Your needs, this model
Does it fit your priorities?
Can it add three USB-A data sockets to a USB-C computer?
Yes. The original diagram shows three downstream USB-A data sockets, with advertised data capability up to 5 Gbps shared through the computer connection.
Explore this need in the finder →Can I leave SD and microSD cards active at the same time?
No. The original instructions explicitly say the two card slots cannot be used simultaneously.
Explore this need in the finder →Will it charge my laptop while the data devices are connected?
No laptop charging path appears in the complete layout, and the maker describes the product as a data hub rather than a standalone charger.
Explore this need in the finder →Bring everyday USB and card access onto the desk
The space-gray ST-TCHCRM USB-C Combo Hub for Desktop is a straightforward choice when the computer’s accessible USB-C connection needs to serve several familiar USB-A peripherals. Its documented layout provides three USB-A data sockets plus full-size SD and microSD access. It is a desktop data hub, rather than a display dock or a laptop charging station.
The deciding limitation is the card-reader arrangement. Both card formats are present, but the original guide explicitly says they cannot be used simultaneously. Choose it for convenient access to either format. Choose a reader with documented concurrent operation if copying between two inserted cards is central to the workflow.
Three USB-A sockets are the actual data expansion
The manufacturer’s original diagram shows three USB-A data sockets connected to the computer through the hub’s USB-C lead. That is a useful mix for a keyboard, a receiver and an occasional storage device, provided the devices fit and their own power requirements are satisfied.
There is no separate downstream USB-C data socket in that illustrated layout. A USB-C computer connection does not mean every connected peripheral can also use USB-C directly. Count your actual device plugs before choosing this hub for a newer drive or another accessory with only a USB-C connection.
The shared 5 Gbps connection sets the right expectation
Satechi advertises data transfer capability up to 5 Gbps and documents USB 3.0, 2.0 and 1.1 peripherals. This describes the hub’s interface capability. It does not give every connected drive a separate full-speed link back to the computer.
Several low-bandwidth peripherals create a different workload from simultaneous copying between busy storage devices. If your main requirement is several 10 Gbps downstream connections, compare hubs that explicitly document that rate. The USB-C-shaped host plug does not raise this model’s stated data capability to a different speed class.
Use the two card slots as alternatives
The guide tells you to insert a microSD or SD card into the appropriate slot and then states that the slots cannot operate together. That is a real operating restriction, rather than a missing specification. A second slot makes switching card formats convenient; it does not establish a two-card copying station.
For example, importing files from a camera’s full-size SD card can suit the intended use. A workflow that must leave a second microSD card mounted at the same time needs a different documented reader arrangement. Keeping that distinction in the questionnaire prevents a visually suitable hub from being the wrong practical recommendation.
Data access does not replace a charger
Satechi describes this as a USB hub only and excludes standalone device charging. The complete illustrated connection map also lacks a laptop PD-input arrangement. It should therefore be chosen for peripheral communication and card access, rather than for keeping a laptop charged through one cable.
The maker warns that some 2.4 GHz wireless keyboard and mouse adapters may not work near USB 3.0 devices or hubs, and recommends a USB 2.0 connection for those receivers. Consider that specific placement issue if a wireless receiver is one of the main reasons you need more sockets.
Check placement and the exact computer
The body is listed as 5.38 by 1.96 by 1.13 inches. Its attached lead is a placement constraint rather than a freely interchangeable host cable. Leave room around the body for actual plug widths and access to the card slots; the hub’s footprint alone does not describe the complete connected setup.
The maker names specific Mac, Windows and USB-C iPad examples. Check your actual computer rather than extending that list to every future model. Shortlist the ST-TCHCRM for three USB-A data connections and convenient single-card access on a supported host. Use another arrangement for video, laptop charging, downstream USB-C data or simultaneous SD and microSD use.
Satechi’s ST-TCHCRM product page and the linked original illustrated guide establish the model and operating limitations.
Key details at a glance
| USB-A downstream data ports | 3 |
|---|---|
| USB-C downstream data ports | 0 |
| HDMI outputs | 0 |
| Full-size DisplayPort outputs | 0 |
| USB-C video outputs | 0 |
| Full-size SD slots | 1 |
| microSD slots | 1 |
| Simultaneous card slots | No |
| Power adapter included | No |
| Detachable host cable | No |
| Included host-cable length | 12.5 in |
| Host requirements | Attached USB-C host lead for the exact manufacturer-listed device configurations. |
| Screen arrangement | The complete original connection diagram contains data sockets and card readers, without a display output. |
| Power and charging | The maker explicitly excludes standalone charging. The documented layout has no laptop PD charging input; the package lists the hub and guide. |
| Data and device limits | Three USB-A sockets share the advertised 5 Gbps host connection. SD and microSD slots are alternatives and cannot be used simultaneously. |
| Installation | Desktop body listed as 5.38 × 1.96 × 1.13 inches. The prior dated exact-model source records an approximately 12.5-inch fixed lead. Satechi warns about some 2.4 GHz receivers near USB 3.0 equipment. |
Use the exact model’s instructions for operating limits, supplied equipment and version differences.
Sources for this assessment
Find a hub or dock for your desk.
Match the computer, screens, devices and charging routine, then check the exact supported arrangement.