Plugable Technologies has expanded its connectivity lineup with two new USB-C hubs designed for professionals, content creators, and everyday laptop users. The new Plugable USB-C 6-in-1 Hub (USBC-6IN1) and USB-C 8-in-1 Hub with Ethernet (USBC-8IN1E) bring HDMI 2.1 connectivity, high-refresh-rate display support, and up to 100W power delivery to more affordable accessories.
Both hubs support a single external display at resolutions and refresh rates of up to 4K at 144Hz or 8K at 30Hz, provided the connected computer and display meet the necessary requirements. They also support driver-free operation on Windows, ChromeOS, and macOS, making them suitable for a wide range of compatible laptops.
Plugable Brings High-Refresh-Rate Displays to Affordable Hubs
Previously, Plugable’s USBC-10IN1E was the only hub in its lineup offering 4K 144Hz display support. That model also includes features such as 2.5Gbps Ethernet, fast storage connectivity, and up to 140W charging.
The new 6-in-1 and 8-in-1 models bring similar HDMI 2.1 display capabilities to smaller, more affordable accessories. This makes them attractive options for people who want to connect a laptop to a high-refresh-rate monitor without investing in a larger docking station.
A 144Hz refresh rate can make cursor movement, scrolling, gaming, and video timeline navigation appear smoother than on a conventional 60Hz display. This can be particularly useful for video editors, designers, developers, and gamers who regularly work with high-refresh-rate monitors.
Plugable USB-C 6-in-1 Hub: Compact Connectivity for Everyday Use
The Plugable USBC-6IN1 is designed for users who prioritize portability and high-refresh-rate display performance without needing additional networking or memory card features.
Measuring 4.79 × 1.34 × 0.45 inches, the hub features a space-gray aluminum enclosure and an integrated 6.7-inch USB-C cable. Its compact design makes it convenient for travel, mobile workstations, and desks with limited space.
The hub includes an HDMI 2.1 port, one USB-C data port, and three USB-A ports. The USB-C data port and USB-A ports support transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps, while the USB-C port and one USB-A port can provide up to 7.5W of charging power to compatible accessories.
Its HDMI 2.1 connection supports HDR, 8-bit, 10-bit, and 12-bit color, as well as HDCP 2.3 for protected streaming content. These capabilities make the hub suitable for users who connect their laptops to compatible monitors for entertainment, creative work, or productivity.
The USBC-6IN1 is particularly appealing to people who want a simple way to expand laptop connectivity while retaining access to a high-refresh-rate external display.
Plugable USB-C 8-in-1 Hub With Ethernet: Built for Creatives
The Plugable USBC-8IN1E adds networking and memory card functionality to the high-refresh-rate display features found in the smaller model.
Alongside its HDMI 2.1 port, the hub includes Gigabit Ethernet for wired networking, an SD card reader, a microSD card reader, a USB-C data port, a USB-A 3.0 port, and a USB-A 2.0 port.
Both card readers support the UHS-I standard, with transfer speeds of up to 104MB/s. Because they can operate simultaneously, photographers and video editors can transfer files from SD and microSD cards at the same time rather than swapping cards between separate readers.
The Gigabit Ethernet port offers a wired networking option for users who need a consistent connection for file transfers, video calls, and other network-dependent tasks. The USB-A 2.0 port is also suited to accessories such as 2.4GHz wireless mouse and keyboard receivers.
The hub measures 5.99 × 1.34 × 0.55 inches and features an aluminum enclosure with an integrated 6.7-inch cable.
For creative professionals who frequently transfer media files while working with external monitors, the USBC-8IN1E provides a more comprehensive set of connections in a compact package.
Up to 100W Power Delivery and Broad Compatibility
Both new hubs support USB-C Power Delivery 3.0 passthrough charging. They accept up to 100W from a compatible USB-C charger and pass up to 85W to the connected laptop, reserving approximately 15W for the hub’s operation and connected ports.
They also support Power Delivery 3.0 Fast Role Swap, a feature designed to help connected devices remain operational when the power source is disconnected.
A separate power adapter is not included, but one is not required to use the hubs’ standard connectivity features. Users who want laptop charging through the hubs will need a compatible USB-C Power Delivery charger.
The devices work without additional drivers on Windows, ChromeOS, and macOS. However, display output depends on the capabilities of the host laptop, not just the hub itself.
To use the HDMI output, a laptop must support DisplayPort Alternate Mode over USB-C. Thunderbolt and USB4-equipped laptops generally support this functionality, as do many modern USB-C laptops.
Display Requirements for 4K 144Hz and 8K 30Hz
Although both hubs advertise support for up to 4K at 144Hz or 8K at 30Hz, achieving those modes requires compatible hardware throughout the connection.
For Windows systems, the computer must support DisplayPort 1.4 with Display Stream Compression (DSC) to achieve the highest advertised display modes. Compatible Macs running macOS 26 or later are also supported under the manufacturer’s stated requirements.
According to Plugable, compatible Macs include models with M1 Pro, M1 Max, M2 Pro, M2 Max, and M3-or-newer chips. Base M1 and M2 MacBooks, MacBook Neo, and laptops limited to DisplayPort 1.2 are restricted to 4K at 60Hz.
Users will also need a compatible HDMI 2.1 cable and a monitor capable of displaying the desired resolution and refresh rate.
Before purchasing either hub, customers should check their laptop’s USB-C video output capabilities and monitor specifications to avoid unexpected display limitations.
Plugable’s Focus on Extending Laptop Lifespans
Plugable CEO Lynn Smurthwaite-Murphy said the two hubs were developed to give customers more flexibility rather than simply increase the number of available ports.
The company’s approach focuses on helping people extend the useful life of their existing computers by adding modern connectivity features without requiring a complete hardware upgrade.
The new hubs reflect that goal by offering high-refresh-rate display support alongside practical connections for peripherals, wired networking, memory cards, and laptop charging.
Both products also include a two-year warranty and access to Plugable’s North America-based customer support team. Customers can additionally use Watts, the company’s AI support assistant, for quick answers to common questions.
Pricing and Availability
The Plugable USB-C 6-in-1 Hub (USBC-6IN1) is available for $39.99, while the USB-C 8-in-1 Hub with Ethernet (USBC-8IN1E) is priced at $59.99.
Plugable’s announcement lists a 20 percent launch discount for both products through the company’s official website and Amazon.
Plugable USB-C 6-in-1 Hub (USBC-6IN1)
- Launch price: $39.99
- Plugable Official store:
- Amazon: Available through the company’s product listing
Plugable USB-C 8-in-1 Hub with Ethernet (USBC-8IN1E)
- Launch price: $59.99
- Plugable Official store
- Amazon: Available through the company’s product listing
Both hubs include a two-year warranty and access to Plugable’s customer support resources.
