Sharge's New SSD: Dock, Hub, and Charger in One

Sharge has introduced the Disk Pro 2 Ultra, a portable SSD that integrates a 4K HDMI dock and a USB-C hub, targeting users who need a versatile gadget for their devices. This compact device, roughly the size of a deck of playing cards, offers a 4K 144Hz HDMI 2.1 output, a 5Gbps USB-A port, SD and microSD card readers, and USB-C passthrough charging.

It supports the installation of M.2 SSDs up to 8TB, turning it into a high-capacity storage solution. The Disk Pro 2 Ultra also features integrated MagSafe-style magnets for attachment to smartphones, enhancing their capabilities for tasks such as 4K ProRes video recording on iPhones. It functions as a convenient all-in-one tool for laptops, tablets, phones, and gaming consoles like the Nintendo Switch and Steam Deck.

The device comes in two models: the Ultra and the Lite. The Ultra requires at least 1.5W of USB-C bus power and supports 4K144Hz output, while the Lite needs 5W and offers 4K60 over HDMI 2.0. A limitation of the Ultra is that it can only route 3W of power to the internal SSD, which may necessitate an external power source for demanding operations like prolonged ProRes recording or large data transfers on phones.

Firmware adjustments are ongoing for optimal compatibility with gaming consoles. For instance, the Nintendo Switch requires an 85W or higher USB-C PD charger for docking. While the Disk Pro 2 Ultra offers broad connectivity, users might experience slight delays or limitations with features like variable refresh rate (VRR) on certain handhelds. Sharge has improved upon previous models by incorporating detachable cables, built-in magnets, and a quieter, controllable fan.