At a look
Knowledgeable’s Score
Execs
- Loads of connectivity choices
- 3.5mm audio jack
- Gigabit ethernet assist
Cons
- Costly
- Solely helps screens as much as 4K
Our Verdict
For those who’re a video editor or photographer, or just want to attach plenty of equipment on the identical time, the Thunderbolt 4 Dock is a good alternative. Gigabit assist means quick speeds are doable, though the worth is a little bit of a deterrent.
Value When Reviewed
$299.99
Greatest Costs Immediately: Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Dock
For those who’re utilizing a MacBook, or some other pc with restricted ports, you’ll want a Thunderbolt hub once in a while.
And Satechi’s Thunderbolt 4 Dock is likely one of the main choices. It’s an actual beast, a minimum of in comparison with the corporate’s Thunderbolt 4 Slim, which is lower than half the scale.
Each are fabricated from aluminium and have a minimalist design, however there’s a key motive why the Thunderbolt 4 Dock is so large: it has virtually each port you’ll ever want.
There’s a key motive why the Thunderbolt 4 Dock is so large: it has virtually each port you’ll ever want
Along with three Thunderbolt 4 ports (4, if you happen to embody the host port), you get an RJ45 connector (for gigabet ethernet), three USB-A 3.2, a 3.5mm audio jack and SD card reader. For those who frequently do video or picture enhancing, or just want to attach plenty of equipment on the identical time, that is the right Thunderbolt hub for you.
Satechi has added assist for as much as two exterior 4K shows right here, every operating at 60Hz. The entire three rear Thunderbolt 4 ports can ship 15W of energy, whereas the host port on the entrance can output at 96W – it helps the Energy Supply quick charging commonplace.
However as alluded to above, this isn’t a small gadget. It measures 19.5 x 8.5 x 3cm and weighs 422g, making it greater than your common hub. However it doesn’t ever grow to be intrusive, and nonetheless seems comparatively discreet. Nonetheless, this further dimension could be a problem for some folks.
Nevertheless, for such a premium product, it’d be good to see assist for screens of a better decision than 4K. Some 5K and 6K panels are starting to emerge, even when they’re not significantly frequent but. For most individuals, although, this shouldn’t be a dealbreaker.
Value & availability
The Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Dock gives virtually all the pieces you may want in a hub, however its worth displays that.
Within the US, it prices $299.99 direct from Satechi or by way of Amazon. Consumers within the UK can get it from the Satechi website too (converts to approx £230) or from Amazon for £270.47.
Wherever you purchase it from, it doesn’t come low cost. There are some dearer choices in our greatest Thunderbolt 4 hubs and docks chart, but in addition extra reasonably priced selections.
Verdict
The Thunderbolt 4 Dock from Satechi is an influence person’s dream, combining virtually each port you possibly can consider with impressively quick speeds.
A premium design and Gigabit ethernet assist make the expertise even higher, but it surely’s not good. The sheer dimension of the gadget will take some getting used to, whereas exterior shows are capped at 4K.
You’ll additionally need to take care of that price ticket, however this dock does provide lots in your cash. A less expensive various should still provide all the pieces you’re searching for, although.
This text has been translated from an unique posted on Macworld Sweden.