Anker 655 USB-C Hub A8382 review

An earlier one-screen hub with two faster USB-A connections

The Anker 655 A8382 is worth comparing when you need two USB-A data ports advertised at 10 Gbps, one HDMI screen, Ethernet and cards, but do not need a downstream USB-C data connection. Its USB-C socket is for charging input. That is the decisive port-layout distinction to settle before considering its leather-look exterior or color.

Anker's exact reference identifies gray A8382NA1 and beige A8382021 within the same 655 product. The colors are retained as finish choices rather than separate technical products. The Japanese manufacturer page marks sales ended, so this assessment is an earlier-model reference and does not promise a present seller or package.

What the two 10 Gbps ports do

The two USB-A sockets are documented as USB 3.2 Gen 2 data connections, advertised up to 10 Gbps. That makes this layout more relevant than a mixed-speed hub if both of your required Type-A connections need that capability. You still share the hub's computer connection; two rated ports do not create two independent full-speed upstream links.

The manufacturer distinguishes data from video and charging. These USB-A connections are not extra monitor outputs or dedicated high-power charging outlets. If your main external drive uses USB-C and you require a USB-C data socket on the hub, the 655's charging inlet cannot substitute for it. Look for a layout documenting the data connector you actually need.

4K60 requires the specified computer video capability

The HDMI output is advertised up to 3840 × 2160 at 60 Hz, with an explicit DisplayPort 1.4 host requirement for that mode. Check the actual computer port, not only a USB-C-shaped connector or a laptop's broad product-family name. The hub does not supply a missing native video function.

There is one HDMI output. The power-only USB-C socket and the two USB-A data sockets do not provide additional screens. If two different external desktops are essential, choose an arrangement documenting that simultaneous job instead. A single strong display specification is not the same thing as multi-monitor expansion.

Power reaching the laptop is capped below the input

Anker documents up to 100 W into the PD input and up to 85 W available to the laptop, allocating 15 W to the hub. The 85 W arrangement requires an appropriate 100 W charger and cable, which are separate purchases. Include those parts when planning how the hub will work on your desk or in a bag.

Do not use the 100 W input headline as a laptop-output guarantee. The computer also negotiates its own charging level, and the actual source and cable matter. Conversely, a Type-C connector on an accessory does not make that accessory a suitable source. Match the documented PD arrangement rather than treating the whole USB-C ecosystem as interchangeable.

Ethernet, cards and audio fill out the desk connection

The Ethernet socket is listed up to 1 Gbps. It can provide a wired-network route when the rest of the network supports it, without promising an internet connection or measured throughput at that number. A heavily used storage connection and network traffic still share the hub's path to the computer.

The original V02 manual specifies the SD 4.0 reader at up to 312 MB/s. Full-size SD and microSD slots and a 3.5 mm audio connection round out the layout. Two reader openings are useful when your equipment uses different card formats; they are not, by themselves, evidence of simultaneous card operation. If reading both at once is essential to your workflow, establish that exact behavior before choosing the model.

The exterior does not change the compatibility rules

The maker describes a PU-leather outer finish and a host plug that can be parked in the USB-C socket for storage. Those details concern appearance and carrying organization rather than a new data or charging mode. Anker lists an approximately 12.5 × 5.5 × 1.6 cm body excluding the cable and a 140 g weight; leave working room around it for the connected plugs.

The compatibility reference names Windows 10 and 11, Mac OS 11.2.1 or later and iPadOS 14 or later, alongside specific earlier computer and tablet examples. Follow the exact host requirements, particularly for HDMI, rather than expanding those examples into every future chip or model. The page excludes smartphones, Nintendo Switch and USB SuperDrive.

The right reason to compare 655

Choose this earlier reference for two 10 Gbps Type-A data ports, one supported 4K60 HDMI route, Gigabit Ethernet and card formats, with separately sourced laptop charging. Choose another arrangement for USB-C data, a second independent screen or a complete included charging kit. Its particular combination of connections is more important than whether its finish matches the rest of your workspace.

Manufacturer reference: A8382 model, port roles, power allocation and compatibility notes.