CalDigit Element 5 Thunderbolt 5 Hub Review
In the fast-paced world of content creation and demanding workflows, having the right tools is paramount. Today, we're diving deep into the CalDigit Element 5 Hub, a compact powerhouse that's redefining connectivity. Let's explore how this hub can revolutionize your setup. CalDigit sent me the Element 5 for free to review.
Introducing the Element 5 Hub
The Element 5 Hub is a Thunderbolt 5 marvel, designed to expand your system's capabilities with incredible speed and versatility.
Thunderbolt 5 Technology: Experience lightning-fast data transfers and seamless display connections. Thunderbolt 5 doubles the bandwidth of Thunderbolt 4, offering up to 80 Gbps bi-directional bandwidth and reaching 120 Gbps with "Bandwidth Boost" for video.
Compact Design: Its sleek and space-saving form factor fits perfectly on any desk.
Reversible Orientation: The hub can be positioned to place ports on either the left or right, offering unparalleled flexibility.
Port Breakdown: Connectivity at its Finest
Let's take a closer look at the Element 5 Hub's impressive port selection:
Front: 2x USB-A (10Gb/s, 7.5W), 2x USB-C
Side: 1x Thunderbolt 5 (host, 90W power delivery)
Back: 3x Thunderbolt 5, 1x USB-C, Power input
This comprehensive array ensures you have all the connections you need for your peripherals.
Performance: Speed and Power
The Element 5 Hub delivers blazing-fast speeds, achieving up to 6200 MB/s with Thunderbolt 5 enclosures. This translates to quicker file transfers and smoother workflows.
Display Support:
Drive dual 6K displays with ease, perfect for multi-monitor setups. Note that display capabilities depend on your host computer.
Power Delivery:
With 90W power delivery, the Element 5 Hub keeps your laptop charged and running smoothly, even under heavy workloads.
Versatility: Compatibility and Use Cases
The Element 5 Hub is compatible with a wide range of devices, including older models like the iPad Pro. It's perfect for:
Mac mini M4/M4 Pro Users: Expand your connectivity effortlessly.
High-Bandwidth Workflows: Ideal for video editing, 3D rendering, and other demanding tasks.
Thunderbolt Chaining: Create a seamless daisy-chain setup for multiple devices.
Considerations: Full-Featured Docks vs. Element 5 Hub
While the Element 5 Hub excels in Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, it's important to consider your specific needs. Full-featured docks like the CalDigit TS4 or Sonnet Thunderbolt 5 offer additional ports like Ethernet, SD card slots, and DisplayPort.
Key Decision Point:
Port Needs: Do you need a wide array of ports or primarily Thunderbolt 5 connectivity?
Price: The Element 5 Hub is competitively priced at $250, backed by a 2-year warranty.
A Thunderbolt 5 Powerhouse
The CalDigit Element 5 Hub is a game-changer for Thunderbolt 5 users. Its compact design, powerful performance, and versatile port selection make it an essential tool for any modern workstation.
