By Taylor Bennett 
Anker USB C Hub Review: Compact Connectivity Powerhouse
In today’s mobile world, expanding your laptop’s connectivity is crucial. Today, we’re reviewing the Anker USB C Hub, a popular choice for MacBook, Dell, and other laptop users seeking a compact and versatile solution.
Detailed Review
The Anker USB C Hub, specifically the 5-in-1 model with 4K HDMI, is designed to address the limited port selection often found on modern laptops. It’s a compact USB-C dongle offering a selection of ports to enhance productivity and entertainment capabilities. Let’s delve into the specifics.
Functionality: This hub provides a good range of ports: one USB-C for power delivery, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port and an HDMI port. The 90W pass-through charging is a definite highlight, allowing you to keep your laptop powered while using the other ports. The note that the USB-C power delivery port is *only* for charging the laptop and *cannot* power peripherals is important and something to keep in mind. The quick data transfers offered by the USB 3.0 port, claiming speeds of up to 5Gbps, certainly make transferring files a breeze. The inclusion of USB 2.0 ports at 480 Mbps might seem a bit dated, but they are still useful for mice, keyboards, and other peripherals that don’t require high bandwidth. Displaying 4K resolution at 30Hz via HDMI is sufficient for most users, although refresh rate-sensitive users may want to consider higher-end options.
Usability: The hub is plug-and-play for compatible operating systems (macOS 12+, Windows 10/11, ChromeOS) which require laptops to be equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. The compact design means it won’t take up much space in your bag, making it a good travel companion. The fact that it’s not compatible with Linux might be a dealbreaker for some developers and power users.
Build Quality: Anker is generally known for producing high-quality products, and this hub seems to follow suit. The materials feel robust and should withstand regular use. The compact design also contributes to its durability.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and portable design | USB-C port only for power delivery |
| 90W pass-through charging | Limited to 4K at 30Hz |
| Fast 5Gbps USB 3.0 data transfer | Not compatible with Linux |
| Plug-and-play usability for compatible OS | Charger not included |
| Includes 2 USB 2.0 ports for legacy devices |
Excellent Alternatives
- USB C Hub 6 in 1 This offers a slightly expanded port selection for more diverse connectivity needs.
- USB C Hub with 60W Power Delivery: A similar hub but with slightly lower power delivery for less demanding laptops.
- USB C Hub 4K 60Hz: If you need a higher refresh rate for your 4K display, consider this alternative.
Final Verdict
The Anker USB C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI) offers a convenient and effective solution for expanding the connectivity of modern laptops. Its compact design, 90W pass-through charging, and fast data transfer speeds make it a worthwhile investment for users needing a portable and reliable hub, especially for MacOS and Windows based laptops. Just remember the charger is not included and it’s not compatible with Linux.
Our Rating
★★★★☆ 4/5