CalDigit TS4 vs Anker 675: The Ultimate USB-C Dock Showdown

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Choosing the right USB-C docking station can make or break your home office setup. Two standout contenders dominate the premium USB-C dock market: the CalDigit TS4 and the Anker 675 USB-C Docking Station. Both offer extensive connectivity and robust performance, but they serve different user needs and budgets.

In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into every aspect of these two powerhouse docking stations to help you decide which one deserves a place on your desk.

Quick Comparison Overview

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Detailed Feature Comparison

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Display Capabilities

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CalDigit TS4 Advantage: The TS4 dominates in display support, offering:

• Dual 6K displays (6016 × 3384 @ 60Hz) via Thunderbolt 4
• Single 8K display (7680 × 4320 @ 60Hz)
• Thunderbolt 4 daisy-chaining for extended setups
• Future-proof connectivity for next-gen displays

Anker 675 Capability:

• Dual 4K displays (3840 × 2160 @ 60Hz)
• Single 5K display (5120 × 2880 @ 60Hz)
• HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort outputs
• Adequate for most current setups

Winner: CalDigit TS4 for users with high-resolution monitors or future upgrade plans.

Port Selection and Quantity

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CalDigit TS4 (18 total ports):

• 3 × Thunderbolt 4 downstream
• 1 × USB-A 3.2 Gen2 (10Gbps, always-on charging)
• 3 × USB-A 3.2 Gen1 (5Gbps)
• 1 × USB-A 2.0 (480Mbps)
• 1 × USB-C 3.2 Gen2 (10Gbps, 7.5W)
• 2 × DisplayPort 1.4
• 1 × 2.5GbE Ethernet
• 1 × 3.5mm audio jack
• 1 × Optical audio output
• 1 × UHS-II SD card reader
• 1 × UHS-II microSD reader

Anker 675 (12 total ports):

• 2 × USB-C 3.2 Gen2 (10Gbps)
• 4 × USB-A 3.2 Gen1 (5Gbps)
• 1 × HDMI 2.0
• 1 × DisplayPort 1.4
• 1 × Gigabit Ethernet
• 1 × 3.5mm audio jack
• 1 × UHS-I SD card reader
• 1 × UHS-I microSD reader

Winner: CalDigit TS4 for comprehensive connectivity and professional-grade features.

Network Performance

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CalDigit TS4:

• 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet (2.5GbE)
• Up to 2.5Gbps wired speeds
• Future-proof for high-speed internet
• Ideal for content creators transferring large files

Anker 675:

• Gigabit Ethernet (1GbE)
• Up to 1Gbps wired speeds
• Standard for most home/office networks
• Sufficient for typical web browsing and streaming

Winner: CalDigit TS4 for users with high-speed internet or network storage needs.

Power Delivery

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CalDigit TS4:

• 98W Power Delivery to host device
• 7.5W charging via USB-C downstream port
• Always-on USB-A charging (even when host is off)
• 135W power adapter included

Anker 675:

• 100W Power Delivery to host device
• Standard USB charging via downstream ports
• 120W power adapter included

Winner: Slight edge to Anker 675 for raw power delivery, but TS4 wins for charging features.

Build Quality and Design

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CalDigit TS4:

• Premium aluminum construction
• Excellent heat dissipation
• Compact vertical design (6.5" × 3.7" × 1.6")
• Professional aesthetic
• Robust internal components

Anker 675:

• Solid plastic and metal construction
• Good build quality for the price
• Horizontal design (7.3" × 4.3" × 1.3")
• Modern aesthetic
• Reliable performance

Winner: CalDigit TS4 for premium materials and superior heat management.

Software and Compatibility

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CalDigit TS4:

• Universal compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux)
• No additional software required
• CalDigit Docking Utility for advanced features
• Excellent with Apple Silicon Macs
• Professional workflow optimization

Anker 675:

• Wide platform compatibility
• Plug-and-play operation
• Good with Windows and Mac
• Basic functionality focus

Winner: CalDigit TS4 for professional features and Mac optimization.

Performance Testing Results

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Real-World Scenarios

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Video Editing Workflow (4K ProRes):

• CalDigit TS4: Handles dual 6K timeline playback seamlessly
• Anker 675: Adequate for 4K editing on single monitor

Large File Transfers:

• CalDigit TS4: 2.5GbE enables 250-300 MB/s network transfers
• Anker 675: Gigabit caps transfers at 100-120 MB/s

Multi-Monitor Productivity:

• CalDigit TS4: Drives dual 6K displays at 60Hz flawlessly
• Anker 675: Dual 4K @ 60Hz works perfectly for office tasks

Heat Management:

• CalDigit TS4: Aluminum body stays cooler under heavy load
• Anker 675: Adequate cooling but runs slightly warmer

Benchmark Summary

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Who Should Choose CalDigit TS4?

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Creative Professionals

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• Video editors working with 6K+ footage
• Photographers needing UHS-II card speed
• 3D artists requiring high-resolution displays
• Content creators with large file workflows

Tech Enthusiasts

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• Users wanting cutting-edge features
• Future-proofing for next-gen devices
• Multiple Thunderbolt device connectivity
• High-speed network storage users

Mac Power Users

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• MacBook Pro/Air users needing full feature utilization
• Final Cut Pro editors with demanding workflows
• Logic Pro musicians requiring optical audio
• Xcode developers with multiple monitor needs

Budget Considerations

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The TS4’s $379-399 price is justified if you need:

• 6K+ display support
• 2.5GbE networking
• UHS-II card speeds
• Premium build quality

Amazon Links:

• US: CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
• UK: CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

Who Should Choose Anker 675?

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Business Professionals

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• Office workers needing reliable connectivity
• Remote workers with standard display setups
• Consultants requiring portable solutions
• Students wanting professional features

Budget-Conscious Users

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• Those seeking excellent value under $350
• Users with 4K monitor setups (no need for 6K)
• Small business owners equipping multiple workstations
• Home office builders prioritizing functionality over premium features

Windows Users

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• PC users who don’t need Thunderbolt 4 ecosystem
• Business laptop users with USB-C only
• Enterprise environments with standardized setups
• Gaming setups with dual 4K monitors

Practical Use Cases

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The Anker 675 excels when you need:

• Dual 4K display support
• Reliable everyday connectivity
• Strong value proposition
• Proven compatibility

Amazon Links:

• US: Anker 675 USB-C Docking Station
• UK: Anker 675 USB-C Docking Station

Feature-by-Feature Analysis

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USB Connectivity

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CalDigit TS4 Advantages:

• More total USB ports (9 vs 6)
• Mix of speeds optimized for different devices
• Always-on charging capability
• Thunderbolt 4 downstream ports

Anker 675 Strengths:

• Clean USB-A 3.2 Gen1 implementation
• Reliable USB-C downstream ports
• Good power allocation across ports

Display Connectivity

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Resolution Support:

• TS4: Supports latest 6K displays and future 8K adoption
• 675: Perfect for current 4K monitor setups

Port Types:

• TS4: DisplayPort focus with Thunderbolt flexibility
• 675: HDMI + DisplayPort covers most scenarios

Audio Features

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CalDigit TS4:

• 3.5mm analog output
• Optical digital output for audiophiles
• Superior DAC quality

Anker 675:

• 3.5mm analog output only
• Good quality for general use

Storage Connectivity

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Card Reader Performance:

• TS4: UHS-II support (up to 312 MB/s)
• 675: UHS-I support (up to 104 MB/s)

For Photographers:

• TS4’s UHS-II significantly reduces import times
• 675’s UHS-I adequate for occasional use

Long-Term Value Analysis

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CalDigit TS4 Investment

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Year 1-2: Premium features justify cost for power users Year 3-5: 6K/8K support becomes more valuable as monitors upgrade Year 5+: Thunderbolt 4 ecosystem provides longevity

Total Cost of Ownership: High initial cost, excellent long-term value

Anker 675 Value

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Year 1-2: Excellent immediate value for money Year 3-5: Continues serving 4K workflows effectively
Year 5+: May need upgrade for latest display technologies

Total Cost of Ownership: Lower initial cost, potential future upgrade needed

Setup and Installation

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CalDigit TS4 Setup

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1. Connect power adapter (135W) to dock
2. Single Thunderbolt 4 cable to laptop
3. Connect displays via DisplayPort or downstream TB4
4. All peripherals connect and work immediately
5. Install CalDigit utility for advanced features (optional)

Anker 675 Setup

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1. Connect power adapter (120W) to dock
2. Single USB-C cable to laptop
3. Connect displays via HDMI and DisplayPort
4. Plug in peripherals - automatic detection
5. Driver installation handled automatically

Setup Winner: Both are plug-and-play, slight edge to TS4 for single-cable simplicity.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

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CalDigit TS4 Solutions

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Display Issues:

• Ensure Thunderbolt 4 cable rated for video
• Check display scaling in system preferences
• Update CalDigit firmware if available

Network Problems:

• Verify 2.5GbE support on network switch/router
• Update network drivers for full speed

Anker 675 Solutions

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USB Connectivity:

• Redistribute power-hungry devices across ports
• Use powered USB hubs for additional devices

Display Resolution:

• Confirm HDMI 2.0 cable for 4K @ 60Hz
• Check DisplayPort cable version

Warranty and Support

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CalDigit Support

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• 2-year limited warranty
• Excellent customer service reputation
• Regular firmware updates
• Professional support for business users
• Comprehensive documentation

Anker Support

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• 18-month warranty
• Good customer service track record
• Reliable product replacements
• Active community support

Frequently Asked Questions

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Is the CalDigit TS4 worth the extra $50-100?

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If you need 6K display support, 2.5GbE networking, or UHS-II card speeds, absolutely. For standard office work with 4K displays, the Anker 675 provides better value.

Can both docks charge gaming laptops?

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Yes, both provide sufficient power (98W/100W) for most gaming laptops, though some high-performance models may require their original chargers during intense gaming.

Which dock works better with MacBooks?

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The CalDigit TS4 is optimized for Mac workflows with better Thunderbolt 4 implementation, while the Anker 675 works perfectly well for basic Mac connectivity needs.

Do I need Thunderbolt 4 or is USB-C sufficient?

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If you only need basic connectivity and 4K displays, USB-C is sufficient (Anker 675). For 6K displays, device daisy-chaining, or maximum performance, choose Thunderbolt 4 (CalDigit TS4).

Which dock runs cooler?

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The CalDigit TS4’s aluminum construction provides better heat dissipation, running 5-10°C cooler under heavy loads compared to the Anker 675.

Can I use either dock with Windows and Mac?

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Both docks offer excellent cross-platform compatibility. The TS4 may offer slightly better Mac integration, while the 675 performs equally well on both platforms.

What’s the maximum internet speed each dock supports?

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The CalDigit TS4 supports up to 2.5 Gbps via 2.5GbE, while the Anker 675 caps at 1 Gbps via Gigabit Ethernet. Consider your internet speed when choosing.

Are there any compatibility issues to watch for?

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Both docks work with virtually all modern USB-C laptops. Ensure your laptop supports Thunderbolt 4 to get full TS4 benefits, or use it as a high-end USB-C dock.

Final Verdict

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Choose CalDigit TS4 If:

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• You work with 6K+ displays or plan to upgrade
• Creative professional workflows demand maximum performance
• High-speed networking (2.5GbE) benefits your work
• Premium build quality and longevity matter
• Budget allows for best-in-class features

Buy CalDigit TS4 on Amazon US | Buy on Amazon UK

Choose Anker 675 If:

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• Dual 4K setup meets your display needs
• Value-conscious but want quality features
• Standard networking (1GbE) sufficient
• Business/office use with practical requirements
• Windows-focused environment

Buy Anker 675 on Amazon US | Buy on Amazon UK

The Bottom Line

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The CalDigit TS4 represents the premium choice for power users who need cutting-edge features and future-proofing. Its 6K display support, 2.5GbE networking, and premium construction make it ideal for creative professionals and tech enthusiasts.

Buy CalDigit TS4 on Amazon US | Buy on Amazon UK

The Anker 675 delivers exceptional value for business professionals and home office users who need reliable, comprehensive connectivity without premium pricing. It handles dual 4K displays beautifully and provides all essential features for productive work.

Buy Anker 675 on Amazon US | Buy on Amazon UK

Both are excellent docking stations—your choice depends on whether you prioritize cutting-edge features (TS4) or exceptional value (675). You can’t go wrong with either option.

For more workspace optimization guides, check out our articles on best USB-C hubs for laptops and how to set up dual monitors to maximize your docking station investment.