Anker’s reputation precedes it. Known for reliable and well-designed charging solutions, they’ve ventured into the realm of USB hubs with the Ultra Slim 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub (Model Number: A7516 / A7516016). This review details my experience using this compact hub, focusing on its performance, build quality, and overall usability in various scenarios.

The Anker A7516 boasts a truly slim profile, making it unobtrusive on any desk or laptop setup. The included 2-foot cable offers flexibility in placement, and the cable tie is a thoughtful addition for managing excess cable length. The four USB 3.0 ports are readily accessible, and the hub itself feels solid and well-constructed. The simplicity is appealing; it’s plug-and-play, with no drivers required on my MacBook Pro.

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the limitations stated by Anker – it does *not* support charging. This means it’s solely for data transfer and not suited for charging devices like smartphones or tablets. Also, 2.4 GHz wireless devices might experience interference; I did notice some slight lag with my wireless mouse when it was positioned very close to the hub.

The advertised 5Gbps data transfer speed is largely accurate. I tested it with several large files, including high-resolution videos and image libraries. The transfer speeds were consistently impressive, significantly faster than my older USB 2.0 hub. Transferring a 2GB movie file took only a few seconds, a huge improvement over my previous setup. Even with multiple devices connected simultaneously, the hub maintained stable performance without noticeable slowdown.

The build quality is exceptional. The hub has endured several accidental bumps and tugs without any damage. The cable connection feels secure; I purposely tried to bend and twist the cable, and it never detached.

Pros:

• Super-fast data transfer speeds (5Gbps)
• Compact and ultra-slim design
• Durable build quality
• Plug-and-play functionality
• Long, flexible cable

Cons:

• Does not support charging
• Potential for interference with 2.4 GHz wireless devices

Overall, the Anker Ultra Slim 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub (A7516 / A7516016) is a solid performer. The speed, compact design, and sturdy construction make it a valuable addition to my workspace. While the lack of charging capabilities is a notable limitation, for users primarily needing high-speed data transfer, this hub excels. I would highly recommend it for anyone looking to expand their USB connectivity with minimal desk space impact.