10 Best Usb Hubs for Mouse and Keyboard

When it comes to selecting the perfect USB hub for your mouse and keyboard, you're likely looking for a balance of performance, convenience, and reliability. You want a hub that can handle multiple devices at once, without sacrificing speed or power. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. That's why we've narrowed down the top contenders, considering factors like port options, durability, and warranty. Now, it's time to explore the best of the best – but which one will come out on top?

Key Takeaways

• Consider a hub with multiple USB ports, including USB 3.0 for faster data transfer, to connect your mouse and keyboard simultaneously.
• Look for a compact and lightweight design with built-in cable management features to reduce clutter and improve portability.
• Ensure the hub is compatible with your device, considering factors like operating system and manufacturer, for seamless connectivity.
• Check the power delivery capacity of the hub, as some devices may require additional power to function properly.

Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station

The Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station stands out as an excellent choice for individuals requiring extensive multitasking capabilities, with its unique ability to support up to three monitors simultaneously.

This feature allows users to expand their workspace, increasing productivity and efficiency.

The docking station boasts multiple connectivity options, including dual HDMI ports, a DisplayPort, and USB-C and USB-A ports for fast file transfer.

Additionally, it supports high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones, making it an ideal solution for those who need to keep their devices powered throughout the day.

With its compact design and 18-month warranty, the Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station is a reliable and versatile option for those seeking a thorough docking solution.

Best For: Individuals who require extensive multitasking capabilities and need to connect multiple monitors, charge their devices, and transfer files quickly.

Pros:

• Supports up to three monitors for multitasking, increasing productivity and efficiency
• Offers high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones, making it an ideal solution for those who need to keep their devices powered throughout the day

Cons:

• Requires DisplayLink driver for independent display outputs on Macs, which can be an added hassle
• Some users have reported USB connection inconsistency and display resolution issues

Targus USB C Docking Station Universal Laptop Dock

Those seeking a reliable and versatile docking station that can support up to two monitors with crystal-clear 4K resolution will appreciate the Targus USB C Docking Station Universal Laptop Dock.

This docking station is designed to transform and organize your workspace, reducing clutter with its compact design and single USB-C connection.

It features two HDMI 2.0 ports, allowing you to connect up to two monitors, as well as USB-A and USB-C ports for accessories, Ethernet, and audio ports.

With 65W Power Delivery, it can charge your laptop while in use.

Compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, this docking station is fully tested for compatibility and backed by a 3-year limited lifetime warranty.

Best For: Professionals and individuals who need a reliable and versatile docking station to connect multiple monitors and accessories to their laptop.

Pros:

• Supports up to two 4K monitors with crystal-clear resolution, making it ideal for multitaskers and those who need multiple screens.
• Offers a wide range of connectivity options, including USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet, and audio ports, making it easy to connect all necessary accessories.

Cons:

• Some users have reported network connectivity issues, which can be frustrating and impact productivity.
• There have been reports of laptops being damaged or "fried" after using the docking station, which is a serious concern.

HP USB-C Dock G5 8-in-1 Adapter

HP's USB-C Dock G5 8-in-1 Adapter stands out as an ideal choice for users seeking a versatile and compact docking solution that can support up to three displays, making it a valuable asset for multitaskers and professionals.

This adapter boasts universal compatibility with USB-C functionality, allowing for seamless charging, data transfers, and networking between devices.

Its compact design (5 x 5 inches) reduces clutter and eliminates the need for extra cords and wires, making it an excellent space-saving solution.

In addition, the adapter provides advanced network manageability features for secure and remote management, with firmware updates pushed to the laptop for efficient updates.

With an average customer rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, this adapter is a reliable choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient docking solution.

Best For: Multitaskers and professionals seeking a versatile and compact docking solution that can support up to three displays.

Pros:

• Universal compatibility with USB-C functionality for seamless charging, data transfers, and networking between devices
• Compact design (5 x 5 inches) reduces clutter and eliminates the need for extra cords and wires

Cons:

• No specific cons mentioned in the product description
• No information on the maximum resolution supported by the three displays

Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station (13-in-1)

Ideal for users seeking a thorough desktop solution, the Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station (13-in-1) offers huge expansion with multiple ports and slots, simultaneous charging for laptop and phone, and exhaustive media display support for up to three monitors.

This docking station has received positive feedback for its build quality and performance, making it a reliable choice for desktop use. It's compatible with various devices and operating systems, including the Surface Pro 7.

The Anker 575 also stands out from other docks, such as the Dell TB16 Dock, in respect to its size, connectivity, and functionality.

With its ease of use and lack of driver installation, this docking station is a convenient addition to any desktop setup.

Best For: Users seeking a thorough desktop solution with multiple ports, simultaneous charging, and exhaustive media display support.

Pros:

• Offers huge expansion with multiple ports and slots for desktop use
• Compatible with various devices and operating systems, including the Surface Pro 7

Cons:

• May cause confusion with USB-C formats and PD support
• Initial accidental power disconnection may occur, leading to misunderstanding

Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station

Business professionals and frequent travelers who require flexible expandability for their laptops will appreciate the Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station, which offers an extensive set of connectivity options and dual HD HDMI video outputs.

This docking station features two HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, audio, and six USB ports, making it an ideal solution for those who need to connect multiple devices to their laptop.

Compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS, it supports dual monitor setup with resolutions up to 1920×1200, and includes USB 3.0 and USB-C cables.

With a 2-year warranty, this docking station is suitable for web and productivity software, and is ideal for home or office use, providing a convenient and reliable way to expand laptop connectivity.

Best For: Business professionals and frequent travelers who require flexible expandability for their laptops.

Pros:

• Offers an extensive set of connectivity options, including two HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, audio, and six USB ports.
• Supports dual monitor setup with resolutions up to 1920×1200 and is compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS.

Cons:

• Does not charge host PC and is not recommended for gaming.
• Does not support DisplayPort connections, HDCP, or playback of encrypted/copy-protected content.

Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock

For those seeking a high-speed docking station that can support dual 4K monitors and offers lightning-fast connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 ports, the Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock is an excellent choice.

This docking station boasts versatile compatibility with USB-C and USB-A ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, 2.5G Ethernet, and a security lock slot.

It also supports quick charging, allowing your laptop to be powered up in just 2.5 hours.

With its ability to connect up to two 4K monitors, the dock is ideal for those who require a multi-monitor setup.

Additionally, the dock features easy port identification with raised tactile indicators on each port, making it a convenient option for users.

Best For: Those who prioritize Microsoft's design language and need a high-speed docking station with dual 4K monitor support and lightning-fast connectivity.

Pros:

• Offers lightning-fast connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 ports for data transfer, media streaming, and device charging
• Supports dual 4K monitors and quick charging, allowing your laptop to be powered up in just 2.5 hours

Cons:

• Lacks some features compared to other docks, such as triple/quad monitor support, HDMI, DisplayPort, and SD card readers
• Priced at $300, which is $40 more than the launch price of the older Dock 2

USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor for MacBook Pro

MacBook Pro users seeking a seamless and efficient way to expand their laptop's capabilities will appreciate the USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor, which offers a thorough 15-in-2 expansion and compatibility solution.

This docking station boasts an impressive range of ports, including two 4K@60Hz HDMI ports, four USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C port, and more.

With its versatile dual 4K extend monitor capabilities and super-speed data transmission, users can enjoy seamless connectivity and high-speed data transfer.

The docking station's compact design and Space Gray color match perfectly with MacBook Pros, making it a stylish and convenient addition to any workspace.

Best For: MacBook Pro users seeking a seamless and efficient way to expand their laptop's capabilities and connect multiple devices.

Pros:

• Offers a thorough 15-in-2 expansion and compatibility solution with multiple ports, including two 4K@60Hz HDMI ports, four USB 3.0 ports, and more.
• Provides versatile dual 4K extend monitor capabilities and super-speed data transmission for seamless connectivity and high-speed data transfer.

Cons:

• May experience minor malfunctions after extended use, such as a year or more.
• Requires manual selection of the headphone jack in System Preferences.

Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock (40AF0135US)

The Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock (40AF0135US) stands out as an ideal choice for those seeking a versatile and powerful docking station that can support up to two 4K displays, making it a perfect fit for professionals who require multiple screens for efficient multitasking.

This dock boasts an impressive array of ports, including two DisplayPort 1.2 ports, two HDMI ports, one USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C port, three USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-A ports, and two USB 2.0 Type-A ports.

Additionally, it features a 10/100/1000 Mb/s Ethernet port, ensuring a reliable and fast connection.

With a compact design and weighing only 1.06 pounds, this dock is perfect for those who need a reliable and portable docking solution.

Best For: Professionals who require multiple screens for efficient multitasking, particularly those who need a reliable and portable docking solution.

Pros:

• Supports up to two 4K displays, making it ideal for multitasking and increasing productivity
• Offers a wide range of ports, including DisplayPort, HDMI, USB-C, and Ethernet, to accommodate various devices and connections

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with the monitor ports becoming non-functional after a few months of use
• Customer support can be difficult to communicate with, leading to frustration and wasted time

WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station

One standout feature that makes the WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station an ideal choice for those seeking a versatile and high-performance USB hub is its ability to support flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays.

This docking station is capable of supporting dual monitors with a maximum resolution of 5120x1440p60 (5K Ultrawide) or 4096x2160p60 (Cinema 4K).

In addition, it's compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, making it a great option for users with different devices.

The docking station also features a Gigabit Ethernet port, six USB 3.0 ports, and a 100W power adapter for laptop charging, providing an all-encompassing solution for users' connectivity needs.

Best For: Professionals and users who need a versatile and high-performance USB hub that can support multiple devices and platforms.

Pros:

• Supports flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays, allowing for dual monitors with high resolutions.
• Compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, making it a great option for users with different devices.

Cons:

• No specific cons mentioned in the product description.
• No information provided about the product's durability or build quality.

Dell WD19S Docking Station with Power Adapter

Frequently, professionals seeking a reliable and powerful docking station for their laptops will find the Dell WD19S Docking Station with Power Adapter to be an ideal choice, thanks to its 90W Power Delivery and 130W Power Adapter.

This docking station boasts a USB Type-C host connection, three USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, and two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C ports, providing ample connectivity options.

Additionally, it features two DisplayPort and one HDMI port, supporting a maximum resolution of 3840 x 2160 at 60 Hz.

The device also comes with a 130W power adapter and a USB Type-C cable, ensuring a seamless connection to your laptop.

With its compact design and noble wedge and Kensington security slots, this docking station is a premium solution for professionals seeking a reliable and powerful docking station.

Best For: Professionals seeking a reliable and powerful docking station for their laptops.

Pros:

• Provides ample connectivity options with multiple USB ports, DisplayPort, and HDMI port
• Supports high-resolution displays up to 3840 x 2160 at 60 Hz

Cons:

• Some users may experience issues with faulty or used products
• Dell branded products are generally considered overpriced

Factors to Consider When Choosing a USB Hub for Mouse and Keyboard

When selecting a USB hub for your mouse and keyboard, you'll want to ponder a few key factors.

You're looking for a hub that meets your specific needs, so think about what matters most to you – is it having multiple port options with fast speeds, or ensuring compatibility with a range of devices?

Port Options and Speed

When selecting a USB hub, consider the type and speed of ports you need, such as USB 3.0 or USB 2.0, to ensure harmony and peak performance with your mouse and keyboard.

The number of ports you require will depend on the devices you want to connect, so weigh a hub with multiple ports to accommodate your needs.

Some USB hubs feature powered ports, which can provide additional power to connected devices, making them suitable for power-hungry devices like external hard drives.

When selecting a USB hub, check the power output and voltage rating to verify it can support the devices you plan to connect.

You'll also want to deliberate the speed of the hub, as USB 3.0 and USB 3.2 Gen 1 hubs offer faster data transfer rates of up to 5 Gbps and 10 Gbps, respectively.

If you need high-speed data transfer and power delivery over longer distances, look for a hub that can provide up to 100W of power and supports extended cable lengths.

Device Compatibility Range

Your device collection's diversity demands a USB hub that can harmonize with them all, so it's crucial to ponder the device compatibility range when choosing the perfect hub for your mouse and keyboard.

You need a hub that can connect to your laptops, desktops, tablets, and smartphones from different manufacturers and operating systems.

A wider device compatibility range guarantees the hub can be used with multiple devices, making it a convenient option for users like you with multiple devices.

Consider the type of USB port the hub uses, such as USB-A, USB-C, or USB-3.0, as it affects its compatibility with different devices.

Some hubs may only be compatible with specific operating systems, like Windows or macOS, while others support multiple operating systems, including Chrome OS and Linux.

Check the specifications of the USB hub and the devices you plan to connect to confirm seamless compatibility and peak performance.

Power Delivery Capacity

A critical aspect to ponder when selecting a USB hub for your mouse and keyboard is its power delivery capacity, as it directly impacts the hub's ability to charge and power your devices simultaneously.

You'll want to weigh the total power requirements of all devices that will be connected to verify the hub's power delivery capacity can meet those needs.

If you plan to charge larger devices like laptops, look for a hub with a higher power delivery capacity, such as 100W.

On the other hand, if you'll only be connecting smaller devices like smartphones, a lower capacity of 60W might suffice.

Some hubs can negotiate power delivery with devices, dynamically adjusting power output to meet their needs and prevent overheating or damage.

When choosing a hub, weigh the power requirements of your devices, as keyboards typically require low power while mice may need more.

Look for hubs with smart power management, which can allocate power efficiently and prevent overheating.

Cable Management and Design

When selecting a USB hub for your mouse and keyboard, its cable management and design features play a crucial role in maintaining a clutter-free and organized workspace.

You'll want a hub that's compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around. Look for a hub with built-in cable ties, clips, or cord organizers to keep your cables tidy and untangled.

Some hubs even feature angled or recessed ports to reduce cable clutter. A removable cable management tray or plate can also be a big plus, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance.

Consider a hub with a non-slip base or rubber feet to prevent it from sliding around on surfaces and reducing the risk of accidental disconnection.

The material used to construct the hub can also impact its overall aesthetic appeal and ability to blend in with its surroundings.

Durability and Build Quality

Select a USB hub that's built to last, as durability and build quality are crucial factors in guaranteeing your mouse and keyboard stay connected and functional over time.

You want a hub that can withstand regular use and handling, with a sturdy construction that resists scratches and cracks. Look for a secure and stable base that prevents the hub from slipping or toppling over, keeping your devices firmly in place.

The USB ports should be recessed and protected by a sturdy plastic or metal casing to prevent damage from accidental bends or twists. A durable cable that's long enough for flexible placement but thick enough to handle regular use is also essential.

A good USB hub should have a reliable power management system that can handle the power requirements of your devices without overheating or failing. Check the build quality by examining the materials used, such as aluminum or plastic, and the overall weight of the device.

A well-built hub should have secure connections, dissipate heat efficiently, and feature a reliable power management system to guarantee safe and efficient operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a USB Hub With a Wireless Mouse and Keyboard?

You're wondering if you can use a USB hub with your wireless mouse and keyboard. Yes, you can! Most wireless devices use a USB receiver, so plug it into the hub and you're good to go!

Are USB Hubs Compatible With All Laptop Brands and Models?

You'll be relieved to know that most USB hubs are compatible with all laptop brands and models, thanks to standardized USB ports, but crucial to verify your laptop's specific USB version and hub's compatibility before buying.

Do USB Hubs Require Any Software or Driver Installation?

You'll be relieved to know that most USB hubs don't require software or driver installation; they're plug-and-play, so you can simply connect your devices and start using them right away.

Can I Use a USB Hub to Charge My Devices as Well?

You can use a USB hub to charge your devices, but it depends on the hub's power output and your device's charging requirements. Make sure the hub can handle the power needs of your devices.

Are USB Hubs Suitable for Gaming With High-Speed Devices?

You'll be happy to know that most modern USB hubs can handle high-speed devices for gaming, but you'll want to guarantee the hub itself can support the required speeds and power delivery.

Conclusion

You've got your top picks for the best USB hubs for your mouse and keyboard.

From compact designs to durable constructions, these hubs offer a range of features to meet your needs.

Consider your port options, speed, and power delivery capacity, and choose the one that fits your lifestyle.

With rel