CalDigit TS4 vs Plugable UD-6950PDZ
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
The CalDigit TS4 is a Thunderbolt 4 docking station designed for laptop users who need to expand their connectivity options. With 18 ports and 98W host charging, it provides a comprehensive solution for laptop desk setups.
The Plugable UD-6950PDZ is a USB‑C docking station that lets you connect up to three 4K displays, Ethernet, audio, and USB peripherals with a single cable. It delivers up to 100 W Power Delivery to keep your laptop charged while you work. Designed for Windows, macOS, and Linux, the dock offers plug‑and‑play operation without the need for drivers. Its compact aluminum chassis fits neatly on any desk, making it ideal for professional multi‑monitor setups.
- Compact design
- High-speed charging
- Multi-port connectivity
- Wide compatibility
- Triple 4K display support
- 100W laptop charging eliminates separate power brick
- Wide range of ports including Ethernet and audio
- Cross‑platform compatibility without drivers
- Expensive
- Limited availability
- No wireless connectivity
- Requires a USB‑C port with full Thunderbolt/DP Alt Mode
- No built‑in SD card reader
- Higher price compared to single‑monitor docks
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataPlugable UD-6950PDZ offers triple‑4K display support and 100 W charging at a lower price, while CalDigit TS4 provides broader port variety and Thunderbolt 4 speed but at a higher cost.
Key differences
- •Display capability: UD‑6950PDZ handles three 4K screens; TS4 only dual 4K.
- •Charging power: UD‑6950PDZ delivers up to 100 W; TS4 up to 98 W.
- •Port count: TS4 offers 18 ports (including HDMI, DP, USB‑C/A); UD‑6950PDZ has fewer (DP, HDMI, Ethernet, USB‑A/C, audio).
- •Interface speed: TS4 uses Thunderbolt 4 (40 Gbps); UD‑6950PDZ uses USB‑C 3.1 Gen 2 (10 Gbps).
- •Price: UD‑6950PDZ MSRP $229.99; TS4 MSRP $299.
Performance
UD‑6950PDZ supports three 4K displays versus TS4’s dual‑4K limit.
Build quality
Both list aluminum/metal housings with no specific durability data; weight differs but not indicative of quality.
Connectivity
TS4 provides 18 ports including HDMI, DP, USB‑C/A, while UD‑6950PDZ offers fewer ports.
Power & efficiency
UD‑6950PDZ supplies up to 100 W PD, slightly higher than TS4’s 98 W.
Compatibility
Both work with Windows, macOS, Linux; TS4 adds Thunderbolt 3 backward compatibility.
Price & value
UD‑6950PDZ costs $229.99 vs TS4’s $299, offering more display capability for less money.
Warranty & support
Both provide a 2‑year limited warranty.
Choose CalDigit TS4 if…
Users who prioritize many ports, Thunderbolt 4 speed, and compact design despite higher cost.
Choose Plugable UD-6950PDZ if…
Professionals needing three 4K monitors and maximum charging power on a tighter budget.
Common questions
Can I run three 4K monitors with the CalDigit TS4?
No, TS4 supports up to dual 4K displays; only the Plugable UD‑6950PDZ supports three independent 4K screens.
Which dock provides faster data transfer?
TS4 uses Thunderbolt 4 (up to 40 Gbps), while UD‑6950PDZ uses USB‑C 3.1 Gen 2 (up to 10 Gbps).
Is the price difference justified by the features?
UD‑6950PDZ is $70 cheaper and adds triple‑4K support; TS4 adds more ports and Thunderbolt 4 speed, which may justify the higher price for those needs.