Best Thunderbolt 3 Docks in 2025 – Still Worth It for Mac & Windows Users?
Contents
- 1 Introduction
- 2 Thunderbolt 3 in 2025 – Is It Still Relevant?
- 2.1 Top 7 Best Thunderbolt 3 Docks in 2025
- 2.2 1. CalDigit TS3 Plus
- 2.3 2. OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock (14-Port)
- 2.4 3. Anker PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 Dock
- 2.5 4. Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro
- 2.6 5. Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station
- 2.7 6. Satechi Thunderbolt 3 Multiport Pro Adapter
- 2.8 7. Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Dock
- 3 Thunderbolt 3 Dock Comparison Table
- 4 How to Choose the Right Thunderbolt 3 Dock
- 5 Thunderbolt 3 vs Thunderbolt 4 – Quick Comparison
- 6 Final Thoughts
- 7 FAQ
Introduction
Thunderbolt 3 may not be the newest tech on the block in 2025, but it’s far from obsolete. With data transfer speeds up to 40Gbps, support for dual 4K displays, and up to 100W power delivery, Thunderbolt 3 docks remain a top-tier solution for users with older MacBooks, Dell XPS models, and other USB-C laptops. As many professionals still use devices launched between 2016 and 2020, the demand for reliable Thunderbolt 3 docking stations is still very real.
While Thunderbolt 4 is gaining ground, it doesn’t make Thunderbolt 3 docks irrelevant. In fact, many Thunderbolt 3 docks offer similar performance at a more affordable price. If you’re looking for powerful connectivity without breaking the bank, a Thunderbolt 3 dock might be the smarter move in 2025. This guide covers the top-rated options, how to choose the best one for your setup, and whether upgrading to TB4 is even necessary.
Thunderbolt 3 in 2025 – Is It Still Relevant?
Despite the rise of Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3 remains:
- Fully compatible with Thunderbolt 4 ports and devices
- Cheaper than newer Thunderbolt 4 docks
- Powerful enough for most professional workflows
Unless you need specific features exclusive to TB4 (like stricter PCIe minimums or multi-port hubs), TB3 docks still hold strong value.
Top 7 Best Thunderbolt 3 Docks in 2025
1. CalDigit TS3 Plus
- Ports: 15 (including DisplayPort, USB-A, USB-C, SD card reader)
- Power Delivery: 87W
- Best for: Power users and creatives
- Pros: Premium build, fast charging, multiple display support
- Cons: Pricey
2. OWC Thunderbolt 3 Dock (14-Port)
- Ports: 14 (includes S/PDIF, FireWire, SD card)
- Power Delivery: 85W
- Best for: Video editors and audio professionals
- Pros: Rich connectivity, stable performance
- Cons: Bulky design
3. Anker PowerExpand Elite 13-in-1 Dock
- Ports: 13 (USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, SD card, Ethernet)
- Power Delivery: 85W
- Best for: All-in-one solution seekers
- Pros: Great design, fast data
- Cons: Gets warm under heavy load
4. Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Dock Pro
- Ports: 12 (incl. DisplayPort, USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet)
- Power Delivery: 85W
- Best for: MacBook users
- Pros: Apple-certified, clean design
- Cons: Pricey, fewer USB-C ports
5. Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station
- Ports: 11
- Power Delivery: 60W
- Best for: Budget-conscious professionals
- Pros: Affordable, reliable performance
- Cons: Lower power delivery
6. Satechi Thunderbolt 3 Multiport Pro Adapter
- Ports: 8
- Power Delivery: 60W
- Best for: Portability
- Pros: Slim design, great for travel
- Cons: Limited display support
7. Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Dock
- Ports: 10
- Power Delivery: 85W
- Best for: Streamers and content creators
- Pros: Solid brand support, easy setup
- Cons: Not as widely available in 2025
Thunderbolt 3 Dock Comparison Table
| Dock | Ports | Power Delivery | Display Support | Ethernet | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CalDigit TS3 Plus | 15 | 87W | Dual 4K | Yes | $250 – $300 |
| OWC 14-Port Dock | 14 | 85W | Dual 4K | Yes | $230 – $290 |
| Anker 13-in-1 | 13 | 85W | Dual 4K | Yes | $180 – $250 |
| Belkin Dock Pro | 12 | 85W | Dual 4K | Yes | $220 – $260 |
| Plugable TB3 Dock | 11 | 60W | Dual 4K | Yes | $160 – $190 |
| Satechi Pro | 8 | 60W | Single 4K | Yes | $140 – $180 |
| Elgato Dock | 10 | 85W | Dual 4K | Yes | $180 – $220 |
How to Choose the Right Thunderbolt 3 Dock
- Power Needs: 60W vs 85W vs 100W (check your laptop)
- Display Setup: Single or dual 4K monitors?
- Port Types: SD card reader, USB-A/C, Ethernet, DisplayPort
- Build Quality & Size: Stationary vs portable use
Thunderbolt 3 vs Thunderbolt 4 – Quick Comparison
- Speed: Same (40Gbps)
- Compatibility: TB4 docks support TB3 devices, not always vice versa
- Features: TB4 mandates PCIe 32Gbps and multi-port hubs
- Price: TB4 docks are 20–30% more expensive
For most users, Thunderbolt 3 docks are still a smart buy in 2025.
Final Thoughts
If you’re not using the latest Intel Evo laptops or M3 MacBooks, a Thunderbolt 3 dock will likely fulfill all your productivity and connectivity needs. It’s a great time to buy them while prices are more affordable and performance still top-tier. Unless you specifically need Thunderbolt 4 features, TB3 docks remain a great value.
FAQ
Q1: Are Thunderbolt 3 docks compatible with Thunderbolt 4 laptops?
Yes. Thunderbolt 3 and 4 are cross-compatible.
Q2: Can I use a Thunderbolt 3 dock with a USB-C-only laptop?
Yes, but performance may be limited depending on USB-C specs.
Q3: Do Thunderbolt 3 docks support dual monitors?
Most do, but confirm with the specific dock’s specs.
Q4: Is Thunderbolt 4 much better than Thunderbolt 3?
Only in niche pro scenarios. For most users, TB3 is more than enough.
Q5: Is it safe to buy a Thunderbolt 3 dock in 2025?
Absolutely—especially if you’re not planning to upgrade your laptop soon.