A USB-C hub adds additional ports for connecting monitors, storage devices, and other peripherals. However, docking stations are especially useful for fixed workstations, as they replace adapters and minimize the need to change cables.
Right now, you can get the Anker Nano 10-in-1 USB-C Hub (with Smart Display) for just $79.99 at Amazon. That’s a 20 percent discount off the MSRP of $99.99. This is the first time we have seen a price drop since September. So far, we’ve seen it at full price.
What it has to offer
The Anker hub combines 10 ports in a compact case that measures 13 x 5 x 5.6 centimeters. These include HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C with up to 10 Gbit/s, USB-A with up to 10 Gbit/s, two other USB-A ports with up to five Gbit/s each, Gigabit Ethernet, and SD and microSD card readers supporting the 3.0 standard. This allows you to connect monitors, a mouse, a keyboard, external drives, and memory cards to a single device. That said, it does not have a separate audio output.
For video output, the hub supports up to 4K at 144 Hertz or 2K at 240 Hertz monitor. Alternatively, you can use two displays up to 2K and 240 Hertz. Maximum performance depends on the specifications of the laptop and connected monitors. Video output is only via HDMI and DisplayPort. The hub does not support USB-C monitors.
There is a smart display built into the front of the device. Shows port status, charging power, data transfer speed and device temperature in real time. You can also upload your own images and view them in a slideshow. A customizable focus timer helps you structure your work sessions. You can even adjust the display settings and 25-minute focus timer via the web panel. The accompanying app allows you to start photo slideshows and install firmware updates.
About 80 percent of the ports face rear, allowing cables to be routed backward or downward. The permanent host cable connects the hub to the laptop and offers some flexibility in terms of placement. For power delivery, the hub features a USB-C port with up to 100 watts of Power Delivery. According to the manufacturer, up to 80 watts are available to charge the connected laptop. However, Anker does not supply a suitable power adapter.
For optimal performance, the manufacturer recommends a USB-C charger with at least 65 watts. Without an external power source, the laptop powers the hub, ensuring its basic functions remain available. The front USB-C port and USB-A ports are for data transfer only, meaning they are not suitable for charging or video output.
Anker lists Windows 10, Windows 11, and macOS as supported operating systems. On macOS, two connected external monitors display the same screen content. According to the manufacturer, displaying different content on both screens is only possible in Windows. The hub is not compatible with Linux.
Why this is a good business
For $79.99, you get a docking station that combines multiple ports into a single device and displays additional information on its smart display. This makes it particularly attractive to anyone who regularly uses a laptop on a desk, connects multiple monitors, or transfers data from memory cards.
Reviews (so far) have praised the wide range of ports and solid build quality. Several buyers highlight the screen, magnetic support, and the ability to connect monitors, network devices, and peripherals to a single device. The rear-facing port panel and permanently attached braided cable are also welcome.
However, there are some limitations: one user criticizes the lack of audio output and the limitation to Gigabit Ethernet. Others point out that achieving high refresh rates depends on the laptop’s technical specifications. Mac users should also expect both external displays to display the same image. Another user notes that the permanently attached cable cannot be easily replaced if it fails. The lack of a power supply can also lead to additional costs.
