Any links to online stores should be assumed to be affiliates. The company or PR agency provides all or most review samples. They have no control over my content, and I provide my honest opinion.
With the high bandwidth available to USB-C, many modern devices can use the USB-C port to output video. This has seen many portable laptops ditch HDMI ports, instead relying on USB-C for everything, including power.
The Aten UC3238 is a 2.7 USB-C to HDMI cable which offers support up to 3840 x 2160 @ 60 Hz with HDMI 2.0 offering HDCP 2.0 and is currently a little under £40 on Amazon.
Specification
| Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USB-C to 4K HDMI Cable (2.7m) UC3238 ATEN, 4K@60Hz (3840 x... | Buy on Amazon |
- Thunderbolt 3 Compatible
- HDMI 2.0 / HDCP 2.0
- Connect a USB-C enabled laptop or Smartphone which utilizes “DP Alt Mode” functionality to an HDMI compatible display using a single cable
- Supports resolutions up to 4K@60Hz (3840 x 2160 @ 60 Hz)
- Supports long-distance connectivity of up to 2.7 meters
- Works with all major operating systems: Windows, OS X, and Android
In Use
I use USB-C to HDMI almost every day allowing me to duplicate my laptop display onto a larger screen for use in Zwift for both cycling and the gym. This works perfectly on both the Huawei Matebook 13 and Dell XPS 15. The 2.7m cable gives plenty of length to keep my laptop well away from me and avoiding any sweat.
Sadly, I don’t have the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra to test DeX with, but I have tested the desktop mode with the Huawei P40 Pro. This works perfectly, and I can see myself carrying this cable around with me on holidays and work trips, allowing me to watch Netflix or other media from my phone on a big TV.
Price and Alternative Options
This is priced at £38.59 direct from Aten.com and £39.39 on Amazon but temporarily out of stock.
It is not the absolute cheapest, but it is not unreasonably expensive. Anker has a 6ft/1.6M cable for £30, so you are paying an extra £9 for a much longer cable.
I am a bit fan of USB-C docks, in particular ones that offer power pass through; these will then charge your phone/laptop while allowing you to output to a monitor. Aten has the UH3234 USB-C Multiport Dock, which has a high RRP of £110 but is available on Amazon for just £54. Of course, you would then need an extra HDMI cable, so the costs add up, as does the cable mess, but I think it is a superior solution all round.
Overall
The Aten USB-C 4K HDMI Cable is a quality long USB-C to HDMI cable, it has worked flawlessly with no problems connecting or suffering from disconnects, and it works well with both mobile and laptops.
The long length of this makes it good for either permeant desktop solution allowing you to route cables without running short. Or, when travelling allowing you to use a wall-mounted TV/Display without having to have your mobile or laptop left in place close to the display.
Aten USB-C to 4K HDMI Converter (2.7M) UC3238 Review Rating
Summary
The Aten USB-C 4K HDMI Cable is an excellent, well made and reliable cable with lots of length giving you plenty of flexibility for how you use it.
Overall
75%-
Overall - 75%75%
Pros
- Quality cable
- 2.7M offers more than enough length
- Reliable connection
Cons
- Some cheaper options available
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
Last update on 2024-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
