1ByOne 3-Port USB 3.0 Hub with USB-C and Ethernet: review
We've seen a lot this "USB-C" news in 2015, and you'll have probably noticed that a lot of the latest technology now consists of USB-C. USB-C is basically the updated version of the USB tech that we use - meaning that it is designed to be a universal power and data port that can connect and power devices such as smartphones and laptops, etc.
The USB Hub comes with a Warranty Card, User Manual, and Velcro strip.
Chinese consumer electronics wizard, 1byOne, has now introduced a 3-port USB 3.0 Hub that includes USB-C and Ethernet connectivity.
The design of the hub is very modern and good looking - it matches a lot of the things i have in my room which is an added bonus. Its body is based on a brushed aluminium tube, with shiny chrome detailing, and white accents here and there. The product's appearance looks like something of Apple's produce; it’s like a complementary accessory for your MacBook, and i say this because it looks like a high quality, premium device that will surely benefit the average consumer.
The USB Hub comes with diverse abilities, making it more open, accessible, and usable. As the device utilises USB-C, you automatically get a cable which can be plugged in either way and 1Byone have carried this on with a power cable that also plugs in either way. If I’m seriously honest, it is pretty simple to set-up, use and maintain the USB Hub regularly. All you have to do is plug the USB-C into a device (that can run and connect with USB-C devices), and insert a normal USB device into the hub. All of the ports in the hub are USB 3.0 so there’s no need to plug in a particular place although there is a high wattage USB port for charging other devices. There's also the Ethernet port involved, too.
One issue I encountered during the testing of this product is when I inserted a USB device connected to the hub, the USB hub tumbled to one side, and this meant that the body of the USB hub is not very stable. However, to overcome this issue, 1ByOne provide a Velcro piece for you to apply to a place where you regularly place the USB Hub, e.g. a desk, or laptop edge. This is beneficial as it enabled me to organise my desk, and use the USB Hub when I needed to, as well as keep it safe and secure in a place where I will remember where exactly I left the hub.
The device’s design is strong and futuristic, but the only thing I don’t like is the 40cm USB-C cable that is permanently attached to the hub. On the other hand, there is also a port for the Ethernet cable, which I find quite convenient and it is a brilliant feature for this hub.
All in all, the USB hub is one of the cheapest premium and powerful ones available on the market. Priced at only £15.99 (at the time of this review), this device from 1ByOne gives us a view into the future that promises us a lot of positive products in the USB-C area of technology. If you own tech such as the new Apple MacBook, Google Chromebook Pixel, or the OnePlus 2 smartphone – you should have this USB hub at the top of your shopping list when looking for new gadgets and accessories. Not only does the USB hub have a beautiful design, it also works like a dream – ticking all the boxes.
