UGREEN 80856 (CM380) 6-in-1 USB-C Hub Review: MacBook Air/Pro Compatibility

The UGREEN 80856 (CM380) 6-in-1 USB-C Hub promises to expand the connectivity of your MacBook Air or Pro with a sleek and compact design. After several weeks of rigorous testing, I’m ready to share my detailed insights into its performance, functionality, and overall value.

This hub boasts an impressive array of features. It includes a 4K HDMI port for connecting to external displays, a Thunderbolt 3 USB-C port for high-speed data transfer and potentially 8K video output, an SD card reader, a TF card reader, and two USB 3.0 ports. All this is packaged in a stylish space grey aluminium casing designed to complement Apple’s aesthetic.

The simultaneous support for SD and TF cards is a real bonus, allowing for quick file transfers from both types of memory cards without the need to swap them. The inclusion of two USB 3.0 ports ensures ample connectivity for peripherals like mice, keyboards, and external hard drives.

The 4K HDMI output worked flawlessly during my testing, consistently delivering sharp, clear images at 3840×2160@30Hz. I connected it to several monitors, both at home and in the office, with no issues. The Thunderbolt 3 port delivered the advertised speeds, though I didn’t utilize its maximum potential (8K output capabilities) during this review.

Data transfer speeds via the USB 3.0 ports were consistently fast, comparable to other high-speed USB hubs I’ve used. Reading and writing to the SD/TF card slots were equally impressive; I saw speeds consistently in line with the manufacturer’s claims.

The build quality felt solid and premium; the aluminum body contributes to its durability and adds a sophisticated touch.

Pros:

  • Sleek and compact design.
  • Excellent 4K HDMI output.
  • Fast data transfer speeds via USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 3.
  • Simultaneous SD/TF card reader functionality.
  • Premium build quality.
  • Good compatibility with various MacBook models.

Cons:

  • The Thunderbolt 3 port’s 8K video output capabilities were not fully tested.
  • Some users may find the lack of an Ethernet port a minor inconvenience.

Overall, the UGREEN 80856 (CM380) 6-in-1 USB-C Hub is a highly capable and well-designed product. It offers a comprehensive range of features, excellent performance, and premium build quality. While I didn’t fully test the 8K potential of the Thunderbolt 3 port, the 4K HDMI and fast data transfer speeds alone justify the purchase. The simultaneous SD/TF card reader functionality is a fantastic addition. I highly recommend this hub for anyone seeking to expand the connectivity of their MacBook Air or Pro.

Colour Name Silver
Model Number 80856
Model Name CM380
Item Quantity 1