The Best USB Hubs

  • Jack Gorman

Most of us have a host of USB devices, which is why it can be frustrating when a computer doesn't have enough ports to connect them all. A USB hub could put an end to these woes, allowing you to connect multiple devices to a single port. These gadgets come in all shapes and sizes, so there's an option for anyone. We've gathered some of our favorites below so that you can find the perfect option to suit your connection needs.

What to Look For

First things first, you’ll want to be sure that the port you choose offers enough slots for all your devices, so be sure to do the math before you buy. If you’re hoping to charge multiple devices as well, set your sights on an option with external power. Our favorite overall is the Anker 4-port hub. This sturdy little hub is a durable and efficient solution, offering expanded connectivity that will be handy for most laptop users. If you’re looking for a larger connection solution for extensive setups, you’ll want to take a look at the option from Acasis. Read on below, and put your USB frustrations to an end today.

Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub

Sets the standard

You can't go wrong with this trusty hub made by one of the best in the game.
Best Overall

Find on Amazon

If you regularly purchase new hardware, you’ve probably come across Anker. They’ve developed a reputation for providing dependable solutions to everyday technology needs at a competitive price point, and their 4-port USB hub certainly keeps the legacy alive. Its simple-yet-sturdy construction will easily pack away inside a laptop case, giving you a reliable extension to your device’s native port capacity when you’re out on the go.

Pros:

  • The speedy USB 3.0 connection can reach data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbp, so it’s wicked-fast at transferring big files like videos.
  • This two-foot cord is longer than most, so you can spread out your setup on larger desks. For compact spaces, you can tie it down to a smaller size with the velcro strap included.
  • This hub is built to last, thanks to the reinforced cable, durable exterior casing, and heat-resistant connectors.

Cons:

  • Without external power, this USB hub doesn’t support charging.

Vention 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub

Portable connections

This slender hub is a great option for your on-the-go hardware needs, and it can even charge your devices.
Runner Up

Find on Amazon

This compact hub from Vention offers four USB 3.0 ports for your transfer and connectivity needs. The slim dimensions and short connection cable make it an ideal option for portable workstations, and it could be a natural companion to your laptop when you need to get connected on the move. It’s also less than a single ounce in weight, so you’ll barely notice it in your laptop case or backpack.

Pros:

  • The USB 3.0 ports offer rapid transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps.
  • The firmware onboard is widely compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux systems.
  • You can provide additional power to this hub with a micro USB power input, allowing you to charge multiple devices simultaneously.

Cons:

  • This hub can continue to draw power from laptop batteries even when no devices are connected.

Acasis Powered USB Hub, 16 Ports With Individual Switches

No unplugging necessary

This mammoth hub has 16 USB ports, each with its own individual switch to let you turn your devices on and off.
Best With Switches

Find on Amazon

If your workstation consists of an impressive arsenal of USB devices, your demands might not be met by a small portable hub. This 16-port option from Acasis is a good bet for even the most device-heavy users. What’s more, each port is armed with its own individual power button. This allows you to keep external hard drives and other outboard equipment physically connected without draining power or damaging their components through unnecessary runtime.

Pros:

  • With charging speeds of up to 5V/2.4A per port, this hub is a great option for recharging multiple devices in one fell swoop.
  • This port will intelligently identify devices when connected, assigning maximum transfer speeds to the devices that need it.
  • The built-in surge protector supports hot-swapping, so you won’t have to worry about damaging hard drives if you forget to let them power down before you pull out the cord.

Cons:

  • This large hub will take up more space in a backpack than portable options, so it may be best suited to desktop use.

Syntech USB C To USB 4-Port Hub

Sleek and speedy

This handy hub plugs in via a USB-C cable, but it also includes an adapter for use with regular USB ports.
Best For USB-C

Find on Amazon

For those of us sporting newer devices, we might be left at a loss if trying to connect USB devices if we only have USB-C ports available. This option from Syntech offers the dual functionality afforded by the USB-C connector and USB adapter included. You’ll be able to connect up to four USB devices to this compact port. And with a variety of cable lengths available, you can choose the option to suit your needs.

Pros:

  • The ahub’s adapter can also connect other USB-C devices to your USB ports, making it a handy backup for charging cables.
  • This plug-and-play hub is ready to use right out of the box, with no need for drivers or additional software.

Cons:

  • With only 0.9A of power output, this hub isn’t the fastest option for charging devices.

TSUPY Multi-Port USB Data Hub

Trouble-free transfers

This versatile hub has several different port types, including slots for reading SD cards.
Best Port Variety

Find on Amazon

While some desktop PCs and laptops offer an integrated port for connecting your SD cards, some compact designs can omit these connections. This can leave you frustrated if you’re looking to transfer pictures or other media from an SD capture device. The multi-USB data hub from TSUPY will fulfill that need, providing a slot for SD and micro SD cards alongside three USB 3.0 ports.

Pros:

  • This four-foot cord will allow easy access to desktop PCs stowed beneath a desk.
  • The top-mounted USB port will allow you to connect larger devices, such as bulky memory sticks, without blocking the remaining ports.

Cons:

  • You can’t use both of the SD card slots simultaneously.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I connect older USB 2.0 or 1.0 devices using a USB 3.0 hub?

You don’t have to sacrifice backward compatibility when opting for the highest transfer speeds. USB 3.0 offers rapid data transfer speeds, outdoing legacy ports by a large margin. You’ll still be able to connect older devices using these ports, but the data transfer speeds will remain limited to that offered by their onboard port.

Do I need a powered USB port to charge my device?

If you want to charge multiple devices at once, you’ll probably want to choose a powered option. USB hubs that solely draw power from a USB port will offer a low amperage to each port, which can result in low charging speeds or render these ports entirely unable to charge devices. Powered ports will draw additional energy from a wall socket, meaning you can power multiple devices at speeds comparable to a standard wall charger.

About the Author

A filmmaker and musician, Jack has spent countless hours in recording studios and film sets. He's always eager to test out the latest technology, especially virtual reality and audio equipment. His hobbies aren't cheap, so he does his research to find the best deals on the best gear. If you want help navigating the fast-paced technology market, Jack is the perfect guide.

Why Trust Us

With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.