Best answer: The Surface Dock can connect to the Surface Pro 7 with the proprietary Surface Connect port. However, thanks to the Pro 7 now sporting a USB-C port, you can use a more modern docking solution. We recommend checking out the CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock.
- Modern docking solution: CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock ($200 at Amazon)
- Official Surface hardware: Microsoft Surface Dock ($129 at Amazon)
What's so great about CalDigit's USB-C Pro Dock?
CalDigit's USB-C Pro Dock pictured here with a Surface Go.
Like the Surface Dock, the CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock is designed to expand connectivity. It's not portable like a standard hub due to its requirement of external power. This is a true docking station that connects back to your Surface Pro 7 with USB-C.
The CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock works with both Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C, with the former connecting delivering the best performance. This opens up connectivity options, especially useful for those who have multiple modern devices. When connected with USB-C, the CalDigit dock delivers up to 85W of charging power back to the Pro 7, as well as support for dual FHD displays or a single 4K display at 30Hz.
Other ports include two DisplayPort 1.2, three USB-A 3.2 (Gen 1), USB-C 3.2, Ethernet, 3.5mm audio, and a UHS-II SD card reader. You will pay more for the CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock compared to the Surface Dock, but it will prove itself useful far longer into the future.
How does the CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock compare to the Surface Dock?
The Surface Dock is certainly showing its age. It brings four USB-A, two Mini DisplayPort, a 3.5mm audio jack, and Ethernet for a wired connection, but it lacks the full-size DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB-C. However, it does leave the USB-C port on the Pro 7 free. It handles two 4K displays and will charge your Pro 7 while connected via the proprietary Surface Connect port.
Because the Surface Dock is designed to work with Surface products, any other laptops you have lying around not made by Microsoft won't be compatible.
Is there a new Surface Dock in the works?
Many people rely on the Surface Connect port linked up to a Surface Dock every day. However, compared to more modern docking solutions, it's starting to look antiquated. Most laptops and devices are moving on to USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 connectivity, and it only makes sense for the Surface Dock to get a refresh sometime soon.
However, we've been repeating this for a couple of years, and Microsoft hasn't shown any signs that it's working on a refresh. If you need a quality docking station right now that opens up connectivity for your Surface Pro 7; the CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock remains a great choice.
Check out the CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock for a modern solution
CalDigit's USB-C Pro Dock works with USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 devices, making it ideal for multi-device users. It delivers up to 85W of power back to your Pro 7 and expands connectivity greatly.
Our pick
CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock
Great for multi-device users
With an excellent port selection, up to 85W charging, and support for dual external displays, the CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock is a versatile choice that will work with your modern devices.
Official Surface hardware
Microsoft Surface Dock
$129 at Amazon $129 at Walmart
Hook up with Surface Connect
The Surface Dock needs a refresh. It will work with the Surface Pro 7, but its port selection won't match up to more modern hardware.
Best answer: The Surface Dock can connect to the Surface Pro 7 with the proprietary Surface Connect port. However, thanks to the Pro 7 now sporting a USB-C port, you can use a more modern docking solution. We recommend checking out the CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock.
Modern docking solution: CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock ($200 at Amazon)
Official Surface hardware: Microsoft Surface Dock ($129 at Amazon)
What's so great about CalDigit's USB-C Pro Dock?
CalDigit's USB-C Pro Dock pictured here with a Surface Go.
Like the Surface Dock, the CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock is designed to expand connectivity. It's not portable like a standard hub due to its requirement of external power. This is a true docking station that connects back to your Surface Pro 7 with USB-C.
The CalDigit USB-C Pro Dock works with both Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C, with the former connecting delivering the best performance. This opens up connectivity options, especially useful for those who have multiple modern devices. When conne... by: Cale Hunt via https://www.AiUpNow.com/
