Thunderbolt Dock for Dell Latitude

Hey,

I have a Dell Latitude 7420 and wanted to set up a desk that has dual monitors, keyboard and mouse that i can just plug my laptop into and use it like a desktop so my understanding i can do this through a dock.

Do I need the $329 dell thunderbolt or can i use these cheapies, are they the same thing?

$79

https://www.amazon.com.au/Docking-Station-Monitor-Adapter-Et…

OR $329

https://www.amazon.com.au/Dell-WD22TB4-Thunderbolt-Dock-USB/…

Thank you for your help

Poll Options

  • 6
    Dell thunderbolt
  • 6
    Cheap dock alternative

Comments

  • +1

    If you have standard 1080P monitors the cheap dock/dongle is fine.

    The more expensive solution is neater on the desk and not designed to be carried around like the first one.

    • the cheap one says 2x 4k at 60hz - do you think that's real?

      • +1

        Yes — but only with most recent PC laptops. Requires USB-C port with Displayport 1.4 alt-mode support along with MST (multi stream transport) support — e.g. won't work on Macs. Worst case will only work as one screen output. Should be fine with Latitude 7420.

  • +3

    Thenderbolt

    Thender. Fell the Thender

    @imaginedragons

  • For $49 you can have dual 4k 60hz monitors, 5x usb ports, and ethernet.

  • The thunderbolt dock is actually pretty legit. The cheap USB-C dock will technically be sufficient, but is by no means the same.
    Fwiw the Dell one will work with the latest M1/M2 Pro+ silicon in Macs for multi-monitor support. If this is not a concern I guess the cheap one will be okay. I doubt the quality will be there though, and you might find yourself in the market for a new one sooner rather than later.

    • The thunderbolt dock is actually pretty legit.

      It's fine as long as you don't plug in a lightning connector.

  • FWIW, the cheaper ones gave me a shit ton of BSODs.

  • Refurbs I've had experience with with Dells

    Dell WD15 can be had for $50 incl adaptor it is USB-C not TB

    Dell TB16 can also be had for around same price. Apparently lots of people with problems with it. I've got one and it is pretty good. Note you need to update ALL the drivers otherwise wouldn't be surprised if you run into problems.

  • I'd be looking for a new or refurbished USB-C dock from a reputable brand as a middle ground.

    I did use a cheap hub for about 1.5 years without issues. I replaced it with a Thunderbolt dock which has been great with 1 connection for everything.

  • The more expensive one will comes with a Power Adapter, so you can charge your device while connected.

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