The New 7-in-1 USB-C Hub Serves as an External M.2 Storage Drive
Dockcase produces impressive gadgets that stand out for their unique design, strong connectivity options, and special features. A notable aspect of their products is the large screen integrated into their hubs and docking stations. Recently, they introduced the Smart MagSafe M.2 SSD Enclosure, which supports M.2 2230 and 2242 drives that can be easily connected to devices like the Pixel 9 Pro XL and Vivo X200 Pro.
Taking it a step further, Dockcase now combines M.2 SSD connection capabilities with their USB-C hubs through the Smart USB-C Hub 7-in-1 with M.2 SSD Enclosure. This 7-in-1 hub includes an M.2 slot, making it simple to add an SSD and enhance the hub’s flexibility. If you’re interested, you can secure one for just $129 during its crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter.
I typically advise caution with crowdfunding projects, but Dockcase has a reliable history of delivering its products. They use Kickstarter to assess market demand before manufacturing, which reduces the risk associated with this kind of investment. Once it transitions from crowdfunding to retail, the hub will retail for $179, meaning you can save $50 by purchasing it early.
When it comes to its design, the Smart USB-C Hub 7-in-1 maintains the familiar black rectangular aluminum body with a matte finish that’s typical of Dockcase products. The large display at the top gives it a distinctive look. It’s notable for its excellent build quality, and while it is somewhat larger than most other hubs, it remains portable.
A standout feature of this hub is the M.2 slot, conveniently located within the enclosure. You can easily insert standard M.2 2230 or 2242 SSDs, supporting drives up to 2TB. Dockcase includes a 128GB SK Hynix SSD for testing, but I found that even using a Corsair MP600 Mini performed exceptionally well.
Another feature I appreciated is the small fan incorporated into the hub, which efficiently cools the M.2 drive. The hub has ventilation at the bottom that enables proper airflow, preventing overheating of the drive and the unit itself.
In terms of connectivity, the hub is well-equipped with various ports. It offers a USB-C port, a USB-A connector, an SD card reader, an HDMI port, a TF card reader, and an additional USB-C port that supports power delivery for charging devices up to 100W. The seventh port is designed for connecting the hub to a Windows or macOS computer via USB-C.
The built-in touch screen is user-friendly, allowing you to monitor all devices connected to the hub and adjust settings easily. It displays information about the built-in SSD, including ongoing transfers and available storage space, as well as power delivery charging details. You can even control the fan speed—choosing automatic operation or setting it to operate consistently at 70% to 100%. While the fan does make noise, it remains relatively quiet.
Overall, the Smart USB-C Hub 7-in-1 with M.2 SSD Enclosure is an excellent choice for those looking to expand the functionality of a USB-C hub while also enhancing storage options. Priced at $129, it offers good value, serving as a multifunctional device that meets diverse connectivity needs.
