OWC launches compact 40Gbps USB4 hub with dual 4K display support and 81W charging

OWC recently announced the OWC Thunderbolt 5 Dock, a full-sized model with 16 ports, including dual HDMI 2.1 outputs and 2.5Gb Ethernet. That dock will be available in November, but the company has now unveiled a smaller 40Gbps USB4 Hub that is already available to pre-order.

The new USB4 Hub measures just 1.2 x 3.1 x 6.6 inches, making it easier to fit on a smaller desk or into a minimalist setup. It weighs just over half a pound, so carrying it between home and remote workspaces should not be much of a hassle. When connected, the hub turns a single USB4 connection into five downstream ports for displays, storage, and other accessories.

Upfront, there are two 10Gbps USB-C ports. The rear houses two downstream USB4 ports, an HDMI 2.1 output, and the host USB4 connection. However, while it supports up to 40Gbps of total bandwidth, each downstream USB4 port tops out at 20Gbps. That should still be useful for running two fast drives simultaneously, although a single USB4 SSD may perform better when connected directly to the laptop.

The hub can deliver up to 81W to the connected laptop, which should cover most notebooks that charge over USB-C. More importantly, its HDMI 2.1 and USB4 outputs can drive up to two external 4K monitors at 60Hz. For a single-display setup, it supports up to 8K at 60Hz over HDMI or 4K at 240Hz over USB4, depending on the host device.

In addition to USB4, the hub works with Thunderbolt 5, Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, and standard USB-C laptops. That covers Mac, Windows, Linux, and ChromeOS laptops, as well as compatible iPad Pro models. That said, there is no cooling fan inside, but the aluminum housing, raised feet, and ventilated sides should help dissipate heat during extended use.

Pricing and availability

The OWC USB4 Hub is available to pre-order directly from OWC for $129.99, with shipping slated for the end of October. It costs more than cheaper options such as the Sabrent USB4 Travel Hub (curr: $59.99 at Amazon), while lacking USB-A ports and Ethernet. However, buyers get more high-speed ports and a premium aluminum housing.

Alongside the hub, OWC announced new 40Gbps active optical USB4 cables in 3-meter and 5-meter lengths. The cables will be available in mid-October for $98.99 and $129.99, respectively. Check the OWC website for more details.