Similar products
Choosing the Right USB Hub
With the proliferation of USB devices, from flash drives to phones, printers, and more, USB hubs have become a vital accessory for connecting everything together. But with so many hubs on the market, how do you pick the right one for your needs?
Hub Types
There are a few main types of USB hubs:
- Basic hubs - These have 4-7 downstream USB ports for connecting devices. They offer no additional features.
- Powered hubs - These include a power adapter and can provide more power to charge high-draw devices like tablets.
- High-speed hubs - These allow faster data transfer speeds between devices. Look for SuperSpeed or USB 3.0 hubs.
- Portable hubs - Miniature hubs that are lightweight and easy to transport, great for travel.
- Docking stations - Not technically hubs, but allow you to connect multiple devices to a laptop dock.
Key Features
Here are some things to consider when selecting a hub:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of ports | How many devices do you need to connect? Choose a hub with adequate ports. |
| Speed | SuperSpeed/USB 3.0 hubs allow faster data transfers than USB 2.0 hubs. |
| Power source | Self-powered hubs with a power adapter can charge devices. |
| Port spacing | Hubs with adequate space between ports allow larger devices to be plugged in next to each other. |
Other Considerations
- Look for hubs with strong, durable housing that will withstand regular use.
- Hubs with an on/off switch allow you to easily power down when not in use.
- Indicator lights show when devices are connected properly.
- Long, removable cables make positioning the hub easy.
- For travel, look for small hubs with folding plugs.
- Mac users may want a USB-C hub designed for MacBooks.
Top USB Hub Brands
Some well-known, reputable USB hub manufacturers include:
- Anker
- Belkin
- Satechi
- Sabrent
- TP-Link
- AmazonBasics
- Aukey
Doing a bit of research will ensure you select a reliable hub that fits your connectivity needs and budget.
Top products in 🔌 USB Hubs
14 Review
11 Review
USB Hub Benefits and Features
USB hubs provide a wide range of benefits for connecting multiple devices to a computer. By expanding a computer's USB ports, they allow users to attach more peripherals and access useful features.
Key Benefits
- Connects multiple USB devices - Add 4+ ports for mice, flash drives, cameras etc.
- Prevents running out of ports - Hubs add extra ports so you don't have to constantly unplug devices.
- Charges devices - Many powered hubs can charge phones, tablets and other USB-charged gear.
- Allows super speed data transfer - USB 3.0 hubs enable fast file transfers at up to 5Gbps.
- Adds ports far from computer - Long hub cables let you position ports for convenient access.
- Portable connectivity - Compact hubs provide USB expansion anywhere you go.
Useful Features
Here are some of the handy features found in many modern USB hubs:
- Individual port switching - Allows each port to be turned on/off independently. Lets you easily reboot troublesome devices without disturbing others.
- Over-current protection - Prevents power surges from damaging devices. Useful for charging many high-power gadgets.
- USB-C connector - Allows direct plug-in to USB-C laptops like MacBooks. No more hunting for the one USB-C to USB-A adapter.
- High speed charging ports - Specific ports provide faster charging up to 2.4A for power-hungry phones/tablets.
USB 2.0 vs USB 3.0 Hubs
| USB 2.0 Hubs | USB 3.0 Hubs |
|---|---|
| - Speeds up to 480Mbps - Good for keyboards, printers, etc. | - Speeds up to 5Gbps - Ideal for HD video, external storage, etc. |
| - Backwards compatible with USB 1.x | - Backwards compatible with USB 2.0/1.x |
| - Typically more affordable | - Premium speeds carry a price premium |
While USB 2.0 hubs are sufficient for many basic peripherals, USB 3.0 enables working with high bandwidth devices and transfers much faster.
Choosing the Right Hub
Consider the following when selecting a hub:
- - How many devices need to be connected simultaneously?
- - Will you be charging phones, tablets or other higher power devices?
- - Do you need super speed data transfer capabilities?
- - Is portability a priority if you'll use with a laptop?
Purchasing a hub with slightly more ports than currently needed allows room to add new devices later. Overall, USB hubs deliver major connectivity and convenience benefits for desktop and on-the-go computing.
Top USB Hubs on the Market
With more devices than ever utilizing the popular USB interface, quality USB hubs have become a vital accessory for connectivity. Here are some of the top USB hubs currently available that deliver reliable performance and extra ports.
Anker 10-Port 60W Data Hub
- 10 data ports for connecting USB peripherals
- Supports USB 3.0 transfer speeds up to 5Gbps
- 2 dedicated smart charging ports for phones/tablets
- Sturdy design with 18-month warranty
With ports galore, the Anker 10-port hub handles practically any USB device you can throw at it. The fast USB 3.0 ports allow you to transfer files in a flash.
Sabrent 7-Port USB 3.0 Hub
- Includes 7 downstream USB 3.0 ports
- Plug-and-play operation, no drivers required
- Built-in USB cable for easy connectivity
- Durable aluminum housing for heat dissipation
The Sabrent 7-port hub delivers USB 3.0 speeds in a solid, reliable package. The attached cable eliminates hunting for a cord when it's time to sync devices.
Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub
- 5 essential ports for USB-C laptops like MacBook
- USB-C port, USB 3.0 port, HDMI, SD/microSD slots
- Sleek aluminum exterior matches modern laptops
- Can connect and charge USB-C laptop at the same time
This versatile USB-C hub brings extra connectivity options for USB Type C laptops without the need for dongles. It's perfect for the minimalist on-the-go worker.
HooToo USB C Hub
- Designed specifically for latest USB-C MacBooks
- 4K HDMI, 3 USB 3.0, SD/TF readers, USB-C charging
- Durable aluminum build with glossy finish
- Light yet sturdy at just 5 ounces
Extend your USB-C MacBook with this hub featuring 4K video-out, media readers, data ports and 85W power delivery. Tons of power in a portable package.
AmazonBasics 7 Port Hub
- 7 USB 2.0 downstream ports for peripherals
- Compact design takes up little workspace
- Power switch controls multiple device restarts
- Trusted AmazonBasics quality with 1-year limited warranty
Sometimes basic just works. This no-frills 7-port hub adds USB expansion conveniently and reliably. The price is right too.
ORICO 6-Port Aluminum Hub
- 6 USB 3.0 ports support 5Gbps speeds
- Premium aluminum case helps dissipate heat
- Over-current and short circuit protection
- Widely spaced ports work with large USB drives
This ORICO hub combines superspeed USB 3.0 with durable aluminum housing for serious performance. Port spacing allows even chunky USB sticks to plug in.
Any of these highly rated hubs can meet the needs of USB device owners requiring extra ports. Evaluate your required speeds, charging needs and budget to pick the right hub.
Another interesting products
USB Hub Buyer's Guide
With more devices utilizing the USB interface than ever before, a quality USB hub has become an essential accessory for connectivity. This buyer’s guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a USB hub for your needs.
Types of USB Hubs
There are a few main types of USB hubs:
- Basic hubs – These offer 4-7 additional downstream USB ports for connecting peripherals.
- Powered hubs – Include a power adapter and can provide extra power to charge devices.
- High-speed hubs – Support faster USB 3.0 data transfer speeds.
- Portable hubs – Compact and lightweight for traveling with laptops.
Key Features
Here are some key things to evaluate when choosing a hub:
- Number of ports – Have enough for the devices you need to connect simultaneously.
- USB standard – USB 3.0 hubs allow much faster data transfers but cost more.
- Power source – Self-powered hubs don’t draw power from your computer to charge devices.
- Port spacing – Look for adequate room between ports to fit chunky USB drives.
Optional Extras
Additional aspects that may factor into your purchase decision:
- Individual port power controls – Allow turning off specific ports without disturbing others.
- Overcurrent protection – Prevents power surges from damaging devices.
- High speed charging ports – For quickly charging power-hungry phones and tablets.
- Media card readers – Allow directly accessing SD cards and other media.
USB 2.0 vs. USB 3.0
| USB 2.0 | USB 3.0 |
|---|---|
| - Up to 480 Mbps transfer speed | - Up to 5 Gbps transfer speed |
| - Good for keyboards, printers, etc. | - Ideal for HD videos, external storage, etc. |
| - Backwards compatible with USB 1.1 | - Backwards compatible with USB 2.0/1.1 |
While USB 2.0 is fine for basic devices, USB 3.0 enables working with more bandwidth-intensive peripherals and extremely fast file transfers.
Other Considerations
- Look for durable housing that will hold up to daily use.
- Portability is key if you’ll be using with a laptop.
- Shorter cables reduce clutter while longer cables allow more positioning flexibility.
- Indicator lights confirm when devices are connected properly.
Keep these essential factors in mind, and you’ll be equipped to select the best USB hub for your computer accessories and peripherals.
How to Connect and Use a USB Hub
Adding a USB hub expands your computer's connectivity, allowing you to attach more USB devices than built-in ports allow. Connecting and using a hub is straightforward, but there are tips for getting the most out of your accessory.
Connecting Your Hub
Follow these steps to install your hub:
- First, determine if your hub is bus-powered (draws power from computer) or self-powered (uses wall adapter).
- Connect the hub end of the cable to any available USB port on your computer.
- If self-powered, plug the power adapter into a wall outlet and connect it to the hub.
- Connect USB devices to any of the available downstream ports on the hub.
- Check for indicator lights on the hub ports to confirm devices are properly connected.
For laptop use, be sure to connect self-powered hubs to wall outlets for the best charging capabilities.
USB Hub Tips and Tricks
Follow these tips for smooth sailing with your hub:
- Connect devices directly without cable extenders for a solid connection.
- Allow adequate space around ports to avoid blocking adjacent ones.
- Minimize hub connections to avoid USB speed bottlenecks.
- Use direct USB 3.0 connections between computer and devices whenever possible.
- Plug in devices before powering on hub to prevent startup issues.
Also be aware of your computer's total USB power allowance. For example, a laptop may provide only 500mA per USB 2.0 port. Connecting multiple high-draw devices like external hard drives to an unpowered hub could exceed this, resulting in issues.
Troubleshooting Problems
If you experience issues, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Device not recognized - Try reconnecting device directly to computer port to isolate issue.
- Not charging properly - Use a powered hub or connect device directly.
- Port stops working - Reconnect device, swap ports, or reboot hub.
- All ports not working - Ensure hub is properly connected to computer.
As a last resort, uninstall then reinstall the hub driver from Device Manager to reset connectivity.
Achieving Optimal Use
Here are some final tips for making the most of your hub:
- Label devices and ports with removable tape for easy organization.
- Use individual port power switches to independently control devices.
- Place hub in spot that avoids cable strain and accidental disconnections.
- Attach devices requiring charging or frequent access to front ports for convenience.
Following proper connection technique and implementing ongoing organization will keep your expanded USB hub setup running smoothly.
USB Hub Troubleshooting Tips
USB hubs are great for expanding connectivity, but occasionally issues arise. Here are some troubleshooting tips for resolving common USB hub problems.
Device Not Recognized
If a connected device is not being recognized, try the following:
- Reconnect the device to a different port on the hub
- Plug device directly into a port on the computer to see if it is recognized
- Check for loose connections, frayed cables, or physical damage
- Update USB hub drivers from the manufacturer's website
- Update drivers for the unrecognized device if available
If the device only works when directly connected to the computer, the hub could be faulty.
Not Charging Properly
Issues charging devices from a hub may stem from:
- Insufficient power - Try a powered hub if charging high draw devices like tablets
- Faulty port - Switch to a different hub port
- Exceeded power allowance - Verify the hub/computer USB power limits
- Bad USB cable - Try replacing the USB cable
- Wall adapter issue - Confirm the adapter output matches hub power input
Charging works best when connecting a device directly to a high-power USB 3.0 port on a powered hub or computer.
USB Port Stops Working
- Reconnect device to the same port or swap to another port
- Check for debris or damage in the port causing connection issues
- Toggle any individual port power switches on the hub
- Shut down and restart the hub
- Try replacing the USB cable connected to that port
If only one port is affected, it may be damaged. Try every port to identify any others not working properly.
All Ports Not Working
Possible reasons none of the hub ports operate:
- Loose connection to the computer - Reseat both ends of the cable
- Hub power supply issue - Verify the power light/adapter connections
- Faulty USB hub - Test with different hub models if available
- Computer USB port dead - Try different computer USB ports
- Driver problem - Update USB hub drivers from Device Manager
If no ports work, there is likely an overall connectivity issue with the hub, cable, or USB controller.
Slow Transfer Speeds
- Utilize USB 3.0 hubs and cables for best speeds
- Directly connect devices to the hub ports without extensions
- Avoid daisy-chaining multiple hubs together
- Connect devices to computer directly when possible
- Update USB and device drivers to latest available
USB 3.0 provides up to 5Gbps while USB 2.0 maxes out around 35MB/s. Direct USB connections are fastest.
Following proper troubleshooting methodology helps isolate and resolve the majority of USB hub issues.
USB Hub Alternatives
While USB hubs are the go-to for expanding connectivity, there are some other options for adding ports and connecting devices.
USB Port Expander Cards
Internal USB port expander cards install directly into a desktop PC and integrate additional ports into the system:
- Provide 2-4 extra internal USB headers on card
- Installed into PCIe or PCI expansion slots inside desktop
- Allow connecting front panel ports via internal cables
- Works with both USB 2.0 and USB 3.0
Port expanders are great for adding more front or rear panel ports to a desktop. However, they require getting inside the case and having available expansion slots.
USB-C Docking Stations
Docking stations designed for USB-C laptops like MacBook provide hub-like functionality:
- Transform one USB-C port into multiple ports
- Include USB, HDMI, SD card reader, and other ports
- Allow connecting one cable to access everything
- Charge laptop through upstream USB-C connector
Docking stations are very convenient but only work with USB-C laptops and are more expensive than basic hubs.
Splitter Cables
USB splitter cables split one USB port into two or more:
- Available with varieties of port combinations
- Split USB-A, USB-C, microUSB, Lightning
- Inexpensive way to add a port or two in a pinch
- Limited by shared bandwidth on single port
Splitter cables work in basic cases but lack flexibility compared to full hubs. Passive versions can't deliver full power to all ports either.
Networked USB Solutions
Network USB devices provide ports over local network or internet:
- Modules act as wireless network-enabled hubs
- Managed through software for remote access
- Share devices across multiple computers
- Latency can impact speeds compared to direct connected
Network USB solutions cost more but do offer good flexibility for sharing peripherals or remote computer access.
Thunderbolt Docks
Thunderbolt docks aimed at Macs offer advanced connectivity:
- Provides USB, Thunderbolt, HDMI, Ethernet, SD
- Super fast 40Gbps Thunderbolt speed
- Charges laptop and connects accessories using one port
- Very expensive compared to standard USB docks
Thunderbolt docks enable amazing transfer speeds and single-cable connectivity but have a premium price.
Standard USB hubs still provide the best overall value and ease of use for the majority of home and office needs.
What is the Benefit of Amazon Prime for Buying USB Hubs?
For those looking to purchase USB hubs, being an Amazon Prime member can provide some nice perks and savings. Here are some of the key benefits Prime offers for USB hub shoppers.
Free Two-Day Shipping
One of the main Prime benefits is free two-day shipping on eligible items. This allows you to get your USB hub rapidly without paying extra shipping fees. Items shipped from Amazon's warehouses typically arrive within 2 business days for Prime members.
This perk is especially handy if you need a good USB hub quickly to connect devices to your computer or laptop. You can order it and receive the hub as soon as possible through Prime shipping.
Free One-Day and Same-Day Shipping
In addition to standard two-day shipping, many zip codes are eligible for faster one-day and same-day delivery on certain items through Prime. This premium level of service ensures you can get your USB hub extremely quickly if needed.
So if you're in a bind and suddenly need extra USB ports to complete an important project, Prime members can order a hub and receive it within 24 hours or the same day in some cases.
Free Release-Date Delivery
For brand new USB hubs that just hit the market, Prime members can choose free release-date delivery to get the item on its official release date. This ensures you can be among the very first to get the latest USB hub models and innovations.
Prime-Exclusive Discounts
Amazon frequently offers special discounts and deals exclusively for Prime members on a variety of items. So you may find reduced pricing on popular USB hubs only available for members.
It's a good idea to watch for these Prime member discounts around major shopping holidays when USB hubs may be deeply discounted above regular sales prices.
Taking advantage of Amazon Prime when buying USB hubs provides fast, free shipping and access to special savings. Overall, a Prime membership can easily pay for itself with the perks and conveniences it provides for shopping on Amazon.
How To Choose The Right USB Hub For Your Needs?
When choosing the right USB hub for your needs, consider the following:
- Type: Decide whether you need a USB-A, USB-C, or Thunderbolt hub based on the ports you need to connect to your computer.
- Number of ports: Determine how many devices you need to connect to your computer and choose a hub with enough ports to accommodate them.
- Standard: Look for a hub that supports the latest USB standard (currently USB 3.2 Gen 2) for faster data transfer speeds.
- Power: If you plan to connect power-hungry devices like external hard drives, choose a powered USB hub that can supply enough power to all connected devices.
- Features: Consider additional features like HDMI output, Ethernet connectivity, and SD card readers if you need them.
- Brand and quality: Choose a reputable brand with good reviews and a solid warranty to ensure a quality product.
- Budget: Determine your budget and choose a hub that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
What Are The Most Important Factors To Consider When Choosing A USB Hub?
When choosing a USB hub, consider the following factors:
