While the new MacBooks boast powerful processing capabilities, when it comes to connectivity ports, you are left with just a couple of USB Type-C ports. For entry-level MacBooks like the Air, you just have two USB Type-C ports and you have to use one of them to charge the device. Also, it is quite difficult to fit in any other adapter or flash drive on the MacBook if the device is plugged to the charging cable because there’s hardly any gap between the two USB Type-C ports. This is why accessories brands started to make USB Type-C Hubs and Stuffcool has launched its Earl 4-in-1 Type C Hub with support for 4K video playback through HDMI.
The 4-in-1 hub works with both MacBooks and Windows laptops and needs to be plugged to the USB Type-C port. It has a total of four ports– one USB Type-C port for data sync and charging up to 100W, two regular USB Type-A ports (1 x USB 3.0 and 1 x USB 2.0) that allow data syncing and charging and an HDMI port capable of 4K playback. The hub flaunts an aluminium body and is quite compact. You can use all the 4 ports together.
For faster data transfers, you can use the USB 3.0 port while the USB 2.0 port can be used to connect an external accessory like a mouse or charge another device. The Type-C port can also be used to connect flash drives or charge other devices. You can even charge the MacBook as well using the Type-C port. You can use the HDMI port to an external display or projector. The HDMI port supports 4K video output and you can stream 4K videos at 30Hz or Full HD 1080p resolution videos to HDTV. There’s support for High Definition Sound as well.
Verdict:
While there are a lot of USB Hubs available out there in the market, the Stuffcool Earl 4-in-1 Type-C Hub differentiates itself with its good build quality, reliability and also the affordable price. It’s a handy plug-and-play device that doesn’t need any additional setup.
