Head-to-head · Best Docking Stations

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 vs Plugable USBC-9IN1E

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

The short answer

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.7 vs 4.5). The gap is mostly about professionals needing extensive connectivity — read the strengths below before deciding.

Higher ratedRanked #1 in Best Docking Stations

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4

4.7

$399

The CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt Dock earns its reputation as a gold standard in the category, offering exceptional portability and connectivity for demanding Mac users. TechRadar praised its robust aluminum build and 18-port configuration with 98W power delivery, while MacRumors noted its impressive 6K display support and 2.5Gb Ethernet. However, both reviewers acknowledged the $399.99 price tag as a significant drawback. The dock's lack of HDMI output is also a notable limitation for users requiring that connection type. This product is ideal for professionals needing extensive connectivity but may not suit budget-conscious consumers or those without Thunderbolt laptops.

Strengths

— Incredible 98W power delivery supporting fast charging for laptops and peripherals
— Fantastic port options with 18 total ports including 3x 10Gb/s USB-C, 5x 10Gb/s USB-A, and dual 6K displays support
— Extra Thunderbolt 4 ports providing high-speed data transfer and device connectivity

Watch-outs

— High price point at $399.99 making it expensive compared to alternatives
— No HDMI port which may limit compatibility with some displays

$399 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

Ranked #3 in Best Docking Stations

Plugable USBC-9IN1E

4.5

$50

The Plugable USB-C 9-in-1 Hub delivers strong performance as a compact, plug-and-play solution for expanding laptop connections. Tech reviewer Michael Bizzaco praised its ability to handle multiple devices simultaneously without driver issues, noting reliable 4K/60Hz HDMI output and 140W pass-through charging. Customer reviews on Staples echoed these positives, with users highlighting ease of use and solid build quality. However, some users noted the short built-in cable and single HDMI port as limitations, while a few mentioned the hub gets warm under heavy load. This hub is ideal for professionals seeking a portable, reliable expansion solution but may not suit users requiring multiple video outputs or extensive data transfer.

Strengths

— Plug-and-play design with no drivers required
— Supports 4K/60Hz HDMI output and 140W pass-through charging
— All ports work flawlessly with multiple devices connected

Watch-outs

— Built-in USB-C cable is rather short
— Only one video output (HDMI) limits multi-monitor setups
— Hub gets warm with multiple connections

$50 · Check Price on Amazon Full review →

How they stack up

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4

The CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 stands out with its 18-port configuration and 98W power delivery, making it superior to the Anker 563 10-in-1 Docking Station which only offers 100W charging and fewer ports. Unlike the UGREEN Revodok Max, it provides better overall connectivity with dual 6K display support and no HDMI limitations, though it's significantly more expensive at $399.99. Compared to the Dell WD25TB4, it offers more universal compatibility and better port variety, but lacks the modular upgrade system that Dell's dock provides.

Plugable USBC-9IN1E

The Plugable USBC-9IN1E offers a plug-and-play design and 140W pass-through charging that outperforms the Anker 555, but lacks the HDMI output and USB-A ports of the Anker 563. Unlike the CalDigit TS4, it's more compact and affordable but provides fewer ports and no 98W power delivery. Compared to the UGREEN Revodok Max, it's more affordable and easier to use, though it lacks the Thunderbolt 4 performance and vertical stand capability of the UGREEN.

Specs side-by-side

Spec	CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4	Plugable USBC-9IN1E
Power Delivery	98W	100W
Ports	18	USB-C, USB-A, SD, microSD
Display Support	2x 6K @ 60Hz	4K@60Hz
Ethernet	2.5Gb	1 Gbps
USB Speed	3x 10Gb/s	USB 3.2 Gen 2
Thunderbolt	Thunderbolt 4	No
Weight	1.1 kg	4.7 ounces
Audio	3.5mm Headphone Jack	3.5mm Combo

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