A Thunderbolt 4 docking station will equip your latest thin-and-light Ultrabook with every imaginable port, making your Ultrabook a versatile computer. Most Ultrabooks don’t have a whole lot of I/O ports, and most manufacturers only offer USB-C connectors so that they can keep these computers super thin.
In an ideal world, everyone would use the latest technologies, everything would be wireless, your computer would have limitless storage, and you wouldn’t need to connect external I/O devices. But things are different in the real world, and a Thunderbolt 4 docking station acts like a Swiss Army Knife of connectivity ports.
Several docking stations are available on the market, but a Thunderbolt 4 docking station edges out the competition many times over.
Firstly, they support data speeds of 40Gbps, faster than any non-Thunderbolt dock. Like Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4 docks support dual-4K monitors. Or you can use an 8K monitor, something which Thunderbolt 3 docks don’t support. Lastly, they support Power Delivery up to 100W, which is enough to charge most laptops.
Not all Thunderbolt 4 docking stations are the same, and it would be unwise to base your decision solely on the number of ports each offers. Hence, we have curated a list of the best Thunderbolt 4 docking stations to help you pick the right one. While all of them have Thunderbolt 4 advantage, they also offer unique features making them suitable for specific applications.
Table of Contents
Comparison of the Best Thunderbolt Docking Station
| Image | Product | Details | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Lenovo 40B00135US Thunderbolt 4 ThinkPad Universal Dock | No. of Ports: 12 Power Delivery: 100W Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2(10Gbps) 4x USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) 1x HDMI v.2.1 2x DisplayPort v.1.4 1x Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio jacks | Check on Amazon |
 | Dell WD22TB4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock | No. of Ports: 11 Power Delivery: 130W Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4 2x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) 3x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps) 1x HDMI v.2.0 2x DisplayPort v.1.4 1x Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 | Check on Amazon |
 | HP Thunderbolt Dock G4 Model | No. of Ports: 11 Power Delivery: 120W Ports: 1x Thunderbolt 4 2x USB-C (10Gbps) 4x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 (5Gbps) 1x HDMI v.2.0 2x DisplayPort v.1.4 1x 2.5GbE RJ-45 | Check on Amazon |
 | Kensington SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station | No. of Ports: 11 Power Delivery: 90W Ports: 4x Thunderbolt 4 4x USB-A (3x USB 3.2 Gen2@10Gbps) 1x Gigabit Ethernet RJ45 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack 1x UHS-II SD 4.0 card reader | Check on Amazon |
 | CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock | No. of Ports: 18 Power Delivery: 98W Ports: 3x Thunderbolt 4 3x USB-C (10Gbps) 5x USB-A (10Gbps) 1x DisplayPort 1.4 1x SD Card Reader (UHS-II) 1x MicroSD Card Reader (UHS-II) 1x 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet 3x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jacks | Check on Amazon |
 | Sonnet Echo 11 | No. of Ports: 11 Power Delivery: 90W Ports: 4x Thunderbolt 4 3x USB 3.2 Gen 2 1x USB 2.0 1x Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 1x SD Card Reader 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jacks | Check on Amazon |
 | Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Dock | No. of Ports: 11 Power Delivery: 96W Ports: 4x Thunderbolt 4 3x USB 3.2 Gen 2 1x USB 2.0 1x Gigabit Ethernet RJ-45 1x SD Card Reader 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jacks | Check on Amazon |
 | Anker PowerExpand 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 Mini Dock | No. of Ports: 5 Power Delivery: 85W Ports: 4x Thunderbolt 4 1x USB 3.1 Gen 2 | Check on Amazon |
Best Thunderbolt Docking Stations – Our Pick
1. Lenovo 40B00135US Thunderbolt 4 ThinkPad – Thunderbolt 4 Docki with HDMI 2.1
The Lenovo Thunderbolt 4 docking station is among the few docks that feature an HDMI v.2.1 port. But before you jump up with joy, remember that Thunderbolt 4 supports only 40Gbps as opposed to HDMI v.2.1’s 48Gbps. So, while you won’t get the 8K@120Hz of HDMI v.2.1, you can connect an 8K HDMI monitor with a refresh rate of 60Hz without restricting yourself to a Thunderbolt 4 monitor.
Including the connection to the host, the Lenovo 40B00135US features 12 I/O connectivity ports, which also include DisplayPort v.1.4. Thus, you get multiple options to connect high-resolution monitors and dual monitors for enhanced entertainment and efficient multitasking.
The docking station’s design has the signature ThinkPad elements, including an all-black body with a ThinkPad logo on the top panel. The top panel also has a power button which comes in handy when you want to power down the device without unmounting individual I/O devices.
All the ports are on the rear panel, except one USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, USB-A 3.2 Gen 2, and a headphone jack on the front panel that provides quick access. And you also get a Kensington slot on the side panel that enables you to secure the dock.
The Lenovo Thunderbolt 4 docking station has a great selection of ports, but you’ll miss a dedicated media card reader to transfer photos from your camera’s memory card conveniently.
Our TakeThe Lenovo 40B00135US is perfect for anyone who needs a high-speed docking station to connect the latest 8K monitor. In addition to Thunderbolt 4, you can connect to the newest HDMI v.2.1 monitors, albeit with some limitations. Additionally, the low price and variety of I/O ports give you a good bang for your buck.
- You can connect an 8K monitor using Thunderbolt 4 or HDMI v.2.1.
- Support for HDMI and dedicated DisplayPorts gives you the flexibility of choice.
- Affordable price
- The 3-year warranty keeps you protected in case of device failure.
- It lacks a media card reader.
- It would be better to have more ports on the front than the rear panel.
2. Dell WD22TB4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock – Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station with 130W Power Delivery
The Dell WD22TB4 trumps its competitors on more than one parameter, including price and ports. But its most significant advantage over its competitors is that it offers 130W Power Delivery, enough to charge even the most power-hungry laptops you own.
While most docks include the connection to the computer in their port count, Dell incorporates the Thunderbolt 4 bus with the dock and provides two dedicated Thunderbolt 4 ports. It also includes two dedicated DisplayPort, one HDMI, and a USB-C Alt Mode DisplayPort to provide you with several options to connect the monitor of your choice.
The WD22TB4 dock has a modular design that allows you to swap modules, making it easy to upgrade when needed. And unlike other ports, the connection to the host is via a fixed data bus that uses Thunderbolt 4. Like the Lenovo Thunderbolt 4 dock, this one from Dell also has a power button on the top panel that allows you to leave your I/O devices connected.
Most ports are on the back panel of the dock, and the front panel only gives you a USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 and USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 PowerShare port. And while the dock has a modular design, the two Thunderbolt 4 are on the base unit, so you’ll retain the two-port advantage even when you swap the module.
Unfortunately, the low price also means you get less functionality than other docks. Neither does the WD22TB4 have a media card reader nor a combo audio jack to connect headphones.
Our TakeThe Dell WD22TB4 is a high-powered device that offers 130W Power Delivery via its Thunderbolt 4 port. With its low price and several video inputs, this dock gives you beatable value for money, making it perfect for anyone on a tight budget.
- 90W for non-Dell laptops, 130W for Dell systems.
- Several video connectivity options give you the flexibility of choice.
- Price
- Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports give you high-speed data transfers.
- The modular design makes it easy to upgrade.
- No media card readers
- No headphone jacks
3. HP Thunderbolt Dock G4 Model – Compact Thunderbolt 4 Dock
The HP G4 Thunderbolt dock combines an atypical design and 120W Power Delivery to offer a compact device with a low footprint. The vertical design occupies lesser space at the workstation, allowing you to de-clutter the area to enhance productivity.
Just like the Dell WD22TB4, the HP G4 comes with an integrated data bus so that you don’t feel misled about the number of ports it offers. It offers only one Thunderbolt 4 port and several connectivity options for external monitors, including dedicated DisplayPort, DisplayPort via USB-C (alt mode), and HDMI v.2.0.
The ports are concentrated on the back panel of the device, with one USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 port on each side panel and one USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 port on the front. To maintain a small footprint, HP stack the port one on top of the other in the back panel, giving the device more height and less width. Thus, making it the perfect device if you have a cramped work desk and allowing you to maximize the space.
While HP prices the G4 dock towards the lower end of the spectrum, you must sacrifice a media card reader, audio ports, and SuperSpeed10 USB-A ports.
Our TakeYou must consider the HP G4 Thunderbolt Dock only if you want a loaded dock that’ll fit in a cramped work area. The G4 offers 11 expansion ports and a 120W Power Delivery, but more importantly, its vertical design will only occupy a little space on your desk.
- Multiple video connectivity ports for attaching external monitors.
- The 120W Power delivery will charge high-power laptops.
- The vertical design occupies very little space at your workstation.
- Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports give you high-speed data transfers.
- No SuperSpeed10 USB-A ports.
- No media card readers or audio ports.
4. Kensington SD5700T – Docking Station for Intel Evo Platform
The SD5700T comes with plenty of ports and 90W Power Delivery to suit the needs of power users and enthusiasts. However, you still get the same number of Thunderbolt 4 ports as commonly available Thunderbolt 4 docks.
The SD5700T comes with a whopping 11 ports, including four (one for the host) Thunderbolt 4 ports. Other ports include four USB Type-A ports, a Gigabit Ethernet jack, one audio headphone/microphone combo jack, and an SD card reader. This is a good Thunderbolt 4 docking station with almost all the ports you could ask for.
The Kensington docking station is larger and heavier than some Thunderbolt 4 docking stations making it perfect for desktop setups and offices.
The SD5700T dock features Intel VT-d based DMA protection to protect your laptop and system from direct memory attacks. Remember, this is part of Thunderbolt 4 standards, and it is well implemented here to ensure robust security on your Thunderbolt 4 laptop.
From a performance standpoint, this dock supports dual 4K displays at 60Hz or a single 8K at 30Hz display and supports daisy-chaining. It’s fantastic if you have multiple displays and extra peripherals like external Thunderbolt SSDs.
Our TakeKensington SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 Dual 4K Docking Station with 90W PD is a fantastic device. While not as compact, the SD5700T is much smaller than most Thunderbolt 3 docks. So, you can take it on the road if you want more ports for a laptop, but it is ideally used with desktop setups.
- The 90W power delivery is ideal for charging most laptops.
- Robust security that prevents Direct Memory Attacks (DMA).
- Gigabit Ethernet port for faster internet speeds.
- Supports USB-C and USB4 will future-proof your computing setup.
- Bulky and heavy design; not suitable if you intend to travel with the device.
- It does not work with Thunderbolt 3 Windows PCs.
5. CalDigit Thunderbolt Station 4 – Thunderbolt 4 Dock with Most Ports
The CalDigit Thunderbolt Station 4 is an impressive device as it trumps most of its competitors on several parameters. From the number of ports on offer to the exhaustive compatibility list, the device is a winner all the way.
Firstly, it offers 18-ports, far more than some of the leading Thunderbolt 4 Docking stations. Thus, making it the most sought-after docking solution for your Thunderbolt 4 computers if flexibility is what you are after.
Second, the CalDigit Thunderbolt Station 4 also stands out with its video display parameters. Your choice starts with a dual 4K resolution setup at 60Hz, and you can take it to an 8K@60Hz. Just for that, you must consider buying this. But wait, there is more.
The device is compatible with all Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 PCs. Mac users also have it good as it’s compatible with Intel/M1 Thunderbolt 3-based and M1 base Pro/Max Thunderbolt 4-based Macs. But users using macOS need to ensure they have macOS 11.4 (Big Sur) or later.
The device offers up to 98W Power Delivery, and you also get 15W Power Delivery on the three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports. In addition to that, there is even a provision for USB-C, which delivers 20W, and USB-A, which has 7.5W.
Our TakeConsider the CalDigit Thunderbolt Station 4 if you need a comprehensive and flexible solution. The 18-ports it offers are amongst the highest that money can buy.
- The 18 ports allow you to connect all your peripheral devices.
- The 8K@60Hz support is ideal for video and gaming.
- The 98W Power Delivery will charge almost all laptops.
- The 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port provides high-speed network connectivity.
- Kensington lock slot to secure the device from theft.
- No power button to power off the device
- No USB 2.0 port means you may experience interference while using wireless keyboards and mice
6. Sonnet Echo 11 Thunderbolt 4 Dock – Docking Station with 3 TB4 downstream ports
The Sonnet Echo 11 is another full-size Thunderbolt 4 dock similar to the Kensington SD5700T in design and port selection. The main difference is that the Echo 11 comes in cheaper than the SD5700T at the expense of a shorter two-year warranty and Kensington lock slot. So, if you don’t need that added security, you can save a lot of money with this dock.
It offers a comprehensive selection of connectivity ports, including a media card reader, audio ports, and multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports.
The Echo 11 also provides 90W charging power to the host, capable of charging Thunderbolt laptops with dedicated graphics. You can connect dual 4K displays or an 8K display at 30Hz. Overall, the Sonnet Echo 11 is an excellent Thunderbolt 4 dock for users looking for a permanent solution on a budget.
Our TakeIf you’re looking for a full-blown Thunderbolt 4 docking station that does not break the bank, the Sonnet Echo 11 can be the perfect option. It’s an ideal dock for office use and productivity, especially if you’re using the latest Macs or lightweight laptops with limited connectivity.
- Three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports instantly enhance your connectivity
- Four USB Type-A ports to connect peripherals
- The 90W power delivery will charge most laptops with ease
- Free lifetime tech support keeps you covered in case you need assistance
- Gigabit Ethernet provides high-speed network access
- The 2-year warranty is less than what other docks offer
- Not Compatible with Thunderbolt 3 Windows PCs
7. Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Dock – Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station with Battery Charging Port
The Satechi Thunderbolt 4 docking station is a sleek-looking device that offers tremendous utility. In addition to the usual mix of I/O ports, this dock includes a dedicated Battery Charging port that enables you to charge your portable USB devices without sacrificing data-transfer ports.
The dock includes three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports. But the absence of dedicated DisplayPort and HDMI ports means you’ll use most of these for connecting monitors. However, three USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports provide high-speed data transfer ports for legacy flash drives and external hard drives.
The two-tone metallic color and curved top panel of the Satechi Thunderbolt 4 dock give it a premium feel. But the port placement is no different from similar devices. The back panel has three Thunderbolt 4, three USB-A, and the sole Gigabit Ethernet port. And the front panel has ports that require better accessibility, like the media card reader, Battery Charging port, and audio port.
Our TakeThe Satechi Thunderbolt 4 dock offers pleasing aesthetics and combines it with a practical port placement that offers considerable convenience. Thus, it’s ideal for users who want their work areas to look inviting.
- The Battery Charging ports on the front panel allow you to connect portable USB devices easily.
- The 96W Power Delivery will quickly charge most laptops.
- A media card reader enables you to transfer your camera pictures conveniently.
- The pleasing aesthetic will add to your workstation’s look.
- No dedicated DisplayPort and HDMI ports.
- Pricey
8. Anker PowerExpand 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 Mini Dock – Compact Thunderbolt 4 Dock for Travel
Anker’s Thunderbolt 4 mini docking station has more power delivery than other docks in its class. It’s a compact and very portable docking station that’s great for power users on the move.
If your laptop requires more than 60W, this is the ideal compact Thunderbolt 4 dock. Besides, it transforms a single Thunderbolt 4 port on your PC into three additional ports to connect peripherals, including dual monitors and external drives.
The Anker PowerExpand 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 Mini Dock has a clean and premium design that blends well in any environment. It looks similar to the Anker PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 Thunderbolt 3 Dock (Amazon Link) but smaller at 4.9 x 2.8 x 0.9 (LWH) inches and 0.55 lbs. If you toss this thing in a backpack, you won’t even feel the weight.
Its grey finish complements most of the latest laptops, especially the MacBook Pro, creating an aesthetically pleasing workspace. The metal body and finned design alleviate heating issues, ensuring reliable performance.
The front panel has the host Thunderbolt 4 port with 85W charging power, enough to charge demanding laptops. Ensure to use this port to connect your PC. There is an additional USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-A port for other USB peripherals and two status LEDs.
The other three Thunderbolt 4 ports are at the back alongside the power input and power button. They support the full 40Gbps bandwidth each, but with only 15W power delivery. With three Thunderbolt 4 ports, you can connect multiple Thunderbolt devices through daisy-chaining. This includes dual 4K at 60Hz displays or a single 8K at 30Hz display.
The accessories in the box include a 100W power adapter with a 1.2m power cord and a 0.7m Thunderbolt 4 cable. You can find a longer Thunderbolt 4 cable in our other buying guide. An 18-month warranty backs the Anker PowerExpand 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 Mini Dock.
Our TakeThe Anker PowerExpand 5-in-1 Thunderbolt 4 Mini Dock is an excellent option for road warriors or those looking to save significant desk space, as it has four Thunderbolt 4 ports and 85W power delivery in a small, compact design. This is the perfect compact dock for you if you have powerful and demanding Thunderbolt 4 laptops.
- The compact design ensures you can carry the device around
- 85W power delivery provides adequate power to charge most laptops
- Compatible with both Mac and PC (Windows 10 & macOS 11 Big Sur, or later)
- Power button to control the power to the device
- No Gigabit Ethernet port for fast internet connectivity
- No 3.5mm audio jack to connect audio devices
Best Thunderbolt 4 Docking Stations – The Ultimate Buying Guide
When buying a new Thunderbolt 4 docking station for your smart home office, these are the features to look out for.
Design and Size
The latest docking stations are now small and more compact than ever, thanks to Thunderbolt 4. A smaller dock is always better for your desk as it takes less space and makes your setup look neat. It is also suitable for portability should you be moving around often.
If you’re getting the same number of ports and features, always go for the smallest Thunderbolt 4 docking station you can afford.
It’s also good to check if you can mount the docking station horizontally or vertically. While most docking stations are designed to be used horizontally, placing a dock in a vertical position helps clear up some valuable space.
Connectivity and Ports
More ports are always better. But we highly recommend getting a Thunderbolt 4 docking station with USB Type-A and video output ports. If you’re paying attention to the industry, you’ll realize most laptop manufacturers are stripping away most of the legacy ports in favor of Type-C ports.
Many of the latest laptops, such as the Dell XPS series and the new Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano, come with more Type-C and fewer USB-A ports. Having USB-A ports on your Thunderbolt 4 dock can breathe life into your old USB drives and peripherals.
Another set of ports you shouldn’t miss out on is for video output. These allow you to connect multiple external displays to your laptop to add more screen real estate for multitasking. Luckily most Thunderbolt 4 docking stations come with up to four Thunderbolt 4 ports. That’s a bunch of ports to connect external monitors.
Unfortunately, if you don’t have a Type-C monitor, you’ll be forced to use adapters. Most of these docks only come with Thunderbolt 4 ports for external display.
Power Delivery
Thunderbolt 4 specification requires all Thunderbolt 4 laptops to have at least one port supporting charging, making power delivery an essential feature when looking for a Thunderbolt 4 docking station. Using one port for data, video, and power clears cable clutter on your desk, and you don’t even have to carry your laptop power adapter to work.
You can find the ideal Thunderbolt 4 docking station by checking your laptop’s power adapter wattage. A Thunderbolt 4 dock with lower power output than your laptop’s power requirements will still be able to charge it but much slower than usual.
Best Thunderbolt 4 Docking Stations – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does a Thunderbolt docking station do?
A Thunderbolt docking station turns a single port on your PC into multiple ports to connect more accessories. It’s a great solution to add legacy USB-A ports to your ultraportable Thunderbolt 4 laptop.
Can a Thunderbolt 4 docking station charge my laptop?
Yes. You can charge your Thunderbolt 4 laptop using a Thunderbolt 4 docking station. However, the output power differs on different docks, while some don’t support charging.
Do Thunderbolt 4 docking stations support daisy chaining?
All Thunderbolt 4 docks with at least two Thunderbolt 4 ports support daisy-chaining of multiple devices. You can now connect several bus-powered devices in a daisy chain for improved performance and reliability.
What are the minimum requirements for macOS and Windows to run Thunderbolt 4?
One must not be overly concerned with the operating system to run the Thunderbolt 4 technology. Most users would buy a Thunderbolt 4 computer off the shelf. Thus, putting the onus of compatibility on the manufacturers of the computer.
However, if you like to build or customize your computer, you must know about this crucial parameter. Mac users must use macOS 11.4 (Big Sur) or later. And Windows users must use Windows 10 (20H2) or later.
This is a great review thank you, I know most of these Docks are geared towards laptops, but I just do not understand why the manufacturers place the host thunderbolt port on the front of the dock. Why not place it on the back of the dock, as I imagine I would use the front ports for anything I want to connect temporarily.
can i use all or some of the tb4 docks on a macbook pro from 2018 with its four tb3 ports?