The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →No subscription or extra accessories are required to play Nex Playground’s five included starter games. You do need Wi-Fi for first-time setup and downloads, but Nex says downloaded games can then be played offline. The current revised package includes the essential cables and a remote.
Do you need a Play Pass subscription?
No. Nex’s first-time setup instructions say the Play Pass purchase or activation step is optional and can be skipped. The system includes a five-game Starter Pack; Play Pass is for access to additional games. See Nex’s first-time setup guide and the Nex Playground product page.
Nex’s Play Pass terms say that catalog titles, features, and content may change over time and vary by region. The sources cited here do not establish a current subscription price or a fixed game count for the Play Pass catalog, so check Nex’s current offer for those details before subscribing: Play Pass Terms and Conditions.
Does Nex Playground need an internet connection?
Yes, for first-time setup and to download the starter games. Nex says Wi-Fi is also used for system updates and downloading new games. Depending on your internet speed, the initial game downloads may take up to an hour. Once games are downloaded, Nex says they can be played offline. Read Nex’s wireless operation guidance.
#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.
Play Pass has an additional online requirement: its terms say an internet connection is needed to activate Play Pass, download games, and access all game features. Offline play for downloaded games should not be taken to mean that every Play Pass feature works without a connection.
What comes in the box, and do you need other accessories?
For current revised packaging, Nex lists the console with magnetic privacy cover, an HDMI cable, a power supply, and a D-pad remote with two AAA batteries. Nex says revised packaging began in late September 2024. Earlier packaging differed, so check the contents if you are buying a used or old-stock unit. The current list is on Nex’s package contents page.
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.
The D-pad remote is used for setup and navigation; Nex says it is not required to control games during gameplay. For ordinary setup and play, the official setup guidance does not identify a separate accessory that you must buy. Nex’s terms say the system is designed to operate only with peripherals and connected devices officially produced, licensed, or authorized by Nex or its affiliates or licensees.
What you need before setup
Have the following ready:
- A TV with an HDMI input and an available wall outlet.
- Your Wi-Fi network name and password.
- An email address and a smartphone or laptop to access Nex’s web portal during setup.
- An open play area. Nex recommends about 6 ft by 6 ft on its product page.
Connect the console and complete setup
- Connect the included HDMI cable between the console and your TV.
- Connect the included USB-C power cable to the console and a wall outlet. Nex advises using the original Nex Playground power cable.
- Insert the two included AAA batteries in the D-pad remote.
- Follow the on-screen and web-portal setup steps, using your Wi-Fi credentials and email address. Download the starter games over Wi-Fi; skip the Play Pass purchase or activation step if you do not want it.
For Nex’s full first-time instructions, see its setup guide.
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.
