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In 2026, laptops are faster than ever, but they have a major problem: Ports are disappearing.
If you are a creator or professional, you probably have a monitor, a webcam, a mechanical keyboard, a mouse, and an SD card reader. Plugging all of these into your laptop one by one every morning is a nightmare. It looks messy and wastes time.
The solution is a Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station.
It is the heart of a modern desk setup. With just one single cable, you can charge your laptop, connect two 4K monitors, and power all your accessories instantly.
We tested the market leaders to see which one deserves a spot on your desk: The legendary CalDigit TS4 vs. the value-packed Anker lineup.
Quick Verdict: The “Connectivity” Cheat Sheet
| Feature | CalDigit TS4 (The King) | Anker 577 (The Value Pick) |
| Best For… | Power Users, Video Editors, Mac Users | Office Workers, Budget Conscious |
| Total Ports | 18 Ports (Insane connectivity) | 13 Ports |
| Laptop Charging | 98W (Fast Charges MacBook Pro 16″) | 85W (Good for most laptops) |
| Monitor Support | Up to Dual 6K Displays | Dual 4K Displays |
| Card Reader | SD & MicroSD (UHS-II) | SD Card Slot |
| Build Quality | Full Aluminum (Heavy & Premium) | Aluminum & Plastic |
| Our Pick | Check CalDigit Price | Check Anker Price |
1. The Undisputed King: CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
If you browse r/DeskSetup or YouTube tech channels, you will see this vertical metal block everywhere. It is widely considered the best dock ever made.
Why it’s a productivity monster:
It has 18 ports. Yes, 18. You can plug in literally everything you own, and still have empty slots.
Key Pros:
- 98W Power Delivery: It charges even the most power-hungry 16-inch MacBook Pros at full speed. No need to take your Apple charger out of your bag.
- 2.5GbE Ethernet: If you have fast fiber internet, this port ensures you get speeds 2.5x faster than standard ethernet. Essential for uploading large video files.
- Front Audio Jack: It has a high-quality audio port right on the front for your headphones, so the cable doesn’t stretch across your desk.
The Reality Check:
It is expensive ($350-$400 range). It runs warm to the touch (the metal case acts as a heatsink, which is actually good design).
2. The Smart Alternative: Anker 577 Thunderbolt Docking Station
Anker is famous for reliable chargers, and their docks are fantastic value.
Why it’s a smart buy:
It gives you 90% of the functionality of the CalDigit for a significantly lower price.
Key Pros:
- Dual 4K Display: It easily handles two high-resolution monitors via Thunderbolt and HDMI.
- Build Quality: It feels solid and reliable, typical of Anker products.
- Compact Size: It lays flat and fits under a monitor stand easily, saving vertical space.
The Reality Check:
It offers 85W charging (vs 98W on CalDigit). This is fine for MacBook Air and Pro 13/14″, but might charge a Pro 16″ slowly under heavy load.
Tech Guide: Thunderbolt 4 vs. USB-C Hubs (Read Before Buying)
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Many people buy a cheap $30 USB-C hub and wonder why their monitors flicker. Here is the difference:
- USB-C Hub ($30-$80): Good for travel. It has limited bandwidth (speed). It usually supports only one 4K monitor at 30Hz (laggy mouse movement).
- Thunderbolt 4 Dock ($200+): Good for desk setups. It has massive bandwidth (40Gbps). It supports dual 4K monitors at 60Hz (smooth motion) and fast data transfer simultaneously.
Verdict: If you have a permanent desk setup, do not buy a cheap hub. Invest in a powered Thunderbolt Dock. It is the foundation of a stable workspace.
Pro Tip: Cable Management Magic
A docking station is the ultimate cable management hack.
- Without a Dock: 5 cables plugged into your laptop sides. messy.
- With a Dock: You mount the dock under your desk or hide it behind your monitor. Only ONE cable goes to your laptop.
(Check out our guide on [Cable Management Hacks] to see how to mount these docks properly).
Final Verdict: Which One Should You Buy?
Buy the [CalDigit TS4] if:
- You are a “Pro User” (Video Editor, Photographer, Developer).
- You need more than 15 ports.
- You use a high-power laptop (MacBook Pro 16″ or Gaming Laptop).
- Bottom Line: Buy once, cry once. It will last you 5-10 years.
Buy the [Anker 577] if:
- You are an office professional or student.
- You want a reliable dual-monitor setup without breaking the bank.
- You trust the Anker ecosystem.
- Bottom Line: The best value for money Thunderbolt dock.
