USB hubs are a convenient and practical solution for those who need to connect multiple USB devices to a single computer. These devices come in various shapes and sizes, and they can be a lifesaver for anyone who has run out of USB ports on their computer.
When it comes to finding the best USB hub, there are a few critical factors to consider.
The first thing to pay attention to is the number of ports the hub has. Some hubs have as few as four ports, while others can have up to 16.
The number of ports you need will depend on how many devices you plan on connecting to your computer.
Another crucial factor to consider is the speed of the USB hub.
The speed of a USB hub is determined by the version of USB it supports. USB 2.0 is the most common type of USB hub, but USB 3.0 and USB-C are becoming more prevalent.
USB 3.0 and USB-C are faster than USB 2.0, but they are not always compatible with older devices.
We spent hours researching and testing various USB hubs to identify the ones that offer the best combination of port number, speed, and compatibility. In this article, we’ll share our top picks for the best USB hubs on the market.
Best USB Hubs
USB hubs are a convenient and practical solution for those who need to connect multiple USB devices to a single computer. These devices come in various shapes and sizes, and they can be a lifesaver for anyone who has run out of USB ports on their computer.
When it comes to finding the best USB hub, there are a few critical factors to consider.
The first thing to pay attention to is the number of ports the hub has. Some hubs have as few as four ports, while others can have up to 16.
The number of ports you need will depend on how many devices you plan on connecting to your computer.
Another crucial factor to consider is the speed of the USB hub.
The speed of a USB hub is determined by the version of USB it supports. USB 2.0 is the most common type of USB hub, but USB 3.0 and USB-C are becoming more prevalent.
USB 3.0 and USB-C are faster than USB 2.0, but they are not always compatible with older devices.
To help you out, we have compiled a list of the best USB hubs that are currently available on Amazon. Our team has extensively researched and tested these products to ensure that they are reliable and offer the best value for your money. So, whether you need a USB hub for your home office, gaming setup, or on-the-go use, we’ve got you covered.
Anker Ultra Slim 4-Port USB 3.0 Data Hub
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable USB hub, the Anker Ultra Slim 4-Port USB 3.0 Data Hub is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 80 million+ powered by our leading technology.
- SuperSpeed Data: Sync data at blazing speeds up to 5Gbps—fast enough to transfer an HD movie in seconds.
- Big Expansion: Transform one of your computer’s USB ports into four.
Cons
- This hub is not designed to charge devices.
- The cable could be longer.
- It’s not the most stylish or visually appealing USB hub on the market.
We recently got our hands on the Anker Ultra Slim 4-Port USB 3.0 Data Hub and we were impressed with its performance. The hub is incredibly easy to use and set up, simply plug it into your computer’s USB port and you’re good to go.
The four additional USB ports are a game-changer for anyone who needs to connect multiple devices to their computer at once.
One of the standout features of the Anker Ultra Slim 4-Port USB 3.0 Data Hub is its speed. With SuperSpeed Data, you can sync data at blazing speeds up to 5Gbps, which is fast enough to transfer an HD movie in seconds.
This is particularly useful for anyone who needs to transfer large files quickly and efficiently.
Another great feature of the Anker Ultra Slim 4-Port USB 3.0 Data Hub is its durability. The hub is precision-designed for heat resistance and incredible durability, which means it will last you for years to come.
This is particularly important for anyone who needs a USB hub that can withstand regular use and wear and tear.
Atolla 7-Port USB Data Hub Splitter with One Smart Charging Port
If you’re in need of a reliable USB hub that can instantly expand your USB 3.0 port to 7 external ports, the Atolla 7-Port USB Data Hub Splitter with One Smart Charging Port is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The hub offers instant expansion and SuperSpeed syncing, allowing you to connect multiple USB devices and sync data at blazing speeds up to 5Gbps in no time.
- With its smart charging port, the hub can charge your iPhone, iPad, and other devices faster and safer.
- The hub is equipped with individual on-off switches to control each USB port, saving you the trouble of unplugging devices and helping you place them more rationally when you don’t use them.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the hub can get quite warm after prolonged use.
- The hub may not be compatible with some older devices that require a powered USB port.
- The included USB cord is only 100cm long, which may not be long enough for some setups.
Sabrent USB 3.0 Hub
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use USB hub, the Sabrent USB 3.0 Hub is a great option.
Pros
- Instantly adds 4 USB 3.0 ports to any compatible device
- LED indicators display power status for each port
- Supports transfer speeds up to 5Gbps (USB 3.0), 480Mbps (USB 2.0), & 12Mbps (USB 1.1)
Cons
- Does not support charging
- Cable length may be too short for some setups
- Individual power switches may be too small for some users
We’ve been using the Sabrent USB 3.0 Hub for a while now, and we’ve been impressed with its performance. It’s incredibly easy to set up – just plug it in and you’re good to go.
The LED indicators are a nice touch, as they allow you to quickly see which ports are in use. The transfer speeds are also impressive, making it easy to transfer large files in seconds.
One of the downsides of the Sabrent USB 3.0 Hub is that it doesn’t support charging. So if you’re looking for a hub that can charge your devices, this isn’t the right choice for you.
Additionally, the cable length may be too short for some setups, so you may need to use an extension cable. Finally, some users may find the individual power switches too small, making them difficult to use.
Acer USB Hub 4 Ports
If you’re looking for a USB hub that can extend your device with 4 additional USB 3.0 ports, the Acer USB Hub 4 Ports is a great option. It’s ideal for connecting USB peripherals such as flash drives, mouse, keyboard, and printer.
However, keep in mind that the USB C port (with IN 5V printed) cannot be used for data transfer and charge other devices. It can only supply power for the other 4 USB A ports, which can make data transfer more stable.
Pros
- The USB Adapter is designed with 4 USB 3.0 data ports, which allows you to transfer movies, photos, and files in seconds at a speed up to 5Gbps.
- The Acer USB Hub 4 Ports is built-in with an advanced GL3510 chip with good thermal design, which keeps your devices and data safe. It’s also plug and play, meaning you don’t need to install any drivers.
- The Acer USB Hub 4 Ports is slim and lightweight with a 2ft cable, making it easy to carry anywhere. It’s also compatible with Windows, Linux, Thinkpad, Acer Swift/Aspire/Spin, and other Acer models, Laptop, PC, Desktop.
Cons
- The USB C port (with IN 5V printed) cannot be used for data transfer and charge other devices. It can only supply power for the other 4 USB A ports, which can limit its functionality.
- While the Acer USB Hub 4 Ports is designed to work simultaneously with 4 ports, some users have reported connectivity issues when using multiple devices at once.
- The Acer USB Hub 4 Ports may not be compatible with all USB devices, so it’s important to check the specifications before purchasing.
ONFINIO USB Hub 3.0, 7 Port USB Hub Splitter with Individual On/Off LED Switches
If you’re looking for a USB hub that can handle multiple devices at once, the ONFINIO USB Hub 3.0 is definitely worth considering.
With its 7 high-speed USB 3.0 ports, you can connect a variety of USB peripherals or devices and transfer data with speeds up to 5 Gbps.
Plus, the built-in blue LED lights make it easy to check each USB port’s working status.
Pros
- The individual on/off switches with LED indicators for each port make it easy to turn on or off separate USB ports without unplugging the equipment.
- The USB hub is compatible with most operating systems, including Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10, MacOS-8/9/X, UNIX, and Linux.
- With its fast plug-and-play installation, you won’t need to worry about installing any drivers.
Cons
- The connection for power/to the computer is very shallow and the device will disconnect fairly easily.
- Some users have reported that the hub stopped working after a few months of use.
- The hub may not work well with certain devices, such as cameras or hard drives.
Overall, the ONFINIO USB Hub 3.0 is a solid choice if you need to extend your USB usage.
Its individual switches and LED indicators make it easy to manage your devices, and its fast data transfer speeds ensure that you won’t be slowed down.
Plus, with its 2-year warranty and 24-hour customer support, you can feel confident in your purchase.
Buying Guide
When choosing a USB hub, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some features to look for when selecting a USB hub:
Ports
The number of ports is an important factor to consider when choosing a USB hub.
You should choose a hub that has enough ports to accommodate all of your devices.
If you only need a few extra ports, a four-port hub may be sufficient. However, if you have many devices that need to be connected, you may need a hub with more ports.
Speed
The speed of the USB hub is another important factor to consider.
You should choose a hub that is compatible with the USB version of your devices.
USB 2.0 hubs are slower than USB 3.0 hubs, so if you have devices that are compatible with USB 3.0, you should choose a USB 3.0 hub.
Power
Some USB devices require more power than others.
If you have devices that require a lot of power, such as external hard drives, you should choose a hub that has a power adapter.
This will ensure that your devices receive enough power to function properly.
Cable Length
The length of the USB hub cable is also an important factor to consider.
You should choose a hub with a cable that is long enough to reach your computer or laptop.
If the cable is too short, you may need to use an extension cable, which can reduce the speed of the hub.
Design
The design of the USB hub is also important.
You should choose a hub that is compact and easy to transport if you plan to use it on the go.
A hub with a built-in cable can also be more convenient than a hub with a separate cable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What features should we look for in a high-quality USB hub for our PC?
When selecting a USB hub for your PC, it is important to consider factors such as the number of ports, data transfer speed, power output, and compatibility with your devices.
Look for hubs that offer USB 3.0 or higher for faster data transfer rates, and make sure the hub is compatible with your operating system.
How do we choose the best USB hub for our laptop’s connectivity needs?
When selecting a USB hub for your laptop, consider factors such as portability, the number of ports, and compatibility with your devices.
Look for hubs that are compact and lightweight, and make sure the hub is compatible with your laptop’s operating system.
Which USB hubs are recommended for an optimal gaming experience?
For an optimal gaming experience, look for USB hubs with high data transfer speeds and low latency.
Hubs that offer USB 3.0 or higher are recommended, as well as hubs that are compatible with gaming peripherals such as keyboards and mice.
What are the advantages of using a USB-C hub over traditional USB hubs?
USB-C hubs offer several advantages over traditional USB hubs, including faster data transfer rates and higher power output.
USB-C hubs are also more versatile, as they can be used to connect a variety of devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
Can you recommend a USB hub that is both reliable and has a high power output?
One USB hub that we recommend is the Anker 10-Port USB 3.0 Hub.
This hub offers 10 USB 3.0 ports and a high power output of 60 watts, making it ideal for charging multiple devices simultaneously.
It is also reliable and well-built, with a sleek and compact design.
What are the most important factors to consider when selecting a USB dock for multiple devices?
When selecting a USB dock for multiple devices, consider factors such as the number of ports, data transfer speed, and power output.
Look for docks that offer USB 3.0 or higher for faster data transfer rates. Make sure the dock has enough power output to charge all of your devices simultaneously. Also, consider the compatibility of the dock with your devices and operating system.