CalDigit Element Hub vs Element 5: map your USB devices first
Four USB-A sockets or dedicated USB-C data sockets? Compare the connection layout, laptop power and host restrictions.
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Swipe the table sideways to see both models.
| Spec | CalDigit Element Hub | CalDigit Element 5 Hub |
|---|---|---|
| Thunderbolt connections | 4 Thunderbolt 4 sockets total: 1 host connection and 3 for downstream devices. Rated up to 40Gb/s. [1] | 1 Thunderbolt 5 host socket and 3 downstream sockets. Rated 80Gb/s bidirectional, with up to 120Gb/s Bandwidth Boost. [2] |
| USB-A data ports | 4 dedicated ports rated up to 10Gb/s. [1] | 3 dedicated ports rated up to 10Gb/s. [2] |
| Dedicated USB-C data ports | None in addition to the USB-C-shaped Thunderbolt sockets. [1] | 2 additional ports rated up to 10Gb/s, separate from the Thunderbolt sockets. [2] |
| Laptop charging | Up to 60W. [1] | Up to 90W. [2] |
| Included power supply | 150W power supply; this is not the laptop charging wattage. [1] | 180W power supply; this is not the laptop charging wattage. [2] |
| Buy |
Which one should you get?
Four USB-A peripherals: count physical sockets before buying newer hardware
The original Element lists one more dedicated USB-A socket. The E5 changes the mix toward dedicated USB-C connections; decide whether that fits your actual devices.
A higher charging requirement: check your laptop against the E5 limit
The documented host-power ceiling is higher, but it is still a ceiling. Confirm your laptop accepts that power and that it covers your workload; do not compare the power-supply ratings as laptop output.
Limits of this comparison
- CalDigit explicitly excludes Thunderbolt 3 Windows PCs from Element 5 support. It supports Thunderbolt 3 Macs and Thunderbolt 4 hosts with reduced functionality; check the current OS, processor and firmware requirements.
- Neither interface list includes a dedicated HDMI socket. Work out the display connection or required adapter separately, and verify the exact host-supported monitor count and refresh rate.
- No hands-on testing: speeds, simultaneous workloads, thermals and charging have not been measured. Advertised maxima are not a compatibility guarantee. Exact hardware revisions, regional bundles and your laptop/display combination remain unverified; prices, stock and returns are not tracked.
Sources
- CalDigit — Thunderbolt 4 Element Hub product overview and power (Global, checked 2026-10-27)
- CalDigit — Element 5 Hub interfaces, power and compatibility FAQ (Global, checked 2026-10-27)