Disclosure: This product was sent to us free of charge for the purpose of this review. However, as per my PR Info page, this review represents our honest opinion of the product. This post may contain affiliate links.
Product: Krafted Connex USB Hub Adapter
Price: £29.99
Manufacturer’s Description: Connex is a all-in-one connectivity solution designed to simplify the lives of consumers who juggle multiple devices. Connex is a pocket-sized, travel friendly gadget which keeps you connected on the go. Connex offers a seamless and streamlined way to charge and connect a variety of gadgets, eliminating the need for multiple cables and chargers.
Rating: (4/5 stars) Review: I’m always keen on neat gadgets and ways to simplify travelling and my EDC. So, when we were offered the Connex cable adapter hub to review, I was happy to give it a try. Since we won’t have a car for the rest of the year, we need to travel light on our holidays and this seemed like a great tool to add to my arsenal. In my handbag, I keep a small zip-up Yoshi egg containing a short USB-C to C cable, a short USB-C to Micro-USB cable, and a handful of adapters that allow me to use these cables with different devices. However, this method can be a bit of a faff, and I can only connect or charge one device at a time from a single port. Connex aims to save you the hassle of juggling cables and adapters, while allowing you to charge two (or more) devices simultaneously. While most modern devices should be standardising and using USB-C these days, we still have a variety of gadgets in our house that use Micro-USB, USB-A, and Lightning ports for data transfer and charging. We won’t be getting rid of these ports anytime soon either, as our daughters take possession of these older devices, and we often opt to buy refurbished tech for them that uses these types of connections. Both Georgie and Lydia have Kindles with micro-USB, iPhones and iPads with Lightning, and Georgie’s earbuds are USB-C. This means they need to carry a whole selection of cables when they travel. This week, Lydia is on a residential trip and has saved herself from cable chaos by bringing along a power bank and the Connex. These travel-friendly gadgets will keep her iPhone, AirPods, and handheld fan charged up throughout the week. Although she has a plug packed away in case the power bank needs a top-up, she only needs her AirPods for the coach trip, and with only half an hour of phone time allowed each day, she should have plenty of power to see her through with just the Connex and power bank. On a trip that’s all about getting outside and active with her friends having a bare minimum of technology and no need for cable spaghetti in her suitcase is a plus – she hasn’t even taken her kindle which for my little bookworm is quite impressive. Of course, she did pack three paperbacks instead! The Connex is a compact device that offers up to eight different charging and data transfer combinations. It resembles a cross between a penknife and a collection of USB adapters. You get one input ‘cable’ that has a USB-C connector and a USB-C to A adapter, allowing you to choose between USB-C and A on the input side. For output, the Connex provides two USB-C connectors, two Lightning connectors, and one Micro-USB connector. These flexible silicone rubber connectors can be folded in and out of the body of the Connex independently, enabling users to select the connectors they require. While this can be a bit awkward at times, the flexibility of the connectors allows for some leeway in device arrangement. The Connex supports charging multiple devices simultaneously. However, charging speed decreases with each connection, and the capability changes based on the input power. For instance, a 5V 4A input supports up to four outputs, while a 5V 3A input supports up to three. Additionally, it supports PD charging, but only one device at a time. Data transfer is then available on the same connection. Weighing in at 875 grams, the Connex is fairly compact and easily fits into a bag. A keyring clip on one corner allows you to clip it onto their keys or the outside of their bag for convenient access. The Connex is available in two colours: Jade and Charcoal Grey. While it is a useful gadget, I find it a tiny bit pricey at £29.99. Alternative multi-use charging cables are available to buy at a lower cost, although they may not be as versatile and aren’t as neat & tidy.
