More and more tech that we use everyday in our lives are powered by USB. Which means we have more and more cables that can be used for multiple devices. Recently, accessory makers like Anker, have begun making USB charging hubs. Now we’ve had USB hubs before, in fact I have one that I use with my Macbook Pro, because there are only two USB ports, but I have about four USB devices that need to be plugged in. The difference here is that these are being charged by the hub, and not connected to your computer. We’ve taken a look at a few 5-port USB charging hubs before from Anker and Aukey, but this time around, we have a 10-port USB charging hub to take a look at. This is the Anker PowerPort 10, and it’s available on Amazon for just $39.99.
Now I realize this is a first world problem, but I do have a few smartphones that I use everyday, and thus need to be charged everyday. Not to mention the tablets, smartwatches or other devices that need to be charged. For instance, I currently have the Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge+, Alcatel OneTouch Idol 3 4.7, and the ZTE Axon Pro plugged in, as well as the Moto Surround and my Fitbit Charge. That’s five ports, now if I had each one plugged into the wall, that would be using five different outlets. But with the PowerPort 10, it’s just one outlet. Making it very convenient to use.
Anker’s PowerPort 10 does output 2.4A, which is a pretty decent charging speed. However, the max it can do is 12. So if you have 6 devices there plugged in, you won’t be getting 2.4A out of all 6 ports, and that’s just because of the power coming in from the outlet. While the PowerPort 10 does not support Quick Charge 2.0, it does support their PowerIQ Technology. While it’s not exactly the same as Quick Charge 2.0, it’s pretty similar. Basically what PowerIQ Technology does, is it talks with your device to see how much power it can take without causing any damage, and sends in that much power. So it’s flexible but won’t kill your smartphone or tablet. It’s a great feature, and one that is available in a variety of their products, including the Astro E7 which we recently reviewed. Anker is using a nice matte finish on the sides, while the front is glossy. Not a big issue, but I definitely like having the matte finish on the sides. We also have a power button on the back. So that when you are not using the PowerPort 10, you can simply flip the switch and turn off the power to the hub.
I’ve been using the PowerPort 10 for about a week now, to charge everything on my desk. Previously I was using Anker’s 5-port USB charging hub, and have now replaced it with the 10-port one. So far, everything is working great. It charges these smartphones quite quickly, and it’s neatly tucked away (of course you can’t tell in the pictures below as I had to pull it out to get some good lighting on it). The PowerPort 10 may not be for everyone, but it is darn convenient. Currently, Anker only sells the PowerPort 10 in one color, and that’s black. It looks pretty nice and blends in well. Anker also includes a 3M adhesive strip. Which you can use to attach the PowerPort 10 to your desk or to a wall. It’s a pretty nice idea.
You can grab the Anker PowerPort 10 from Amazon using this link. It’s currently selling for $39.99, but as things normally do on Amazon, the price can fluctuate.
