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Recently StarTech.com released two new USB-C multiport adapters to maximise productivity for business professionals on the road or in the boardroom.
While I am rarely in a boardroom, I have been using both of these devices for the past few weeks.
With USB-C we now finally have viable options to use laptops as a proper desktop replacement. For me I run three monitors, so a single HDMI out on most laptops won’t cut it.
With USB-C, depending on what the port is rated at, you can achieve data rates of 10 and 20 Gbit/s (1250 and 2500 MB/s) which is enough to drive multiple monitors and various other accessories.
Furthermore, thanks to USB Power Delivery, it is possible to both power an ultraportable and uses its USB-C port for accessories. This is perfect for a business person that is on the move a lot, you can have a lightweight laptop, but then still use it as a desktop as and when needed.
While I am a hardened desktop user, I do work from an office on a laptop several times per month, and working from multiple full-sized monitors compared to a tiny laptop screen makes life much easier.
USB-C Multiport Adapter
This USB-C multiport adapter with HDMI and VGA is like four adapters in one, giving you flexible video output, a USB 3.0 port and Gigabit Ethernet port, a hideaway cable, plus robust power and charging.
The USB-C to HDMI and VGA adapter keeps you prepared for business travel. Extend your laptop’s display by connecting to a 4K HDMI (4096 x 2160 or 3840 x 2160 resolution) or VGA (1920 x 1200) monitor or projector, to make presentations or set up a workstation.
With support for 95W Power Delivery 3.0 (PD 3.0), the USB Type-C multiport adapter provides up to 85W laptop charging while also powering your peripheral when connected to a USB-C power adapter. PD 3.0 features Fast Role Swap to prevent USB data disruption when you unplug to switch power sources (USB-C power adapter to bus power).
The adaptor also features an ethernet port providing gigabit wired connectivity.
During my review period, this has been the main adaptor I have used, I have a Dell XPS 15 which lacks ethernet so I am able to use this to both connect to a monitor, attach a full-sized keyboard and get a fast-wired connection. The Dell XPS does not have USB-C power, but I have a second Latitude laptop that I use for a secondary screen at home, and I also use this adaptor here, and with the help of power delivery USB adaptors, I don’t have to rely on the original charger anymore either.
Overall this has been perfect for my office use giving me all the ports and flexibility I need from my laptop.
This costs £101.33 which for a consumer would be quite expensive, but it is targeted at the business end of the market and I would say it is not unreasonable. On Amazon there are not many competing models that offer both HDMI and VGA outputs, with ethernet and power delivery either, so the pricing, while expensive, is fair.
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USB-C 4-in-1 Video Adapter
This USB-C multiport video adapter offers a portable solution for connecting your USB Type-C laptop to a VGA, DVI, HDMI or Mini DisplayPort (mDP) display. It features USB Power Delivery, so you can power your laptop while outputting video using the same USB-C port.
The HDMI and mDP outputs support UHD 4K resolutions, providing four times the picture quality of high-definition 1080p. All of the outputs (HDMI, mDP, VGA, DVI) support high-definition resolutions up to 1920 x 1200. The adapter is compatible with USB-C DP Alt Mode devices.
With this only have display port outputs I had less need for it, but I can appreciate how it could be an essential tool for a business person on the road a lot. If you do presentations, or regularly connect your laptop to monitors this adaptor ensures you will always be able to connect thanks to it featuring every display port used since I started using computers.
This is priced at a bit more reasonable £79.31 on Amazon, again there are not many competing products, the closest being from StarTech.com themselves with a 4-in-1 display adaptor which I think does not offer power delivery but costs £57.15.
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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.
