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120+ USB4 / Thunderbolt 4 Hubs & Docks compared (January 2024)

Writer: goldenstateservicesj
goldenstateservicesj
Jan 1, 2024
8 min read

[Updated 2024/01/01 with additional models]

Here come the mighty Docks…

Introduction

Here is a growing list of Thunderbolt 4 (TB4 or TBT4) and USB4 docks and hubs. Many are based on the Gorilla Creek & Godzilla Creek reference PCBs that were co-designed by Intel and Goodway, disclosed in July 2020 and certified in November 2020. Most are based around the Intel Goshen Ridge JHL8440 chipset and are backwards-compatible with Thunderbolt-3 (TB3 or TBT3) and USB-C systems. USB4 hubs and docks based on alternate chipsets are included as well.

The rationale for developing this list is that it is difficult to compare models and brands on shopping websites as not all features are disclosed using similar language or disclosed at all. Hopefully, this list will help you find the *perfect* dock for your workstation. Eventually, this list will be migrated into a searchable database but for now it is just a set of static tables.

Compact Thunderbolt 4 Hubs

Hubs requiring external PSU (28)

Because many of these units are almost identical, a column indicates the equivalent ODM model. Unless otherwise indicated, all models include these base features:

  • based on Intel Goshen Ridge JHL8440 chipset

  • detachable ~0.75m TB4 cable

  • 100-120W barrel-jack style power supply

  • 3x downstream TB4 ports (40Gb/s; 15 watts)

  • 1x USB 3.x (10Gb/s / 7.5-10W)

  • PC/Mac compatibility

  • Monitor outputs:

    • Most brands do not list all compatible monitor modes so double-check with the manufacturer to ensure compatibility with your specific monitors. For example, the Goodway DBD1010 lists 4K120 but not 5K60 support, but some re-brands like the Anker A8398 list 5K60 but not 4K120. Both models actually support 4K120 and 5K60. Although three TB4 ports may be present, only two can be used for monitors at a time.

    • most TB4 laptops support: 1x 8K30, 1x 5K60, 1x 4K120, 1x 1440p144, or 2x4K60

    • some TB4 laptop and hub combinations support: 1x 8K60 or 2x 5K60

    • most TB3 laptops support: 2x 4K60 or 1x 5K60

    • most USB-C laptops support: 1x 4K60 or 1x 4K30

Specialized Compact TB4 Hubs (4)

These hubs have some unique features that places them in a separate class compared to typical compact hubs. Unless otherwise indicated, all models include the same base features as the compact hubs listed above.

Full-size Thunderbolt 4 Docks

Full-size Docks include additional features beyond a simple hub such as Ethernet, USB A, USB-C, audio, SD card readers, and higher wattage laptop charging.

Dual Monitor Docks (41)

Unless otherwise indicated, all docks include these base features:

  • based on Intel Goshen Ridge JHL8440 chipset

  • detachable ~0.8m TB4 cable

  • 135W barrel-jack style power supply

  • 3.5mm TRRS combo audio jack (Realtek ALC40xx chipset or similar)

  • 1Gb/s USB-based Ethernet (RealTek 8153 or similar)

  • UHS-II SD Card reader

    • some models include microSD in addition to full size SD readers

  • At least 1 downstream TB4 port

  • PC/Mac compatibility

  • Monitor output:

    • Most brands do not list all compatible monitor modes so double-check with the manufacturer to ensure compatibility with your specific monitors. For example, the Goodway DBD1110 lists 4K120 but not 5K60 support, but some re-brands like the Brydge Stone list 5K60 but not 4K120. Both models actually support 4K120 and 5K60.

    • most TB4 laptops support: 1x 8K30, 1x 5K60, 1x 4K120, 1x 1440p144, or 2x4K60

    • some TB4 laptops support: 1x 8K60, 2x 5K60, 3x 4K60, etc.

    • most TB3 laptops support: 2x 4K60 or 1x 5K60

    • most USB-C laptops support: 1x 4K60 or 1x 4K30 (some docks with built-in HDMI/DP may enable 2x 4K60 or 2x 4K30)

    • Some models include an MST chipset that allows 3 or 4 monitors, however the 3rd and 4th output won’t work on Mac

    • Some models include a DisplayLink chipset which runs two of the monitor outputs – monitors connected to these ports will work on both PC and Mac but will have additional lag/latency compared to monitors without DisplayLink.

Best value in Q2 2022? For Mac? CalDigit. For PC? OWC based on sale price, Lenovo, HP, or Kensington based on features.

Triple/Quad Monitor Docks (28)

These docks have the same base features as dual-monitor docks but either make use of MST or DisplayLink chipsets to support three or four monitors each with distinct content. Most laptops will need to disable the built-in LCD panel in order to run 4x monitors via MST. Apple Mac laptops do not support MST so MST-based docks will run with a maximum of 2 monitors on Mac. DisplayLink has the flexibility of working on both Mac and PC, but has the drawback that some of the connected monitors (usually the last two) have a 50-100ms lag/latency which can be disruptive for gaming, real-time 3D graphics, and video editing workloads. For regular office apps and casual gaming, it works fine though.

Older USB-C laptops will be able to drive at least 2 monitors from these docks and in some instances will drive 3 or 4 depending on the specific design – read the fine print!

Specialized Thunderbolt Docks (8)

These docks have unique features that place them in a separate class. Unless otherwise indicated, all models include the same base features as the TB4 docks listed above.

USB4 multi-function-adapters, hubs, and docks

Devices specifically marketed as USB4 hubs/docks rather than Thunderbolt 4 docks still provide a 40Gb/s link to the host PC, but without advanced capabilities such as PCIe tunneling for external GPUs or fast NVMe storage. Per the USB4 specification, a true “USB4 hub” or “USB4 dock” must include PCIe, Thunderbolt-3 compatibility, and at least one downstream USB4 port that runs at the same throughout as the upstream host connector (40Gb/s or 20Gb/s). Devices without these features are technically classified as USB4 endpoint or peripheral devices. However, all vendors market them as hubs or docks.

Many of these devices are based on the Via Labs VL830, Intel Hoover Ridge JHL8140, or RealTek RTS5490 chipsets. Given that these chipsets have key advantages over older USB 3.x hubs when used on USB4/Thunderbolt4 PCs and Macs, it makes sense to market them as USB4 hubs even if they don’t strictly meet the definition in the USB4 spec.

Portable multi-function-adapters (12)

Unless otherwise indicated, all models include:

  • integrated ~15-30cm USB4 cable

  • USB-C port for PD 100W (85W) passthrough charging

  • can operate as bus-powered without PSU

  • dual monitor capable (2x 4K60)

  • no USB4 40Gb/s downstream ports

Portable hubs with downstream USB-C DP alt mode (5)

Unless otherwise indicated, all models include:

  • integrated ~25-30cm USB4 cable

  • dedicated USB-C port for PD 100W input

  • can operate as bus-powered without PSU but full functionally best with PSU

  • dual-monitor capable (2x 4K60)

  • at least 1 downstream port supporting DP alt mode video, 10Gb/s data, and >4.5W

  • no USB4 40Gb/s downstream ports

Desktop-class multi-function-adapters (9)

Unless otherwise indicated, all models include:

  • detachable ~50-80cm USB4 cable

  • Gigabit Ethernet

  • 3.5mm TRRS audio jack

  • requires external PSU

  • dual-monitor capable (2x 4K60)

  • no USB4 40Gb/s downstream ports

Desktop-class Docks with downstream USB-C DP alt mode (4)

Unless otherwise indicated, all models include:

  • detachable ~50-80cm USB4 cable

  • Gigabit Ethernet

  • 3.5mm TRRS audio jack

  • requires external PSU

  • at least 1 USB4 downstream port operating at 40Gb/s or 20Gb/s

  • Probably just Thunderbolt 4 devices based on JHL8440 without Thunderbolt certification

Monitors with built-in TB4/USB4 docks/hubs (5)

Highly integrated devices make for a cleaner desk, but with the added complexity, there is more to go wrong. None of these monitors are easily serviceable to swap out or upgrade the docking components so most customers are probably better off getting a separate monitor and dock.

External TB4 GPU / NVMe storage (0)

Thunderbolt eGPUs allow connecting a discrete PCIe GPU such as an NVIDIA RTX or AMD Radeon running at PCIe 3.0 x4 speeds (22-32Gb/s) to a laptop. Similarly, Thunderbolt storage docks provide for multiple channels of high speed M.2 NVMe, SATA or other storage connections. These products often include a subset of the features offered on regular docking stations such as USB and Ethernet.

No TB4-specific eGPUs based on Goshen Ridge/JHL8440 are expected to be developed because the native PCIe interface provided is limited to Gen3x1 (8Gb/s). To achieve a Gen3x4 interface, an additional chip like a Titan Ridge/JHL7440 is needed to complement the JHL8440 which adds cost and complexity. Until Intel provides guidance on a cost-effective approach to design a TB4 dock with PCI Gen3x4 connectivity, older Thunderbolt-3 models based on JHL7440, JHL6540, and JHL6340, will remain in market since they are 100% compatible with TB4/USB4. Please consult the guide at https://egpu.io/best-egpu-buyers-guide/

Compatibility notes

Older USB-C laptops

Several vendors note that Windows PCs with regular USB-C are not supported. All of these docks will actually work on older USB-C systems but with reduced functionality. In particular, you may only get up to 5Gb/s USB speeds and a single monitor working. Docks verified to output to two monitors via regular USB-C are indicated in the table. Additional monitors may need MST hubs or USB Video extenders.

Monitor adapters

Some monitors are particularly sensitive when used with TB4, USB-C, or other docking stations. Whenever possible, use name-brand TB4/USB-C -> DisplayPort adapters/cables or straight-through TB4/USB-C cables from this list. If your monitor supports Thunderbolt-3 or USB-C directly, then just use a Thunderbolt-3 or USB-C cable.

Power

Most TB4 docks ship with power supplies that are unable to simultaneously power all ports at their maximum rated wattage. On-board power management splits available power between ports and prioritizes downstream devices over laptop charging. With this approach, attached hard drives, for example, won’t lose power, but the laptop may charge slower than expected when many devices are attached. Where applicable, a laptop charging rate range is provided.

Mac

  • MacOS lacks support for multi stream transport (MST), so many docks will only work with 1-2 distinct monitor outputs even if there are 3+ monitor ports. And in many cases, you’ll need at least one of the monitors connected to a TB4/USB4 port rather than HDMI or DP. Some docks include DisplayLink-powered HDMI and DP which will work OK on Mac, but with added lag/latency.

  • Mac systems tend to work better with PCIe-based Ethernet from Intel and Aquantia/Marvell rather than USB-based solutions from RealTek and ASIX. More info: https://khronokernel.github.io/macos/2021/11/22/PCIE-ETHERNET.html

  • In the past, MacOS implemented device certification checks via hard-coded lists in the IOThunderboltFamily kernel extension which disabled features on uncertified docking stations. Apple updates the lists via MacOS updates – so if you ever have issues with a Dock, you may need to update to the very latest MacOS revision and latest dock firmware. Some uncertified devices may not have full functionality unless console commands are entered manually.

  • If you have issues with your Mac, post your findings in the comment section below.

Firmware updates

Early docks had issues with USB 2.0 devices. Check with your vendor for firmware updates:

Connecting monitors

If you don’t have monitors with USB-C inputs, you’ll need to get the latest generation of USB-C->DP or USB-C->HDMI adapters. For best reliability, avoid HDMI when possible.

References & More reading

 
 
 

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