Language:
On April 7, 2025, CalDigit introduced its latest innovation in docking solutions with the launch of the TS5 and TS5 Plus, two Thunderbolt 5-enabled hubs designed to meet the demands of modern professionals. Building on the legacy of the acclaimed TS4, these new docks push the boundaries of connectivity, offering up to 20 ports, 140W charging, and cutting-edge features like 10 Gigabit Ethernet. With a sleek aluminum design and compatibility across Mac and PC platforms, the TS5 series promises to streamline workflows for creators, IT specialists, and power users alike. Here’s a deep dive into what these docks bring to the table as they prepare to hit the market later this spring.
Thunderbolt 5 Powerhouse: Speed and Versatility
The TS5 and TS5 Plus harness Thunderbolt 5’s impressive 80Gbps bandwidth, with a Bandwidth Boost feature that spikes to 120Gbps for intensive tasks. This enables seamless support for dual 6K displays at 60Hz or a single 8K display, catering to video editors and designers who rely on high-resolution setups. Both docks deliver 140W of host charging—enough to power even the hungriest laptops, like the 16-inch MacBook Pro—ensuring devices stay juiced up during long sessions. The TS5 offers 15 ports, while the TS5 Plus ups the ante with 20, making it one of the most port-dense docks available.
Port Overload: A Hub for Every Need
CalDigit has packed these docks with a dizzying array of connections. The TS5 includes three Thunderbolt 5 ports, two USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports (one with 20W charging), three USB-A ports, and slots for SD and microSD UHS-II cards. The TS5 Plus goes further, adding two more Thunderbolt 5 ports, dual 10Gb/s USB controllers, and five USB-A ports, alongside a front-facing USB-C port boasting 36W charging. Both models feature DisplayPort 2.1 and a 3.5mm audio jack, but the TS5 Plus stands out with its 10 Gigabit Ethernet—ten times faster than standard gigabit—perfect for rapid file transfers and server access.
Design and Compatibility: Built to Last
True to CalDigit’s reputation, the TS5 series sports a premium aluminum chassis that’s both durable and compact, measuring slightly larger than its TS4 predecessor but still desk-friendly. The docks can sit vertically or horizontally, with rubber feet included for stability. Compatible with Thunderbolt 5, 4, 3, and USB-C devices, they’re versatile enough for the latest M4 Macs or older systems, though macOS limits triple-display support—a hardware constraint, not a dock flaw. CalDigit also ensures legacy device support, like the Apple SuperDrive, via a custom driver.
Pricing and Availability: A Premium Investment
The TS5 retails at $369.99, while the TS5 Plus commands $499.99, reflecting its enhanced capabilities. U.S. pre-orders begin late April for the TS5 Plus, with the TS5 following in May. European availability starts in May and June, priced at €469 and €350, respectively. While not cheap, these docks undercut competitors like the TS4’s original $379.99 launch price, offering more power and ports for the money—a compelling value for professionals needing a future-proof hub.
Why It Matters: A Game-Changer for Workflows
The TS5 and TS5 Plus arrive as Thunderbolt 5 adoption grows, driven by devices like Apple’s M4 lineup. Their robust port selection, high-speed networking, and substantial power delivery address the connectivity bottlenecks of modern laptops. For creatives juggling multiple displays and peripherals or IT pros managing complex setups, these docks are poised to become indispensable tools, blending performance with practicality.
Source:
https://www.caldigit.com/introducing-the-caldigit-ts5-ts5-plus