CalDigit Element 5 Hub Review: The Compact Thunderbolt 5 Powerhouse You’ve Been Waiting For
With Thunderbolt 5 technology becoming mainstream, users are actively seeking compact, effective hubs to enhance their device connectivity. Introducing the CalDigit Element 5 Hub — a sleek, high-speed alternative that emphasizes essential ports without overwhelming users with excess features. If you’ve been on the lookout for a potent, budget-friendly Thunderbolt 5 hub, this could be the solution you need.
What Is the CalDigit Element 5 Hub?
The CalDigit Element 5 Hub is a petite, high-performance hub engineered to fully utilize Thunderbolt 5’s advanced features. Revealed shortly after the CES 2025 event, it distinguishes itself with a simple design, competitive pricing, and remarkable functionality.
CalDigit, known for solid computer peripherals, designed the Element 5 Hub to meet the needs of users seeking powerful expansion options without the heft or expense of larger docks. Although it lacks some of the features found in bigger docks, it doesn’t sacrifice speed or essential capabilities.
Thunderbolt 5: A Leap Beyond Thunderbolt 4
Finalized in 2024, Thunderbolt 5 introduces significant enhancements over Thunderbolt 4. Notable upgrades include:
- Higher Bandwidth: Thunderbolt 5 offers support for up to 80Gbps, effectively doubling the bandwidth available in Thunderbolt 4.
- Peak Storage Performance: The CalDigit Element 5 Hub achieves storage speeds up to 6,200MB/s — roughly double that of its Thunderbolt 4 counterpart.
- Expanded Display Support: Thunderbolt 5 accommodates up to two 8K displays at 60Hz or 4K displays at an incredible 480Hz refresh rate.
These features make Thunderbolt 5 especially attractive to creative professionals, gamers, and anyone requiring rapid data transfer and superior video output.
Compact and Thoughtful Design
Build Quality and Aesthetics
The CalDigit Element 5 Hub reflects top-notch design standards. It boasts a robust aluminum exterior in an industry-standard space gray, making it a perfect match for Apple’s pro devices like the MacBook Pro, Mac mini, and Mac Studio.
Its slim profile allows it to blend seamlessly into most workspaces and utilizes a small 180W external power supply to preserve its compact design. Moreover, CalDigit provides rubber rails that can be attached to the top or bottom, offering users flexibility in positioning, albeit at the expense of upside-down logos.
Port Placement
Ports are thoughtfully arranged across the front and back of the hub:
Front Ports:
– 2 x USB-C (10Gbps, 7.5W power each)
– 1 x USB-A (10Gbps, 7.5W power)
Back Ports:
– 3 x Thunderbolt 5 Type-C (15W Power Delivery each)
– 1 x USB-A (10Gbps, 7.5W power)
– 1 x DC Power In (for the 180W power supply)
The upstream Thunderbolt 5 port is conveniently located on the right side, ideal for left-side Thunderbolt configurations on MacBooks.
Performance and Connectivity
Powerful Expansion Options
With its trio of Thunderbolt 5 downstream ports, the Element 5 Hub allows users to attach high-speed accessories such as external SSDs, CFExpress Type-B card readers, and external displays.
For Mac users, the hub supports dual external displays with resolutions reaching up to 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 480Hz. Meanwhile, PC users may connect up to three displays, though Mac limitations restrict it to two via Thunderbolt.
Power Delivery and Charging
The CalDigit Element 5 Hub delivers up to 90W of Power Delivery through the upstream port — sufficient to power most laptops. However, the front-facing ports provide only 7.5W, which may be considered slow for quick-charging contemporary devices like smartphones and wireless microphones. This is a minor limitation that could have benefited from a slightly higher power output.
Pros and Cons of the CalDigit Element 5 Hub
Pros
- Sleek space gray aluminum casing
- Cutting-edge Thunderbolt 5 technology
- Abundant USB-C connections
- Thunderbolt 5 cable included
- Reversible, stackable configuration
- Doubled data speed compared to Thunderbolt 4
Cons
- Absence of HDMI, DisplayPort, or card reader
- Slower charging capabilities on some ports
- Restricted to dual external displays on Mac systems
Should You Buy the CalDigit Element 5 Hub?
If your main requirements include high-speed data transfer, support for multiple Thunderbolt 5 devices, and a sleek, compact design, the CalDigit Element 5 Hub is a fantastic option. While it may not feature as many accessories as larger, pricier docks, users prioritizing essential performance and value will find it hard to surpass.
Available for $279 on Amazon, it presents remarkable value for a Thunderbolt 5 hub.
Conclusion
Thunderbolt 5 is poised to revolutionize connectivity norms, and the CalDigit Element 5 Hub is one of the first products to fulfill its potential in a compact, budget-friendly package. With its elegant design, robust performance, and user-centric features, it’s a perfect selection for professionals and creatives who seek excellence without unnecessary additions.
Despite its omission of certain ports like HDMI or an SD card reader, its focus on Thunderbolt 5 and USB-C ensures it remains a forward-thinking investment for contemporary workflows.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What devices are compatible with the CalDigit Element 5 Hub?
The CalDigit Element 5 Hub is compatible with any device that supports Thunderbolt 5, including the latest MacBook Pro, Mac mini, Mac Studio, and select PCs equipped with Thunderbolt 5 ports.
Can I connect more than two external monitors using the CalDigit Element 5 Hub?
Mac users can only use two external displays via Thunderbolt. However, some PCs with Thunderbolt 5 can connect up to three displays when linked through the hub.
Does the hub come with a Thunderbolt 5 cable?
Yes, the CalDigit Element 5 Hub is packaged with a Thunderbolt 5 cable, saving you the additional expense of purchasing one separately.
Is the CalDigit Element 5 Hub stackable with other hubs?
Yes, the hub’s reversible and stackable design enables you to conveniently arrange multiple hubs or devices together for an organized workspace.
Are there wireless accessories like headphones or earbuds that would work well with my Thunderbolt 5 setup?
Certainly! Wireless accessories such as headphones or earbuds integrate seamlessly with a Thunderbolt 5 workstation, providing effortless Bluetooth connectivity.
How does the CalDigit Element 5 Hub compare to larger Thunderbolt 5 docks?
While larger docks offer more ports such as HDMI, DisplayPort, and card readers, the Element 5 Hub emphasizes essential functionality at a more accessible price, catering to users who don’t require extensive I/O options.
Where can I buy the CalDigit Element 5 Hub?
You can obtain the CalDigit Element 5 Hub on Amazon for approximately $279.
Looking for the best accessories for your setup? Explore these guides:
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