USB 3.0 Performance and Ethernet Performance
Testing Methodology and Setup
Our testing setup for the USB3SDOCKHDV included a Lenovo ThinkPad T440s with the following specs:
- Windows 8.1 Pro 64-bit
- Intel Core i5-4200U CPU @ 1.60 GHz (up to 2.30 GHz Turbo Boost)
- 4 GB DDR3L RAM
- Samsung 128 GB SSD
Each of our tests consisted of comparing results from direct output/connectivity from the notebook itself with results via the dock over USB 3.0. We took care to ensure conditions were identical under both tests, controlling such factors as background processes, heat, and so on wherever possible.
USB 3.0 Performance
Our initial tests were focused on the dock’s USB 3.0 performance; the chipset handling these connections is the Genesys GL3520. We first connected a USB 3.0 SSD with the capability of reading and writing at speeds near 180 MB/sec and 80 MB/sec (respectively) to both the notebook directly and through the dock and compared the results. Here’s what we came up with:
USB 3.0 Performance when directly connected to notebook:
USB 3.0 Performance when connected via StarTech dock:
In other words, no meaningful differences in transfer speeds. We also didn’t experience any heightened CPU consumption as a result of the dock's USB 3.0 connection versus that of the notebook.
Network Performance
Next, we turned our attention to network performance, beginning with throughput. The StarTech dock includes a Realtek RTL8211E chipset for this functionality; to measure the network throughput, we chose the freeware program iperf (instructions for use can be found at the link). Results are often finicky, so for our purposes, we averaged the best two runs of ten total for each connection type. Our tests gave us the following results:
- 861125 Kb/sec connected directly to the notebook
- 732774 Kb/sec connected via dock
- 128351 Kb/sec (~15.6 MB/s) lower throughput using the dock
In terms of network CPU consumption, we noted an overall difference of around 5–7% higher on average when the dock was involved; this is pretty typical.
No surprises so far; apart from dedicated docking stations for machines with compatible ports, the presence of this minimal-yet-notable CPU overhead is generally commonplace due to the need for data compression between the notebook and the dock.
Steve, Could you please look
Steve, Could you please look into the “Pluggabe” USB 3.0 dual monitor Dock, it’s one I’ve been looking at.
Thanks,
TinkerToyTech
I’ve got the Lenovo ThinkPad
I’ve got the Lenovo ThinkPad USB 3.0 Dock and I really like it. Using it on a Surface 2 Pro mirroring the display. It’s pretty flawless. I wonder how it compares directly to the StarTech?
BP
Good Port replicators/docking
Good Port replicators/docking stations are needed (I am wary that this is one), but can be problematic. last one I tried was asus and my thinkpad twist crashed when plugged in (blue screen and I had to do some rebuild- scary/yuk). For some reason the pc builders seem to think they can move away from dedicated docks at the same time that increasing sales of ultralight/hybrids with not enough ports and mini portsthat all need adapters are happening- very frustrating. I looked at lenovo and certain models seem highly rated- but those seem to indicate which thinkpad they are compatible with and mine is not listed…again very frustrating. the world seems to be filling up with lots of innovative new tech that is all half baked in terms of providing total solutions.