Belkin’s portable gadgets are ideal for summer travel, outdoor activities, and everyday commuting, to keep devices powered, connected, and protected on the go.
Over the years, we’ve featured and reviewed dozens of Belkin products, from USB-C hubs to durable braided cables, and as summer is winding down to autumn, we’ve discovered a few back to school items that stood out amongst an ever-expanding assortment of lightweight, packable tech.
8-Port Dual Display USB-C Hub
I had seen photos of this hub online and noticed the newer, sleeker design from earlier versions. Within its small footprint (including a built-in 22cm/8.7 in. USB-C cable), you can connect up to eight devices to both power and expand workstations.
The hub avoids the need to carry dongles and cables when you work remotely. It’s compatible with laptops, tablets, smartphones and supports Mac, Windows, and Chrome OS.
The added privacy button on top of the hub is a nice touch. It allows you to easily disconnect external displays without the need to unplug cables or to lock your laptop. The button acts as a convenient toggle, so that you can walk away from your monitor without risking sensitive information being seen by others.
The built-in LED changes colour, depending on status:
White – Connected to your laptop and active displays
Amber – Privacy mode is active, and external displays are turned off
LED Off – Hub is disconnected from host device (or laptop is either in sleep mode or turned off)
DIMENSIONS
123 mm (4.8 in) x 60 mm (2.4 in) x 17 mm (0.7 in)
Weight: 122g/0.27 lbs.
PORTS
– 2x USB-C 3.2 (10Gbps)
– 2x USB-A 3.0 (5Gbps)
– 1Gb Ethernet
– USB-C 3.2 (100W PD, 10Gbps)
– 2x HDMI 2.0 (4K@60Hz)
My Belkin hub currently uses two USB-A and one USB-C ports. For transparency, I own an older Apple Display monitor that’s connected to a Mac Mini, so I don’t use the hub to connect them, as this scenario requires a different kind of adapter.
Belkin’s 8-Port Dual Display USB-C Hub includes a three-year warranty; CAD $139.99
Stage PowerGrip
Imagine your smart phone being able to transform into a camera with an ergonomic grip while also gaining a phone stand and the capacity to charge up three devices with 15K wireless charging. That’s where the Stage PowerGrip comes in.
Belkin’s new “portable camera” product has a one-touch shutter, secure magnetic attachment for peace of mind, and a retractable 0.75m/29.5 in. USB-C cable on the bottom, along with a 1/4” mount that fits most tripods. The Stage PowerGrip is made for taking smoother pictures and video with your phone.
DIMENSIONS
11.7 cm (4.6 in) x 8.3 cm (3.3 in) x 4 cm (1.6 in)
The PowerGrip does feel a bit hefty at 271 g (0.56 lb) before attaching your phone via the magnetic charging base, but that’s mostly due to its built-in 9,300mAh battery.
To pair the Stage PowerGrip with your phone’s Bluetooth, press and hold the top power/shutter button for five seconds until the indicator light on top flashes. Once connected, use that same button to snap photos or to start and stop video recordings.
The Stage PowerGrip includes a two-year warranty and is available in Charcoal, Ice Blue, and Sand. CAD $138.99/USD $109.99
UltraCharge Pro Power Bank 10K with Magnetic Ring
Also available in a 5K version, this is Belkin’s popular 10K power bank with magnetic charging ring, an industry first offering Qi2 25W wireless charging certification. The magnetic ring charges phones (even with a case on) wirelessly using 10K mAh capacity, adding up to 34 hours of extra battery life. While a tad heavier than its little brother, the 10K gives me peace of mind that I can get several top-up charges throughout the day without needing a wall outlet.
I love the power bank’s built-in kickstand for ease when on calls, watching video, and keeping track of time without needing to constantly pick up the phone. The power bank also charges two devices simultaneously.
A digital display on the bottom right shows charging percentage (versus the 5K that shows a series of LED dots).
The power bank also offers universal compatibility amongst a wide range of Qi2 devices.
The box includes a 60cm/2ft USB-C to USB-C cable. Note that Samsung devices are compatible with this product through a USB-C port connection.
Made of lightweight silicone using 72% post-consumer recycled materials, the UltraCharge Pro is available in white; CAD/USD $129.99
Visit Belkin online for more details. Non-watermarked photos courtesy of Belkin.
