Modern laptops are getting thinner and lighter, which often comes at the cost of connectivity. With fewer built-in USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet, or card reader ports, connecting all your essential peripherals simultaneously can become a significant challenge.
This is where a reliable USB hub becomes an essential accessory for expanding your setup. A quality USB hub transforms a single port, often a USB-C or Thunderbolt port, into multiple connections, allowing you to connect external drives, keyboards, mice, monitors, SD cards, and more all at once, streamlining your workflow and enhancing productivity.
Finding the right hub is crucial, as performance, port selection, and compatibility vary widely. In this article, we’ll guide you through the world of USB hubs, presenting our top picks based on features, reliability, and value. We’ll also provide a comprehensive buying guide to help you understand what to look for, ensuring you select the best USB hub to perfectly complement your laptop and meet all your connectivity needs.
1. Anker USB C Hub
The Anker USB C Hub is a practical 5-in-1 solution for expanding your laptop’s connectivity. It features a 4K HDMI port, a USB-C data port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C Power Delivery input supporting up to 100W charging. This hub is perfect for connecting multiple peripherals, streaming to an external monitor, and charging your laptop simultaneously. Note that an external charger is required for power pass-through.
With data transfer speeds up to 5 Gbps on both USB-C and USB-A ports, it efficiently handles file transfers. However, the USB-C port is limited to data only, without video output support.
The design is sleek and portable, making it ideal for professionals and students needing quick device connections. It’s compatible with MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Dell laptops, and others supporting USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt connections, but it does not support Linux.
The build quality is sturdy, typical of Anker, and it includes an 18-month warranty, ensuring durability. While not the cheapest, its reliability and port selection make it a strong contender. Remember the lack of an included charger and the USB-C port’s data-only limitation before purchasing.
Key idea: A compact and reliable hub for expanding laptop connectivity, but with limitations on USB-C video output and the need for an external charger.
- What we like:
- Compact and portable design
- Multiple ports including 4K HDMI and USB-C PD
- Fast data transfer speeds (up to 5 Gbps)
- Broad compatibility with various laptops
- Sturdy build quality and 18-month warranty
- What needs to improve:
- USB-C port limited to data only (no video output)
- External charger required for power pass-through
- No support for Linux operating systems
2. Anker Laptop Docking Station
The Anker Laptop Docking Station is a versatile 8-in-1 USB-C hub providing significant expansion. It includes 2 HDMI ports, 2 USB-A data ports, a USB-C port, an Ethernet port, and a microSD/SD card reader for connecting multiple devices. The dual HDMI display feature supports 4K resolution, ideal for high-quality external displays. macOS users should note that both external monitors will mirror the same display, limiting independent outputs.
This hub supports high-speed data transfer and power delivery up to 85W, keeping devices charged. Its solid build quality and sleek gray design appeal to users valuing style and functionality. It supports USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt connections and is compatible with macOS, Windows, and ChromeOS, but not Linux.
It’s best suited for users needing extensive connectivity and high-resolution display capabilities, particularly with MacBook Pro, XPS, and similar laptops. A 100W PD wall charger and USB-C to C cable are needed for optimal power delivery but are not included.
Key idea: A powerful docking station with extensive connectivity options and high-resolution display capabilities, ideal for macOS and Windows users, but requires additional purchase for optimal power delivery.
- What we like:
- Extensive connectivity with 8 ports
- Dual HDMI display feature with 4K resolution
- High-speed data transfer
- Power delivery up to 85W
- Broad compatibility with macOS, Windows, and ChromeOS
- Sleek and aesthetically pleasing design
- What needs to improve:
- Mirrored display on macOS for dual HDMI setup
- Requires separate purchase of 100W PD wall charger and USB-C to C cable
- No support for Linux
3. Anker USB C Hub
The Anker USB C Hub, 565 11-in-1 Laptop Docking station, offers extensive connectivity. With 11 ports, it includes a 10 Gbps USB-C data port, a 10 Gbps USB-A data port, a 4K HDMI port, a 4K DisplayPort, and two 480 Mbps USB-A ports, ensuring multiple device connections and fast file transfers.
Dual monitor capability via HDMI and DisplayPort provides high-quality display. However, macOS users will experience mirrored displays on both external monitors. The hub supports up to 85W pass-through charging, but a charger is not included.
It supports USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt connections and is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, and ChromeOS. It is not compatible with Linux. The build is robust and compact, with a portable, lightweight design. Measuring 5.39 x 2.24 x 0.55 inches and weighing 4.8 ounces, it’s easy to carry. Anker provides an 18-month warranty and customer service.
Key idea: A feature-rich docking station with 11 ports for extensive connectivity and fast data transfer, suitable for various operating systems except Linux, but with mirrored display limitations on macOS.
- What we like:
- Extensive connectivity with 11 ports
- Fast data transfer speeds (up to 10 Gbps)
- 4K HDMI and DisplayPort for dual monitor support
- Up to 85W pass-through charging
- Compact and lightweight design
- 18-month warranty and customer service
- What needs to improve:
- Mirrored display on macOS for dual monitor setup
- Charger not included
- No support for Linux
4. 565 11-in-1 Laptop Docking Station
Overall Review:
The 4. 565 11-in-1 Laptop Docking Station is a **versatile hub** designed to significantly expand the connectivity of modern laptops, particularly those relying on USB-C ports. It serves as a **central point for all your peripherals**, transforming your portable device into a capable desktop workstation with a single connection. This dock is ideal for users who need to connect multiple monitors, external hard drives, keyboards, mice, and other accessories simultaneously without constantly plugging and unplugging cables. The “11-in-1” aspect signifies a wide array of included ports, typically covering essential needs like HDMI or DisplayPort for video output, various USB-A and USB-C ports for data and charging, an Ethernet port for reliable internet, and potentially card readers or audio jacks. Its **plug-and-play functionality** ensures relatively easy setup, making it a **convenient solution** for cleaning up cable clutter and maximizing productivity. For anyone seeking a **comprehensive and efficient way** to connect their laptop to a full desktop setup, the 565 docking station offers substantial **value and utility**.
What We Like:
- **Expansive Connectivity**: Offers an **impressive range of ports** (11-in-1) for connecting multiple devices simultaneously.
- **Single Cable Solution**: Simplifies setup and desk management with a **single connection to the laptop**.
- **Improved Productivity**: Facilitates connecting **multiple external displays** and essential peripherals for a complete workstation.
- **Stable Network Connection**: Includes a **reliable Ethernet port** for faster and more stable internet than Wi-Fi.
- **Neat Setup**: Helps in achieving a **cleaner and more organized desk** by consolidating connections.
What We Don’t Like:
- **Potential Power Delivery Issues**: May not supply **sufficient power** for some high-performance laptops through the single USB-C cable without an external power adapter.
- **Can Get Warm**: The unit might experience **significant heat generation** during prolonged and heavy use, especially when multiple ports are utilized.
- **Compatibility Variables**: **Performance can vary** depending on the specific laptop model and the capabilities of its USB-C port (e.g., bandwidth, DisplayPort Alt Mode support).
- **Display Limitations**: May have limitations on supporting **high resolutions or refresh rates** across multiple connected monitors simultaneously.
5. Plugable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub
The Plugable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub is a versatile and compact solution designed to expand the connectivity of modern laptops and devices equipped with a single USB-C port. This hub transforms one port into a powerhouse, typically offering essential connections like HDMI for external displays, multiple USB-A ports for peripherals, SD and microSD card readers for transferring data from cameras and phones, and often a USB-C Power Delivery (PD) port to charge your laptop while using the hub. It’s particularly useful for users who need to connect various accessories simultaneously but are limited by the number of ports on their slimline machines. The plug-and-play nature means no drivers are typically needed, making it easy to get started right out of the box. Performance is generally reliable for everyday tasks, including connecting monitors up to standard resolutions (like 4K@30Hz), transferring files, and using keyboards, mice, and other USB devices. While it might not be suitable for demanding, high-bandwidth tasks that require maximum speed across all ports simultaneously, for the average user needing to bridge the gap between older peripherals and new USB-C devices, this 7-in-1 hub offers a convenient and often portable solution that significantly enhances productivity and usability.
What We Like
- Versatile Port Selection: Offers a good mix of essential ports including HDMI, multiple USB-A, and card readers.
- Compact and Portable: Easy to carry in a laptop bag, ideal for travel and mobile work setups.
- Plug and Play: Generally works immediately without needing to install drivers.
- USB-C Power Delivery: Allows you to charge your laptop through the hub while using other ports.
- Good Value: Provides significant connectivity expansion at a reasonable price point.
What We Don’t Like
- Limited High Refresh Rate: HDMI port often supports only 4K@30Hz, not ideal for high-refresh-rate gaming monitors or smoother motion at higher resolutions.
- Potential for Heat: Like many hubs, it can become warm during heavy use, especially when using Power Delivery and multiple ports.
- Cable Length: The integrated USB-C cable is often short, which can limit placement options on a desk.
- Shared Bandwidth: Performance can be affected when multiple high-bandwidth devices are used simultaneously due to shared USB-C bandwidth.
Buying guide
Compatibility with Your Laptop
Ensuring the docking station or hub is fully compatible with your specific laptop model is the absolute first step. Not all USB-C ports are created equal; some support video output and Power Delivery, while others are data-only. Thunderbolt ports offer the most robust compatibility, supporting high-bandwidth data, multiple displays, and significant power delivery over a single cable. Check your laptop’s specifications and user manual to understand the capabilities of its ports. Compatibility issues can lead to features not working correctly, such as display output failures, slow data speeds, or the inability to charge your laptop through the dock.
- Check Port Type: Verify if your laptop has a USB-C (specify version like 3.1, 3.2), Thunderbolt 3, or Thunderbolt 4 port, as this dictates the dock’s capabilities.
- Verify Video Output Support: Confirm your laptop’s USB-C or Thunderbolt port supports “DisplayPort Alternate Mode” (Alt Mode) for external monitors.
- Confirm Operating System Compatibility: Ensure the dock is compatible with your laptop’s operating system (Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, Linux), as some features may require specific drivers.
- Consult Manufacturer Compatibility Lists: Some dock manufacturers provide specific lists of tested and compatible laptop models; check these whenever possible.
Number and Type of Ports
The primary reason for buying a docking station or hub is to expand your laptop’s connectivity. Evaluate your current and future peripheral needs. Do you use multiple external monitors, requiring HDMI, DisplayPort, or both? How many USB-A ports do you need for keyboards, mice, external hard drives, and webcams? Is an Ethernet port essential for a stable wired network connection? Do you need SD or microSD card readers for photography or videography? Consider audio jacks if you use wired headphones or speakers. Count the number of devices you regularly connect and choose a dock that provides enough ports of the necessary types to avoid needing additional adapters.
- Assess Peripheral Needs: List all the devices you plan to connect to the dock simultaneously (monitors, hard drives, keyboards, etc.).
- Determine Display Outputs: Choose a dock with the correct type (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C) and number of video ports for your monitor setup, considering resolution and refresh rate support.
- Count USB-A Ports: Ensure there are enough standard USB ports (ideally a mix of USB 2.0 for peripherals like keyboards and USB 3.0/3.1/3.2 for faster devices).
- Consider Niche Ports: Include requirements for Ethernet, SD card readers, audio jacks, or other specific ports necessary for your workflow.
Power Delivery (PD) Support
Power Delivery allows the docking station to charge your laptop using a single USB-C or Thunderbolt cable, eliminating the need for your laptop’s original power adapter. This is a significant convenience, simplifying cable management on your desk. Check the wattage (W) supported by the dock’s PD port and compare it to your laptop’s power requirements (usually listed on the laptop’s power adapter or in its specifications). The dock’s PD output should ideally match or exceed your laptop’s requirement for optimal charging, especially under heavy load. Docks with higher PD wattage (e.g., 60W, 85W, 100W) are more versatile and can support a wider range of laptops.
- Match Laptop Power Requirements: Ensure the dock’s Power Delivery output wattage is sufficient to charge your specific laptop model effectively.
- Note Upstream vs. Downstream PD: Understand that PD is typically ‘upstream’ (to the laptop); check if downstream ports offer PD for charging phones/tablets.
- Check Included Power Adapter: Verify if the dock comes with its own power supply capable of delivering the stated PD wattage, as some require their own power source.
- Simplify Cable Management: Utilize PD to charge your laptop and power peripherals through a single connection to the dock.
Data Transfer Speed
The speed at which data moves through the dock’s ports impacts the performance of connected devices like external SSDs, USB flash drives, and network adapters. Look for USB ports that support high-speed standards like USB 3.0 (often labeled USB 3.1 Gen 1 or USB 3.2 Gen 1) offering 5Gbps, or faster standards like USB 3.1 Gen 2 (USB 3.2 Gen 2) offering 10Gbps. Thunderbolt docks offer even higher speeds, typically 40Gbps, which is crucial for connecting high-performance storage or multiple high-resolution displays simultaneously. An Ethernet port’s speed (Gigabit Ethernet – 1Gbps – is standard) is also important for network performance.
- Identify USB Speed Standards: Differentiate between slower USB 2.0 (480Mbps) and faster USB 3.x standards (5Gbps, 10Gbps).
- Prioritize Faster Ports for Storage: Use ports supporting 5Gbps or 10Gbps for connecting external hard drives or SSDs to minimize transfer times.
- Consider Thunderbolt for Maximum Throughput: If your laptop has Thunderbolt, a Thunderbolt dock offers the highest possible data speeds (40Gbps) suitable for demanding tasks.
- Verify Ethernet Speed: Ensure the dock includes a Gigabit Ethernet port (10/100/1000 Mbps) for reliable and fast wired network connectivity.
Build Quality and Design
A docking station is likely to be a permanent fixture on your desk, so its build quality and design matter for both durability and aesthetics. Docks made from sturdy materials like aluminum tend to be more durable and can also help dissipate heat better than plastic ones. Consider the dock’s size and form factor – some are compact and portable, while others are larger desktop units. The length and type of the connecting cable (integrated or detachable) can affect placement options. A well-designed dock should keep your workspace tidy and function reliably over time, handling the heat generated by multiple connections and power delivery.
- Assess Construction Materials: Look for durable materials like aluminum, which offer better heat dissipation compared to plastic.
- Consider Size and Portability: Choose a form factor that suits your needs, whether a compact travel hub or a larger desktop dock.
- Evaluate Cable Management: Check the cable length and whether the cable is integrated or detachable for flexible setup.
- Prioritize Thermal Performance: Ensure the dock is designed to handle heat effectively, especially when driving multiple displays and charging a laptop.
Price and Warranty
Docking stations and hubs vary significantly in price, often correlating with the number and type of ports, supported speeds, and features like Power Delivery wattage. Set a budget based on your needs but be aware that cheaper options might compromise on build quality, port reliability, or full compatibility. Read reviews to gauge the real-world performance and longevity of models within your price range. The warranty offered by the manufacturer is also an important factor. A longer warranty (typically 1-3 years) provides peace of mind and indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s reliability. Understand the warranty terms and the manufacturer’s customer support availability.
- Set a Realistic Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend, understanding that features and quality impact price.
- Compare Features vs. Cost: Evaluate if the price justifies the included ports, speeds, PD wattage, and build quality.
- Read User Reviews: Gain insight into real-world performance, reliability, and common issues from other buyers.
- Check Warranty Length and Terms: A longer warranty period offers better protection for your investment; understand the process for claims.
Final Thought
After evaluating these five connectivity options – from simple Anker hubs to full docking stations like the Plugable and Anker 565 – it’s clear that **the best choice is entirely dependent on your specific port needs.** Each offers distinct advantages, whether simplicity for basic expansion or extensive connectivity for complex setups. Among them, the Anker 565 11-in-1 Laptop Docking Station emerged as my personal favorite. Its comprehensive 11-in-1 port selection provides the most versatile solution for power users needing a wide array of connections simultaneously.