Tag: Thunderbolt 5

April 10, 2025
Ugreen Introduces Thunderbolt 5 SSD Enclosure with Active Cooling
Key Takeaways
– Ugreen has launched a new SSD enclosure utilizing Thunderbolt 5 technology, compatible with Thunderbolt 4 but with slower speeds.
– The maximum theoretical bandwidth of Thunderbolt 5 is 80Gbps, achievable only with Thunderbolt 5 devices.
– The enclosure can reach sequential read and write speeds over 6,000MB/s when used with fast SSDs like the Samsung 990 Pro.
– It supports M.2 2280 SSDs with a PCIe connection but does not support SATA SSDs.
– The enclosure features silicon padding for drop protection, an aluminum casing, and a built-in fan for heat management, priced at $229 (enclosure only).
There are many ways to increase the storage capacity of a laptop or computer, but only a few external options provide high-speed data transfer through the latest ports like USB4 or Thunderbolt 5. Ugreen has just launched a new SSD enclosure that utilizes Thunderbolt 5 technology, while also being compatible with Thunderbolt 4, but with slower transfer rates.
Maximum Bandwidth
It’s important to mention that the maximum theoretical bandwidth of 80Gbps is achievable only on devices that have Thunderbolt 5. Ugreen claims that this new enclosure can reach sequential read and write speeds exceeding 6,000MB/s when paired with a fast SSD. The Chinese company has shared benchmarks using various M.2 storage options, and drives like the Samsung 990 Pro show impressive performance.
Compatibility and Design
However, this enclosure is limited to supporting M.2 2280 SSDs with a PCIe connection, and it does not support SATA SSDs. In addition, the enclosure features silicon padding designed to provide protection against drops, while the outer casing is made of aluminum. A built-in fan helps manage the heat during operation. The new Ugreen 80Gbps M.2 NVMe SSD enclosure is now listed for $229 on Amazon, but keep in mind that this price is for the enclosure alone and does not include a solid-state drive.
Source:
Link
Tags: Samsung 990 Pro, Thunderbolt 5, UGREEN
March 27, 2025
FusionDock Pro 3: Thunderbolt 5 Docking Station with Dual 8K Support
Key Takeaways
1. iVanky launched the FusionDock Pro 3 docking station, priced at $339 for Prime members, featuring Thunderbolt 5 technology.
2. The docking station is compatible with Apple MacBooks and Windows machines that support Thunderbolt 5, offering high-resolution display options.
3. It can charge connected devices with up to 140 watts, allowing laptops to run on a single cable.
4. The FusionDock Pro 3 includes multiple ports: two Thunderbolt 5 ports, three USB Type-A ports, an SD card reader, and a headphone jack.
5. It features a 2.5 Gbps Ethernet port for fast local network file transfers, improving productivity for users.
iVanky has launched a new docking station named the FusionDock Pro 3, available on Amazon starting at $339 for Prime members. This device boasts the latest Thunderbolt 5 technology, designed to offer an exceptionally quick connection to any compatible device. To fully utilize its features, users must ensure their devices also support TB5.
Compatibility and Features
The manufacturer states that the FusionDock Pro 3 works well with Apple’s MacBooks; however, Windows machines with Thunderbolt 5 can access the complete set of features. On those systems, users can connect either two 6K displays at 60Hz, three 4K screens at 144Hz, or two 8K monitors running at 60Hz.
Power and Ports
The connected gadgets can be charged with a maximum of 140 watts, allowing laptops to operate with just one cable connected to this docking station. Furthermore, the FusionDock Pro 3 includes two downstream Thunderbolt 5 ports capable of supporting up to three monitor connections. Additionally, it features two USB Type-A ports with speeds of up to 10 Gbps, one USB Type-A port at 5 Gbps, a UHS-II SD card reader, plus a 3.5mm headphone jack.
Connectivity Options
The docking station requires a barrel connector for power. At the back, there’s an Ethernet port that offers a bandwidth of 2.5 Gbps. When paired with a suitable router, this feature can be greatly beneficial for transferring files to or from local network storage, especially since most internet connections tend to be significantly slower than that.
iVanky’s new product promises to enhance productivity and connectivity for users seeking a powerful docking solution.
Source:
Link

Tags: FusionDock Pro 3, iVanky, Thunderbolt 5
February 28, 2025
Thunderbolt 5 4TB SSD: Limited Launch Discount Ending Soon
Key Takeaways
1. The Comet SSD is currently available for crowdfunding on Kickstarter, with a funding goal of $3,086 already surpassed.
2. A pledge of at least $130 secures the 1TB version, with shipping expected to start in May.
3. The SSD features an aluminum casing for heat dissipation and is IP65 rated for dust and water resistance.
4. It offers compatibility with Thunderbolt 5 and claims data transfer speeds up to 7,000 MB/s.
5. The Comet SSD is available in three storage configurations: 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB, but backers should be aware of the risks associated with crowdfunding.
The Comet is a brand new external storage option now part of a crowdfunding campaign. Specifically, this SSD is available on Kickstarter for just three more days, and the funding goal of $3,086 has been surpassed by a significant amount.
Pricing and Availability
For those interested, a pledge of at least $130 will secure the 1TB base version of this innovative solid-state drive, with shipping expected to begin in May. However, as this is a crowdfunding initiative from a company that is not well-known or established, potential backers should keep in mind the risk of possibly losing their money without receiving anything in return. For those who prefer more reliable options, there are plenty of portable SSDs from reputable brands on Amazon.
Specifications and Design
The Comet boasts dimensions of approximately 2.7 x 2 x 0.6 inches and weighs around 2.8oz. The SSD is enclosed in an aluminum casing, which can help with heat dissipation from the TLC NAND. Additionally, the enclosure is designed to be resistant to dust and water, adhering to the IP65 standard.
This external SSD is compatible with Thunderbolt 5, a cutting-edge connectivity solution that utilizes the familiar USB Type-C port. The manufacturer claims extremely high data transfer speeds of up to 7,000 megabytes per second.
Performance Considerations
Interestingly, even some internal SSDs, like the Crucial T700, do not match this level of performance. As a result, it’s likely that the main storage of a PC or an older interface may become a limiting factor when using the Comet TB5 SSD. Nevertheless, this solid-state drive is available in three different configurations, offering storage capacities of 1TB, 2TB, or 4TB.
Source:
Link
Tags: Comet SSD, Crucial T700, Thunderbolt 5
February 19, 2025
Asus ROG XG Mobile 2025: Thunderbolt 5 eGPU Starts at $1,199
Key Takeaways
1. Improved Compatibility: The new ROG XG Mobile (2025) uses Thunderbolt 5, allowing compatibility with more devices beyond the previous XG Mobile connector.
2. High Transfer Speeds: Thunderbolt 5 provides transfer speeds of up to 80 Gbit/s, enhancing performance for connected devices.
3. Powerful Graphics Options: The eGPU supports GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5090 models, offering high performance with a significant number of CUDA cores and VRAM.
4. Launch Date and Pricing: The ROG XG Mobile (2025) will launch on February 25, with prices starting at $1,199.99 for the RTX 5070 Ti and $2,199.99 for the RTX 5090.
5. Advancements in eGPU Technology: Asus is advancing eGPU technology significantly with the introduction of the ROG XG Mobile (2025).
The latest version of the ROG XG Mobile series is nearly available, having been showcased last month at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. As we pointed out back then, the new ROG XG Mobile marks a significant change in Asus’ approach to eGPUs, which previously depended on their unique XG Mobile connector.
Improved Compatibility
This dependence on the XG Mobile meant that Asus’ earlier eGPUs were compatible with only a few devices, one of which was the ROG Ally (currently priced at $399.99 for refurbished units on Amazon). To improve this situation, Asus has introduced Thunderbolt 5 with the new ROG XG Mobile, now named the ROG XG Mobile (2025). Essentially, this means the ROG XG Mobile (2025) can achieve transfer speeds of up to 80 Gbit/s over Thunderbolt 5, while also being compatible with devices that have Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 ports.
Powerful Graphics Options
Asus pairs Thunderbolt 5 connectivity with laptop models of the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and GeForce RTX 5090. For context, the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti features 5,888 CUDA cores along with 12 GB of GDDR7 VRAM and a 192-bit memory bus. On the other hand, the GeForce RTX 5090 boasts 24 GB of GDDR7 VRAM (256-bit) and is equipped with the leading GB203 GPU containing 10,496 CUDA cores.
Launch and Pricing Details
The ROG XG Mobile (2025) is set to officially release on February 25, starting at a price of $1,199.99 for the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti version. In contrast, the edition with the GeForce RTX 5090 will be available for $2,199.99. Pricing for other regions is still not disclosed at this moment, however.
Asus, via ITHome, continues to push the boundaries in eGPU technology with these advancements.
Source:
Link
Tags: GeForce RTX 5090, ROG XG Mobile (2025), Thunderbolt 5
February 4, 2025
CalDigit Element Thunderbolt 5 Dock: 4x 4K Monitors at 144Hz
We’ve previously shared news about the accessory brand CalDigit, which has now unveiled an innovative docking solution that utilizes the newest standard. To be more specific, the Element 5 Hub adopts Thunderbolt 5, allowing for a total bandwidth of 120 Gbit/s. As is always the case, the device connected to this hub must be TB5-compatible to enjoy all its features.
Monitor Compatibility
On the product page, CalDigit provides information on how many monitors various systems can handle. For example, macOS can’t support three monitors, and a Windows laptop equipped with Thunderbolt 4, rather than Thunderbolt 5, will only manage two external displays. In the best-case scenario, the TB5 docking station can work with a fully compatible Windows PC, enabling connections to as many as four 4K monitors at 144Hz.
Ports and Power
This new hub from CalDigit features four USB 4 V 2.0 ports that are compatible with Thunderbolt 5, which also allows for USB Power Delivery up to 15 watts. Users need to connect their monitors through these ports since there’s no HDMI option available. Additionally, there are two USB-C ports capable of transferring data at 10 Gbit/s and outputting up to 7.5 watts, alongside two more USB Type A ports with identical specs, plus an extra USB-A port located on the opposite side. The Thunderbolt 5 dock can provide up to 180 watts, with half of that being deliverable to the connected PC or Mac. Finally, the dimensions of the CalDigit Element 5 Hub are 4.5 x 2.8 x 1 inches, and it comes with a price of $249.
Source:
Link
Tags: CalDigit Element 5 Hub, docking solution, Thunderbolt 5
January 18, 2025
Sonnet Echo 13: Thunderbolt 5 Dock with 4TB SSD & 140W Power
Thunderbolt 5 is still not very common in laptops, with only a few models like the Razer Blade 18 (priced at $2,845 on Amazon) supporting this new standard. For tech lovers considering a new docking station, choosing one that supports TB5 can help them stay ahead. For example, the Sonnet Echo 3 Thunderbolt 5 SSD docking station works with Thunderbolt 4 and USB 4 devices, though at slower speeds.
Impressive Storage and Speed
The main highlight of the Sonnet dock is its integrated PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD, which offers up to 4 TB of storage and can achieve transfer speeds of up to 6,100 MB/s when linked through Thunderbolt 5. If using Thunderbolt 4 or USB 4, users can still get speeds of at least 3,400 MB/s. Notably, this docking station can deliver power to laptops at up to 140 watts, which is enough to support certain gaming laptops, like the HP Omen Transcend 14.
Multiple Display Support
The Sonnet Echo 13 dock can manage two 8K monitors or three 4K screens at refresh rates reaching 144 Hz. It comes with three additional Thunderbolt 5 ports (USB-C), where one port can charge devices at 60 watts and the other two provide 15 watts each. Instead of including HDMI and DisplayPort, Sonnet has chosen to incorporate four USB-A ports, a 2.5Gb ethernet port, and an SD/microSD card reader.
Launch and Pricing Information
Initially, the Sonnet Echo 13 Thunderbolt 5 Dock will be available in the US. The 1TB SSD version is set at $399.99, the 2TB option is $499.99, and the 4TB model retails for $699.99. Information regarding the TB5 dock’s launch and pricing in other countries has yet to be revealed. For further information, interested buyers can visit the official product page for the Sonnet docking station.
Source:
Link

Tags: Razer Blade 18, Sonnet Echo 3, Thunderbolt 5
January 14, 2025
Lenovo Exec Suggests Slow Thunderbolt 5 Adoption in Laptops
Intel first unveiled Thunderbolt 5 in September 2023, but the industry has been slow to adopt the new standard. Things started to change at CES 2025, where manufacturers like Asus and Sparkle showcased their first external GPU (eGPU) solutions that utilize Thunderbolt 5 technology.
eGPU Advancements
Asus’s new 2025 XG Mobile eGPU boasts a Thunderbolt 5 link that can deliver up to 64 Gbps of bandwidth, surpassing its predecessor and USB4, while matching the performance of OCuLink. Meanwhile, Sparkle has not disclosed the specific bandwidth for its Thunderbolt 5 port in the Studio-G Enclosure eGPU, but it is widely assumed to reach speeds of up to 120 Gbps, which is the maximum speed for the standard.
Slow Adoption in Laptops
Despite the promising launch of these Thunderbolt 5 products, the integration of this technology into laptops has been sluggish. A product manager from Lenovo ThinkBook expressed skepticism about rapid adoption, stating in a Weibo post that it is “still early” for Thunderbolt 5 ports to become common in systems. Currently, a 3.3 feet Cable Matters Thunderbolt 5 cable is priced at $32.99 on Amazon.
Current Laptop Options
The 2024 Razer Blade 18 was the first laptop to feature a Thunderbolt 5 port, making its debut in April of last year. Other significant options include the Maingear ML-17 and the Schenker KEY 17 Pro, along with the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models equipped with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips. According to Lenovo’s executive, these are the primary choices available right now, and it seems that new additions to the market will be limited in the near future.
Source:
Link
Tags: Asus XG Mobile, Lenovo ThinkBook, Thunderbolt 5
January 9, 2025
Asus Master Dock DC510: Sleek Thunderbolt 5 Dock at CES 2025
Asus has introduced a fresh docking station during CES 2025, utilizing the new Thunderbolt 5 technology. The Master DC510 Dock features a stylish design and offers a wide range of ports, delivering impressive functionality within a compact size.
Connectivity Options
When it comes to expansion docks, the variety of connectivity options is crucial, and the Asus Master dock shines brightly here. It includes four Thunderbolt 5 ports (80 Gbps), three Type-A ports (10 Gbps), one Type-A port (5 Gbps), SD 4.0, MicroSD 4.0, a 2.5 GbE port, and an audio jack. Additionally, an M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 slot is available with easy access that requires no tools. Thanks to its advanced technology, the dock can handle dual 8K monitors at 60 Hz or triple 4K displays at 144 Hz.
Design Features
The exterior of the Asus Master Thunderbolt 5 Dock is notably sleek and modern. It combines metal and plastic materials, plus it has a white ambient LED light that can be adjusted for brightness. One of the Thunderbolt 5 ports provides 140-watt passthrough, which is a very useful feature. The dock stands only 38.1 mm tall, making it easy to fit under most monitor stands without any issues.
Availability and Pricing
Asus has yet to reveal any specifics about when the dock will be available or its price, but given the impressive features, the Master Thunderbolt 5 Dock DC510 is expected to come with a hefty price tag.
Source: Link
Tags: ASUS, Master DC510 Dock, Thunderbolt 5
January 9, 2025
Ugreen Launches 500W Nexode GaN Charger and Thunderbolt 5 Dock at CES 2025
CES 2025 is buzzing with excitement as major players in the consumer technology world compete for attention. Ugreen is also making waves by unveiling a series of new products that sound quite appealing. Among their latest offerings is an impressive 500-watt Nexode GaN charger, alongside a new Thunderbolt 5 docking station.
Nexode 500-Watt Charger
Kicking things off with the Nexode 500-watt desktop charger, this device can power up to six gadgets at once, including five laptops. TechPowerUp highlights that the use of GaN technology enables the dock to remain compact and easy to fit on your desk, even with its high output. The charger comes with a solid range of ports, featuring a 240-watt Type-C port that supports the USB PD 3.1 standard, four additional Type-C ports that can each deliver 100 watts, and a Type-A port, all combining for a total output of 260 watts at the same time. It will be fascinating to see how Ugreen manages the heat generated by this powerful device.
Revodok Max 2131 Docking Station
Next in line is the Revodok Max 2131, which, despite its slightly odd name, presents a stylish design and a wide array of features. Built on the latest Thunderbolt 5 standard, the Revodok includes four Thunderbolt 5 ports, each capable of 80 Gbps, as well as two USB-A ports, one 10 Gbps Type-C port, an SD card slot, an RJ-45 port, and an audio jack.
At the moment, Ugreen has not disclosed any pricing or availability information for these products, but a launch in March seems plausible. Given the impressive features, it’s unlikely that these devices will be available at a discount.
Portable Options
If you’re looking for something more portable, consider the Ugreen Nexode 100-watt power bank available on Amazon.
Source: Link
Tags: Revodok Max 2131, Thunderbolt 5, Ugreen Nexode 500-watt
January 7, 2025
LG UltraFine 6K Monitor at CES 2025: Apple Pro Display Rival
The recently unveiled LG UltraFine 6K Monitor has been recognized as a CES 2025 awards honoree in the Imaging category. The event commenced on January 7th, where this exciting product is being showcased.
Cutting-Edge Technology
According to LG, the UltraFine 6K Monitor, identified by the model number 32U990A, is the first monitor to feature Thunderbolt 5. This new technology is expected to enhance the bandwidth from 40 Gbps to 80 Gbps, and it includes a 120 Gbps Bandwidth Boost. This 32-inch professional display utilizes a Nano IPS Black panel, which reportedly covers an impressive 99.5% of Adobe RGB and 98% of the DCI-P3 color gamuts. However, specifics regarding the native refresh rate are still not disclosed.
Impressive Specifications
The monitor is anticipated to boast a contrast ratio of 2,000:1 and a resolution of 6,016 x 3,384 px. Additionally, it is rumored to support color calibration software, which is a plus for professional users. LG has described the design as sleek, featuring a broad stand and a rounded base, resembling the Apple Pro Display XDR (currently priced at $5,999.99 without a stand at Best Buy). The exact launch date and pricing for the LG UltraFine 6K Monitor remains unclear. Since it appears to lack a Mini-LED backlight and considering its other features, it is believed that it will be priced lower than the Apple offering.
Conclusion
Overall, the LG UltraFine 6K Monitor is generating buzz at CES 2025 for its innovative features and specifications. While more information about its release is awaited, it is clear that LG is aiming to deliver a top-tier product for professionals in creative fields.
Source: Link
Tags: 32U990A, LG UltraFine 6K Monitor, Thunderbolt 5