Jeff Benjamin
2025-01-31 08:03:00
9to5mac.com

Today CalDigit took the wraps off its first Thunderbolt 5-enabled device, the nine port, and aptly-titled Element 5 Hub. The follow up to the company’s original eight-port Element hub, the $249 Element 5 features four Thunderbolt 5 ports supporting 80Gb/s, plus a whole host of additional features and tidbits to consider. Let’s take a closer look.
Ports and charging
- The Element 5 hub has nine ports total, while the original sported eight ports.
- 4 x TB5 (80Gb/s) ports
- 2 x USB-C (10Gb/s) ports
- 3 x USB-A (10Gb/s) ports
- Host power delivery of 90W

Displays
- The max resolution for Macs that support 8K is 8K 60Hz
- The max resolution on macOS for dual displays is 6K 60Hz. The M4 Max supports Dual 8K 60Hz
- The max high-refresh rate on macOS for dual displays is Dual 4K 240Hz
The Element 5 Hub supports the new Bandwidth Boost feature of Thunderbolt 5, which allocates up to 120Gb/s to displays when needed, such as when connecting multiple high refresh rate displays.
On compatible Windows machines with Thunderbolt 5, the Element 5 supports up to Triple 4K 60Hz displays via a single port. It’s worth noting that the Mac, including the latest M4s, do not support triple displays via a single Thunderbolt 5 connection. This is a limitation of macOS computers, and no dock or hub at this time can natively support triple displays on macOS via a single TB5 connection.





Other tidbits
CalDigit notes that host charging consistently delivers up to 90W and never drops regardless of how many devices are connected. Included with the Element 5 is a new 180W power supply that is 42% smaller than its predecessor while offering 30W of additional power.
The Element 5 Hub features 64Gb/s PCIe, double the bandwidth of its predecessor, to accommodate fast storage devices.

9to5Mac’s Take
Slowly but surely, the Thunderbolt 5 landscape is beginning to take shape, and the Element 5 has the makings of a solid hub for those who need the expansion. In terms of compatibility, of course the Element 5 is best paired with new M4 Pro and M4 Max Macs featuring Thunderbolt 5 ports, but it’s also compatible with TB4, TB3, and USB-C Macs and iPads as well.
What do you think? Sound off in the comments with your thoughts.
FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.
Keep track of your essentials with the Apple AirTag 4 Pack, the ultimate tracking solution for your belongings. With over 5,972 ratings and a stellar 4.7-star average, this product has quickly become a customer favorite. Over 10,000 units were purchased in the past month, solidifying its status as a highly rated Amazon Choice product.
For just $79.98, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your items are always within reach. Order now for only $79.98 at Amazon!
Help Power Techcratic’s Future – Scan To Support
If Techcratic’s content and insights have helped you, consider giving back by supporting the platform with crypto. Every contribution makes a difference, whether it’s for high-quality content, server maintenance, or future updates. Techcratic is constantly evolving, and your support helps drive that progress.
As a solo operator who wears all the hats, creating content, managing the tech, and running the site, your support allows me to stay focused on delivering valuable resources. Your support keeps everything running smoothly and enables me to continue creating the content you love. I’m deeply grateful for your support, it truly means the world to me! Thank you!
BITCOIN bc1qlszw7elx2qahjwvaryh0tkgg8y68enw30gpvge Scan the QR code with your crypto wallet app |
DOGECOIN D64GwvvYQxFXYyan3oQCrmWfidf6T3JpBA Scan the QR code with your crypto wallet app |
ETHEREUM 0xe9BC980DF3d985730dA827996B43E4A62CCBAA7a Scan the QR code with your crypto wallet app |
Please read the Privacy and Security Disclaimer on how Techcratic handles your support.
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, Techcratic may earn from qualifying purchases.