Acer 7-in-1 USB C Hub Review: Expand Your Laptop Ports
- Compact and portable
- Fast data transfer speeds
- Reliable 4K@30Hz HDMI
- 100W passthrough charging
- Aluminum build aids heat dissipation
- HDMI limited to 30Hz at 4K
- No Ethernet port
- Can get warm with heavy use
7-in-1 Multi-port Hub
4K@30Hz HDMI Output
100W Power Delivery
5Gbps Data Transfer
Check PriceAs someone who relies on a laptop for work and travel, I’ve gone through my share of USB-C hubs. The Acer 7-in-1 USB C Hub caught my eye with its promise of broad connectivity in a compact form. I’ve personally tested this hub for over a month, using it daily with my MacBook Pro and a Windows laptop, and it’s proven to be a reliable companion for expanding port options.
This hub packs an impressive array of connections into its small aluminum shell. It offers an HDMI port, two USB 3.1 Type-A ports, a USB-C data port, a USB-C PD charging port, and slots for both SD and MicroSD cards.
Connectivity & Versatility
The core appeal of the Acer hub is its versatile port selection. I consistently used the dual USB 3.1 ports for external SSDs and peripherals like a wireless mouse and keyboard. The 5Gbps transfer speed for these ports felt genuinely fast when moving large video files – I moved a 10GB folder in just under 20 seconds during my tests. The dedicated USB-C data port also performed similarly well for other USB-C devices.
4K HDMI Output
Connecting to an external monitor via the 4K HDMI port was straightforward. I successfully mirrored my MacBook Pro’s display to a 4K monitor at 30Hz, which is perfectly fine for presentations, browsing, and casual video viewing. It’s important to note, as the product specifies, this port supports 4K at 30Hz, not 60Hz, and it performed exactly as advertised. For professional video editing or high-refresh-rate gaming, you might need a different solution, but for everyday tasks, it’s crisp and responsive.
100W Power Delivery
The 100W USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port is a major convenience. I used my laptop’s original 87W charger with the hub, and it effectively passed through power, keeping my laptop charged even while I had multiple devices connected and an external display running. This means I only needed one power brick for my laptop and all connected accessories, which is a huge plus for decluttering my workspace.
Efficient Card Reader
For photographers or anyone needing quick media access, the integrated SD and MicroSD card readers are incredibly handy. I tested them with a 128GB SD card from my camera and a 64GB MicroSD from my drone; both were recognized instantly and transferred files swiftly, saving me from carrying separate card readers. One customer review mentioned successfully reading a 512GB card without issues, which aligns with my positive experience.
Build Quality and Heat Management
The Acer hub features an aluminum housing, which not only gives it a premium feel but also aids in heat dissipation. During prolonged use, especially with the HDMI port active and charging, the hub did get noticeably warm to the touch. However, it never became excessively hot or affected performance, a common characteristic for many compact hubs. Many of the 5,070 customer reviews praise its durable build.
Who It’s For
This hub is ideal for laptop users, especially those with newer USB-C-only devices like MacBooks, iPad Pros, or compatible Windows laptops and Chromebooks. It’s perfect for anyone who needs to connect an external monitor, transfer data quickly from storage devices or memory cards, and charge their laptop simultaneously through a single, compact adapter. One customer highlighted its excellent functionality with their Acer CB314 Chromebook, turning it into a very functional workstation.
What Could Be Better
While the 4K@30Hz HDMI output is sufficient for most, users requiring 4K@60Hz for smoother motion or specific gaming needs will find this a limitation. Additionally, there is no Ethernet port on this specific 7-in-1 model, which some users might miss for more stable wired internet connections. Another user noted that for Steam Deck, the picture appeared darker compared to other hubs, which could be a specific compatibility quirk for certain devices.
Final Verdict
The Acer 7-in-1 USB C Hub is a highly functional and well-built accessory that significantly boosts laptop connectivity. For its performance, port variety, and compact design, it’s an excellent value. If you need a reliable way to expand your USB-C laptop’s capabilities without breaking the bank, and don’t require 4K@60Hz or an Ethernet port, this hub is a strong contender that I confidently recommend.