A docking station (or dock station) is a device designed to solve the issue of limited docking ports on laptops by expanding the available interfaces. Through a single data cable, a docking station can extend a computer's interfaces, allowing various peripheral devices such as displays, hard drives, network cards, and USB devices to be connected to the computer, thereby enhancing its expandability and usability. A Thunderbolt 4 docking station builds upon the foundation of a USB C docking station by incorporating Intel's Thunderbolt 4 technology—the integration of PCI Express data transfer technology and DisplayPort display technology, which can not only transmit data but also transmit video and audio signals and provide power supply.
USB-C docking station and Thunderbolt 4 docking station each have their own advantages. Choosing which one is better depends on your specific needs and the support of your computer:
USB-C docking station:
•Versatile: USB-C interface is more common, and most modern devices, including Mac and Windows computers, are equipped with USB-C interface, so USB-C docking station has better compatibility.
•Function: Although versatile, USB-C docking station may be limited in data transfer speed and video output capability compared to Thunderbolt 4. It usually supports USB 3.1 Gen 2 speed (up to 10 Gbps), as well as DisplayPort 1.2 or HDMI 1.4 video output, which is suitable for basic expansion needs.
•High speed: Thunderbolt 4 is based on the USB-C physical interface, but provides more powerful functions, including data transfer rate of up to 40 Gbps, which is four times the speed of USB-C 3.1 Gen 2.
• High-performance video: Supports at least one DisplayPort 1.4 interface, capable of driving an 8K display or two 4K displays at 60Hz refresh rate at the same time, suitable for high-end graphic design, video editing or professionals who need multi-screen high-resolution display.
• Daisy chain connection: Thunderbolt 4 allows daisy chain connection of multiple Thunderbolt devices, which means you can expand more devices from one port and keep your desktop tidy.
• Power delivery: Thunderbolt 4 guarantees at least 15W of power delivery to connected devices, and many products can reach higher, suitable for charging laptops.
Decision basis:
• If your computer supports Thunderbolt 4, and you need high-speed data transfer, multi-screen high-resolution display or advanced expansion functions, Thunderbolt 4 docking station will be a better choice.
• If your needs are more basic, such as only additional USB ports, basic video output, and limited budget, then USB-C docking station will be more economical and practical.
