7 In 1 PowerExpand+ (A8352HA1) USB-C Hub Adapter Review – MacBook Pro, Chromebook, XPS Compatible
The PowerExpand+ (A8352HA1) 7-in-1 USB-C Hub promises a seamless expansion of your laptop’s connectivity. After spending several weeks using this grey hub with my MacBook Pro, Chromebook, and even a friend’s XPS, I’m ready to share my comprehensive review.
This hub boasts a versatile array of ports, making it a convenient addition to any workstation. The design is sleek and unobtrusive, which I appreciated. The 5 Gbps transfer speed is a key selling point, and it certainly lives up to the hype during file transfers.
| Colour Name | Grey |
|---|---|
| Connection Type | Wired |
| What’s In The Box | USB Hub |
| Features | Business, Personal, PC |
| Model Number | A8352HA1 |
| Model Name | PowerExpand+ |
| Item Quantity | 1 |
File transfers were noticeably quick, easily exceeding expectations for everyday tasks. I transferred large video files (4K resolution) and large music libraries between my external hard drive and laptop without any significant lag. Streaming 4K video to an external monitor also worked flawlessly, with minimal noticeable latency. The hub remained cool to the touch even during extended use. However, I did notice a slight drop in transfer speeds when using multiple ports simultaneously, though this was minimal and not a dealbreaker for most users.
The build quality felt solid and durable, suggesting it can withstand regular use. The grey color blends well with most laptops, maintaining a professional and unassuming aesthetic. I particularly liked the ease of use; simply plug and play, no additional drivers needed for the devices I tested.
One minor point – occasionally, when connecting multiple high-power devices, I experienced a slight power draw on my laptop’s battery. This wasn’t a consistent issue, and mostly occurred when using power-hungry peripherals like external hard drives and a large monitor concurrently.
Pros:
- Fast 5Gbps transfer speeds.
- Sleek and compact design.
- Easy plug-and-play functionality.
- Durable build quality.
- Versatile range of ports.
Cons:
- Minor power draw when using multiple high-power peripherals.
- Slight reduction in transfer speed when using all ports simultaneously (negligible for most users).
Overall, the PowerExpand+ (A8352HA1) 7-in-1 USB-C Hub is a highly effective and convenient solution for expanding your laptop’s connectivity options. The speed, versatility, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment. While there are minor drawbacks, they are outweighed by its numerous benefits. I highly recommend this hub to anyone needing a reliable and efficient way to connect multiple peripherals to their laptop.
