welcome to the channel, glad to have you here! Talking with OWC support, the M1 Macs are not communicating properly with this dock, and many others. How it was explained, the communication is getting choked out. This is why you're likely seeing slightly slower speeds in some cases with drive tests, connected to the dock verses directly into the computer. Tech support stated Apple is aware of this and working on a solution.
I purchased this OWC 4 Hub. My experience was not as good. With ext thunderbolt 4 SSD connected had 1400 W 1700 R. Connected directly to back of M1 Mac mini had 2000 W 2400 R. With a Crucial 500GB USB-C SSD mid 500's r/w with dock. 800 r/w connected directly. Sent it to OWC and they said its fine. When I get it back I will document the speed differences and make my first TH-cam video. I personally wont buy from them again. Check their BBB score 1 out of 5 stars along with the 1 star reviews on their previous TB3 dock on Amazon.
Yeah they seem to be having some real problems with the M1 Macs. I'm hoping it gets resolved very soon. I'm also aware of some issues with previous docks. A lot of people seemed to complain about the pro dock, never owned it myself through. I actually have another dock i'm currently testing. I've been on a mission to find a problem free dock for the new M1 Macs. Stay tuned!
I'm not sure if this will solve an issue I'm having with M1 Mac Mini. I have two displays connected all the time, but sometimes I connect my Home Theater Processor to run in conjunction with software to do testing and measuring. The Mac sees the processor as a display though, so I need to disconnect my 2nd display to make it work. It kind of sucks, bc it's this type of application where my 2nd display really comes in handy. So would this dock allow me to connect my processor without having to disconnect the 2nd monitor? Thanks!
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA It didn’t work. It’s the same as plugging direct into the computer. The computer sees the processor as a display and thus will only work with one display connected. I have one last idea to try which is going through the USB A port. First, I need to find out if it’s even possible to make the connection that way. Either way, I’ll probably hold onto the hub as it’s pretty useful. Thanks
Great video mate. A couple of questions if you don't mind. I've got the dock and I love it... Other than the issues I'm having running an Elgato HD60S + through it. My feed from the Elgato just freezes after random short stints of time. I've got a HDMI to USB C cable connected between the HD60S+ out port and the dock, and I've also connected the included Elgato USB C to USB A cable to the dock to power the Elgato, and a Micro HDMI to HDMI from my camera to the HD60S+. I've tried connecting the output of the Elgato directly into my M1 mac port as well but have had no luck getting rid of the video freezes. When I removed the dock and tested my setup using a cheap USB hub and the HDMI to HDMI that Elgato gave me it worked without freezing. That's the good news of course, but I bought the OWC dock so I could connect more things than a cheap USB hub will let me connect. Is this the issue you had with the Camlink 4K? Do you know if there's an update or fix coming? Not sure what to do at this point. Could it be the HDMI to USB C cables I'm using (I've tried 2 different cables) or is it the Dock itself do you think? I'm subscribed now so please keep the videos coming, they're great. Thanks 😃
Alan, thanks for joining! I was having this same issue, the freezing. It’s bad latency caused by the drivers not working properly. Your camera thinks there was a disconnection. I tried going through the USB port and a thunderbolt port, both did not work and I experienced freezing. It’s strange you’re also getting the freezing connecting directly into the M1. Maybe try bypassing the dock completely, don’t even power your Elgato from dock, go directly into the wall with adapter. You could also try playing with your camera settings and stream a lower quality signal, or see if you can change codec. I would encourage you to call Apple, Elgato and OWC so they document many people having these issues. If enough people complain they will make it a priority software fix. To be honest, it’s a bit annoying for me too, also purchased the dock so I wouldn’t have to mess with cables. I want it to just work 😏 I actually just picked up a Plugable dock to test. I’m trying to see if I can find a dock that works well with the M1 until these issues are fixed. I’ll open up and test in the next couple days. Keep me updated if you hear anything!
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA thanks for the reply. I posted your reply into a thread in a Facebook group to help others out. I gave you credit and linked your channel. Hope that's cool. I'll try your suggestions and see what happens. Can I go directly into the wall to power the HD60s+? Thought it had to be a usb 3 connection. Sure I'll test it out and see for myself. I'll also log my issue with the culprits 😁
@@Alan.T I'm absolutely fine with you posting to facebook, linking my video, thanks!. As for the Elgato going into the wall, absolutely should be fine, USB provides like 5v of power. It should be the same as a apple mini phone brick as an example. Let me know if that ends up working for you.
@@Vancouver-Real-Estate So I plugged the HD60S + into a socket and it lights up like it's powering on but it doesn't show up as an option to select anywhere inside the Game capture software. Seems that when it's not connected directly to a USB that's attached to my mac or through the dock it doesn't get recognized.
Hopefully this video helps if you're considering buying the new OWC Thunderbolt 4 dock. Would like to hear about the dock you're using, and why? Talk soon!
I do not understand two things - Why computer port on the front? Isn't it something you plug and forget? Why does it have to stick out from the front and get on your way and ruing the look? - Why slow USB-A port on the front, isn't it where you want to connect your USB SSDs, readers and such? :frustrated:
Had OWC for two years, not a power user. Used for music studio, USB 2 audio interface, monitor. MIDI peripherals etc. The USB 3.2 used as main audio connection has just packed in. OWC support say it's hardware. No repair service in the UK and just out of warranty. Really disappointing at this price. Customer support were great but can't do a thing or advise where to take it to have what I'm guessing will be an expensive fix. Avoid.
I’ve never understood adding background “music” to a presentation like this. But what I really don’t understand is when it’s so loud that it detracts from the presentation. Please turn it down. Better yet - don’t use it at all.
i havent done any real research but based on what another youtuber said , the cheap docks are the ones that kill the macbooks due to poor mechanics , soo best bet is to go with an expensive one like that.
I couldn't agree with you more. When the the new design of the Macbook pros came out in 2018 I refused to buy one. I kept my 2015 pro but switched to PC, purchased a pumped up desktop with a fast Ryzen chip. I also switched to Android. I felt Apple was losing their way, super high prices and making bad decisions like removing ports. I'm feeling Apple has reevaluated their business and could see they were starting to losing many of their creative fan base. I purchased the Macbook Air because of the advancements in chip design, still wasn't happy about the port situation, it sucks. The benefits of the M1 make up for this fault. Based on the leaks, seems like Apple will be adding ports back in with their redesigns. Looking forward to this. Also, welcome to the channel and thanks for your comments!
There is a MAJOR ISSUE they need to FIX. using el gato camlink 4k usb 3 through this hub results in camera feed freezing. i have m1 macbook air and m1 mac mini. through native mac mini usb ports no freezing EVER. cam link 4k through powered usb 3 hub into mac thunderbolt ports no freezing EVER. Now connect the c am link 4k into the owc thunderbolt hub usb ports results in freezing. Plugging into the SAME powered usb 3 hub that works fine into thunderbolt port on mac m1 machines plugged into the owc thunderbolt ports results in freezing cam link. Very frustrating! PLEASE fix this owc! Edit: I wrote this as I was watching. I see it was addressed in the video. Thank you so much for calling this out. It will be much more convenient when the cam links work right with this product.
Yup, I have the same problem. It completely sucks. There's too much latency and the camera thinks there's a disconnection. For anyone using an Elgato Camlink, this OWC dock is a hard sell. By the way, welcome to the channel and community!
This video of yours was on my recommendations , you're growing .
Thank you, I’ve been getting a lot of views for recently starting out. Hope you enjoy my content going forward.
Have you tried this on multiple monitor setups? I’m looking to get this for two 4K monitors
I haven't used it with dual monitors cause at the time most testing was with the M1 first gen
Great upload friend!
Thanks, appreciate the feedback. Welcome to the channel!
Interesting video, did they fix the issues with Mac M1 computer?
please bro, what can you say about the elgato camlink, does it get hot or have any issues with the Mac mini M1, is there any other capture card you can recommend for me, thanks. i wait for your reply
I've only tried one other capture card before, didn't like it and returned it. I did a lot of research and seems everyone is happy with the CamLink. It's doesn't get hot and works perfectly. The only thing I can say is it doesn't seem to work with most Thunderbolt 4 hubs and docks. That being said, the best is always to plug directly into your computer anyway for the best, uninterrupted connection. Hope this helps.
Thank you for sharing. I am in the rabbit hole of which thunderbolt dock I need for the MBP M1 16gb/256GB SSD storage. I am more inclined to get the OWC dock. I am wondering about an external SSD for this configuration. I found the Samsung T7 can be an good and affordable option. Any thoughts regarding a SSD option to work with a MBP M1 16gb/256GB SSD and the OWC Thunderbolt 3 dock? I would like to edit music and cut videos from an external SSD for personal creative projects. Thank you.
Welcome to the channel. I've purchased a number of these drives over time. I recently did a review on a couple of the drives i thought were best. The Pluggable Thunderbolt drive is super fast and is reliable. Also the Sabrent enclosure is an awesome option. In my opinion it's best to go for a thunderbolt drive if you plan to work off it. Keep in mind the T7 is a USB drive, it's going to be a slower than the Thunderbolt. The price difference isn't dramatic between the T7 & say the Sabrent enclosure + M.2 as an example.
As for what dock to buy, i feel both the OWC & Caldigit are awesome choices. You really can't go wrong with either dock. Plus, check out the Element from Caldigit, could be a good option.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA Thanks! I appreciate your comments.
hey there, nice review, does apple/ocw fixe the issue that you mentioned? which do you prefer ocw thuntherbolt 4 dock or CalDigit TS3 Plus ?
If you don't need the many thunderbolt ports, the Caldigit TS3 plus is an awesome dock. It's the gold standard. Most of the problems i reported were software related and apple has resolved. Welcome to the channel!
Hi!, can you connect your computer from the one of the 3 Thunderbolt ports in the back of the dock? I have a MacMini and I want to have all the connections done from behind, Thank you
Unfortunately no, you have to use the up-stream port in the front to connect your computer.
Dude … you truly should try to understand what you are doing …. the front and back connections are not INTERCHANGEABLE just because they look the same … geeez
Nice background music and helpful video.
Glad you like the video, welcome to the channel!
Hi Jacob, I am planning to buy this dock, does the issue with elgato camlink fixed now?
Good review. I’ve just subscribed as I like the calm delivery. Only problem with OWC is the price. For me it’s crazily expensive
Welcome aboard and thanks for the sub. Hope you like my upcoming videos!
Any knowledge on how this works with the iPad Pro 2021 or any other iPad with the M1 chip and Thunderbolt 3?
Hello #CHECKTHISOUT! How is you Elgato Facecam working right now? Are you using this dock right now? I am looking for one right now and I use Facecam too. So, I would like to buy a dock which will allow me to use my camera plugged to it.
Sorry about the late reply, unfortunately for Elgato i need to go directly to my laptop. It doesn't work well through the dock.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA hello hello! Thanks for your answer. So fortunately for me I decided to buy CalDigit TS4, after update of its firmware and updates that Mac OS took recently ElgatoFacecam and Elgato Wave 3 mic works pretty well plugged into TS4 docking station. Once again, thanks for answer!
Thanks for the honest review. I gotta say though, for the premium price of $249 I would expect better out-of-the-box performance for M1 Macs.
I feel the issue is more with Apple than OWC. This dock was designed to meet the thunderbolt 3 & 4 standard. The M1 controller is somewhat proprietary. I tested it with the Intel version and it worked great. In my opinion there’s so much custom drivers/software, it’s hard keep compatibility with third party devices. Also I’m sure Apple has had challenges working with their low power chips, and making everything work.
Apple skimped on their manufacturing cosr… you cant expect external vendors to make up for that shitty decision .. many things about the m1 machines are like that… from the mini to the studio. And as usual they are very silent about it all. But to be fair, docking & wake from sleep are not tb3 requirements, but only tb4 reqs… and apple decided to include them with the m1 tb3. But the flip side is that the m1 tb perf is not at the level of tb4 either (half the data transfer speed - per tb3)
RE monitor not coming up right. I have the same issue on mac mini without this dock. I use two monitors. I have usb c to hdmi for 2nd monitor. First one comes up from sleep looking like an old tv quite often. Apple issue I'd say.
Yeah, I believe their new graphics controller is completely proprietary and it's going to be a while before some of these issues are solved. I'm surprised Apple hasn't fixed this yet. I'm feeling this might be a harder fix than first anticipated. I ended up boxing this dock up and installing a Pluggable one which is currently working better, at least until a fix is released.
Have you done any testing attaching 2x 4K monitors?
Hi, unfortunately i didn't do any testing with 2 monitors at the time. I did most of my testing with the M1 first gen.
Hi thank you so much! Question..should I connect my 24” drawing table to the dock or to my laptop? and do you know if my drawing tablet is considered a monitor?
If the dock does not have its power brick plugged in, will it draw power from the laptop and supply to the downstream ports?
I believe you need to have the dock plugged for it to function.
Thanks for this review/unboxing. If ever, do you know the dimensions of the box for this? Also, the weight of the entire package (box + dock + accessories/power)? Thanks
Thanks for the comment but unfortunately i don't know these details. If you contact OWC they could likely provide. Thanks!
Hi, great review! This dock seems to be pretty nice! Are the glitches fixed already?
I believe all the display glitches are fixed but unfortunately CamLink issues remain. It seems like most Thunderbolt4 docks and hubs are having problems with CamLink.
if you do not mind sharing... what is your watch?
It’s actually an older Swatch model. I purchased in Asia so not even sure you could buy it here. In any case, the model number is 11-07747601-5, hope that helps you find it. It’s a cool watch which includes an Altimeter.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA love it, thanks for sharing
Question about the audio jack. That is for audio out and a microphone in? Can it also be a line in too? Although if you bring audio into lets say Audacity . . . . how do you monitor?
I think the best would be to line in from one of the back USB ports, you can dongle USB to 3.5. They’re inexpensive on Amazon. I actually do that, but line out to my speakers.
Thank you! Just purchased one
Hi, I’m new to the whole thunderbolt dock thing. Do you know if this will work with the Apple XDR pro display, an external thunderbolt SSD, the M1 Max MacBook Pro and USB C XQD Card reader? Thanks for your help, having trouble finding the right info.
Absolutely. Every device you mentioned will work fine with this. All of the docks I’ve reviewed are pretty good, they’re the best in the industry. I’ve been using the Caldgit as my daily driver.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA Thanks so much for replying, I really appreciate it.
Enjoyed the video. Would you still recommend this for an M1 PRO I have two HDMI monitors so I would have to use adapters but really looking for a 1 plug solution (curious to what what the new MacBook Airs are going to look like - was also looking at CalDigit but never in stock. Thank you!
Hi do you know if you can use 3 external monitors via M1 MacBook Air with this doc? Thank you.
Sorry, you will not. You’ll be restricted to the 1 external.
Thank you for this review. I would be interested in knowing what speeds you’re actually getting hooking up a M.2 type SSD card to this dock, for instance? Right now I’m getting around 900 Mb/s with my Samsung EVO 970 in an ORICO M.2 enclosure hooked up to the Thunderbolt port on the Mac Mini M1. When I use it connected to a regular dock with Thunderbolt i can get maximum 500 Mb/s out of it. The drive itself is capable of 3400 Mb/s when connected directly to an internal PCIe port on my old Mac Pro. Big difference, wouldn’t you say?
Also, I have glitches too with my monitor when waking the Mac Mini M1 up from sleep. It either wants to only open my secondary screen or non of them at all. So now I have established a routine where I switch of the power (temporarily) on both screens prior to waking the computer up and then I only switch the primary on again right before I hit any key on my keyboard to wake the computer up again. Only when the login window appears on the screen do I switch on the second monitor to have them both open after sleep. It’s a cumbersome procedure for sure but it seems to get everything in the right sequence for a satisfactory wake-up. I hope Apple can fix this soon though!
Welcome to the channel. What dock are you using? In my video I said my dock reduced drive speed by 30%. It’s actually more. Normally my Pluggable drive writes at about 2000 and reads at 2400. Through the dock it writes at 900 and reads at 2400, so only affects the write.
I’m sure Apple will be fixing most of the issues with wake. It just takes them a while to get it done.
I got an early copy of this device, and like it a lot. It works well with my M1 MacMini, though I have experienced some of the glitches you note. Truly, my only real issue is the front USB-C port to the computer. Why put it on the front??? I suppose this is probably good placement for laptop use, in cases where users are constantly cabling/un-cabling their laptop. But for a MacMini, having the cable stick out, and circle around the back to the M1 MacMini is pretty ugly, and cumbersome. I also suppose the front location of this particular port reduces the chances you will mix it up with the other USB-C ports. Thank you for the update. Please update further if you discover additional issues or fixes.
Hey, glad to have you in my channel. Are you using a single monitor? I imagine you’d experience less issues with a single screen. And I also find the cable coming out the front a strange design choice. I like to hide all my cables, front facing makes it a bit harder.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA I’m using two monitors. One via HDMI, and the other USB-C.
Is the SD card reader spring loaded?
If i remember correctly the card reader is not spring loaded.
so the 3 thunderbolts ports work fine with thunderbolt 3? I thought multiple thunderbolt port was only for thunderbolt 4.
That's right, this is a thunderbolt 4 dock, it has the ability to split the thunderbolt.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA but it still works fine on a thunderbolt 3 only computer right? (sorry that's a bit confusing)
@@valdir7426 I'm not sure if it will work on an older thunderbolt 3 controller. I believe it will but maybe check with the company before buying.
Did you need to install drivers for Ethernet or did it just work?
Just works, no drivers needed.
I have a curved 34 dell monitor that DOES NOT have a usb output. If I had a hdmi to usb c cable would I be able to use this dock? I perform work on ipad os, Windows OS, and Mac OS. Thank you for any info.
Hi, Giovanni, that should absolutely work fine. The monitor i'm actually using right now is an older LG 4K monitor. I'm currently running a cable USBC to Display Port. I did test it USBC to HDMI and it worked just fine.
So confused is it on pre sale or is it available ? Great review btw!
I believe it's backordered. I had purchased it in presale, when they receive shipments they send out based on their purchase list. There are so many electronics in demand which are backordered at this time.
one thing I don't see on this device is the HDMI is missing
You're right, but for Mac & PC you should be going Display Port or USBC to your choice.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA I am Using a Mc mini and its connected to a monitor and I have to use a the HDMI for the display. Do you think it would work for me?
@@hugopablo6612 you would go go thunderbolt to HDMI
Any updates on performance or issues since posting?
There has been no major update from Apple since I released this review. Keep you posted!
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA still nothing?
@@Robinlan Robin, still nothing yet, i'm a bit disappointed. The issues i've been having have caused me to pack this dock away until there's a fix. For me, not being able to use my Camlink to connect my camera is a problem.
Great video! Have the issues of waking up from sleep fixed? Also, is possible to daisy chain toowc Thunderbolt hub? Will there’s be any significant downsides? Thanks. Btw owc has now increased the price from 250 to 280!
I believe all sleep issues fixed. As fir daisy chain, can’t see it being a problem.
Do you get ramdom disconnects with this?
I ended up using the Caldigit Element hub as my daily driver. When i was using this dock it seemed to work great.
How is the performance compared to the TS3 Plus?
Hi Francesco, sorry for the late reply, the performance of the OWC is actually not as good as the TS3 Plus, unfortunately. Some of the small issues i'm having it supposed to be fixed with software updates from Apple. I've been waiting for it...still nothing. It's mostly performance related with the new M1 Macs.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA OK. I'm just wondering if it's worth getting a TB4 dock over the TS3+ if the performance is the same and the TS3+ is a well built device.
@@hawtboi1 To be honest i'd say both are really good, believe they're about the same price too. The TS3 has been out for a while and tested and proven to be reliable.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA Thank you.
I want one of these!!!!
I bought this dock but unfortunately there is no Hdmi port on it ! Again I have to buy another cable or dock to connect my external monitor
It's usually best to take advantage of a USBC, Thunderbolt, or if you don't have those, display port. Hit Amazon for a cable if you do need one, you can find some reasonable prices.
Very good presentation. Can you use this TB 4 dock on a 2019 IMac running Mojave Version 10.14.6? Thank yo for the help.
Hello, congratulations for the good video, detailed and technical.
I kindly ask you, what are the technical problems that Apple has to solve, if it concerns the speed of external SSDs. In my case, I tested a great and essential CalDigit Soho, but testing my SanDisk Extreme Pro V2, directed to the MacBook Air (M1) port, from a speed of about 900MB /s, while with the CalDigit Soho mini dock, it has a slower speed, on average 650MB /s, while the speed on WD-Element HDDs remains unchanged.
Thank you
Hi, welcome to the channel, glad to have you here! Talking with OWC support, the M1 Macs are not communicating properly with this dock, and many others. How it was explained, the communication is getting choked out. This is why you're likely seeing slightly slower speeds in some cases with drive tests, connected to the dock verses directly into the computer. Tech support stated Apple is aware of this and working on a solution.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA Were those issues fixed in later mac OS updates?
I purchased this OWC 4 Hub. My experience was not as good. With ext thunderbolt 4 SSD connected had 1400 W 1700 R. Connected directly to back of M1 Mac mini had 2000 W 2400 R. With a Crucial 500GB USB-C SSD mid 500's r/w with dock. 800 r/w connected directly. Sent it to OWC and they said its fine. When I get it back I will document the speed differences and make my first TH-cam video. I personally wont buy from them again. Check their BBB score 1 out of 5 stars along with the 1 star reviews on their previous TB3 dock on Amazon.
Yeah they seem to be having some real problems with the M1 Macs. I'm hoping it gets resolved very soon. I'm also aware of some issues with previous docks. A lot of people seemed to complain about the pro dock, never owned it myself through. I actually have another dock i'm currently testing. I've been on a mission to find a problem free dock for the new M1 Macs. Stay tuned!
I'm not sure if this will solve an issue I'm having with M1 Mac Mini. I have two displays connected all the time, but sometimes I connect my Home Theater Processor to run in conjunction with software to do testing and measuring. The Mac sees the processor as a display though, so I need to disconnect my 2nd display to make it work. It kind of sucks, bc it's this type of application where my 2nd display really comes in handy. So would this dock allow me to connect my processor without having to disconnect the 2nd monitor? Thanks!
Daniel, this one has me a it stumped, not sure if this would help. It's worth a try. Please update us if you figure this problem out.
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA It didn’t work. It’s the same as plugging direct into the computer. The computer sees the processor as a display and thus will only work with one display connected. I have one last idea to try which is going through the USB A port. First, I need to find out if it’s even possible to make the connection that way. Either way, I’ll probably hold onto the hub as it’s pretty useful. Thanks
Why the hell would they put the computer connection Thunderbolt port on the FRONT of the dock? Absolutely insane.
Great video mate. A couple of questions if you don't mind. I've got the dock and I love it... Other than the issues I'm having running an Elgato HD60S + through it. My feed from the Elgato just freezes after random short stints of time.
I've got a HDMI to USB C cable connected between the HD60S+ out port and the dock, and I've also connected the included Elgato USB C to USB A cable to the dock to power the Elgato, and a Micro HDMI to HDMI from my camera to the HD60S+.
I've tried connecting the output of the Elgato directly into my M1 mac port as well but have had no luck getting rid of the video freezes.
When I removed the dock and tested my setup using a cheap USB hub and the HDMI to HDMI that Elgato gave me it worked without freezing. That's the good news of course, but I bought the OWC dock so I could connect more things than a cheap USB hub will let me connect.
Is this the issue you had with the Camlink 4K? Do you know if there's an update or fix coming?
Not sure what to do at this point.
Could it be the HDMI to USB C cables I'm using (I've tried 2 different cables) or is it the Dock itself do you think?
I'm subscribed now so please keep the videos coming, they're great. Thanks 😃
Alan, thanks for joining! I was having this same issue, the freezing. It’s bad latency caused by the drivers not working properly. Your camera thinks there was a disconnection.
I tried going through the USB port and a thunderbolt port, both did not work and I experienced freezing. It’s strange you’re also getting the freezing connecting directly into the M1. Maybe try bypassing the dock completely, don’t even power your Elgato from dock, go directly into the wall with adapter. You could also try playing with your camera settings and stream a lower quality signal, or see if you can change codec.
I would encourage you to call Apple, Elgato and OWC so they document many people having these issues. If enough people complain they will make it a priority software fix.
To be honest, it’s a bit annoying for me too, also purchased the dock so I wouldn’t have to mess with cables. I want it to just work 😏
I actually just picked up a Plugable dock to test. I’m trying to see if I can find a dock that works well with the M1 until these issues are fixed. I’ll open up and test in the next couple days.
Keep me updated if you hear anything!
@@CHECKTHISOUT-CANADA thanks for the reply. I posted your reply into a thread in a Facebook group to help others out. I gave you credit and linked your channel. Hope that's cool. I'll try your suggestions and see what happens. Can I go directly into the wall to power the HD60s+? Thought it had to be a usb 3 connection. Sure I'll test it out and see for myself. I'll also log my issue with the culprits 😁
@@Alan.T I'm absolutely fine with you posting to facebook, linking my video, thanks!. As for the Elgato going into the wall, absolutely should be fine, USB provides like 5v of power. It should be the same as a apple mini phone brick as an example. Let me know if that ends up working for you.
@@Vancouver-Real-Estate So I plugged the HD60S + into a socket and it lights up like it's powering on but it doesn't show up as an option to select anywhere inside the Game capture software. Seems that when it's not connected directly to a USB that's attached to my mac or through the dock it doesn't get recognized.
Not good, until a fix comes, you can’t really use your Algto. Sorry to hear that.
Hopefully this video helps if you're considering buying the new OWC Thunderbolt 4 dock. Would like to hear about the dock you're using, and why? Talk soon!
Did they make the update for the cam link?
At this point i don't believe the issue has been resolved for the Cam Link.
i'm trying to transfer TB of storage from one usbs hard drive to another with a cheaper UBS hub but it crashes. Will this hub be stable??? thanks
This new OWC 4 doesn’t operate on 2017 MacBook Air, uh?
Sorry for the late reply. I don't believe the 2017 MacBook Air has Thunderbolt, so no it would not work unfortunately.
Refine the audio/camera placement and you are there.
Thanks for the feedback. My office is super small and still trying to figure out the best way to film.
I do not understand two things
- Why computer port on the front? Isn't it something you plug and forget? Why does it have to stick out from the front and get on your way and ruing the look?
- Why slow USB-A port on the front, isn't it where you want to connect your USB SSDs, readers and such?
:frustrated:
Yeah you’re not the first to think the same thing.
Had OWC for two years, not a power user. Used for music studio, USB 2 audio interface, monitor. MIDI peripherals etc. The USB 3.2 used as main audio connection has just packed in. OWC support say it's hardware. No repair service in the UK and just out of warranty. Really disappointing at this price. Customer support were great but can't do a thing or advise where to take it to have what I'm guessing will be an expensive fix. Avoid.
I’ve never understood adding background “music” to a presentation like this. But what I really don’t understand is when it’s so loud that it detracts from the presentation. Please turn it down. Better yet - don’t use it at all.
@Joni Zill You’re right. Nobody does give a damn
Thanks for the feedback. If it’s bothersome I’ll likely stop using it while talking.
it would have cost nothing to have kept the firewire port.
Yeah but the whole industry is moving toward USBC and Thunderbolt. This standard has great throughput and power delivery, audio and everything.
isn't this gonna kill my M1 Macbook Air?
I've been hearing horrible stuffs regarding these docks
Hmmm , dont risk it then , forsure i wont.
i havent done any real research but based on what another youtuber said , the cheap docks are the ones that kill the macbooks due to poor mechanics , soo best bet is to go with an expensive one like that.
This issue was fixed in one of the latest software releases by Apple.
You buy a ~$1,000 laptop and you still need to buy dongles to use the ports. Whoever at Apple decided to take out the ports should be fired.
I couldn't agree with you more. When the the new design of the Macbook pros came out in 2018 I refused to buy one. I kept my 2015 pro but switched to PC, purchased a pumped up desktop with a fast Ryzen chip. I also switched to Android. I felt Apple was losing their way, super high prices and making bad decisions like removing ports.
I'm feeling Apple has reevaluated their business and could see they were starting to losing many of their creative fan base. I purchased the Macbook Air because of the advancements in chip design, still wasn't happy about the port situation, it sucks. The benefits of the M1 make up for this fault. Based on the leaks, seems like Apple will be adding ports back in with their redesigns. Looking forward to this. Also, welcome to the channel and thanks for your comments!
No HDMI port???? 99% of monitors have HDMI!!!
Martin Kenneth Moore George Robinson Charles
There is a MAJOR ISSUE they need to FIX.
using el gato camlink 4k usb 3 through this hub results in camera feed freezing. i have m1 macbook air and m1 mac mini. through native mac mini usb ports no freezing EVER.
cam link 4k through powered usb 3 hub into mac thunderbolt ports no freezing EVER.
Now connect the c am link 4k into the owc thunderbolt hub usb ports results in freezing. Plugging into the SAME powered usb 3 hub that works fine into thunderbolt port on mac m1 machines plugged into the owc thunderbolt ports results in freezing cam link.
Very frustrating!
PLEASE fix this owc!
Edit: I wrote this as I was watching. I see it was addressed in the video. Thank you so much for calling this out. It will be much more convenient when the cam links work right with this product.
Yup, I have the same problem. It completely sucks. There's too much latency and the camera thinks there's a disconnection. For anyone using an Elgato Camlink, this OWC dock is a hard sell. By the way, welcome to the channel and community!