CalDigit TS5 Plus Thunderbolt 5 Dock Evaluation: Improved Capabilities of the Leading Dock for Mac [Video]

# CalDigit TS5 Plus: An In-Depth Review of the Newest Thunderbolt Dock

It seems incredible, but it has been more than seven years since I first experienced CalDigit’s TS3 Plus dock, which I deemed the ultimate dock for Mac users in its prime. Since that time, CalDigit has introduced the TS3’s successor, the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock, which presents a more polished version of its forerunner. Now, with the rise of Thunderbolt 5 integration for the latest M4 Pro Macs and beyond, CalDigit returns with an even more potent iteration of its TS series dock – the CalDigit Thunderbolt Station 5 Plus, or TS5 Plus for short.

The TS5 Plus supports Thunderbolt 5, but are there additional reasons that potential buyers should gravitate towards it over the already impressive TS4? Possibly!

## Specifications

The CalDigit TS5 Plus boasts 20 ports, surpassing its predecessor by two ports. Although the form factor remains generally similar, the dock has expanded in size compared to the TS4, which itself was somewhat larger than the TS3 Plus. Here’s a breakdown of all the interface specifics and extra specifications:

### Ports

– 1 x Thunderbolt 5 Upstream / USB4 v2 (140W | 80Gb/s)
– 2 x Thunderbolt 5 Downstream / USB4 v2 (36W | 80Gb/s)
– 4 x USB-C (Data Only) (7.5W | 10Gb/s)
– 1 x USB-C (Data Only) (36W | 10Gb/s)
– 5 x USB-A (Data Only) (7.5W | 10Gb/s)
– 1 x SD Card Reader (SD 4.0 | UHS-II)
– 1 x microSD Card Reader (SD 4.0 | UHS-II)
– 1 x DisplayPort 2.1
– 1 x 10 Gigabit Ethernet
– 1 x Front Combo Audio Jack (3.5mm)
– 1 x Rear Audio Jack In (3.5mm)
– 1 x Rear Audio Jack Out (3.5mm)
– 1 x DC In (24V | 13.75A)

### Additional Specs

– Height: 6.10″ (155.0mm) x Width: 1.85″ (47.0mm) x Length: 5.03″ (127.9mm)
– Weight: 1.98lbs (0.90kg)
– 140W power delivery to host
– Kensington Security Slot
– Supports dual 4K/6K monitors
– 1 x braided 1M Thunderbolt 5 cable
– 2 x rubber feet strips
– 1 x power cord
– 1 x power supply (330W)
– Price: $499.99

## Design and Form Factor

The TS5, while keeping the same overall design as its predecessors, is noticeably larger than the TS3 Plus and still significantly larger than the TS4. This is CalDigit’s bulkiest and heaviest TS-series dock to date, but the larger size and weight serve a purpose, namely the incorporation of additional ports and the capacity to draw power from the robust new power supply and subsequently deliver it to a computer connection.

The TS5 Plus stands 0.55 inches taller, is 0.20 inches wider, and 0.57 inches longer than its immediate predecessor. It also has a weight increase of 0.57lbs compared to the TS4.

As expected, it wouldn’t be a CalDigit Dock without the signature ridged-aluminum sidewalls, which have become a hallmark design element. This style not only facilitates heat dissipation but also enables the rubber feet to attach seamlessly to the chassis, allowing the dock to be oriented horizontally on a desk rather than vertically.

## Significant Enhancements

The TS5’s upgrades extend beyond just adding more ports. Several enhancements have been made to the already available ports. The most notable upgrade is the inclusion of Thunderbolt 5, which delivers twice the speed of Thunderbolt 4. Thunderbolt 5 enhances this by doubling the PCIe data bandwidth from 32Gb/s to 64Gb/s, enabling external drives to achieve speeds up to 6,000 MB/s.

If you possess a Mac featuring Thunderbolt 5, like the M4 Pro Mac mini or M4 Pro MacBook Pro, you will experience remarkably boosted speeds when connecting Thunderbolt 5 devices.

### 140W Thunderbolt 5 Upstream Port

The previous generation CalDigit TS4 had the capability to supply up to 98W of power to a host computer through its upstream port.

Comprehending AI-Powered Risks: Key Takeaways for Apple IT Groups

**GenAI and Its Influence on Enterprise Security: A Concentration on Apple Devices**

In the swiftly changing realm of enterprise security, Generative AI (GenAI) has emerged not merely as a forward-looking consideration but as a present actuality. Cybercriminals are utilizing GenAI to enhance their phishing methods, create more sophisticated malware, and carry out more persuasive spoofing campaigns. A recent poll conducted by The Register indicated that 65% of organizations are currently implementing GenAI to automate standard security activities, such as telemetry log oversight and alerting, in light of the rising threat posed by AI-driven cyberattacks.

As hackers take advantage of the same AI tools employed by security teams, it is crucial for Apple IT teams to reevaluate their security approaches. Fortunately, organizations overseeing Apple devices—including Macs, iPads, and iPhones—enjoy a strong security foundation due to Apple’s design ethos.

**Apple’s Distinct Security Framework**

Apple has consistently taken a different route compared to its rivals regarding enterprise hardware. With the launch of Apple Silicon, every device now contains a Secure Enclave, markedly boosting security. As per The Register’s findings, 56% of organizations are harnessing AI to hasten threat identification and reaction. This is vital in an age where attacks are becoming ever more rapid and intricate. An astonishing 97% of security experts foresee that their organizations will ultimately face an AI-generated assault.

A significant transformation in the security environment is the evolving nature of attacks. Instead of focusing on breaking systems, attackers are frequently discovering methods to log in. This transition emphasizes the significance of user behavior in security, underscoring the necessity for strong authentication methods. Apple’s focus on passkeys and biometrics—such as Touch ID and Face ID—acts as a crucial shield against automated credential stuffing and phishing attempts, which are on the rise.

**The Function of GenAI in Security Processes**

While initial views of AI in security may have been doubtful, GenAI is demonstrating its practical usefulness. One of its primary impacts is in diminishing alert fatigue. Numerous Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tools are now utilizing AI to categorize alerts, recognize patterns, and assist IT teams in effectively prioritizing issues. This feature is invaluable for security professionals who regularly navigate vast amounts of log data to ascertain the sources of alerts.

Furthermore, GenAI improves incident response by examining telemetry data from macOS devices, enabling security teams to swiftly address fundamental queries concerning security incidents. The increasing application of AI for automating routine functions, such as log supervision, is apparent, with nearly two-thirds of organizations acknowledging its usage.

**Conclusion**

The growing intricacy of cyber threats demands sophisticated solutions. The survey from The Register emphasizes two critical truths: the rapid rise of telemetry data and the shortage of qualified security professionals. With 41% of organizations reporting a deficiency of skilled security personnel, the incorporation of GenAI into security tools becomes vital for sustaining a secure Apple ecosystem without overburdening IT teams.

In today’s cyber environment, where hackers are more prone to log in than infiltrate, organizations must utilize every available asset, including GenAI, to strengthen their defenses and safeguard their Apple devices effectively.

Top Fresh MacBook Offers for June: Priced from $649

In the era of Apple Silicon, MacBooks are more budget-friendly than they have ever been, with brand-new models beginning at just $649. With potential tariffs on China on the horizon, these fantastic offers may soon cease, making this the perfect moment for anyone seeking a new MacBook.

Rumors suggest that Apple’s next macOS 26 update will discontinue support for several more Intel Macs, so if you wish to keep up with the latest and most advanced Apple software, now is an ideal time for an upgrade.

### M1 MacBook Air

Since the advent of Apple Silicon, Apple has released four MacBook Air models, equipped with the M1, M2, M3, and M4 chips. The M1 MacBook Air retains a familiar wedge shape from the Intel days, which many users still favor.

Even after four years, the M1 MacBook Air is still an outstanding laptop considering its price. It offers rapid performance with the M1 chip, an impressive Retina screen (albeit with thicker bezels relative to newer models), an excellent keyboard, and up to 18 hours of battery life. Moreover, it runs quietly, making it suitable for use in public spaces.

Being the oldest model listed, the M1 MacBook Air is also the most economical. However, sourcing new units with more than 256GB of storage may be difficult, so users requiring more space might want to look at newer variants. Notably, this is the only Apple Silicon MacBook available in an authentic Gold finish.

You can acquire the M1 MacBook Air for as little as [$649 at Walmart](https://howl.link/15sdnqsr918p4), available in all three colors: Silver, Space Gray, and Gold.

– 13-inch MacBook Air (M1) featuring 256GB storage and 8GB memory: [$649 at Walmart](https://howl.link/15sdnqsr918p4)

### M3 MacBook Air

In 2022, Apple unveiled a revamped MacBook Air with a sleeker design, a larger screen with narrower bezels, and the return of MagSafe. This model launched with the M2 chip, but deals are now available for the M3 chip versions.

You can currently nab up to $300 off, with configurations that include 512GB of storage. Additionally, there are offers on the [15-inch variant of the M3 MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/3R70HaO).

**13-inch models with M3 chip:**
– 13-inch MacBook Air featuring 512GB storage and 16GB memory: [$999 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/3R4BX32) ($300 discount!)
– 13-inch MacBook Air featuring 512GB storage and 24GB memory: [$1169 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/4jhFUgy) ($330 discount!)

**15-inch models with M3 chip (limited stock):**
– 15-inch MacBook Air featuring 512GB storage and 24GB memory: [$1299 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/3R70HaO) ($400 discount!)

### M4 MacBook Air

In March, Apple announced a new [MacBook Air with M4 chip](https://amzn.to/42w9DNg). This version comes with a new Center Stage webcam and a fresh Sky Blue color, replacing Space Gray.

At present, you can save $150 on the latest [MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/421Yxj9) models across the board.

**13-inch models with M4 chip:**
– 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB storage and 16GB memory: [$849 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/421Yxj9)
– 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB storage and 16GB memory: [$1049 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/42w9DNg)
– 13-inch MacBook Air with 512GB storage and 24GB memory: [$1249 at Amazon](https://amzn.to/3Rq7exD)

**15-inch models with M4 chip:**
Despite being the newest model, there are already fantastic deals on the [M4 MacBook Air](https://amzn.to/421Yxj9), attributed to its lower starting price and production in Vietnam, which lessens tariff-related price surges.

### M4 MacBook Pro

Apple revamped the

macOS 26 Anticipated to Cease Support for an Additional Intel Mac Model

**macOS 26: Compatibility and Support for Intel Macs**

Recent information suggests that macOS 26, anticipated to be named after California’s Lake Tahoe, will discontinue support for numerous Intel Macs, notably impacting some of the last generation devices. This article details the latest speculations concerning macOS 26 compatibility and its consequences for various Mac users.

### New Rumor on Intel Mac Support

A trustworthy source on X has disclosed that the 2020 13-inch MacBook Pro featuring two Thunderbolt ports will not be compatible with macOS 26. This assertion, although met with doubt by some, coincides with earlier predictions related to Apple’s support plan for older hardware. The 2020 13-inch variant in question includes an older 8th generation Intel processor, akin to the 2018 models, while the 4-port variant from the same year boasts the more advanced 10th generation chipsets.

### Device Roundup

The current insight into macOS 26 compatibility indicates that the following Macs will not receive the update:

– **2018 Mac mini**
– **2017 iMac Pro** (only model)
– **2020 Intel MacBook Air**
– **2020 13-inch MacBook Pro** (2 port models)
– **All 2018 MacBook Pro models**

The status for 2019 models is still unclear. It appears improbable that Apple would opt to support all 2019 MacBook Pros while excluding the 2020 13-inch 2-port model. A likely scenario could see Apple backing the 2019 16-inch and the 2020 4-port 13-inch models while ceasing support for older versions.

### Conclusion

As the launch of macOS 26 draws near, users of Intel Macs should brace for possible compatibility challenges, particularly those with older devices. Monitoring further updates and official communications from Apple will be essential for users aiming to upgrade their operating systems.