QacQoc’s newest product, the GN28K Aluminum UBS-C Hub, is designed for 2016 and 2017MacBook Pros running macOS Sierra and High Sierra. I’m unfamiliar with the China-based company, but the hub provides some much-needed expandability options.
It can simultaneously transfer data and charging devices — to a point. It works with devices based on USB Power Delivery Specification (USB PD protocol), but it’s incompatible with devices based on the QC (Quick Charge 2.0/3.0) charging protocol.
The two competing quick charging methods out there are the proprietary Qualcomm Quick Charge and the USB Power Delivery from the USB-IF standards body. Qualcomm has a near-monopoly in the high-end smartphone SoC market, so nearly every high-end device supports Qualcomm Quick Charge.
Qualcomm SoCs don’t really exist in the laptop market, so Type-C laptops from Apple, Google, and others use USB Power Delivery (USB-PD). Neither one is really better than the other, but the incompatibility means you’re only getting basic charging speeds when you swap chargers.
The GN28K features two USB Type-C ports, a SD and Micro SD card slot, two USB 3.0 ports and one HDMI port (which supports 4K 30Hz). It can satisfy a lot of expansion needs in one hub. The GN28K is specifically designed for new 13-inch and 15-inch MacBook Pro 2016 and 2017 models, and is compact enough for taking on the road.
Just attach it (you do have to apply more force than I expected), and you’re set. Your MacBook will install the hub automatically with no special drivers needed. The aluminum body seems relatively sturdy, though there are some plastic parts, and the cable feels pretty rugged.
The GN28K also sports two USB-C male ports, specifically designed for the new MacBook Pros. One is for power delivery and the other is for data transfer.
The GN28K is reasonably priced (just $89.99). And it coms with a 12-month warranty.
Apple World Today Rating (out of 5 stars): ★★★★
