For those constantly juggling multiple devices and peripherals, a robust USB-C hub is a necessity, not a luxury. The 5-in-1 USB-C Hub (Model 20197), a sleek silver device promising seamless connectivity and 4K display capabilities, landed on my desk recently. Over the past few weeks, I’ve put it through its paces, testing its performance with various devices and workloads. This review details my experience with this compact multiport adapter.

The 20197 boasts a compact design, fitting seamlessly into the minimalist aesthetic of modern laptops. Its five ports include a 4K-capable HDMI output, and four USB 3.0 ports. The advertised transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps are certainly attractive for anyone dealing with large files. The aluminium casing feels robust and promises better heat dissipation, a welcome feature for any hub consistently under load.

I tested the 20197 extensively with my MacBook Pro M2, connecting a 4K monitor via HDMI, a keyboard, mouse, and external hard drive via the USB 3.0 ports. The 4K output was crisp and stable, with no noticeable lag or dropped frames. File transfers were indeed speedy, noticeably faster than using standard USB 2.0 ports. The hub remained remarkably cool even during extended use, confirming the manufacturer’s claims regarding heat dissipation. I also tested its compatibility with my iPad Pro and a Windows laptop – it functioned flawlessly on both.

While the performance was generally excellent, I did notice a slight decrease in transfer speed when all four USB 3.0 ports were utilized simultaneously. This isn’t unexpected, given bandwidth limitations, but something to keep in mind for users needing maximum throughput on all ports concurrently. The 4k output worked flawlessly at 30hz, as advertised, but I did not test higher refresh rates.

Pros

• Compact and portable design
• Fast data transfer speeds via USB 3.0
• Stable 4K HDMI output (at 30Hz)
• Good heat dissipation
• Wide compatibility across different operating systems

Cons

• Slight performance reduction with all USB 3.0 ports in use
• No support for higher refresh rates on the HDMI output tested

Overall, the 5-in-1 USB-C Hub (Model 20197) is a solid addition to my tech arsenal. Its compact size, speed, and reliable performance make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking to expand their laptop’s connectivity options. While the slight performance drop under heavy load is a minor drawback, it’s easily outweighed by the overall functionality and convenience it provides. I would confidently recommend this hub to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile solution.