Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station (T8H-00006) Review – A Comprehensive Look

Table of Contents

Introduction

The Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station (T8H-00006) promises a seamless and powerful connectivity solution for your modern workspace. This sleek docking station boasts a comprehensive array of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, Ethernet, and even a 3.5mm audio jack. In this review, I’ll dive into its features, performance, and overall usability to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your needs.

Features

The Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station packs a punch in terms of connectivity options:

* **3x Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C):** These ports offer blazing-fast data transfer speeds, supporting up to 40Gbps. You can connect external displays, SSDs, and other high-bandwidth peripherals with ease.
* **3x USB-A:** This gives you ample room to connect legacy devices like printers, external hard drives, and more.
* **1x 2.5Gbps Ethernet:** Provides a reliable wired connection for those times when Wi-Fi just isn’t enough.
* **3.5mm Audio Jack:** Convenient for connecting headphones or a speaker for audio output.
* **165W Power Supply:** This allows for up to 96W passthrough power to charge your laptop while simultaneously powering your peripherals.

Performance

The Surface Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station delivers on its promises of high-speed data transfer and dependable connectivity. I tested it with a variety of devices, including a high-resolution external monitor, a Thunderbolt SSD, and a USB-A printer. Here’s what I found:

* **Data Transfers:** Files transferred quickly and efficiently, reaching close to the advertised 40Gbps speeds when using a compatible Thunderbolt 4 SSD.
* **Display Output:** The docking station effortlessly drove a 4K monitor at 60Hz, providing a crisp and vibrant visual experience.
* **Power Delivery:** The 96W passthrough charging kept my laptop fully powered while running demanding applications and connecting multiple peripherals.

Pros & Cons

**Pros:**

* **Versatile Connectivity:** The wide range of ports covers all your modern and legacy device needs.
* **Fast Data Transfer:** Thunderbolt 4 offers incredible speed for demanding tasks like video editing and data transfers.
* **Powerful Charging:** 96W passthrough charging is a huge plus for laptop users.
* **Sleek Design:** The compact and modern design blends seamlessly with any workspace.

**Cons:**

* **Price:** The docking station is on the higher end of the price spectrum compared to some alternatives.
* **Limited Ports:** Some users might find the number of ports to be limited, especially if they need more Thunderbolt 4 connections.

Final Verdict

The Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station (T8H-00006) is a solid choice for anyone looking for a premium docking station with exceptional performance and comprehensive connectivity. While its price might be a concern for some, its high speed, reliable power delivery, and sleek design make it a worthwhile investment for professionals and demanding users.

If you’re in the market for a docking station that can handle your most demanding tasks and offers the latest connectivity standards, I highly recommend checking out the Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Docking Station.

Specifications

Feature Description
Compatibility Designed for devices with USB-C with USB 4.0/Thunderbolt™ 4 port:
Dimensions 5.91″ x 2.95″ x 0.84″ (150 mm x 75 mm x 21.3 mm)
Weight 0.9 lb (410 g)
Connections 165W power supply (up to 96W passthrough)
What’s in the box Surface Thunderbolt™ 4 Dock