If you’re in the market for a powerful Thunderbolt 3 dock, you’ve probably come across the CalDigit TS3 and TS3 Plus. While both are well-built and highly respected in the docking station space, there are critical differences that could sway your decision — especially if you’re a creative professional or power user.
📦 Overview: TS3 vs TS3 Plus
| Feature | CalDigit TS3 | CalDigit TS3 Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Release Year | ~2016 | ~2018 |
| Thunderbolt 3 Ports | 2 | 2 |
| USB-A Ports | 5 (USB 3.0) | 5 (USB 3.1 Gen 1) |
| USB-C Ports | ❌ | ✅ 2 (1x Gen 1, 1x Gen 2) |
| Display Output | 1x DisplayPort | 1x DisplayPort |
| Digital Optical Audio Out | ❌ | ✅ S/PDIF Optical Out |
| SD Card Slot | ❌ | ✅ UHS-II SD Card Reader |
| Ethernet | 1 GbE | 1 GbE |
| Audio | Combo jack (in/out) | Separate audio in & out |
| Laptop Charging | 85W | 87W |
| Build Material | Aluminum | Aluminum |
| Power Supply | External | External |
| Total Ports | 12 | 15 |
🚀 TS3 Plus — Why It’s the Better Choice
The TS3 Plus is a major upgrade that brings modern functionality and thoughtful touches for creative professionals and demanding users.
🔧 Key Upgrades
- USB-C support — better compatibility with modern devices like SSDs, Android phones, and accessories.
- UHS-II SD Card Reader — huge benefit for photographers, videographers, and drone operators.
- Digital Optical Audio — allows high-fidelity audio output for studio setups or home theaters.
- Higher laptop charging wattage (87W) — slightly more headroom for modern MacBooks and high-performance laptops.
- Separate audio input/output — useful if you use a dedicated mic or speaker setup.
🛠️ Who Should Get Which?
| You are a… | Recommended Dock |
|---|---|
| Photographer / Videographer | ✅ TS3 Plus |
| Music / Audio Engineer | ✅ TS3 Plus |
| MacBook Pro / Windows ultrabook user | ✅ TS3 Plus |
| Basic office / home user | TS3 might suffice (if on sale) |
| Legacy peripherals only (USB-A only) | TS3 could work |
💬 Final Thoughts
The CalDigit TS3 Plus is hands-down the better choice. While the original TS3 was ahead of its time, the Plus version meets modern demands with superior connectivity, power delivery, and pro-level features like optical audio and UHS-II SD card support.
✅ Recommended: CalDigit TS3 Plus for virtually all users — especially creative professionals and those with modern hardware.
