Available to buy here:
Welcome back to “Reviews inside tv,” where we bring you the most comprehensive product reviews to help you make informed decisions. Today, we’re diving into the C2G / Cables to Go Trulink USB 2.0 Superbooster Dongle Kit (53880), a product that promises to extend your USB 2.0 signal over long distances—up to 328 feet. If you’ve been struggling with limited USB cable lengths, this might just be the solution you’ve been looking for. So, let’s take a closer look.
The C2G Trulink USB 2.0 Superbooster Dongle Kit includes a transmitter and receiver designed to extend your USB signal over Cat5, Cat5e, or Cat6 cables. This setup allows you to connect your USB devices, such as cameras, printers, webcams, or even hubs, at much greater distances than a standard USB cable can handle. It operates on a plug-and-play system, meaning there’s no need for drivers or special software—just a simple connection to get things up and running. It’s compatible with any laptop, desktop, or device that supports USB 2.0, which makes it versatile for both home and office use.
In terms of real-world usage, the setup process is incredibly straightforward. Plug the transmitter into your USB port and connect the receiver to your peripheral. Then, use a standard Cat5, Cat5e, or Cat6 cable to link them, and you’re good to go. The 328-foot extension range really shines here, especially if you’re trying to place devices far from your computer without compromising on performance. I tested it with a webcam and a printer, and the connection was stable, with no lag or drops in signal quality. The performance was solid in all scenarios—whether transferring files or using a peripheral in real-time, the booster did its job effectively.
But, like any product, it does have its drawbacks. First, you need to provide your own Cat5 or higher cables, which might not be ideal for everyone. While the extender works well for most USB 2.0 devices, the performance could degrade with more data-intensive peripherals or USB 3.0 devices. Another point worth mentioning is that while it claims to extend USB signals over 328 feet, your experience might vary depending on the quality of the Cat5 cable you use, so results may not be as reliable over longer distances without good-quality cabling.
Now, let’s get into the pros and cons. On the positive side, the Trulink USB Superbooster excels in ease of use. The plug-and-play functionality is a major plus, as it doesn’t require any technical setup. It’s also highly versatile and supports a broad range of USB devices, making it a practical tool for both home offices and businesses that need to connect peripherals over long distances. The build quality is solid for the price, and the extender operates without causing noticeable lag or delay in my tests.
However, there are a few cons. First, while the device works well with USB 2.0, it’s not ideal for high-speed USB 3.0 devices. The lack of included cables could be an inconvenience, especially for those who aren’t well-versed in networking. The long-range extension also requires a well-constructed Cat5 or Cat6 cable for optimal performance, and the product is a bit limiting in terms of offering a complete solution right out of the box.
In terms of value for money, this USB extender does provide a practical solution for those who need to extend USB connections over long distances. It’s not exactly a budget item, but considering it’s a plug-and-play device with no need for software or drivers, it offers a fair price for what it delivers. For home offices or businesses that frequently need long-range USB extensions, it’s certainly worth considering, especially when weighed against the hassle of traditional USB cables.
When comparing it to other products on the market, the C2G Trulink USB 2.0 Superbooster stands out in terms of ease of use and reliable performance, but it does have limitations. Products like the StarTech USB Extender over Cat5e/6 come with similar features, but at a higher price point and with added functionality. If you’re only looking to extend a USB 2.0 connection and don’t need advanced features, the C2G might be the better budget option.
As far as build quality goes, the materials used feel durable, but it’s not the most robust design out there. It should hold up well with normal usage, but long-term durability hasn’t been tested extensively. Still, if you handle it carefully, it should last a reasonable amount of time.
I didn’t need to interact with customer support during testing, but C2G generally has a good reputation for providing decent customer service. Their website also provides clear instructions on how to use the product, which is helpful in case you run into any issues.
To wrap things up, the C2G Trulink USB 2.0 Superbooster Dongle Kit is a solid product for anyone needing to extend a USB connection beyond the usual limits. It’s easy to use, works well with USB 2.0 devices, and has a reliable signal range. The lack of included cables and the potential compatibility issues with USB 3.0 are drawbacks, but for many, it offers a straightforward solution without the complexity of more expensive models. If you need a simple, reliable extender for USB 2.0 devices, this one’s worth considering.
Before I sign off, don’t forget to hit that like button, subscribe to “Reviews inside tv,” and ring the bell to stay updated on all our reviews. We’ve got plenty more to come, so keep an eye out for future videos!
Thanks for watching, and remember, if you have any questions or already use this product, feel free to drop a comment below. I’ll be happy to help out. Until next time, it’s been a pleasure reviewing with you—goodbye, and don’t forget to keep your connections strong, just like this booster!
Available to buy here: