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We connected 13 of the top USB hubs to laptops, tablets, monitors, and drives to test port functionality and reveal those that can keep you connected on the go
Credit: Chris Maxcer
By Chris Maxcer ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Updated September 15, 2025
Many new devices only have USB-C ports, but sometimes we want to connect through a different type of port. Sometimes you need a USB-A port to access an old storage drive, or to connect to an external keyboard or monitor.
But there is more to a versatile hub than just USB-A ports. We researched dozens and selected the top 13 to purchase and test. We then connected them to USB-C ports in laptops, Chromebooks, and tablets for side-by-side analysis, evaluating each hub for functionality, build quality, and portability.
The Anker 341 USB C 7-in-1 is the best USB hub for most people. It has all the ports you're likely to need with little risk of leaving you in the lurch. If you just need a basic USB-A hub to connect accessories, the UGREEN Revodok 105 5-in-1 USB-C provides the best affordability by keeping its design simple. If you can stretch your budget, the travel-friendly Hiearcool USB C 7-in-1 extends functionality by adding SD card access for loading photos or video from a dedicated camera.
For those who need more serious connectivity, we also tested bigger, more powerful laptop docking stations and fast USB flash drives, as well as dozens of USB-C cables to make sure all your connections can deliver the speed you need.
Editor's Note: We updated this USB hub review on September 16, 2025, to add new options from Anker and UGREEN while also updating scores, rankings, and media to better reflect how people are using hubs with their modern devices.
The Anker 341 USB C 7-in-1 is our top can't-go-wrong USB-C hub for home office workers, students, and occasional travelers because it has all the common ports most people need. It has two USB-A ports for connecting to wired accessories like keyboards or mice, as well as a USB-C data port. This USB-C option is handy because we didn't have to sacrifice a USB-C port in our laptops or tablets just to use the hub. “What I like most is that Anker doesn't include any super-slow USB 2.0 ports, which means I can plug in any thumb or flash drive and not have to worry about slow data access because I used an old-style port,” noted Chris Maxcer, our lead tester.
Windows XP - 10, macOS X 10.6 or later, Linux 2.6.14 or later, iPadOS
While the Anker 341 USB C 7-in-1 is a bit heavier and bulkier than we like for dedicated traveling, its size gives it room to include an HDMI port, SD and microSD card slots. If you're willing to give up the SD card slots in favor of a lightweight option, the Anker 332 5-in-1 USB-C is just as fast but weighs less than half as much. Another cool feature that isn't so common is a USB-C power delivery port on the Anker that allows for pass-through charging. “The pass-through power port is strong enough to charge most laptops, but I appreciated it most when I used it with my iPad, which only has a single port,” Chris said. If you're someone who needs more than two fast USB 3.0 ports at any time, you may want to look at the EZQuest USB-C Multimedia 8 Port.
One of the heavier hubs we tested, we were still impressed by the heavy-duty build quality and ability to plug-in many devices at the same time.
The UGREEN Revodok 105 5-in-1 USB-C is the best affordable hub for attaching USB-A storage drives and accessories. Unlike many cheap USB-C to USB-A hubs that only give you slow USB-A 2.0 ports, this hub includes a fast 5 Gbps USB 3.0 A-type port alongside its two slower ports. How do you know which is which? Unfortunately, it's not labeled, so you'll have to get to know your tech. “I wish all manufacturers identified port speeds with text next to their ports for clarity, but the blue port indicates it's the faster USB 3.0 port of the three,” Chris said. “I used this port any time I needed to access data, and it was snappy enough for accessing photos on one of my SSD drives.”
The drawback to the UGREEN Revodok 105 5-in-1 is that its USB-C port is for passthrough charging only, not data. Nor does it have SD or microSD card slots, so you can't use it to access photos or video from typical camera cards. At a slightly higher price, the Anker 332 5-in-1 includes a USB-C data port giving you another connection option for modern devices, but if you want to transfer photos from SD cards, consider the Hiearcool USB C 7-in-1 to gain that functionality.
If you just need to connect basic USB-A accessories like a keyboard, mouse, or SSD drive, this inexpensive hub worked pretty well for simplifying connections on our workspaces.
The Anker 555 8-in-1 USB-C is the best all-around hub for anyone who needs to use a wired direct Ethernet connection for extra security or consistency. “When I travel for business, I like to have the option to connect via Ethernet, especially when WiFi is spotty or less secure,” Chris said. This premium hub includes faster-than-average ports all around: two USB 3.2 generation USB-A ports, one USB-C data port, plus an HDMI port that supports 4K monitors with a smooth 60Hz refresh rate. “Basically, I could connect to most any device from fast SSD drives to monitors with very good performance from this hub without worry,” Chris added.
Packing the Anker 555 8-in-1 USB-C isn't exactly a hardship, but we know how quickly things add up when you're packing a lot of tech. The Anker 555 is one of the larger hubs we tested, so it's not our first choice for traveling light. The Satechi Aluminum is slightly smaller with a shorter cord and offers similar features, but it lacks a USB-C data port, so the better packability might not be worth the loss of that port for everyone. The EZQuest USB-C Multimedia 8-Port is also trimmer overall, but its HDMI port is slower, so you won't get the smoothest video out of any attached video monitors. Once again, if you need Ethernet, this 8-in-1 is our top hub recommendation.
This premium hub includes plenty of fast ports, including an Ethernet port for when you need to plug-in for secure, stable internet or network access -- though we do get annoyed by upside down SD or microSD card slots.
If you appreciate interesting shapes and artful designs, the Satechi Aluminum is a premium hub that packs port performance into a fresh vibe: Its aluminum wedge-shape reminds us that not everything needs to be made with right angles. “This hub pairs nicely with my MacBook Pro and doesn't look out of place on modern desktops,” noted our lead tester. As for performance, you get smooth 4K@60Hz HDMI video, three speedy USB-A ports, easy front access to SD and microSD card slots for photos, a passthrough power delivery USB-C port for charging, and Ethernet, too.
USB-C (Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, and USB 4 compatible)
OS Compatability
Windows 8- 11, macOS X 10.6-10.12 or later, iPadOS 10.2 or later. Linux 2.6.14 or later. ChromeOS
Our biggest complaint with the Satechi Aluminum is that it lacks a USB-C data port. Sure, because it's a USB-C hub, you can remove it and just use an existing port for your USB-C device, but that's annoying when you need to connect multiple devices. If you're short on USB-C ports on your laptop or tablets, the Anker 555 8-in-1 USB-C is the way to go — just remember that it has only two USB-A ports instead of the Satechi's three. Alternatively, if you don't need Ethernet, the Anker 341 USB C 7-in-1 blends an unobtrusively simple design with excellent functionality as well.
The wedge shape grabbed our attention, but all the fast ports transformed this pretty USB hub into a hard working connector.
If you're looking for the smallest, most portable USB hub, the Hiearcool USB C 7-in-1 is for you. This USB-C hub has six ports (despite the “7-in-1” name): two USB 3.0 type-A ports, a USB-C passthrough charging port, an HDMI port, and microSD and SD card slots. It packs these ports into a footprint barely larger than a pack of gum and weighs under two ounces.
Unfortunately, the Hiearcool USB 7-in-1 isn't great if you want to attach more than two accessories at the same time. “Still, I like this hub for traveling because it covers the bases pretty well where I just need quick access to a thumb drive or want to transfer some photos from my full-size camera to my phone, iPad, or MacBook,” one tester noted, adding, “The HDMI port is handy for displaying content on HDTVs at vacation rentals.” If you don't travel with dedicated cameras and don't need to back up your photos using SD card slots, the Anker 332 5-in-1 USB-C is just as lightweight and gives you three data-capable ports to work with. If you're unwilling to give up SD card slots, the QGeeM USB C is another of the lightest 7-port hubs we tested.
When on the go, we were pleased with this little hub's rugged aluminum build and two fast USB 3.0 type-A ports.
USB-C (Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, and USB 4 compatible)
USB-C
Dual USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C 3.0
USB-A 3.0
USB-A 3.0
USB-A 3.0
OS Compatability
Windows 10/11, macOS 10/12, ChromeOS, iPadOS
Windows XP - 10, macOS X 10.6 or later, Linux 2.6.14 or later, iPadOS
Windows 8- 11, macOS X 10.6-10.12 or later, iPadOS 10.2 or later. Linux 2.6.14 or later. ChromeOS
macOS, Windows, iPadOS ChromeOS, Android
macOS - MacBook Pro 13 (2016-2020), MacBook Pro 15 (2016-2019), MacBook Pro 16 (2019), MacBook Air (2018-2020), Note: MacBook Air/Pro 2020 with M1 chip only supports one monitor.
macOS X v10.13.6 or later,
Windows 8.1-10, ChromeOS 46.0.2490.82 or later,
Android 7.0 or later
Windows, ChromeOS, Linux, macOS X 10.5 or later (all with DP Alt Mode)
Windows 2000 - 10, macOS
Windows: XP - 10, macOS X 10.x or later, Linux
Windows XP - 10, macOS X 10.6-10.12 or later, Linux 2.6.14 or Later
Measured
Dimensions
4.76" x 2.17" x 0.6"
4.5" x 2.11" x 0.5"
4.13" x 1.97" x 0.59"
4.35" x 1.15" x 0.3"
4.72" x 1.14" x 0.39"
4.15" x 2.1" x 0.4"
4.9" x 1.09" x 0.47"
3.08" x 1.37" x 0.71"
4.78" x 1.58" x 0.45"
4" x 2" x 1 "
3.4" x 1.4" x 0.61"
7.48" x 4.76" x 2.17"
2.76" x 1.18" x 0.39"
Measured
Weight
3.85 oz
4.05 oz
2.95 oz
1.75 oz
2.35 oz
2.92 oz
1.9 oz
3.2 oz
1.75 oz
2.22 oz
1.7 oz
11.3 oz
1.23 oz
Passthrough Charging
Yes (100W in / 85W out)
Yes (100W in / 85W out)
Yes (115W)
Yes (100W)
Yes (100W)
Yes (100W in / 85W out)
Yes (100W in / 95 out)
Yes (100W)
Yes (100W in / 85W out)
Yes (100W in / 85W out)
N/A
Yes (20W)
N/A
Display Ports
HDMI
HDMI
HDMI
HDMI
HDMI, Thunderbolt
HDMI
HDMI
N/A
HDMI
HDMI
N/A
N/A
N/A
Number of Displays Supported
1
1
1
1
2
1
1
N/A
1
1
N/A
N/A
N/A
Maximum Resolution - Single Added Display
4K at 60Hz
4K at 30Hz
4K at 60Hz
4K at 30Hz
4K at 30Hz (HDMI) or 5K at 60Hz (Thunderbolt 3)
4K at 30Hz
4K at 30Hz
N/A
4K at 30Hz
4K at 30Hz
N/A
N/A
N/A
Maximum Resolution - Combined (Display #)
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
4K at 60Hz via a USB-C to dual HDMI splitter (not included)
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
To test these USB hubs, we plugged into every available USB port to learn how well they connected to laptops, tablets, phones, thumb drives, SSD drives, monitors, mice, and keyboards.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
How We Tested
We narrowed our initial selection down from the top models, and then purchased the best ones for a real head-to-head showdown, including only versatile models meant for several applications. We take our own specs, noting the size, weight, number, and types of ports. We carefully considered their capabilities from a general standpoint, predicting their usefulness in varying situations, and overall aesthetic feel. We used every port in every hub over several weeks, using them at a home office and on the go. We copied data, backed up files, connected to monitors and TVs, charged devices, and accessed photos — all through multiple MacBooks, Chromebooks, phones, and tablets. Using them on a regular basis allowed us to check for speed, failures, and functionality. At GearLab, we purchase retail products just like our readers to ensure zero bias, and we never accept promotional products or freebies from manufacturers.
We tested each USB Hub using the following four performance metrics:
Functionality: (40% of overall score weighting)
Material Quality: (25% weighting)
Portabiliity: (20% weighting)
Style: (15% weighting)
Why Trust GearLab
In this latest USB hub update, Chris Maxcer leads testing. Chris is a lifelong tech geek who has spent his career writing about it for enterprise computing magazines and has two decades of experience writing about technical computing topics ranging from mainframes to mice. He previously took the lead in two similar categories for TGL: USB-C cables and wall chargers.
Review editor Ross Patton led the development of our test plan, building a foundation for our coverage and evaluation protocols. He has more than a decade of product review experience working on topics as diverse as winter recreation equipment and Bluetooth trackers. Ross's professional experience, coupled with his passion for travel and his hobby of editing action sports films, ensures that he has used these products to their maximum potential.
Also assisting in this review's testing and research is Sam Schild. Whether he's editing photos, poring through spreadsheets, crafting the perfect marketing messages, or working on his first novel, there's a USB hub near his trusty laptop, giving him years of experience connecting to USB hubs.
When we put these USB hubs to work, we included connections with modern phones and tablets, most of which now include compatible USB-C ports.
Analysis and Test Results
Although it's hard to compare some of these products side-by-side due to their vastly different functions, styles, and features, we cover their strengths and weaknesses in the metrics of functionality, portability, and style below. The right hub for you will depend entirely on your specific applications.
Worse Value
Better Value
What's the Best Value?
Many USB hubs have similar features and appearances, but not all perform at the same level, and they often vary in price. One type we try to avoid is the aging USB 2.0. This style of port is much cheaper, but it is generally too slow to be useful for most people. All of our recommended hubs have at least some USB 3.0 ports, which are ten times faster than 2.0 versions and can charge devices more quickly, too.
To determine the best value among the competition, we considered how well every USB hub performed, examined any standout features, and then compared that to each model's price. The Anker 341 USB C 7-in-1, for example, earned high marks in every category while maintaining a relatively low price tag, making it a great value.
Many portsFewer ports
With its many ports and competitive pricing, the Anker 341 USB 7-in-1 (left) offers a highly functional value while the more basic UGREEN Revodok 105 5-in-1 USB-C (right) is an affordability winner by covering the basics at an even lower price point.
Before worrying about portability and looks, we need to discuss what each USB hub does. There's no benefit in owning a good-looking, compact model if it doesn't perform the tasks you need.
USB Ports
While the Anker 341 USB C 7-in-1 doesn't have as many ports as some models, it covers most people's needs with its mix of HDMI, SD card slots, and USB 3.0 ports. We particularly like it because it has one USB-C and two USB-A ports that are rated at up to 5 Gbps, making them plenty fast for most people's data transfer needs while maintaining versatility.
For instance, if you're using your hub with a tablet that only has a single USB-C port, having an available USB-C data port in your hub lets you attach and use USB-C devices without needing to disconnect your hub. Better yet, hubs with a Power Delivery (PD) port, sometimes noted by a lightning or plug-in icon next to the port, let you plug into a wall charger to provide passthrough charging to your laptop, tablet, or phone while you're working.
This closeup of one USB-C port shows that it is a Power Delivery port used for charging devices and not transferring data.
Credit: Sam Schild
Know Your USB-A Ports
USB-A ports are one of the most important port types people need when choosing hubs to plug into their USB-C devices like laptops, tablets, or phones. However, not all of the rectangular USB-A ports are created equally. Older USB 2.0 ports that are still commonly found on cheap hubs will work with accessories like keyboards or mice, but they're agonizingly slow for transferring data. They're rated at just 480 Mbps. Newer USB 3.0 or higher type USB-A ports are 10 times faster, clocking in at maximum rated speeds of 5 Gbps or even up to 10 Gbps. Great ports label each port, but you can often also tell by the use of blue insulating material inside 3.0 ports.
All of the USB hubs we recommend have at least one high-speed USB-A port, but some, like the UGREEN Revodok 105 5-in-1 USB-C also have slower USB 2.0 ports.
The USB-A port with the blue insulator material toward the left in this hub is a faster USB 3.0-rated port while the two ports on the right are slower USB 2.0 ports. Just know that these slower ports are best used for attaching simple devices like keyboards or mice, not data storage drives.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
Ethernet Ports
Aside from these primary ports that cover most people's needs, some travelers and office workers need wired Ethernet ports to connect more securely to the Internet or business networks. If you need an Ethernet port, the Anker 555 8-in-1 USB C has one, as does the EZQuest USB-C Multimedia 8-Port and the Satechi Aluminum hub.
USB hubs with Ethernet ports tend to cost more, but if you need this sort of wired connectivity, we think it's worth having to keep you working as intended.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
HDMI Ports
Many of these hubs now include HDMI ports. These ports make it easy to attach to external monitors and HDTVs so you can work on a larger screen, share content, or watch shows and movies. Even inexpensive models, like the UGREEN Revodok 105 5-in-1 USB-C, can now power 4K monitors with up to 30Hz refresh rates. To get smoother 4K HDMI video, you'll need to spend a bit more and get a hub that's rated up to 60Hz — like the Satechi Aluminum or Anker 555 8-in-1.
HDMI ports let you use common HDMI connections and cables to expand your workspace to external monitors, like this 4K Dell monitor we used next to a MacBook Pro to test these hub connections.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
SD and MicroSD Card Slots
MicroSD and SD card reader ports let you easily transfer gigabytes of photos and video from your dedicated cameras to your devices. If you don't use cameras (aside from your smartphone), you won't find much use for these ports, but if you do, they're a must-have feature.
The Hiearcool USB-C 7-in-1 is one of our top travel picks because it includes SD card slots, which makes it a lightweight wonder for those who pack bigger cameras to take photos while on vacation or traveling.
When we travel, we like to transfer our favorite photos from our large cameras to our laptops or tablets to make social sharing easier -- or to simply back up any of our most awesome shots.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
If you aren't worried about HDMI, Ethernet, audio, or card readers, there are some great hubs focused solely on USB-A functionality.
The LENTION 4-in-1 has one USB 3.0 port with two slower USB 2.0 ports. It includes a USB-C power delivery port, making it good for working with tablets because you can still power your tablet while using the hub. If you want at least four faster USB-A ports in a simple design, the Anker 4-Port is as basic as they come, but it works well. The Sabrent HB-UM43 increases functionality with indicator lights and separate power buttons you can use to turn off or on each port.
Some powered hubs, like this Atolla model, let you individually power on ports when you want to connect to peripheral devices, which also lets you power them down when you don't need them.
Credit: Laura Casner
If you want to radically increase the number of devices you can connect, it's hard to top the Atolla Powered model, which is particularly good for gamers, streamers, or desktop power users who have many peripherals that require constant power. With seven ports that each have their own power button and lights, plus a bonus port that charges devices such as tablets and smartphones, you'll have plenty of space to get your USB 3.0 jobs done.
In our data transfer tests, good USB 3.0-rated Type-A ports could copy a whopping 100GB of data from a MacBook Pro to an SSD drive in about 5 minutes, which is fast enough for most people's needs.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
Material Quality
While most USB hubs will withstand the daily task of sitting on a desk, some are made of higher-quality materials than others, and these are the ones you'll want if you'll often be taking it on the go in a backpack or briefcase. High-quality materials can also extend the life of your hub, which is important for everyone who hopes to avoid buying yet another tech gadget.
The Anker 341 USB C 7-in-1 stood out among all the USB hubs we tested for its high-quality materials. This one just feels the sturdiest in your hands, and its two-piece shell inspires confidence that it will last a long time. Surprisingly, it even weighed more than the larger Anker 555 8-in-1 USB-C.
The Anker 341 USB C 7-in-1 has all the ports you need for a typical day at the computer, and its build quality is built to last.
Credit: Sam Schild
All of the hubs made from aluminum shells had notably high material quality as well. These include the Hiearcool USB C 7-in-1, Anker PowerExpand Direct, UGREEN Revodok 105, and Satechi Aluminum. In addition to their strong shells, their ports tended to fit snugly, while their USB-C connection cables use flexible sheaths with built-in strain reliefs.
In addition to rugged shell materials, quality USB hubs like this UGREEN model should have well-built USB-C connecting cables with flexible sheaths with built-in bend protection.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
The plastic-shelled Anker 332 5-in-1 USB-C is assembled with perfect lines, but it's not one we'd expect to survive if it was accidentally stepped on or left unprotected in luggage.
Even with a relatively gentle bend test, we could hear components creak inside the plastic case of the Anker 332 5-in-1 hub.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
Portability
Portability is crucial for those who are always on the move, even for something as small as a USB hub. Whether you're working out of a messenger bag or a briefcase, you aren't going to want a bulky hub that needs a wall plug. On the other hand, if you're looking for a USB hub to be a permanent fixture in your home or workplace, this metric won't matter at all.
The best USB-C hub for portability is the Hiearcool USB-C 7-in-1. This model is tiny — smaller than an average granola bar — and it weighs well under two ounces. We never had an issue finding a place in our backpack for this USB hub.
The Hiearcool USB C 7-in-1 was one of the lightest USB hubs we tested.
Credit: Sam Schild
In general, the more ports included on a hub, the heavier and less portable it becomes. One hub that bucks that trend is the Anker PowerExpand 8-in-2, which removes a bulky connector cable in favor of a trim two-port connector. It's remarkably portable, but its biggest drawback is that it's designed to only fit MacBook Pro laptops that have two perfectly positioned USB-C ports.
The Anker PowerExpand Direct 8-in-2 is one of the few hubs that still ship with protective covers.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
The Sabrent HB-UM43 and Anker 4-Port are also extremely small and portable. Keep in mind that these two devices come with USB-A ports only.
The EZQuest USB-C Multimedia 8-Port is only slightly larger than the smallest USB hubs, but the Atolla Powered is unequivocally bulky, and it is probably not the best model to travel with unless you absolutely need eight individually powered ports.
The heavy 11.3-ounce Atolla Powered is bulky both in its case design as well as the need to pack its own power cord.
Credit: Ross Patton
Style
Finally, we must discuss style. A workspace that's clean, organized, and easy on the eyes can put you in a productive mood, so looks can make a world of difference. Most hubs, especially the more durable aluminum ones, don't have more than two or three color options. There are a few that incorporate style via uniquely designed shapes rather than color.
One standout is the Satechi Aluminum, which has a wedge-shaped aluminum shell available in Space Gray, Silver, and Gold. Its front ports are limited to SD card slots, while the ports that are most likely to have bulky cables are tucked out of sight behind the hub. Interestingly, while its USB-A ports are all USB 3.0 ports, they lack the use of blue plastic insulating materials that typically indicate faster USB-A ports. This was likely a choice made by Satechi to match the minimalist design, not a manufacturing oversight.
The Satechi Aluminum tapers to a wedge and places its most commonly used ports on at the rear, out of sight.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
Like the Satechi Aluminum option, the LENTION 4-in-1 also comes in colors typically targeted at Apple product enthusiasts: Silver, Space Gray, Gold, and Rose Gold. Most simple hubs are decidedly utilitarian, but this model is a pleasant surprise.
If you only need some USB-A ports, this LENTION 4-in-1 blends function with a cute shape.
Credit: Laura Casner
We also appreciated the subtle aesthetic of the Anker 341 USB C 7-in-1. It looks like a timeless piece of technology that doesn't try to stand out by being overly “techy”.
The Anker 341 USB C 7-in-1 offers an unobtrusive design that seems in place wherever you might need it.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
We tested a typical grey version, but the QGeeM USB-C has the most color options available out of all the hubs we tested. If you want a bit of color in your life, it's a fun option.
Yes, yes, we know, we're fond of grey and black devices, but QGeeM offers purple and blue versions for those who crave a splash of color.
Credit: Ross Patton
If you're looking for a Macbook Pro-specific version and want a minimalist look with as little added clutter as possible, the Anker PowerExpand Direct 8-in-2 is the way to go. It's the same Space Gray as many MacBooks.
The Anker PowerExpand Direct 8-in-2 almost looks like part of your Macbook Pro.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
How to Pick the Best USB Hub
Here are some key considerations when selecting the right hub.
What Type of Devices Are You Connecting?
USB hubs help expand port usage and provide a wide range of device compatibility, but each hub offers a different combination of ports and connection types. Some people may absolutely need an SD and micro SD card reader, while others will want to make sure their hub comes with an HDMI port. A good first step to finding the right hub is identifying which ports you can't live without, and considering everything else a bonus.
How Many Ports Do You Need?
If you have multiple devices and peripherals, such as a headset, mouse, and keyboard, it's important to have enough ports to accommodate your full setup. USB hubs can range from just a few simple ports to nine or more. If you don't need so many extra ports, you can often find simpler hubs that will cost less.
A good first step to finding the right hub is figuring out how many ports you will need.
Credit: Laura Casner
How Fast Do Your Ports Really Need to Be?
USB-C Thunderbolt ports commonly found in Apple MacBooks and high-end laptops can transfer data at blistering speeds upwards of 40 Gbps or higher. Unfortunately, this capability depends on having more expensive Thunderbolt-certified cables as well as Thunderbolt-certified SSD drives or networking equipment. Many common portable SSD drives aren't Thunderbolt-certified, so computers like MacBooks slow the data rates to match the capabilities of the drives based on their specifications. Luckily for most people, common USB 3.0 ports rated at 5 Gbps offer sufficient speed for common video file transfers and computer backups.
To achieve truly blistering data transfer speeds, you must ensure that your hub's ports, cables, laptops, and SSD drives all support the same fast protocols.
Credit: Chris Maxcer
For example, when we transferred 100GB of video files from a MacBook Pro using a common SanDisk Extreme Pro Portable SSD drive, it took 2 minutes, 56 seconds using a 10 Gbps-rated hub port. Using a 5 Gbps port, it took just over 5 minutes. We consider both of these times to be acceptable for most people.
However, things went off the rails quickly when we tried to transfer the same 100GB via a slower USB 2.0 port: It took a mind-numbing 1 hour and 21 minutes to transfer the files! The lesson? Use ports rated at least up to 5 Gbps if you're accessing or transferring data.
Do You Travel a Lot?
If you find yourself frequently traveling or on the go, you'll probably want to find a USB hub that is fairly lightweight and portable. Look for a balance between portability and functionality, as smaller hubs tend to have fewer ports and fewer connection types. Consider how often you need a USB hub away from home and how much room you typically have in your bag or briefcase.
What Type of Device Do You Own?
While most devices come with a USB-C port, some USB hubs are attached directly to the computer, making them brand and model-specific. It's a good idea to keep an eye on potential options and make sure they are compatible with your device. Manufacturers will typically display this information on the product, but it's still wise to keep note of it.
We tested these USB hubs in our home offices and while traveling.
Credit: Sam Schild
Conclusion
USB hubs are often necessary accessories for modern laptops that only have USB-C ports, as well as newer tablets, iPads, and smartphones. The difference in functionality, price, quality, size, and style is boundless. We consider it our duty to help you make the most knowledgeable purchase possible so that you end up with the perfect USB hub for you and your needs.
