Right now we're in an in-between period for device connectors. We are edging towards a world that's more and more wireless but we'll never be completely sans wires. USB-C is the latest entrant in the world of wired device connectors.

It's got a lot going for it, including wide industry support including the likes of Apple, Intel, Dell, and SAMSUNG. As many of the world's most recognized manufacturers are supporting this new technology, it is likely to be widely adopted. With that kind of backing it's only a matter of time until USB-C gradually replaces previous connector types, including USB-A, USB-B and USB Mini-B (and even Apple's lightning port).

Will it be nice when there's one port to rule them all? Yes, but it’s going to be a while until all of our accessories are able to talk through USB-C. So if you have a device (laptop, tablet, or phone, etc) whose only physical connection to the outside world is a USB-C port, you my friend are going to have to invest in, wait for it, a dongle. You also might want a travel charger and maybe some high quality braided wires.

AUKEY sent me all those things to review. So here we go.

USB-C to 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub | CB-C64

The AUKEY CB-64 is a four port C to 3 hub takes advantage of every bit of the usability of this new standard. Plug your keyboard, mouse, etc. and it will still run an external hard drive with no problem. Pretty impressive from a $16.00 hub that's not externally powered.

That being said, it does have limitations. The max output of USB 3.0 ports is 5V 0.9A. Because of the high power demand you can't connect an Apple Superdrive or charge a tablet via the USB ports. Also, the hub supports a maximum of 2 hard drives but for best performance, the power demand of connected devices shouldn't exceed the Max current output of 0.9A.

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LIKE:  Very slim and light, nice quality brushed-plastic case, compatible with tons of devices, comes with a 24-month warranty.

NO LIKE: Power limitations. It would be great if it could do some double duty.  Like if you could pair it with a wall charger and use it as a USB power bar to charge multiple devices. 

And speaking of wall chargers.

18W Power Delivery Wall Charger | PA-Y18

The PA-Y18 is a compact USB-C wall charger packs an 18W punch in a crazy small space. The plugs fold for easy portability and storage and the piano black finish looks especially slick. I mean, for a wall charger it looks nice.

Did I mention it was small? Take a look at this photo.

I don't know about you but my iPhone chomps through the battery like packman eating pellets. It dynamically negotiates power output over the USB-C connection to safely and efficiently recharge a wide range of compatible devices. You can fast charge the new iPhone XS/XS Max/XR up to 50% in just 30 minutes - using the Apple brand usb-c to lightning cable.  It's nice to be able to throw this thing in a bag and be able to get a quick charge when I can.

LIKE: This $17 charger is small and sturdy.  The size is really nice because it’s also feather light. Why is this a good thing? If a wall plug is worn and doesn’t grab hold of the prongs very well this charger won't fall out.  This isn’t the case with some of the larger wall plugs - I'm looking at you MacBook and iPad Pro chargers.

NO LIKE: Why is the white one more money?

90º USB-C Braided Nylon Cable | CB-CMD33

These 6 foot braided USB-C to 3 cables are a nice upgrade because the OEM cables that ship standard typically tend to break apart near the joins after some time. This right angle one? Way more flexible, convenient, and sturdy.

The stats on these cables are decent as well. You can safely charge up to 3A and they support data transfer at up to 480Mbps. AUKEY also claims that they will survive 5000+ bends which sounds like a lot of USB limbo if you ask me.

But what I really like is the length. They sent me the 6 footer - they also sell a shorter 3 foot model - so you can get these wires to reach those inconvenient office or airport outlets making it easier to use and charge your phone while your on the go.

The 90º connection is nice.

Just checked into your hotel room? Want to watch a movie and charge your phone while relaxing in bed? With these right angled cables, it's very convenient to do so. Th cord is parallel to the phone so it's easier to hold.

Say you use a USB hub on your desk. Normal cables sprout over the top of the hub. Since both sides of this cord are angled the plugs lie in perfect order over the top.

USB C to USB C - 6ft | CB-CD6-N-US

Finally AUKEY sent over the CB-CD6 C2C cable for me to try. It doesn't have the 90º angle of the other cords but they are braided nylon and the joins look much better constructed than OEM cables.  If you’re traveling and constantly pulling the cord out of your bag that means these should be able to take that kind of use and not break.

Also, this cord and the 90º one comes with a handy cable strap. So not only is the braided nylon tangle-resistant but they store nice and easy in your bag or drawer. No frustrating tangled mess when you reach for the cable.

LIKE: Quality nylon. Nice lengths. Cable strap. Good price.

NO LIKE: Not much to dislike.