Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Hub | 60W Laptop Charging - Compact 3-Port Hub

In this review of the Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Hub the bottom line is simple: this is a compact, certified Thunderbolt 4 hub for users who need high-speed data, multi-monitor output, and moderate laptop charging in one tidy package. It is best for creators and power users with Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 hosts who want reliable 40Gbps downstream ports and flexible video options. The single biggest reason to buy is the combination of Intel Goshen Ridge chipset certification and practical video support that enables two 4K@60Hz or one 8K@30Hz setup when the host allows it.

Key Features

• Certified Reliability: Built on the Intel Goshen Ridge chipset and Thunderbolt certified to ensure broad compatibility and stable operation with Thunderbolt 4 and USB4 hosts.
• High-Speed Ports: Three downstream Thunderbolt 4 ports deliver up to 40Gbps for fast external SSDs, networking, and other high-bandwidth peripherals.
• Video Flexibility: Supports dual 4K@60Hz or single 8K@30Hz displays depending on host capabilities, and includes a USB-C to HDMI 2.0 adapter for added monitor options.
• 60W Laptop Charging: Provides 60W charging to the host while also offering 15W downstream charging for phones and tablets, keeping a compact setup powered.
• Expandable Setup: Allows daisy-chaining up to six additional Thunderbolt devices so users can grow a content creation or pro workstation around the hub.

Who It's For

This hub is aimed at content creators, professionals, and enthusiasts using Thunderbolt 4 or USB4-capable laptops who want a small hub that adds multiple full-featured Thunderbolt ports and multi-monitor support without sacrificing performance. It is particularly well suited to MacBook and Windows systems with native Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 host ports.

Users who primarily need legacy USB-A ports, or who only have older USB-C hosts that lack Thunderbolt features, should look elsewhere since functionality is limited on USB-C only hosts and Thunderbolt 3 systems are not recommended.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Thunderbolt certified and built on Intel Goshen Ridge for dependable compatibility and speed.
• Three 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 ports let you connect high-performance SSDs and peripherals.
• Useful video support for two 4K@60Hz displays or one 8K@30Hz and includes a USB-C to HDMI 2.0 adapter.

Cons

• Includes no USB-A ports, which may frustrate users with legacy peripherals.
• Requires the included external power adapter and a Thunderbolt 4/USB4 host for full functionality, which adds bulk and limits use on older systems.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Plugable Thunderbolt 4 Hub is a strong choice for users who need reliable, certified Thunderbolt performance, multi-monitor video output, and 60W charging in a compact hub. It delivers excellent build quality and speed for creators and professionals, and represents good value for those with modern Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 hosts, though users requiring legacy USB-A ports or who use older hosts should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this hub power my laptop?
Yes, it supplies up to 60W to the host for laptop charging, which covers most thin-and-light laptops but may be marginal for high-power workstations.

Can I connect two 4K monitors?
Yes; with a Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 host that supports it, the hub can run two 4K@60Hz displays or one 8K@30Hz display.

Does it work with USB-C only laptops?
Functionality is limited on USB-C only hosts; full Thunderbolt 4/USB4 performance requires a Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 host.