Dual-Purpose Powerhouse: Dockcase 7-in-1 USB-C Hub with SSD Enclosure Review

Dockcase 7-in-1 USB-C Hub with SSD Enclosure Review: Best of Both Worlds

Overview Dockcase has combined its expertise in USB-C hubs and SSD enclosures to create the 7-in-1 USB-C Hub with SSD Enclosure, a versatile accessory that offers both extensive connectivity and additional storage. This review explores its design, features, performance, and use cases.

Design The hub comes with a screwdriver, extension board for SSD adjustments, and a 40Gbps braided cable. It has a 1.90-inch 16-bit LCD touchscreen that displays power status, SSD information, and connectivity details. The design is sleek, made of aluminum alloy and tempered glass, and it measures 97.8mm x 55.0mm x 20.5mm.

Connectivity The hub offers a variety of ports, including USB-C, USB-A, HDMI, SD card reader, and microSD card reader, making it suitable for various devices and use cases. It is compatible with multiple operating systems but not with Nintendo Switch, Dell G Series, Alienware Gaming laptops, or Microsoft Surface products.

Performance

• Fan and Cooling: The fan can be loud due to its constant operation to maintain a temperature of 39 degrees Celsius. However, the fan's speed can be adjusted or turned off for quieter use.
• Read/Write Speeds: It provides read/write speeds of around 1000 MB/s for 1GB and 850 MB/s for 5GB, making it faster than a thumb drive but not as fast as an optimized SSD.

Use Cases The hub is ideal for professionals who need portable storage and multiple ports, such as musicians, photographers, hybrid workers, and more. It keeps a MacBook's second port free while providing necessary connectivity.

Pros

• Lots of connectivity options in a compact size
• LCD touchscreen enhances ease of use
• Impressive fan and SSD safety measures

Cons

• The fan can be distracting
• Jack of all trades, master of none

Rating: 4 out of 5

Availability The Dockcase 7-in-1 USB-C Hub with SSD Enclosure is available on Kickstarter until March 7, 2025, and mass production is estimated for April, with shipping in May. It will likely be available later on their website.