Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 4K HDMI

Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub with 4K HDMI (commonly known as the Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), model A8356 or A8355 series variants) is a compact, reliable adapter from Anker designed to expand a single USB-C port on laptops, tablets, or devices into multiple connections. It supports 4K HDMI output, fast data transfer, and pass-through charging—perfect for productivity setups in Nairobi (e.g., connecting external monitors, keyboards, mice, or drives while powering your laptop).

This is Anker’s popular entry-to-mid-range 5-in-1 hub, emphasizing plug-and-play compatibility with MacBook, Windows laptops (Dell, HP, Lenovo), Chromebooks, and more (requires USB-C with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery support).

Key Features and Specifications

• Ports (5-in-1 expansion):
  • 1× HDMI: Up to 4K@30Hz (3840×2160) resolution (mirror or extend display; HDMI 1.4 standard).
  • 1× USB-C data port: 5Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 1), up to 7.5W output (5V/1.5A).
  • 2× USB-A data ports: 5Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 1), total ~4.5W shared (5V/0.9A per port).
  • 1× USB-C PD-IN: Up to 100W input (pass-through charging for laptop up to ~85W output, depending on device/charger).
• Data Transfer: Up to 5Gbps speeds (fast file transfers, external drives).
• Pass-Through Charging: Connect a charger to the PD-IN port to power your laptop while using the hub (e.g., charge MacBook while outputting to monitor).
• Design: Compact and lightweight (~78g, ~120 × 52 × 15mm approx.), aluminum or durable plastic body (grey/black), no built-in cables (plugs directly into USB-C).
• Compatibility: Works with MacBook (Pro/Air, macOS 12+), Windows 10/11 laptops with USB-C DP Alt Mode + PD, ChromeOS, some tablets; not for Linux in some cases. Note: USB-C data port doesn’t support video output.
• Other: Plug-and-play (no drivers needed), overheat/short-circuit protection.

Performance and User Feedback

It provides smooth 4K@30Hz external display (great for productivity/multitasking on a larger monitor), reliable 5Gbps data speeds, and effective pass-through charging (laptop stays powered while connected). Users love the build quality (Anker reliability), compact size for travel/bags, and value—especially for MacBook users needing HDMI + ports. Drawbacks: HDMI limited to 30Hz (not ideal for high-refresh gaming), shared power across ports (slower when charging multiple devices), and no 60Hz 4K in some setups. Reviews average 4.5–4.7/5—praised as a “solid budget hub” for everyday use.