Microsoft still does not use Thunderbolt 3 for its newly announced Microsoft Surface Go 2, and Microsoft Surface Book 3 devices, this means that many third-party docks cannot be used with Surface devices. The Microsoft Surface Dock 2, on the other hand, uses the proprietary Surface Connect port, so that the company can outperform the competition.
As with its predecessor, Thunderbolt 3 is still missing – a questionable decision that Microsoft would like to justify with security concerns. However, customers lose some exciting opportunities, such as using an external graphics card or simply using a versatile dock.
The group from Redmond wants to solve the problem with the new Microsoft Dock. This does not rely on Thunderbolt 3 to get the necessary bandwidth for the many surface laptop ports, but on the proprietary Surface Connect port. Compared to the first generation Microsoft surface pro docking station, both the data rates and the loading speed are said to have been improved.
The new surface laptop docking station comes with four USB-C ports, two of which can be connected to external monitors. Two USB-A ports are also included. In addition, the new Microsoft docking station is also equipped with Ethernet and AUX, a Kensington lock completes the equipment. As usual, it only works with Surface computers that are equipped with the Surface Connect port.
Microsoft Surface Dock 2 release date, price
Due to the lack of Thunderbolt 3, there are hardly any usable dock alternatives for Surface owners, so Microsoft can set the price for the Surface Dock 2 accordingly high. The recommended retail price is a $259.99 now listed on the Bhphotovideo.com online store and, the market launch is scheduled for May 26, 2020.