I recently had the opportunity to test the 5-in-1 USB Hub (Model Number: SA-1 / BYL-2010) in Silver/Black, a compact device promising to expand my USB-C laptop’s connectivity options. This review details my experience after several weeks of extensive use.

This little hub packs a punch. It boasts a single USB 3.1 port, two USB 3.0 ports, an SD card reader, and a microSD (TF) card reader – all from a single USB-C connection. The compact design is a major plus; it doesn’t take up much space on my desk, making it perfect for travel and home use. The plug-and-play nature of the device is also a huge advantage; no drivers or software installation was required, saving me time and effort.

Transfer speeds on the USB 3.0 ports were consistently impressive. I transferred large files (several gigabytes) between my external hard drive and laptop, and the speeds easily lived up to the advertised 5 Gbps claim. The SD and microSD card readers worked flawlessly, quickly transferring photos and videos from my cameras. I did notice a slight performance dip when all five ports were in use simultaneously, but this was minor and didn’t significantly impact my workflow. The USB 3.1 port also performed admirably, handling high bandwidth tasks without issue.

I used this hub with my MacBook Pro, and it worked perfectly without any glitches. I also tested it on a Chromebook and an older Windows laptop with USB-C connectivity and it functioned flawlessly in both cases.

Pros:

• Compact and portable design
• Excellent transfer speeds on USB 3.0 ports
• Plug-and-play functionality – no drivers needed
• Wide compatibility with various USB-C devices
• Reliable performance with multiple devices connected

Cons:

• Slight performance reduction when all ports are used simultaneously
• Could benefit from a slightly longer cable.

Overall, the SA-1 / BYL-2010 5-in-1 USB Hub exceeded my expectations. Its compact size, impressive speed, and ease of use make it a fantastic addition to my tech arsenal. While there’s a minor performance dip under heavy load, it’s hardly a deal-breaker. I highly recommend this hub to anyone needing a convenient and efficient way to expand their USB-C laptop’s connectivity. It provides a robust and reliable solution for everyday use and occasional professional applications.