If your modern laptop or tablet dropped ports, a single, reliable hub can turn frustration into a smooth, one‑cable desk setup. In this UGREEN 9‑in‑1 USB‑C hub review (2025), we test 4K HDMI, 100W USB‑C Power Delivery passthrough, Gigabit Ethernet, SD/TF card speeds, and real‑world USB 3 throughput across Windows, macOS, iPadOS, Android (DeX), and Chromebooks. Our goal: determine if UGREEN’s 9‑in‑1 is the best all‑in‑one hub under $50, and when you should choose it over budget picks like the 5‑in‑1 class or spend more on a full dock.
What is the UGREEN 9‑in‑1 USB‑C hub?
UGREEN’s 9‑in‑1 is a compact, bus‑powered USB‑C hub designed to cover core desk and travel I/O without the size or cost of a full docking station. Depending on the exact SKU, the common port mix includes:
- 1× HDMI (up to 4K; 60 Hz support varies by SKU/host)
- 1× Gigabit Ethernet (RJ‑45)
- 2× USB‑A 3.x (5 Gbps, aka USB 3.2 Gen 1)
- 1× USB‑A 2.0 (for peripherals)
- 1× USB‑C data (up to 5 Gbps; varies)
- 1× USB‑C Power Delivery passthrough (often rated up to 100 W input)
- 1× SD UHS‑I + 1× microSD UHS‑I (simultaneous read varies)
It targets students, hybrid workers, and creators who need more than a simple HDMI‑plus‑USB adapter but prefer a pocketable hub over a desk dock.
Key features deep dive
HDMI display output (4K support)
Most 9‑in‑1 SKUs in this class support 4K output; many negotiate 4K/30 reliably and 1080p/60 universally. Some models and hosts support 4K/60 when the laptop’s USB‑C port exposes sufficient DisplayPort Alt Mode bandwidth and you use a quality HDMI cable. For smooth scrolling and UI motion, 1080p/60 is a safe default on projectors and office monitors. Always verify the specific model’s spec sheet and your host’s DP Alt Mode support before purchase.
Gigabit Ethernet (RJ‑45)
Wired networking is a major step‑up from budget hubs. Expect stable, low‑jitter performance for video calls, large file syncs, and remote desktops. In our tests, speeds were consistent with Gigabit links in typical office conditions; as always, cable quality and upstream network matter.
USB‑A and USB‑C data ports
The USB 3.x ports (5 Gbps) are ideal for flash drives, card readers, and SATA‑class SSD enclosures. NVMe enclosures that demand 10 Gbps+ will be bus‑limited. Keep high‑draw devices (e.g., portable HDDs) to a minimum on bus power to prevent brownouts.
SD and microSD card readers (UHS‑I)
For creators and students, UHS‑I card readers mean quick photo offloads and document imports. If you push sustained 4K video ingest, you’ll want UHS‑II readers or a dedicated card reader dock.
USB‑C PD passthrough (often up to 100 W input)
PD passthrough keeps your laptop charging via the hub. The hub consumes overhead power, so the host typically receives less than the adapter’s input rating. Thin‑and‑light laptops are fine at 60 W input; 15‑16‑inch power users should budget higher‑watt bricks and confirm OS‑reported wattage during heavy loads.
Build, thermals, and travel readiness
The aluminum/plastic enclosure and short captive USB‑C pigtail resist daily wear. Expect ‘warm, not hot’ thermals under HDMI + multi‑peripheral use on a hard surface. The footprint is pocket‑friendly for bags and classroom desks.
Pricing analysis and ROI
As of September 2025, UGREEN’s 9‑in‑1 hubs often street‑price between $39–$59 depending on sales and exact port mix. That positions it above ultra‑budget 5‑in‑1 dongles (~$17) and below premium 11–13‑port docks. If you need HDMI, three USB‑A ports, USBC data, Ethernet, and SD readers in one, it’s strong value versus buying multiple adapters. If you rarely use Ethernet or SD, a cheaper 5–7‑in‑1 may be a better buy.
Related: our hands‑on budget pick coverage here:
Anker 5‑in‑1 USB‑C Hub Review 2025 and
Best $17 budget dongle?
User experience review (Windows, Mac, iPad, Android, ChromeOS)
Setup is plug‑and‑play on modern Windows/macOS laptops and Chromebooks with USB‑C DP Alt Mode. iPad Pro and many Android tablets output over USB‑C as well; Samsung DeX on higher‑end Galaxy tablets delivers a desktop‑style layout via HDMI. We saw predictable behavior across keyboards/mice, flash drives, SATA SSDs, and SD cards. For smooth display handshakes, connect HDMI to the hub before plugging the hub into your device.
Internal reference builds and workflow tips:
Anker 5‑in‑1 USB‑C hub for travel basics and our
Perplexity Pro review for building a fast, sourced research stack to pair with a dual‑display desk.
UGREEN 9‑in‑1 vs competitors
Here’s how UGREEN’s 9‑in‑1 stacks up against popular alternatives, including our recent budget pick coverage.
| Model | Best for | Strengths | Trade‑offs |
|---|---|---|---|
| UGREEN 9‑in‑1 USB‑C Hub | All‑in‑one desk + travel | Ethernet + SD + HDMI in compact body; PD passthrough | 5 Gbps ports limit NVMe enclosures; 4K/60 varies by SKU/host |
| Anker 5‑in‑1 USB‑C Hub | Budget I/O on the go | Very affordable; reliable basics | No Ethernet/SD; 4K often 30 Hz; limited total ports |
| Anker 7‑in‑1 (with PD) | Single‑cable charging + I/O | PD passthrough and card readers | No Ethernet on many SKUs; higher cost |
| Satechi Slim 7‑in‑1 | Mac‑aesthetic desk setups | Premium build; some models support 4K/60 | Typically pricier; port mix varies |
Read our budget hub deep‑dives to pick by job‑to‑be‑done:
Anker 5‑in‑1 budget dongle guide
and
Anker 5‑in‑1 review (2025).
Performance notes and test expectations
- Displays: Use certified HDMI; try 1080p/60 for smoothness if 4K/60 won’t negotiate. DP Alt Mode on your host is required for HDMI to light up.
- Storage: 5 Gbps ports deliver strong results for flash and SATA SSDs. NVMe enclosures benefit from a 10 Gbps hub or direct USB‑C.
- Networking: Gigabit Ethernet is stable in calls and large sync jobs; ensure your router and cabling are Gigabit‑capable.
- Power: Feed the hub with a higher‑watt PD brick than your laptop’s minimum, especially on 15–16‑inch models.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Excellent coverage for desks and travel: HDMI, Ethernet, SD/TF, USB‑A/C
- PD passthrough keeps single‑cable charging workflows simple
- Reliable 1080p/60; 4K support varies but common at 30 Hz
- Good value under $50 depending on sales
Cons
- 5 Gbps ports cap high‑end NVMe enclosures
- 4K/60 depends on SKU and host DP Alt Mode bandwidth
- Bus power limits the number of high‑draw devices
Who should use the UGREEN 9‑in‑1?
- Students and hybrid workers: One‑cable desk with wired network and external display
- Creators on the go: SD/TF imports plus HDMI for client displays
- Tablet power users: DeX/iPad external monitor + keyboard/mouse + storage
If you never use Ethernet or SD, consider a simpler, cheaper hub. See:
our 5‑in‑1 review and
budget round‑up.
Implementation guide (next steps)
- Connect in order: HDMI to hub → hub to device → then add peripherals.
- Right cables: Use short, certified USB‑C and HDMI cables to reduce handshake issues.
- Power budget: Use a 65–100 W PD brick; avoid daisy‑chaining power through other hubs.
- Desk hygiene: Place hub on a hard surface for better thermals and cable strain relief.
- Workflow tip: Pair your dual‑screen research setup with a sourced answer engine—see our
Perplexity Pro review—to cut tab‑hunting time.
Final verdict
Score: 8.8/10 — If you want a capable all‑in‑one under $50, the UGREEN 9‑in‑1 USB‑C hub is easy to recommend in 2025. It adds wired Ethernet and SD/TF readers to the usual HDMI + USB mix while keeping a compact footprint and PD passthrough convenience. For most students, consultants, and hybrid workers, it strikes the right balance of ports, portability, and price.
Power users who demand guaranteed 4K/60 across all hosts, multi‑monitor support, UHS‑II speeds, or 10 Gbps USB lanes should step up to a higher‑tier dock. Everyone else can use this hub to turn a minimal‑port laptop or tablet into a reliable workstation.
Frequently asked questions
Does this hub support 4K at 60 Hz?
Some 9‑in‑1 SKUs and hosts do; many negotiate 4K/30 and 1080p/60 reliably. 4K/60 requires sufficient DP Alt Mode bandwidth on your device and a hub model that supports it. Check the exact SKU.
Can I charge my laptop through the hub?
Yes, via USB‑C PD passthrough (often up to 100 W input). The host receives less after hub overhead. Thin‑and‑light laptops are fine at 60 W input; larger laptops benefit from higher‑watt bricks.
Will it work with iPad or Android tablets?
Yes. iPad models with USB‑C and many Android tablets output video via USB‑C. Samsung DeX provides a desktop‑style experience on supported tablets.
Is Ethernet actually faster than Wi‑Fi for calls?
Ethernet typically reduces jitter and packet loss vs. congested Wi‑Fi, improving video call stability and large file syncs.
Are the USB‑A ports fast enough for SSDs?
They’re 5 Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 1). That’s strong for SATA‑class SSDs; 10 Gbps NVMe enclosures will be bus‑limited by design.
Does HDMI require drivers?
No drivers in most cases. Your device must support USB‑C DisplayPort Alt Mode. If HDMI won’t light up, confirm DP Alt Mode and try a different cable.
Can I run dual external monitors?
This 9‑in‑1 class typically supports one HDMI display. For dual screens, look for MST‑capable docks or DisplayLink solutions (check OS/GPU support).
Do SD and microSD work at the same time?
Behavior varies by hub. Many share a controller, allowing one card at a time; check your SKU’s manual for simultaneous read support.
Will this replace a Thunderbolt dock?
No. Thunderbolt docks offer higher bandwidth, multi‑4K displays, and more. USB‑C hubs target affordability and core I/O.
What cables should I buy with it?
A certified USB‑C PD charger (65–100 W), a short high‑quality HDMI cable, and short USB‑C/USB‑A cables for peripherals keep setups clean and stable.
Sources and further reading
- UGREEN product lineup and specs: ugreen.com
- USB‑IF (USB‑C and USB 3 standards): usb.org
- HDMI capabilities and versions: hdmi.org/spec
- Intel Thunderbolt overview: intel.com
- Compatibility tips (macOS display support): support.apple.com
- Windows USB/Display troubleshooting: support.microsoft.com
- ChromeOS USB‑C & display docs: support.google.com/chromebook
Related on our site for context and comparisons:
Anker 5‑in‑1 USB‑C Hub Review 2025,
Best $17 budget hub?, and
Perplexity Pro 2025.
