Best USB Hub
Have you realized that you need more USB ports, more possibilities to connect additional gadgets or a monitor? If yes, this review is for you. Here we will look at different kinds of USB hubs and tell you how they differ from each other. You can choose which one is suitable for your needs and then you will not have any doubts about the purchase. Let's begin.
8 Best USB Hubs
Detailed Overview
Let's take a closer look at each USB hub and choose the right one for your needs.
Author’s Choice
The Anker USB-C Hub (8-in-1) is a versatile and powerful hub featuring a USB-C Power Delivery input port, a USB-C transfer port, 2 USB-A transfer ports, 1 HDMI port, an Ethernet port, and a microSD/SD card reader. HDMI port up to 4K 60Hz allows you to connect to high-resolution displays. With USB-C and USB-A ports, data transfer speeds up to 10Gbps, you can transfer files quickly and easily. Powerful pass-through charging of up to 85 watts means you can keep your devices charged while you use them.
This producer has an older model Anker USB-C Hub 7-in-1, but also quite good and already loved by many.
Operating systems: Windows, MacOS, ChromeOS, iPedOS.
Pros:
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging - 85W
- USB-C and USB-A speed up to 10Gbps
- HDMI port up to 4K 60Hz
- microSD and SD Card
Cons:
- Plastic case
People's Choice
LENTION 4-in-1 USB-C Hub is a great way to connect your laptop to multiple devices. It contains one Type-C, one USB 3.0 and two USB 2.0 ports, allowing you to transfer data at speeds up to 5 Gbps. You can also charge your laptop up to 60W while transferring data. The unibody aluminum alloy exterior provides a sleek and durable design.
Available in different colors - pink, gray, silver.
Operating systems: Windows, Linux, MacOS, ChromeOS
Pros:
- Lightweight and small size
- Speeds up to 5 Gbps
- Charge laptop up to 60W
Cons:
- Not designed for use with SuperDrive
Premium Choice
The Twelve South StayGo is a sleek and stylish aluminum USB-C Hub that gives you the ability to connect multiple devices to your computer. The HDMI port allows you to connect 4K monitors or TVs, while the USB A 3.0 ports allow you to connect external storage devices or printers. The dual functionality USB A port also allows you to charge your devices faster with up to 7.5 Watts of power. The Gigabit Ethernet port gives you a fast and reliable connection to the internet, while the SD and Micro SD ports let you easily transfer files between your computer and other devices. Lastly, the USB C 3.1 port provides 85W of power for charging your laptop or other USB C devices.
This model is also available in the Mini version.
Compatible Devices: All Type C laptops/ MacBooks, iPad Pro, iMac M1
Pros:
- Includes a 1 meter cable to use at your workstation and a detachable travel cable that stores Inside the StayGo when not in use
- 4K HDMI Port
- SD Port / Micro SD Port (cards read simultaneously)
- Matte aluminum shell
Cons:
- Can get hot when the charging port is in use
Best Budget
The Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub is a great way to add more USB ports to your computer without having to worry about losing your existing ports. This hub features four USB 3.0 ports, each with speeds up to 5 Gbps. The cable is 0.6m ( 2 feet) long, so you can easily connect it to your computer without worrying about moving around too much. Use the included cable tie to adjust the length for maximum comfort. Overall, the Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub is a great choice for those who need extra USB ports and nothing more.
Operating systems: Mac, Windows, Linux, Unix, Chrome
Pros:
- Lightweight and small size
- 4 USB 3.0 ports
Cons:
- No ability to connect a second monitor or SD/microSD cards
- Does not support charging other gadgets
7-in-1 Universal USB Hub
The Kingston Nucleum USB Hub is a versatile and handy device that allows you to connect up to 7 devices to your computer via a single USB-C connection. The hub includes a USB 3.1 Type-C power pass through port, a USB 3.1 Type-C data transfer port, an SD card slot and a Micro SD card slot. The rugged aluminum casing protects your devices from damage, and the 4K HDMI output lets you enjoy high-definition content on your compatible TV or monitor.
Compatible Devices: MacBooks, iPad, Samsung, Asus Chromebook Flip, Chromebook.
Pros:
- 4K HDMI Port
- SD Port / Micro SD Port
- Aluminum shell
- Convenient size and ultra-light
Cons:
- Only one USB-C charging port
9-in-1 Universal USB Hub
The UGREEN 9-in-1 USB hub is a versatile and powerful device that expands your USB-C port to 4K HDMI and 1080P VGA video output, Gigabit Ethernet port, Micro SD(TF) and SD card reader, 3 USB 3.0 ports as well as one type C PD charging port (Max. 20V3A). It is perfect for mirroring or extending your screen with the HDMI port and directly streaming max 4K UHD at 30Hz, Full HD 1080P or 3D video to external HDTV display, monitor or projector. The VGA output supports up to 1920x1080 at 60Hz. Additionally, the foldable cable design and aluminum case make it both durable and portable. The UGREEN 9-in-1 USB hub also supports data transfer up to 5Gbps and wired Gigabit Ethernet connection with speeds up to 1000Mbps. Lastly, the 100W USB C Power Delivery makes it a perfect device for office or home use.
Operating systems: Windows, Linux, MacOS
Pros:
- Foldable cable design and aluminum case
- 100W Max Pass-through Charging
- Support output to dual displays
- SD Slot/TF Slot
Cons:
- You are not allowed to plug-in and plug-out the HDMI cable when the hub is on
7+3 USB Hub
SABRENT 7+ 3 Port USB 3.0 Hub is a stylish and compact device that offers 7 USB 3 ports with data transfer rate up to 5Gbps and 3 smart charging ports. The hub also has 60W of power output, allowing you to charge phones, tablets and other devices at the same time. A blue LED light lets you know when each port is on and the mirrored surface gives a stylish look to any desk or workstation.
Operating systems: Mac, Windows, Linux, Unix, Chrome
Pros:
- 7 port USB 3.0
- 3 USB charging ports
- LED light
Cons:
- Without the ability to connect a second monitor or SD/microSD cards
Best USB Hub for MacBook
The Anker USB C Hub 7-in-2 for MacBook is a powerful and compact hub that expands your MacBook's 2 USB-C ports into 1 multi-function USB-C port, 1 USB-C data port, 2 USB-A ports, 1 HDMI port, 1 SD card slot, and 1 microSD card slot. The multi-function port supports huge charging power up to 100W, data transfer up to an astounding 40 Gb/s, and media display at resolutions up to 5K. The HDMI port supports a resolution of 4K@30Hz. This hub is ultra-compact and easy to use, making it a great choice for anyone looking for an easy way to expand the capabilities of their MacBook.
Compatible Devices: MacBook Pro 13" 2020/2019/2018/2017/2016, MacBook Pro 15" 2019/2018/2017/2016, MacBook Pro 16" 2019, MacBook Air 2020/2019/2018
Pros:
- SD/ microSD Slot
- HDMI port
- Aluminum case
- Compact design, no protruding cables
Cons:
- MacBook Air/Pro 2020 with an M1 chip can only support one monitor
Best USB Hub - Buyer’s Guide
USB Hub is a gadget that may differ from each other in the port content. USB hubs vary based on their specifications, like the number of USB ports or the speed at which they transfer data. They can also vary in terms of their standards, like whether they're USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 compatible. And finally, USB hubs can vary based on their brand and the level of customer service that's offered. When choosing a USB hub, it's important to consider all of these factors in order to find the best option for your needs.
Design
Design is one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a USB hub. It should have an elegant design that leaves plenty of room for the devices you connect to it. And designed to fit your workspace and make your tasks more convenient.
Data Transfer Speed
The latest USB C ports support data transfer at 5 Gbit/s to 10 Gbit/s. USB 2.0 is only capable of 480 Mbps. Similarly, newer powered hubs charge your phones and tablets like a 2.4A charger. This makes it much easier and faster to transfer large files from one device to another. In the past, this process could take forever, but with the latest technology, it can be done in just a few minutes. This is a huge advantage for those who need to transfer large files on a regular basis. With a USB hub, you can save time and increase efficiency.
HDMI, or High-Definition Multimedia Interface
This is a high-definition digital video and audio standard. HDMI cables are used to connect HDMI-compatible devices such as players, game consoles, and computers to HDMI-compatible displays such as HDTVs, monitors, and projectors. Most HDMI hubs support 4K resolution at 30 Hz (the picture is refreshed 30 times per second), but some support 60 Hz for a smoother picture. If you are looking for an HDMI hub to connect your computer to an external monitor, make sure it supports the resolution and refresh rate you want.
Ethernet
Ethernet is a wired network connection that is faster and more reliable than Wi-Fi. Most Ethernet hubs support gigabit speeds, meaning data can transfer at up to 1,000 megabits a second. Ethernet is also less susceptible to interference than Wi-Fi, making it a more reliable connection. Ethernet is the best choice for online gaming, streaming video, or other activities that require high bandwidth.
Other Features
The first thing you should pay attention to is the number of ports available in the device.
Another important characteristic is related to the types of ports on the device. Ideally, you should look for an option (if you need them) that supports SD cards, HDMI cables, and USB type A and C connectors.
Third features you may want to consider before buying include the weight and portability of the device. If you plan to use the mini display port frequently while traveling, you'll want to make sure it's lightweight and easy to transport.
The fourth characteristic, you should look at device and operating system compatibility. Some hubs are designed specifically for laptops, so if you plan to use your hub with a desktop or tablet, make sure it is compatible. Also keep in mind that not all USB-C hubs are created equal - some have better performance than others. If you plan to use the hub for gaming or other resource-intensive activities, make sure it can handle the load of your devices.
Best USB Hub - Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a USB hub and a docking station?
If you've ever experienced a shortage of USB ports, you know how frustrating it can be. You either have to unplug something else to plug in what you need, or you have to constantly swap devices around. A USB hub is a handy solution that gives you extra ports to work with. Simply plug the hub into an existing port and you can connect multiple devices at once.
Docking stations offer a similar solution, but with a few differences: they also have ports for connecting monitors. This makes it easy to create a configuration with multiple screens, which can be very useful when working on complex projects. And they are often larger in size. With a docking station you can connect one or more additional monitors to the main laptop display, giving you a lot of extra space to work with. For more details, check out our article - Best Docking Station for Laptop.
But now there are some USB Hubs on the market which have not only USB ports but also HDMl or DVI ports which gives you the possibility to connect one more monitor. For example: Anker USB-C Hub (8-in-1), UGREEN 9-in-1, Twelve South StayGo, Anker USB C Hub 7-in-2 for MacBook, Kingston Nucleum USB hub.
What is the difference between a USB splitter and a USB hub?
A USB splitter is a device that allows you to connect a single USB device to two different computers. This can be useful for anyone who needs to quickly transfer files from a flash drive to each computer, or wants to control both computers with one mouse and keyboard. A USB hub, on the other hand, allows you to add more USB ports to your computer so you can connect more external storage devices or peripherals.
Conclusion
We've listed great USB Hub options and those with only USB and those with HDMI and extra goodies. We looked at different operating systems and universal ones, and paid attention to their different sizes. Now the choice is up to you. Whether you want to be able to connect different gadgets or an additional monitor is up to you. We just hope we have helped you to decide what you want and what USB hub would be perfect for you.
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