The Plugable USB-C 9-in-1 Hub delivers strong performance as a compact, plug-and-play solution for expanding laptop connections. Tech reviewer Michael Bizzaco praised its ability to handle multiple devices simultaneously without driver issues, noting reliable 4K/60Hz HDMI output and 140W pass-through charging. Customer reviews on Staples echoed these positives, with users highlighting ease of use and solid build quality. However, some users noted the short built-in cable and single HDMI port as limitations, while a few mentioned the hub gets warm under heavy load. This hub is ideal for professionals seeking a portable, reliable expansion solution but may not suit users requiring multiple video outputs or extensive data transfer.
Full review
Design and Portability
The Plugable USBC-9IN1E presents a compact, well-engineered form factor that measures 0.6 x 1.3 x 7.2 inches and weighs just 4.7 ounces, making it highly portable for both office and travel use. TechRadar's review highlighted the device's sleek profile and the way it tucks easily into laptop sleeves or backpacks, which aligns with How-To Geek's assessment that it's ideal for cramped home offices or mobile workstations. The hub features a metal build that feels solid and durable, though some reviewers noted the large logo may not appeal to minimalist users. The design places all ports on one side, except for the Gigabit Ethernet port, which is positioned on the opposite end, creating a streamlined layout that minimizes cable tangles.
However, the built-in 7.48-inch USB-C cable has drawn criticism from users who found it limiting in terms of placement flexibility. A Staples reviewer noted that 'the wire gets somewhat in the way of better placement of the hub but it’s also not a huge concern,' while another user stated that the fixed cable 'may feel less flexible than detachable-cable docks.' Despite this, Plugable's own marketing materials emphasize the convenience of the integrated cable, which eliminates the need for carrying an additional cable. The hub's dimensions and weight make it particularly suitable for users who frequently travel or work in tight spaces, though the fixed cable length could be a drawback for some setups.
Power Delivery and Charging
One of the standout features of the Plugable USBC-9IN1E is its 140W pass-through charging capability, supported by Power Delivery 3.1 Extended Power Range (PD 3.1 EPR). RTINGS tested this feature and confirmed that it delivers up to 125W to EPR-capable hosts such as 16-inch MacBook Pros, while providing 85W to SPR hosts. This makes it one of the few hubs in its class capable of handling high-power laptops without compromising performance or charging speed. The hub's ability to charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro up to 50% in just 30 minutes, as claimed by Plugable, was verified by multiple reviewers, including those at WIRED, who noted its impressive charging performance.
However, some users have reported that the hub gets slightly warm under heavy usage, particularly when multiple devices are connected. A Staples reviewer mentioned that 'the hub gets a bit warm with multiple connections but no big deal,' and while this is not a critical issue, it does indicate that the device may struggle under sustained high-load conditions. The hub's PD 3.1 EPR support is a clear advantage over competitors like the Anker 555, which only supports up to 100W input and 85W passthrough. This makes the Plugable 9-in-1 a better choice for users who need to power high-draw laptops and peripherals simultaneously without experiencing charging bottlenecks.
Connectivity and Performance
The Plugable USBC-9IN1E delivers a comprehensive array of connectivity options, including one 4K 60Hz HDMI output with HDR support, two USB-A 10Gbps ports (one with BC 1.2 charging), one USB-C 10Gbps port, one USB-A 2.0 port, SD and microSD card readers (UHS-II), and a Gigabit Ethernet port. RTINGS tested the hub's data transfer speeds and found that the USB 3.0 ports achieved around 315Mbps download and 36Mbps upload speeds over Gigabit Ethernet, which is consistent with the performance reported by How-To Geek. The HDMI output was confirmed to deliver crisp, high-quality visuals at 4K resolution, with no reported lag or display issues during testing.
In terms of data transfer, the hub's USB 3.0 ports were capable of transferring 26GB of HD video files in about 10 minutes, achieving an average of 43 megabytes per second, which aligns with expectations for older USB drives. The USB-C 10Gbps ports were also tested and found to be fast and reliable, with no noticeable degradation in performance even when multiple devices were connected. The SD and microSD card readers, which support UHS-II, were noted for their speed and reliability, making them particularly useful for photographers and videographers who need to transfer large files quickly. The hub's ability to handle multiple devices simultaneously without conflicts was praised by several reviewers, including those at How-To Geek, who noted that the device recognized each new component instantly and required no additional drivers.
Real-World Performance
During real-world testing, the Plugable USBC-9IN1E demonstrated consistent performance across a range of tasks. How-To Geek's reviewer connected multiple devices including three USB-A flash drives, an SD card, and a Scarlet 2i2 recording interface, all of which functioned flawlessly. The hub was able to handle the load without any noticeable slowdown or device recognition issues, and the built-in USB-C cable did not interfere with the overall setup. The device's ability to maintain stable performance while charging a MacBook Pro and running multiple peripherals simultaneously was particularly impressive, with no reported overheating or performance degradation.
A key test scenario involved using the hub with a MacBook Pro M1, where the reviewer connected the hub to a Thunderbolt 3 port and plugged in the laptop's power cable into the 140W host port. This setup allowed for continuous use without battery drain, and all connected devices were recognized instantly. The hub's performance was also tested with Gigabit Ethernet, where it achieved download speeds of approximately 315Mbps and upload speeds of 36Mbps, which is in line with typical home ISP performance. The HDMI output was tested with a 4K monitor, and the display quality was described as 'stunning' by one reviewer, with no visible artifacts or lag. The hub's ability to support multiple devices while maintaining high-speed data transfer and stable video output was a major selling point for users who need a reliable, all-in-one solution.
User Experience and Setup
The Plugable USBC-9IN1E offers a truly plug-and-play experience, requiring no additional drivers or software installations. This was confirmed by How-To Geek's reviewer, who noted that the device was recognized instantly upon connection, with appropriate shortcut icons appearing on the desktop. The setup process was described as simple and straightforward by multiple reviewers, including those at Staples, who praised its ease of use and immediate functionality. The hub's design allows for quick and easy connection of multiple devices, with no need for complex configuration or troubleshooting.
One reviewer from Staples noted that the device 'frees up some slots on the computer, provides expansion, and was easy to place,' while another described it as 'super simple to use' and 'makes it easy to have multiple things plugged in.' The hub's ability to accommodate a wide range of devices, from USB-A flash drives to SD cards and Ethernet cables, without any compatibility issues was consistently praised. The only minor inconvenience mentioned was the fixed cable length, which could limit placement options in some setups. However, most reviewers felt that the convenience of the integrated cable outweighed this limitation, especially for users who prioritize portability and simplicity over flexibility in cable placement.
Where It Falls Short
Despite its many strengths, the Plugable USBC-9IN1E does have some notable drawbacks. The most commonly cited issue is the single HDMI output, which limits users to connecting only one external monitor. A reviewer from Staples noted that 'the biggest downside is the single HDMI port. A DP port in addition would allow for either 2 external monitors or a wider option of monitors.' This limitation could be a dealbreaker for users who require dual-monitor setups or need to connect to different types of displays. Additionally, while the hub's 140W charging capability is impressive, some users have reported that the device gets slightly warm under heavy usage, which could be a concern for extended work sessions or when multiple high-power devices are connected.
Another issue raised by users is the fixed cable length, which some found restrictive in terms of placement flexibility. A reviewer from Staples noted that 'the wire gets somewhat in the way of better placement of the hub but it’s also not a huge concern,' but this limitation could be more problematic for users with specific desk setups or those who need to position the hub in tight spaces. The hub's design, while functional, may not appeal to users who prefer more modular or customizable solutions. Furthermore, while the device is well-suited for most users, those requiring more advanced features such as DisplayPort connectivity or Thunderbolt support may find the Plugable USBC-9IN1E lacking in comparison to higher-end alternatives.
Who It's Best For
The Plugable USBC-9IN1E is ideal for professionals, remote workers, and students who need a compact, reliable hub to expand their laptop's connectivity options. Its 140W pass-through charging, 4K HDMI output, and wide range of ports make it particularly suitable for MacBook Pro users who require high-speed data transfer and video output without sacrificing charging performance. TechRadar's review highlighted its value for users who need a versatile hub that can handle multiple devices simultaneously, while WIRED praised its solid build and comprehensive feature set. The device is especially well-suited for those who work in environments where space is limited, such as cramped home offices or mobile workstations.
However, users who require dual-monitor setups or need DisplayPort connectivity may find the Plugable USBC-9IN1E lacking. The single HDMI output is a significant limitation for those who need to connect multiple displays. Additionally, users who prioritize customizable cable solutions or need to position the hub in tight spaces may be disappointed by the fixed cable length. The hub is also not ideal for users who require Thunderbolt 3 or 4 support, as it only supports USB-C and USB-A connections. For those who prioritize simplicity, portability, and a wide range of standard connectivity options, the Plugable USBC-9IN1E is an excellent choice. It strikes a good balance between performance, price, and portability, making it a strong contender for users who need a reliable, all-in-one solution without the complexity of more advanced hubs.
Value and Competition
Priced competitively at around $49.95, the Plugable USBC-9IN1E offers exceptional value for money, especially when compared to similar hubs with comparable features. The hub's 140W pass-through charging, 4K HDMI output, and comprehensive port selection make it a standout option in its price range. RTINGS noted that the device's PD 3.1 EPR support and 125W passthrough charging capability set it apart from competitors like the Anker 555, which only supports up to 100W input and 85W passthrough. This makes the Plugable 9-in-1 a better choice for users who need to power high-draw laptops and peripherals simultaneously without experiencing charging bottlenecks.
The hub's value proposition is further enhanced by its broad compatibility with most USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt laptops, including MacBook Pro/Air, Dell XPS, HP, and Surface models. The inclusion of lifetime support from Plugable’s North American team adds to its appeal, as it provides users with peace of mind regarding long-term maintenance and troubleshooting. While some reviewers noted that the device gets slightly warm under heavy usage, this is a minor drawback that does not significantly impact overall performance. The hub's ability to handle multiple devices without conflicts, combined with its fast data transfer speeds and reliable video output, makes it a strong contender in the USB-C hub market. For users who need a versatile, reliable, and well-supported hub, the Plugable USBC-9IN1E is a solid investment.
Strengths
- +Plug-and-play design with no drivers required
- +Supports 4K/60Hz HDMI output and 140W pass-through charging
- +All ports work flawlessly with multiple devices connected
- +Compact and portable with lightweight build
Watch-outs
- −Built-in USB-C cable is rather short
- −Only one video output (HDMI) limits multi-monitor setups
- −Hub gets warm with multiple connections
How it compares
The Plugable USBC-9IN1E offers a plug-and-play design and 140W pass-through charging that outperforms the Anker 555, but lacks the HDMI output and USB-A ports of the Anker 563. Unlike the CalDigit TS4, it's more compact and affordable but provides fewer ports and no 98W power delivery. Compared to the UGREEN Revodok Max, it's more affordable and easier to use, though it lacks the Thunderbolt 4 performance and vertical stand capability of the UGREEN.
Who this is for
At a glance: portable professionals seeking reliable expansion.
Why you’d buy the Plugable USBC-9IN1E
- Plug-and-play design with no drivers required.
- Supports 4K/60Hz HDMI output and 140W pass-through charging.
- All ports work flawlessly with multiple devices connected.
Why you’d skip it
- Built-in USB-C cable is rather short.
- Only one video output (HDMI) limits multi-monitor setups.
- Hub gets warm with multiple connections.
Rating sources
“The Plugable USBC-9IN1E Hub Has It All (Seriously, All of It… Well, No, Not That. Weirdo) Chris Webster | November 07, 2024 If you're in a cushy office, a cramped home workspace, or constantly on the move, it's time to simplify with the Plugable USBC-9IN1E .”
Our 4.5 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
