Will I have regrets on getting a TB2 dock vs 3?

[automan98]

Could use a few opinions. I'm getting a new Macbook Pro with 256GB HD. I want to get a dock for it. I don't plan on using super highend monitors and I will rarely transfer files to/from an external drive. The TB2 docks are significantly cheaper than the TB3 docks right now. Can you guys help with thinking of something that I would regret by buying the TB2 dock? Looks like there might be some power issues to consider?

Thank you very much.

 

[ZapNZs]

What do you want the dock for? What do you see yourself using it for in the future? I'm still using TB2 docks, but there are certain scenarios where I could see major advantages for going with TB3 (for example, the ability to connect to the dock and charge the MBP via a single cable, to get the Type-C ports, to take advantage of the USB 3.1 gen2 spec, etc.)

 

[Patcell]

What do you want the dock for? What do you see yourself using it for in the future? I'm still using TB2 docks, but there are certain scenarios where I could see major advantages for going with TB3 (for example, the ability to connect to the dock and charge the MBP via a single cable, to get the Type-C ports, to take advantage of the USB 3.1 gen2 spec, etc.)

I recently upgraded to a 2017 Pro, and I am still using my OWC Thunderbolt 2 dock with the new machine. The only reason I would feel compelled to upgrade to a Thunderbolt 3 dock would be for true single-cable simplicity. Not compelled enough to drop $300 bucks on a TB3 dock just yet, but... perhaps in the future. Also, factor in the cost of the TB2 to TB3 adapter ($50). Actually another thing is... I'd rather not have to move my charger every time I take the machine with me on the road; TB3 dock would eliminate that nuisance as it would provide power to the machine as well.

So, there are some advantages... are they worth the cost? That's for you to decide. I already have a TB2 dock, so not worth it for me at the moment.