Expert rating
Benefits
- Slim and compact
- Fast
- Can charge multiple devices simultaneously
- Can connect up to six devices at once
Our opinion
Satechi’s Thunderbolt 4 Slim Hub is exactly what you’d expect from a high-end USB-C hub: it looks good, is well-built, and performs impressively. The price is also very reasonable for all you get.
Best Prices Today: Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Slim Hub
$199.99
As seasoned Mac users already know, ports are rare on many Apple laptops.
Granted, its Pro line of laptops has reintroduced some key connectors in recent years. But if you’re using something like a MacBook Air, there are only two USB-C ports available.
No matter what you use a MacBook for, a Thunderbolt hub can come in handy. If you are a creative professional, this is even more important.
Design, ports and features
- Speed up to 40 Gbps
- Four Thunderbolt 4 ports – can connect up to six devices
- Looks good, but the power adapter is large
The Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Slim Hub has a bandwidth of up to 40Gbps, making it perfect for connecting external displays and other gear that requires high bandwidth. It’s also a good option if your MacBook can’t supply enough power on its own – there’s up to 60W available.
On the back of the hub, you’ll find three Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports. Thanks to the daisy chain connection, they allow you to connect up to six devices in total, each delivering 15W of power. On the front, there’s another Thunderbolt 4 port (used only to receive power and data), as well as a USB-A connector with speeds of up to 10Gbps.
In terms of appearance, the Thunderbolt 4 Slim Hub is similar to many rivals. It adopts the same sleek design and matte space gray finish that Apple uses on its MacBooks. The hub is made of aluminum and offers all the features you would expect from a high end accessory.
The only thing to complain about is the size of the power adapter, which is surprisingly large. Rather than being separate, it would be nice to see the adapter built into the device. But it’s a problem that plagues most USB-C hubs.
Pricing & Availability
For everything you get here, the Thunderbolt 4 Slim Hub is incredibly affordable.
In the US, it costs $199.99 directly from Satechi and via Amazon. In the UK it’s £199.99 from Megamac.
Compare that to most of the entries in our table of Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 hubs and docks, which are often much more expensive.
Verdict
Simply, Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Slim Hub is one of the best hubs you can buy for a MacBook (or any computer with Thunderbolt ports).
In a sleek and attractive design, you get impressive speeds of up to 40 Gbps, plus the ability to charge multiple devices at once. With three USB-C and one USB-A, there are plenty of ports to choose from.
To top it off, the device is also cheaper than many rivals. If you can live with a big power adapter, this is a great choice.
This article was translated from an original posted on Macworld Sweden.
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