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CalDigit Element Hub vs Wavlink Universal Docking Station: Comparison
CalDigit Element Hub vs Wavlink Universal Docking Station: the host power delivery difference
They are built to different briefs, and host power delivery shows it, CalDigit Element Hub 60 W against Wavlink Universal Docking Station None. Wavlink Universal Docking Station also leads on total ports, 8 on the CalDigit Element Hub versus 9 on the Wavlink Universal Docking Station.
Who each one is for
The CalDigit Element Hub is the one to take for minimalist desk setups already using a separate monitor for video, though it is the wrong buy for office setups needing wired Ethernet. The same goes for laptop users who just need extra USB-C ports and modest charging on the go. Avoid it for anyone needing display output, since it has no video ports at all. The Wavlink Universal Docking Station suits older Windows laptops and desktops with only USB-A ports and budget dual-monitor upgrades without replacing existing hardware, though it is not built for Mac users, since DisplayLink support here is Windows-only and anyone needing the dock to also charge the host laptop. Our rating of the CalDigit Element Hub (6/10): A sensible budget entry point into Thunderbolt 4 port expansion, not a dock replacement. Our rating of the Wavlink Universal Docking Station (6/10): A niche but genuinely useful fix for older USB-A-only Windows machines needing dual monitors.
Which is cheaper, CalDigit Element Hub or Wavlink Universal Docking Station?
At the last price check the Wavlink Universal Docking Station was $90.00 and the CalDigit Element Hub $100, a 11% premium.
Frequently asked questions
Do the CalDigit Element Hub and Wavlink Universal Docking Station differ on connection type?
Yes. Connection Type reads Thunderbolt 4 on the CalDigit Element Hub versus USB-A on the Wavlink Universal Docking Station.
Specs and benchmarks
Brand
- CalDigit Element Hub
- CalDigit
- Wavlink Universal Docking Station
- Wavlink
Connection Type
- CalDigit Element Hub
- Thunderbolt 4
- Wavlink Universal Docking Station
- USB-A (DisplayLink, no USB-C required on host)
Model Number
- CalDigit Element Hub
- Element Hub
- Wavlink Universal Docking Station
- Universal Docking Station
Port Configuration
- CalDigit Element Hub
- 1x TB4 host, 3x TB4 downstream 40Gbps, 4x USB-A 10Gbps
- Wavlink Universal Docking Station
- 1x USB-A upstream, 2x HDMI (DisplayLink), 4x USB-A, 1x GbE, 3.5mm audio
Max Display Support
- CalDigit Element Hub
- Dual 4K
- Wavlink Universal Docking Station
- Dual display
Max Display Resolution
- CalDigit Element Hub
- Single 8K@60Hz or dual 4K@60Hz
- Wavlink Universal Docking Station
- Dual 4K@30Hz (DisplayLink)
Total Ports
- CalDigit Element Hub
- 8-11%
- Wavlink Universal Docking Station
- 9Best
Host Power Delivery
- CalDigit Element Hub
- 60 W
- Wavlink Universal Docking Station
- None (bus-powered, no host charging)
Ethernet
- CalDigit Element Hub
- No
- Wavlink Universal Docking Station
- Yes
OS Compatibility
- CalDigit Element Hub
- Mac, Windows, iPadOS, ChromeOS
- Wavlink Universal Docking Station
- Windows only
Price
- CalDigit Element Hub
- ~$100
- Wavlink Universal Docking Station
- ~$90
Which one should you pick?
Choose CalDigit Element Hub if you already have it on hand or find it at a lower price.
Choose Wavlink Universal Docking Station if you want the higher total ports (9 vs 8).
Price comparison
| Retailer | CalDigit Element Hub | Wavlink Universal Docking Station |
|---|---|---|
| Consumercarts listing | $100.00 View on Consumercarts listing | $90.00 View on Consumercarts listing |
Disclaimer: The price and specification of the given product may differ from the actual product. Please confirm on the retailer's website before buying.
Verdict
CalDigit Element Hub
6 / 10 Expert Rating
A sensible budget entry point into Thunderbolt 4 port expansion, not a dock replacement.
Wavlink Universal Docking Station
6 / 10 Expert Rating
A niche but genuinely useful fix for older USB-A-only Windows machines needing dual monitors.