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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchArs Pro is an optional subscription that adds ad-free, tracker-free reading and other subscriber features while helping fund Ars Technica’s journalism. The public site remains free to read without a subscription. The October 6, 2026 appeal by Managing Editor Eric Bangeman presents the choice as both a way to support reporting and a way to read Ars in formats that suit you, including full-text RSS and downloadable article PDFs.
What an Ars subscription adds
Ars Technica’s current subscription page lists these features for Ars Pro, with Ars Pro++ adding a special badge:
- Ad-free reading and removal of trackers
- Homepage display options, including Ars Classic and Neutron Star views
- Topic filtering and an optimized reading layout, with an optional wide text mode
- Full-text RSS feeds and downloadable PDFs of articles
- Access to subscriber forums
Bangeman’s October 2026 appeal also calls out four front-page layouts—grid, list, Classic, and Neutron Star—along with PDFs, full-text RSS, forums, no ads, and no trackers. The practical distinction is that these options let subscribers choose how they encounter Ars, rather than requiring them to use the standard web-page layout. For example, full-text RSS can bring articles into an RSS reader, while a PDF is an alternative format for an individual article.
Ars Pro and Ars Pro++ prices
The official subscription page lists Ars Pro at $5 per month or $25 per year, and Ars Pro++ at $50 per year. Pro++ includes the Ars Pro features and a special badge. Bangeman’s October 6 appeal describes the annual options as $25 for Ars Pro and $50 for Ars Pro++; the monthly Pro option appears on the official subscription page, not in that sentence. Prices and offers can change, so check the live Ars subscription page before signing up.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Plan | Listed price | What the source specifies |
|---|---|---|
| Ars Pro | $5 per month or $25 per year | Reading and subscriber features listed on the official subscription page |
| Ars Pro++ | $50 per year | All Ars Pro features, plus a special badge |
Do you need to subscribe to read Ars?
No. Ars says its public content is free to use, and a subscription is not required to access public articles. Ars Pro is an optional way to support the publication and get additional features. It is not a requirement for reading public Ars coverage.
How subscriptions support Ars journalism
Bangeman says subscription revenue helps pay for reporting, analysis, reviews, and other Ars journalism. Ars’s FAQ also describes support for new content and community offerings, including the Ars OpenForum, as well as conference and product-launch coverage, liveblogs, and freelance specialty and technical content. The sources do not specify a percentage or dollar allocation for any particular activity.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Cancellation and refunds
Ars’s FAQ says subscriptions rebill by default and can be managed through the subscriptions page. Subscribers may cancel; in most cancellation circumstances, benefits continue until the subscription expires. The FAQ says refunds are not offered in most circumstances. Review the current subscription FAQ and account terms for details before making changes.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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