In the eternal battle against desk clutter, a new contender has entered the ring. TobenONE is currently making waves on Kickstarter with its Magnetic Hub, a modular system that promises to be more than just a charging station—it positions itself as the central nervous system for your workspace. The concept is compelling: a sleek base with magnetic slots that you can populate with a variety of modules for charging, data transfer, and even computer controls.
But does this flexible approach to organization live up to the hype in practice? We’ve taken a deep dive into the campaign details to see if the TobenONE Magnetic Hub is the ultimate desk upgrade or a jack-of-all-trades with some notable compromises.
The Core Concept: A Magnetic, Modular Ecosystem
The TobenONE system starts with a base station, available in two sizes: a 13.5-inch version with four slots or a more compact 9.7-inch model with three slots. The real magic, however, lies in the interchangeable modules that snap into these slots via a magnetic connection. This allows users to customize the hub to their exact needs.
Available modules include:
- Charging Modules: A mix-and-match selection including a module with two USB-A and one USB-C port, another with three USB-C ports, and a third with three USB-A ports.
- Wireless Charging Module: A Qi-enabled pad capable of wirelessly charging compatible smartphones and earbuds at up to 15 watts.
- Control Modules: This is where the Hub truly distinguishes itself. One module features a tactile rotary knob for easy volume control, while another comes with four programmable buttons. These buttons can be set to perform specific functions on a connected computer, such as locking the screen, playing/pausing media, or launching a favorite application.
This modularity means your desk setup can evolve. You could start with a focus on charging and later add control modules as your needs change.
Notable Limitations: The Trade-Off for Flexibility
While the concept is innovative, potential backers should be aware of some key limitations, particularly regarding power.
The most significant caveat is the charging output. The wireless charging module, and indeed the total power output of the entire hub, is capped at 15 watts. In an era where premium smartphones and power banks can support wired charging speeds of 45W, 65W, or even 100W+, this 15W limit is a notable constraint. For users looking to rapidly top up a modern smartphone or tablet, the TobenONE Hub may feel disappointingly slow. It's better suited for overnight charging or maintaining a charge throughout the day rather than delivering a quick power boost.
More Than a Charger: A Control and Data Hub
Where the TobenONE Magnetic Hub seeks to redeem itself is in its secondary functions. By connecting to a computer via a single USB-C cable, it transforms into a versatile USB hub and control center.
The data transfer modules allow you to connect external hard drives, SSDs, or thumb drives, effectively expanding your computer's connectivity. Meanwhile, the programmable button and rotary knob modules offer a level of physical control that can streamline a workflow, whether you're editing video, managing a complex spreadsheet, or simply controlling your music playlist without touching the keyboard.
For a closer look at all the available modules and early bird pricing, you can check out the official Kickstarter campaign here
The Crowdfunding Consideration and Final Verdict
As with any crowdfunded project, it's crucial to approach with a balanced perspective. The TobenONE Magnetic Hub is scheduled to ship in February 2026, which suggests the product development is in its advanced stages. Furthermore, TobenONE is not a completely unknown entity, which may offer some reassurance to backers.
However, the standard crowdfunding caveats apply: delivery timelines can shift, and the final product may differ from the prototypes. Always read the shipping terms carefully and understand that backing a project is not the same as purchasing from a retail store.
Final Thoughts:
The TobenONE Magnetic Hub is an ambitious and clever solution for desk organization. Its magnetic, modular design is its greatest strength, offering a level of customization that traditional, fixed-port hubs can't match. The integration of physical controls and data transfer capabilities makes it a truly multi-functional device.
However, its appeal is tempered by its limited 15W charging output, which may be a deal-breaker for power users with fast-charging devices. If your primary need is high-speed charging, you may want to look elsewhere. But if you value a clean, customizable desk setup with integrated controls and are comfortable with standard-speed charging, the TobenONE Magnetic Hub presents a uniquely versatile, if slightly underpowered, option.
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