Streamplify CTRL 7 USB Hub review: Fuss-free gaming space organiser

The Streamplify CTRL 7 USB Hub is a cable and USB management solution for any gamer or streamer with more USB devices than sense - but is it worth it? Let's find out.

Essentially, the Streamplify CTRL 7 USB Hub is a dock that can connect up to seven devices at once, either to your PC with a USB 3.0 connection or via plug.

What sets the Streamplify USB Hub apart from competing brands, though, is the simple 'plug and go' mechanism alongside its flashy RGB design and swappable keys.

So if you're in the market for a new USB hub and want to learn just how the Streamplify CTRL 7 compares to others out there, keep reading for a full rundown of the hardware below.

The Streamplify CTRL 7 USB Hub out of the box

Out of the box, the Streamplify CTRL 7 USB Hub is well-packaged and comes with a protective bubble casing to alleviate the anxieties of shipping. Alongside this is additional space for the included pieces, ranging from the main hub body to a USB cable, a clip to manage connected device cables, a plug as an additional power source option and sixteen acrylic keys with various designs etched on them.

These icons can then be fixed to the hub, and range from the Streamplify logo to a lightning symbol, meaning that whatever your use may be for the hub you can customise it to your needs - saving you from wondering what each connects to without partaking in some cable hunting around your setup. 

In terms of getting started with and setting the hub up, it really is as simple as 'plug and go'. All you've got to do is choose the keys you like the look of, pop them into the allotted spaces in the hub and then connect the various devices you wish to the main body.

Following that, you'll need to connect the hub either to a PC via a USB connection, or plug and click the side button to adjust the RGB display to your preference.

Lastly, add the cable clip to the back of the hub and thread the various wires of your connected devices through, then pick the perfect place on your desk for your new Streamplify CTRL 7 USB Hub to rest before sitting back to admire your hard work.

• If you're on the hunt for a new desk chair, check out our review of the Flexispot BS11 PRO

Streamplify CTRL 7 USB Hub key features

The main function of the Streamplify CTRL 7 USB Hub is to connect up to seven devices through just one USB connection, making it a great space saver for smaller setups. That's not all, though, because it comes with a whole array of features, too.

The Hub has a great amount of customisation which sets it apart from standard USB hubs on the market. Along with the inter-changeable acrylic keys, the hub boasts an RGB display with several different options that can be cycled through, or you can instead opt for a static colour if that's more to your liking. Additionally, you're also able to turn the RGB lights off completely whilst still having the hub function if you get overwhelmed.

There are buttons underneath each of the acrylic keys which additionally light up when the devices are powered on, and with a simple press of the buttons to switch the connected devices on or off, it will tell you at a glance which ones are still powered. This means you can keep everything connected at once - without having to unplug devices.

What's more, the hub is also compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, macOS and Chrome OS and compatible with laptops, PC, PlayStation 4 and 5 Xbox One and Series S/X.

If you're still not convinced after that, though, it additionally comes with six USB 3.0 ports and one USB with 2.0A power charging for fast charging for your smartphone.

• If you're also in the market for a new webcam, check out our Insta360 Link webcam review 

The Verdict

The Streamplify CTRL 7 USB Hub is a streamer's dream. If you have a gaming setup that includes several devices at once like lighting, microphones and cameras to micromanage, the Streamplify Hub can organise your work and gaming space effectively with no fuss.

What's more, the acrylic keycaps and RGB display make for a nice added touch. With these, you can tell at a glance which devices are connected to which ports on the hub and opt whether to individually turn them off or not.

For such a simple idea, once you have the Streamplify CTRL 7 USB Hub, you won't be able to live without it - and may wonder at a time when you did.

Review unit provided by the manufacturer.