Plugable has rolled out two new USB-C hubs that bring high-refresh-rate HDMI output to Macs without the need for a large dock. Starting at just $39.99, these hubs offer 4K at 144Hz or 8K at 30Hz via HDMI 2.1 for compatible devices.
Capsule Specs of the New Plugable Hubs
The entry-level model, called the USBC-6IN1, is priced at $39.99. It includes one HDMI 2.1 port, three USB-A ports, and a USB-C data port. Four USB ports provide up to 5Gbps data speed; one USB-A and the USB-C data port can deliver up to 7.5W power delivery to devices. The hub is built with an aluminum build, measures 4.79 inches long, and uses a fixed 6.7-inch USB-C cable. It focuses only on essential connections, leaving out Ethernet or card readers.
The other model, the USBC-8IN1E, costs $59.99. It maintains the HDMI 2.1 port and adds Gigabit Ethernet, separate SD and microSD card readers with UHS-I speeds (~104MB/s), and the ability to run both simultaneously. It also offers a 5Gbps USB-C data port, a 5Gbps USB-A port, and a USB-2.0 port targeting wireless keyboard/mouse receivers. It’s slightly larger at 5.99 inches, still uses the same integrated 6.7-inch cable.
Power, Compatibility & Practical Use
Both hubs support up to 100W USB-C Power Delivery input; up to 85W of that passes through to the connected laptop. The remaining power handles the hub’s electronics, meaning no need for a separate power adapter.
To unlock 4K at 144Hz (or 8K at 30Hz) via these hubs, users need a Mac running macOS 26 or newer, with an M1 Pro, M1 Max, M2 Pro, M2 Max, or M3 chip—or later. Basic M1/M2 Macs and the MacBook Neo lack the capability and are capped at 4K 60Hz. For Windows laptops, HDMI spec, or DisplayPort 1.4 with Display Stream Compression is required; DisplayPort 1.2 limits output to 4K at 60Hz.
Each hub only provides a single HDMI output and does not expand the number of displays a Mac can support natively. The two models are available starting October 20 via Amazon and Plugable’s web store, with a 20% launch-period discount being offered.
These new USB-C hubs represent a more affordable way for users to get high refresh rates without buying a full docking station. They retain key features like HDMI 2.1, high-speed data ports, and Power Delivery—all in compact form. But prospective buyers need to ensure their hardware—Mac chip, monitor, cables—supports the necessary specs to make use of the higher refresh.
