ANYHDD or CalDigit? Docking Stations Compared in 2026
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When comparing the ANYHDD vs CalDigit docking station options, you are looking at two very different approaches to desktop expansion. Both units provide USB-C connectivity for modern laptops. The ANYHDD ThinkPad model focuses on reliable dual 4K support with a standard 90W power supply. In contrast, the CalDigit TS5 utilizes the latest Thunderbolt 5 technology. It offers significantly higher bandwidth, advanced display configurations, and a robust 140W charging capability for high-performance machines.
Key differences
| Aspect | ANYHDD ThinkPad Dual 4K USB-C Dock | CalDigit TS5 15-Port Thunderbolt 5 Dock |
|---|---|---|
| Host Interface | Thunderbolt 4, USB-C | Thunderbolt 5 |
| Max Resolution | 4K | 8K@60Hz, 4K@240Hz |
| Display Support | Dual | Dual (Triple on Windows) |
| Power Delivery | 90W | 140W |
| Port Count | HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C | 15 Ports |
| Ethernet | not listed | 2.5GbE |
Which one should you choose?
Choose ANYHDD ThinkPad Dual 4K USB-C Dock if
- You need a simple dual monitor setup with included HDMI and DisplayPort cables.
- You use a Lenovo ThinkPad that requires 90W charging.
- You prefer a lightweight unit that weighs only 1 pound.
Choose CalDigit TS5 15-Port Thunderbolt 5 Dock if
- You require 140W power delivery for a high-performance laptop.
- You want to connect displays at 8K resolution or high refresh rates.
- You need built-in 2.5GbE Ethernet and multiple USB-A ports.
Verdict: The ANYHDD dock is a practical choice for users who need straightforward dual 4K display support with included cables. The CalDigit TS5 is the superior option for professionals who demand maximum bandwidth, higher resolution capabilities, and extensive port variety. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize simplicity or high-end performance.
ANYHDD vs CalDigit Docking Stations
Power Delivery
The CalDigit TS5 offers significantly more charging power for your laptop. It provides up to 140W through its host charging port, which is ideal for high-performance machines like the 16-inch MacBook Pro. The unit includes a massive 240W power supply to sustain this output. In contrast, the ANYHDD ThinkPad dock uses a 90W AC adapter. While 90W is sufficient for many standard laptops, it falls short for power-hungry devices. If you need to charge a high-end laptop directly through the dock, the CalDigit option provides the necessary headroom. The ANYHDD unit is adequate for basic charging needs but lacks the high-wattage output of the CalDigit model.
Display Support
Display capabilities differ greatly between these two docks. The CalDigit TS5 supports dual 8K displays at 60Hz or dual 4K at 240Hz on compatible hosts. It also features DisplayPort 2.1 and Thunderbolt 5 bandwidth boosting for high-refresh monitors. The ANYHDD ThinkPad dock supports dual 4K displays but does not list high refresh rates or 8K support. It uses standard HDMI and DisplayPort connections. If you plan to use high-resolution or high-refresh-rate monitors, the CalDigit TS5 is the clear choice. The ANYHDD unit is limited to standard 4K performance, making it suitable for general office work rather than demanding visual tasks.
Connectivity
The CalDigit TS5 provides extensive connectivity with 15 ports. This includes three downstream Thunderbolt 5/USB4 V2 ports, multiple USB-A ports, card readers, audio jacks, and a 2.5GbE Ethernet port. The ANYHDD ThinkPad dock offers a more basic set of ports, including HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C. It does not list specific downstream port counts or specialized features like card readers or fast Ethernet. The CalDigit unit is designed for users who need to connect many devices simultaneously. The ANYHDD dock is simpler, offering only the essential connections needed for a dual-monitor setup without extra peripherals.
Host Interface
The underlying connection technology varies between the two products. The CalDigit TS5 requires a Thunderbolt 5 or USB4 v2 host for full performance, supporting 80Gb/s data speeds. It leverages Thunderbolt 5 features like bandwidth boosting. The ANYHDD ThinkPad dock supports Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C hosts. While Thunderbolt 4 is robust, the TS5 uses the newer Thunderbolt 5 standard. This allows the CalDigit dock to offer higher bandwidth for data and displays. If your laptop supports Thunderbolt 5, the CalDigit dock will utilize that speed. The ANYHDD dock is compatible with older Thunderbolt 4 systems but cannot match the raw bandwidth of the TS5.
Build and Size
Physical dimensions and materials differ notably. The CalDigit TS5 is built with an aluminum chassis that acts as an external heat sink. It measures 4.5 inches in length and weighs 8.9 ounces. The ANYHDD ThinkPad dock is larger, measuring 8 inches by 3 inches, and weighs 1 pound. It is described as black. The CalDigit unit is more compact and lighter, which may matter for some desk setups. The ANYHDD dock is heavier and takes up more space. Both units are designed for desktop use, but the CalDigit model offers a more premium build material with its aluminum construction.
Choose the right dock for you
ThinkPad users needing simple dual 4K setup
This dock supports dual 4K displays via HDMI and DisplayPort. It includes a 90W AC adapter for stable power delivery. The package comes with necessary cables for immediate use. You get a straightforward connection for Lenovo ThinkPads without complex configuration. It fits well if you prioritize basic dual monitor functionality and reliable compatibility with your existing ThinkPad hardware.
MacBook Pro users requiring high power and speed
The CalDigit TS5 delivers up to 140W power delivery, ideal for 16-inch MacBook Pros. It features Thunderbolt 5 with 80Gb/s speeds and Bandwidth Boost for high-refresh displays. You can connect dual 6K or 8K monitors on supported Macs. The 2.5GbE port offers faster networking. This dock handles power-hungry laptops and high-resolution workflows with ease.
Windows users wanting triple 4K or 8K displays
On Thunderbolt 5 Windows hosts, this dock supports up to triple 4K 144Hz displays. It also handles dual 8K 60Hz configurations. The 15 ports include multiple USB-C and USB-A options. You benefit from DisplayPort 2.1 and high-speed data transfer. This setup is best for users needing maximum display flexibility and connectivity on compatible Windows systems.
The products compared
ANYHDD ThinkPad Dual 4K USB-C Dock
Best for: Dual 4K setups with included cables
- Host Interface
- Thunderbolt 4
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 4K
- Power Delivery
- 90W
- Video Ports
- HDMI, DisplayPort
- Connectivity
- USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort
View on Amazon: ANYHDD ThinkPad Dual 4K USB-C Dock Affiliate link
This ANYHDD docking station uses a Thunderbolt 4 or USB-C host interface to support dual 4K displays. It includes a 90W AC adapter for power delivery. The package provides HDMI and DisplayPort cables for immediate setup. You get a compact unit that weighs one pound. It suits users needing a reliable dual-monitor setup for Lenovo ThinkPad systems without requiring extra cables.
Pros
- Supports dual 4K displays via HDMI and DisplayPort
- Includes 90W AC power adapter
- Comes with HDMI and DisplayPort cables
- Compact 8 x 3 inch footprint
Cons
- Lower 90W power delivery compared to 240W alternatives
- Host interface limited to Thunderbolt 4 or USB-C
- No mention of Ethernet or audio ports
Good fit if
- You need dual 4K monitors for productivity
- You want a plug-and-play setup with included cables
- You use a Thunderbolt 4 or USB-C laptop
Skip if
- You require high-power charging above 90W
- You need Thunderbolt 5 connectivity
- You want a single dock for multiple laptop brands
Verdict: ANYHDD Thunderbolt 4 Dock 90W fits users who prioritize dual 4K display support and included cables over maximum power delivery. It is a practical solution for specific Thunderbolt 4 laptops.
CalDigit TS5 15-Port Thunderbolt 5 Dock
Best for: Thunderbolt 5 users needing dual high-res displays
- Host Interface
- Thunderbolt 5
- Display Support
- Dual
- Max Resolution
- 8K 60Hz
- Power Delivery
- 140W
- Port Count
- 15
- Video Ports
- DisplayPort 2.1, Thunderbolt 5
View on Amazon: CalDigit TS5 15-Port Thunderbolt 5 Dock Affiliate link
The CalDigit TS5 is a high-performance docking station featuring Thunderbolt 5 connectivity with 80Gb/s data speeds. It supports dual displays up to 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 240Hz. The dock delivers 140W of power delivery to host laptops and includes 15 total ports. It is designed for users needing robust display output and fast data transfer for professional workflows.
Pros
- Thunderbolt 5 host interface with 80Gb/s bandwidth
- Supports dual 8K@60Hz or 4K@240Hz displays
- 140W power delivery for host laptops
- 15 total ports including 2.5GbE Ethernet
- Bandwidth Boost allocates up to 120Gb/s for displays
Cons
- Requires Thunderbolt 5 or USB4 v2 host for full performance
- Ethernet only supported on Thunderbolt or USB4 hosts with PCIe
- No mention of built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth
Good fit if
- You need dual high-resolution displays at high refresh rates
- You have a Thunderbolt 5 or USB4 v2 compatible laptop
- You require 140W charging for power-hungry devices
Skip if
- You only have Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 laptops
- You need Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity from the dock
- You want to connect more than two displays simultaneously
Verdict: CalDigit TS5 Thunderbolt 5 Dock is a premium solution for users with Thunderbolt 5 hosts who demand dual 8K or high-refresh 4K displays and 140W charging.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ANYHDD ThinkPad Dual 4K USB-C Dock | CalDigit TS5 15-Port Thunderbolt 5 Dock |
|---|---|---|
| Host Interface | Thunderbolt 4 | Thunderbolt 5 |
| Display Support | Dual | Dual |
| Max Resolution | 4K | 8K 60Hz |
| Power Delivery | 90W | 140W |
| Port Count | not stated | 15 |
| Video Ports | HDMI, DisplayPort | DisplayPort 2.1, Thunderbolt 5 |
| Max Data Speed | not stated | 80Gb/s |
| Ethernet Speed | not stated | 2.5GbE |
| Resolution | 4K UHD | not stated |
| Connectivity | USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort | not stated |
| Weight | 1 pounds | 8.9 ounces |
| Dimensions | not stated | 4.5 × 2.75 × 1.12 inches |
| Size | 8 x 3 inch | 4.25 |
| Color | Black | Space Gray |
| Model | DOCK-40AY0090US-New | TBT5-TS5-US-AMZ |
Frequently asked questions
Does the ANYHDD dock support dual 4K monitors?
Yes, the ANYHDD ThinkPad Dual 4K USB-C Dock supports dual 4K displays. It uses HDMI and DisplayPort connections to achieve this resolution. This setup is ideal if you need two high-resolution screens for productivity. The dock includes the necessary cables to get started immediately.
Is the CalDigit TS5 compatible with Thunderbolt 5 laptops?
Yes, the CalDigit TS5 is built specifically for Thunderbolt 5 hosts. It is designed for users who demand the latest connectivity standards. This dock supports dual 8K displays or high-refresh 4K monitors. It provides a robust solution for high-performance machines requiring maximum bandwidth.
How much power delivery does the ANYHDD dock provide?
The ANYHDD dock offers 90W of power delivery. This level of charging is practical for many Thunderbolt 4 laptops. It ensures your device stays powered while connected to peripherals. The package includes the AC adapter required to deliver this stable power output.
What is the maximum power output of the CalDigit TS5?
The CalDigit TS5 provides up to 140W of charging power. This high output is suitable for demanding laptops like the 16-inch MacBook Pro. It allows you to charge high-performance machines while using the dock. The unit is paired with a 240W power supply.
Which dock is lighter and more portable?
The CalDigit TS5 is significantly lighter than the ANYHDD option. It weighs just 8.9 ounces and measures 4.25 inches in size. The ANYHDD dock weighs 1 pound and measures 8 x 3 inches. If portability is a priority, the CalDigit unit is the smaller choice.
Does the ANYHDD dock come with cables included?
Yes, the ANYHDD ThinkPad Dual 4K USB-C Dock includes necessary cables. This feature allows for immediate use without purchasing additional accessories. It simplifies the setup process for dual 4K displays. The package is designed to be a practical solution for specific laptop models.
Can the CalDigit TS5 drive dual 8K displays?
Yes, the CalDigit TS5 supports dual 8K displays. It is a premium solution for users needing extreme resolution. The dock also handles high-refresh 4K monitors effectively. This capability makes it ideal for professional workflows requiring the highest visual fidelity.