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- Powerful USB-C Dock: Enhance productivity with a 4K HDMI port, Ethernet, audio input/output, and 4 USB ports; delivers up to 85W of power for charging USB-C or Thunderbolt 4/3 systems
- Compact and VESA Mountable: Space-saving design with VESA mount option for a tidy workstation setup; ideal for laptop dock configurations
- 4K Performance: Utilizes DP Alt Mode for direct GPU connection, enabling native-level display performance up to host system capabilities
- Compatibility: Works with Windows 10 and newer, macOS 11+, and ChromeOS; supports Thunderbolt 4/3, USB4, or full-featured USB-C ports with plug and play functionality
- Unlock Your Productivity Potential: Transform your workspace with seamless connectivity and power delivery for efficient multitasking and streamlined workflows
Plugable USB C Dock: A Comprehensive Review
The Plugable USB C Dock with 85W Charging is a must-have for people who need to connect multiple devices to their laptops. This docking station is compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C MacBooks and select Windows laptops. It includes HDMI up to 4K@30Hz, Ethernet, 4X USB 3.0 ports, USB-C PD, and a VESA mount. In this article, we will explore the different applications of this device and its advantages and disadvantages.
Application 1: HDMI up to 4K@30Hz
The Plugable USB C Dock allows you to connect an external display to your laptop via HDMI. With VESA DisplayPort Alternate Mode over USB-C (Alt Mode), the dock establishes a direct pipeline to your host graphics processor. This means that you can enjoy native-level display performances up to the host system’s GPU capabilities. The HDMI output supports a resolution of up to 4K@30Hz, which makes it perfect for watching movies, playing games, or working on graphics-intensive tasks.
Advantages:
– High-quality video output
– Supports 4K@30Hz resolution
– Direct pipeline to your host graphics processor
Disadvantages:
– DisplayPort monitors are not supported
– The HDMI output only supports up to 4K@30Hz
Application 2: Ethernet
The Plugable USB C Dock also includes an Ethernet port that allows you to connect to a wired network. This is useful for people who need a stable and fast internet connection for work or streaming content. The Ethernet port supports up to 1000Mbps, which is more than enough for most users.
Advantages:
– Stable and fast internet connection
– Supports up to 1000Mbps
Disadvantages:
– None
Application 3: 4X USB 3.0 Ports
The Plugable USB C Dock also includes four USB 3.0 ports that allow you to connect multiple devices to your laptop. This is useful for people who need to connect a mouse, keyboard, external hard drive, or any other USB device. The USB 3.0 ports support data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps, which is ten times faster than USB 2.0.
Advantages:
– Four USB 3.0 ports allow you to connect multiple devices
– Supports data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps
Disadvantages:
– None
Application 4: USB-C PD
The Plugable USB C Dock also supports USB-C PD, which allows you to charge your laptop while using the docking station. The USB-C PD supports up to 85W, which is more than enough to charge most laptops. This is useful for people who need to use their laptop for an extended period without worrying about the battery life.
Advantages:
– Supports USB-C PD up to 85W
– Allows you to charge your laptop while using the docking station
Disadvantages:
– None
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
– High-quality video output
– Stable and fast internet connection
– Four USB 3.0 ports allow you to connect multiple devices
– Supports USB-C PD up to 85W
– Allows you to charge your laptop while using the docking station
– Small-scale design saves valuable desk space and avoids a clutter of electronics and cables
– Includes a VESA mount to tuck the dock behind a monitor for an even lower profile at your workstation
– Comes with a 2-year limited parts and labor warranty as well as Seattle-based email support
Cons:
– DisplayPort monitors are not supported
– The HDMI output only supports up to 4K@30Hz
– Not compatible with legacy USB 3.0 systems
– Not all USB-C ports and systems support Power Delivery or Alt Mode
Question and Answer Section:
1. Is the Plugable USB C Dock compatible with all laptops?
No, the Plugable USB C Dock is compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C MacBooks and select Windows laptops. It requires a compatible USB-C port supporting both video and charging or Thunderbolt 3 system. Not compatible with legacy USB 3.0 systems.
2. Can I charge my laptop while using the docking station?
Yes, the Plugable USB C Dock supports USB-C PD up to 85W, which allows you to charge your laptop while using the docking station.
3. Does the Plugable USB C Dock support DisplayPort monitors?
No, the Plugable USB C Dock only supports HDMI up to 4K@30Hz. DisplayPort monitors are not supported.
4. What is the warranty for the Plugable USB C Dock?
The Plugable USB C Dock comes with a 2-year limited parts and labor warranty as well as Seattle-based email support.
This is the exact product we’ve been talking about, the ASIN number is B078J7FSWM:
- Powerful USB-C Dock: Enhance productivity with a 4K HDMI port, Ethernet, audio input/output, and 4 USB ports; delivers up to 85W of power for charging USB-C or Thunderbolt 4/3 systems
- Compact and VESA Mountable: Space-saving design with VESA mount option for a tidy workstation setup; ideal for laptop dock configurations
- 4K Performance: Utilizes DP Alt Mode for direct GPU connection, enabling native-level display performance up to host system capabilities
- Compatibility: Works with Windows 10 and newer, macOS 11+, and ChromeOS; supports Thunderbolt 4/3, USB4, or full-featured USB-C ports with plug and play functionality
- Unlock Your Productivity Potential: Transform your workspace with seamless connectivity and power delivery for efficient multitasking and streamlined workflows
- 12-in-1 Expansion: Compatible with USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt laptops on Windows, macOS, or ChromeOS, this docking station charges your device, connects up to 3 HDMI monitors, offers Gigabit Ethernet, a 3.5mm combo audio jack, and 6 USB 3.0 ports
- Triple Display Docking Station: Features 3 HDMI video outputs, including 1x 4K 30Hz HDMI output and 2x 1080p 60Hz HDMI outputs using DisplayLink USB Graphics Technology, supporting 3 extended displays even on systems like Apple M1, M2, and M3
- USB-C Features: Supports DisplayLink graphics technology and native USB-C video path ("Alt Mode”) for external display at full native performance, along with USB-C Power Delivery for charging the connected system
- Compatibility: Works with USB Type-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt Macs (macOS 11 and newer with driver installation), Windows, ChromeOS 100 and newer, and laptops supporting USB-C Alt Mode and Power Delivery; Not compatible with Linux; HDCP not supported
- Enhance Your Productivity: Transform your workspace with seamless connectivity and multiple display options, ideal for professionals needing efficient multitasking and enhanced workflow
- Certified Reliability: The Plugable Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 Hub with 60W charging is Thunderbolt certified and built on the Intel Goshen Ridge Chipset for maximum performance and compatibility with your USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt devices
- Thunderbolt 4 and USB4: The solution to not enough full-featured ports on your system. Every port on this Thunderbolt hub is as capable as the one on your laptop, with support for up to two 4K displays, massive 40Gbps data bandwidth, and 15W for phones, tablets, and high performance peripherals. One USB-C to HDMI 2.0 video adapter included
- Compatibility: Windows (10+) and macOS (11+) Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 systems. Thunderbolt monitor hub supports up to 2x 4K screens at 60Hz, one 8K screen at 30Hz or 1x 6K on Apple silicon Macs. Functionality limited on USB-C only systems. Thunderbolt 3 Windows systems not recommended
- Mac Notes: Base M3 MacBook Air and Pro systems support dual extended displays in clamshell mode, or single display with lid open. Macs with base M1/M2 chips support single extended display over Thunderbolt. Macs with base M4 or Apple Pro/Max chips support dual displays with lid open. Intel Thunderbolt 3 Macs support 2x displays.
- Expandable Enhancement: Connect multiple high performance SSDs to build a content creation powerhouse, and expand your setup further by daisy-chaining up to 6 additional Thunderbolt peripherals. One USB-C to HDMI 2.0 video adapter included
- [15 PORTS OF CONNECTIVITY]: 2x Thunderbolt 3 40Gb/s, DisplayPort 1.2, 5x USB-A & 1 USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 (5Gb/s), 1x USB-C 3.1 Gen2 (10Gb/s data only), Gigabit Ethernet, UHS-II SD Card Slot (SD 4.0), Optical Audio (S/PDIF), 3.5mm Stereo Audio In & Out. Vertical or horizontal orientation. Sturdy full aluminum construction with integrated heat sink without a fan.
- [IMPROVED from 85W to 87W LAPTOP CHARGING]: Provides up to 87W to charge your laptop and power all of your USB peripherals. The secondary Thunderbolt 3 port provides 15W of power for downstream devices. Please note: Firmware update required for 87W
- [DUAL 4K EXTENDED DISPLAYS]: Connect up to two 4K@60Hz (4096 x 2160 30-bit color) monitors via DisplayPort and Thunderbolt 3 / USB-C port, OR a Single 5K@60Hz display can be supported via the Thunderbolt 3 port. **M1 Macs cannot support dual display over Thunderbolt! (***DisplayPort to HDMI/DVI/VGA adapter / cable must be an ACTIVE type. Passive dongles/cables will not work.***)
- [UHS-II SD 4.0 CARD SLOT]: Latest UHS-II SD card slot supports SD/SDHC/SDXC at up to 312 MB/s bus speed. Transfer full days of footage from your camera 3x faster than UHS-I counterpart!
- [MAC & WINDOWS COMPATIBLE]: Ideal for M1, M2, M3 Macs, 2016+ MacBook Pro, 2017+ iMac Pro, iPad Pro with Thunderbolt, on Mac OS 10.12 or Windows 8/10 with a Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 port. **Your host device (computer/tablet) must have a Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 port to use the CalDigit TS3 Plus**
- [11-in-1 Thunderbolt 3 Dock] – 40Gbps data transfer, 2x 40Gbps ports, 1x DisplayPort (8K @ 60Hz), PD 100W, 2x USB-C 3.0 (5Gbps), 1x USB-A 3.0, 4x USB-A 2.0. Plug-and-play, no drivers needed.
- [Travel-Friendly] – Compact and portable with multiple USB-C & USB-A ports, Thunderbolt PD, and dual monitor support—ideal for mobile professionals.
- [Power Multiple Devices] – Charges your laptop and supports dual monitors, perfect for screens without built-in power sources.
- [8K or Dual 4K Display] – Supports 8K @ 60Hz (single) or dual 4K @ 60Hz. MacOS: dual 4K @ 60Hz. Windows: 8K @ 60Hz + 4K @ 60Hz. Note: M1/M2/M3 Macs do not support dual monitors.
- [Broad Compatibility] – Works with Thunderbolt 3, USB 4, and USB-C devices, including Apple M2/M1 series, Intel Macs, Windows laptops, Chrome OS, and USB-C tablets.
- Supplies up to 130 of power delivery for your notebook.
- Only Compatible with Dell Notebooks that are equipped with Thunderbolt port.
- ROOM FOR ALL YOUR PERIPHERALS: Enjoy easy access to monitors, networks, power, and peripherals with multiple ports available. This windows and mac docking station has 12 ports including Thunderbolt, USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet, SD and Audio ports - all through a single cable.
- POWER TO SHARE: This charging dock is the perfect way to keep your laptop powered up and ready to go. With its included 170W power supply unit, the Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro can provide up to 85W of power for a connected laptop. Also known as "upstream charging," this keeps your laptop charged while in use, without a separate power cable.
- ULTRA-HIGH DEFINITION MONITOR SUPPORT: Enjoy ultra-high definition 4K dual monitor support to create a versatile working station. This Belkin docking station makes it easy to connect and use two monitors at once, while also charging your device at the same time.
- THUNDERBOLT CABLE INCLUDED: The dock also includes a thunderbolt cable, which is 2.6ft / 0.8m long. This allows you to connect your laptop to the dock from further away, making it more versatile for different desk configurations.
- THE ULTIMATE WORKSTATION: This Belkin Thunderbolt Docking station is the best in class when it comes to power, speed and pixels. This smart dock is compatible with Mac and Windows, simply connect your Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C laptop to instantly create a powerful workstation.
- INSTANT WORKSTATION: Includes 2 USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 ports, 2 DisplayPort 1.4, 2 USB-A 3.1 Gen 1 ports, 1 USB-A 3.1 Gen 2 port, a Thunderbolt 3 Type-C port with PD 3.0, 3.5mm AUX, Gigabit ethernet & 125W PSU powers the dock & charges the laptop up to 60W
- POWER TO SHARE: This charging dock is the perfect way to keep your laptop powered up and ready to go. With its included 125W power supply unit, the Thunderbolt 3 Dock Plus can provide up to 60W of power for a connected laptop
- ULTRA-HIGH DEFINITION MONITOR SUPPORT: Enjoy 4K dual monitor support to create a versatile working station. This Belkin docking station makes it easy to connect and use two monitors at once, while also charging your device at the same time
- THUNDERBOLT CABLE INCLUDED: The dock also includes a thunderbolt cable, which is 1.6 ft/0.5M long. This allows you to connect your laptop to the dock making it more versatile for different desk configurations
- THE ULTIMATE WORKSTATION: This smart dock is compatible with Mac and Windows, simply connect your Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C laptop to instantly create a powerful workstation
- Thunderbolt 3 dock for MacBooks (OS 10.15 and later) and Windows laptops equipped with Thunderbolt 3 (Lenovo, Dell, HP, Acer, Asus, MSI, Razer, and more); also compatible with Thunderbolt 4 (at Thunderbolt 3 speeds) and USB-C laptops and Surface devices (at USB-C speeds) including Surface Pro 8 and 7, Surface Laptop 3, Surface Books and Surface Go; horizontal or vertical orientation (base included)
- Supports 4K Ultra HD (4096 x 2160 30-bit color @ 60 Hz) to one or two monitors for Thunderbolt 3 devices; USB-C devices supported at 4K @60Hz to a single monitor or 1080p@60Hz to dual monitors; note: Macbook Air and Macbook Pro 13” with the M1, M2 or M3 CPU will only display to a single monitor due to Apple’s chipset limitations, but Macbook Pros with M1/M2/M3 Pro and M1/M2/M3 Max CPUs will work with dual displays
- For Dual 4K Display to MacBooks with M1, M2 or M3 chipsets, see our SD4780P dock (part #K33620NA)
- Connect your laptop to the Thunderbolt 3 port (.8 meter Intel Certified TB3 cable included); connect to your dual displays by using two HDMI 2.0 ports, two DisplayPort 1.2 ports, or one of each
- 170 Watt Power Supply delivers up to 100W power to charge your laptop via power delivery 3.0, great for the MacBook Pro 16” and other laptops needing 100W of power or less (windows laptops must be designed to support power delivery); delivers additional power to run peripherals like hard drives, and for charging phones and tablets
- Get Connected - This USB C docking station: three 4K displays with either HDMI or DisplayPort, six USB 3.0 ports for a wide range of down-stream devices, Ethernet for reliable internet connection, and 3.5mm TRRS audio for headphones or headset
- Triple 4K - Ditch the adapters, with 3x HDMI ports and 3x DisplayPort ports for flexible monitor connectivity, connect three screens up to 4K 60Hz with USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt systems, even if your computer can only normally support one like the M1, M2, or M3 Mac
- Compatibility: Triple display docking station supports USB Type-C with DP1.2, USB4, and Thunderbolt computers with Windows 10 or 11, macOS 11+, and ChromeOS v100+; macOS requires installation of DisplayLink Drivers, see gallery video for installation walkthrough
- 100W Charging: Leave your power cord in the bag; if your laptop supports USB-C PowerDelivery, 100W charging provided by this USB C dock will supply the power your laptop needs to keep you working for the whole day
- 2-Year Coverage, Lifetime Support - Every Plugable product, including this docking station, is covered against defects for 2 years and comes with lifetime support. If you ever have questions, contact our North American-based team - even before purchase
- 11 IN 1 USB C Multiport Adapter: PD charging port, Gigabit RJ45 port, 4K HDMI ports, VGA port,SD/TF card slot, USB 3.0 ports (up to 5Gbps), USB 2.0 ports backward compatibility
- Multi-Display USB C Docking Station: Hiearcool intelligent USB C Hub incorporates a triple display, lightweight, portable and powerful with multi-ports to achieve multi-display (mirror mode/extend mode/video wall mode)
- Ultimately Clear Docking Station: 4K Hdmi ports support resolutions up to 3840 x 2160 30Hz with single hdmi displays attached. VGA port supports display resolutions up to 1920 x 1080 60Hz
- SGS Approved USB C hub: Equipped with the newest generation super smart chip, up to 100w design shortens charging time, power transfer 3.0 (backwards with PD 2.0) preventing overload, short circuit, voltage regulation, temperature protection
- Fast Speed USB C Dongle: Supports 10/100/1000Mbps speeds. 1G movie in few minutes. With a rate of 5Gbps for USB 3.0 ports, SD and TF card slot included
Last update on 2025-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.