Anker A8362 PowerExpandDirect iPad Pro Hub review

A direct iPad Pro hub with a dedicated charging inlet

The Anker A8362 PowerExpand Direct 6-in-1 USB-C PD Media Hub is an earlier direct-attached accessory for particular USB-C iPad Pro models. It combines one HDMI output, one USB-A data socket, SD and microSD readers, a 3.5 mm audio connection and a dedicated USB-C charging input. Its useful role is turning the supported tablet into a more connected media and accessory setup without a separate host lead.

The exact model matters. A8362's USB-C socket is PD input only; it is not the alternative data-and-power socket found on the different A8363 541 model. If your external drive requires a downstream USB-C data connection, the similar-looking socket on A8362 does not supply it.

Check the exact iPad Pro and physical fit

Anker's current exact product page names the 12.9-inch iPad Pro third and fourth generations and the 11-inch iPad Pro first and second generations. It says the product is designed for iPad Pro, excludes other devices and does not recommend its use with iPad Air. A USB-C connector alone is not enough to extend that list to other tablets or a MacBook.

The direct connection also depends on the case. Anker warns that cases other than the referenced Smart Keyboard arrangement can be too thick for the hub to fit. Check the actual tablet and case together instead of assuming the small body guarantees clearance.

The original guide lists iPadOS 13 and above, while the later product notes specifically require iPadOS 13.1 or later for data transfer. Follow that more specific data-use requirement on the named supported tablets. It is not a promise that every future iPad generation has the same physical or software behavior.

One HDMI connection, up to 4K60

The original English port table identifies an HDMI output up to 4K60. It provides one external video route and requires a separate HDMI cable. The dedicated USB-C PD input does not supply video, and Anker specifically excludes using a USB-C-to-HDMI cable from that socket.

The iPad and software determine how an application uses the external display. Do not treat an HDMI specification as a guarantee of a separate desktop workspace on every older iPad Pro. Establish that experience for the actual tablet and application before choosing the hub for a particular work routine.

Charging support is real, but source and output should not be confused

The USB-C inlet accepts a source for pass-through charging while the hub's other connections are used. Anker advertises up to 60 W PD charging capability, but the reviewed exact material does not separately establish a guaranteed numeric device-side maximum after the hub's own demand. Avoid treating a headline number as an assured amount reaching the iPad.

The charger is not included. For the stated full-speed charging arrangement, Anker tells users to check that their source supports 15 V. That voltage-profile requirement is more informative than assuming any charger with a large wattage label is equivalent.

The source occupies the dedicated inlet rather than the USB-A data socket. That lets a supported ordinary USB-A accessory remain connected while charging, without inventing an additional downstream USB-C data connection.

USB-A and cards cover ordinary media transfers

The one USB-A data socket is advertised up to 5 Gbps. The original guide explains that the complete host, accessory, cable and software path must support the corresponding USB capability for the fastest supported behavior. The advertised figure is not our measured copy speed.

The SD reader supports SD, SDHC and SDXC cards up to 2 TB, with an advertised rate up to 104 MB/s in the original guide. There is also a microSD slot. Their physical presence does not establish simultaneous access to both cards; choose a positively documented arrangement if copying between the two readers together is essential.

Audio has a specific control and connection limit

The 3.5 mm socket is documented for earphones or other compatible audio devices. Anker explicitly says Apple-earphone volume controls are not supported. This is a useful distinction from merely checking whether the plug fits.

For calls or video meetings, the product page advises connecting the hub to the iPad Pro before the call begins. Connecting it during a call can leave sound coming from the tablet. Follow that setup order when the audio route matters rather than assuming hot connection always switches the active sound output.

Who should compare A8362?

Consider this accurately identified earlier model for a named supported, physically compatible iPad Pro needing HDMI, ordinary USB-A data, camera cards, analogue audio and separately sourced charging. Anker includes a travel pouch and gives a weight around 36 g. Choose another layout for iPad Air, MacBook, downstream USB-C data, multiple independent external screens or a specifically guaranteed numeric host-charging ceiling.

Manufacturer references: A83620A1 exact tablet scope, software, power and audio cautions; original A8362 welcome guide.