My travel itinerary is pretty limited these days (thanks for nothing, COVID!), but when I’m able to hit the road again, I’ll be taking the latest iteration of Plugable’s USBC-7IN1E hub with me along with my M1 MacBook Pro.
The new version offers all the features of its predecessor. It also boasts an Ethernet port, plus 4K 60Hz functionality over HDMI. With the USBC-7IN1E, you can transform one USB-C port into seven additional ports, which is very handy considering the M1 MacBook Pro only has two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports.
The Plugable accessory allows you to connect an HDMI monitor, two USB devices, a microSD and full-sized SD card, an Ethernet connection, and a USB-C pass-through port. The latter offers the ability to charge your laptop all through one USB-C cable back to your laptop.
You can use all the ports simultaneously or one at a time. The USBC-7IN1E provides simultaneous port functionality and intelligent power handling. This means no overdrawing power, screen flicker, or port problems.
The USBC-7IN1E is available on Amazon (in the U.S., Canada, UK, and Australia), Newegg, and Walmart for US$34.95 — with a $5 off coupon on Amazon. (Note that the USB-C power adapter isn’t included, and the hub doesn’t work with DisplayPort monitors.)
All Plugable products are backed by a 2-year limited parts and labor warranty as well as Washington-based email customer service support.
Review overview
The Pros
- Very handy for owners of new M1 Mac laptops
- Easy to stow
- Reasonably priced
The Cons
- Some folks may need even more expandability
summary
9If you need additional expandability for your Mac when you travel and don’t want/need a honking big hug, Plugable’s hub is a fine solution.
