10 Best Usb Hubs for New Imac

When you're setting up your new iMac, you'll likely realize that the limited number of USB ports isn't enough to support all your devices. That's where a reliable USB hub comes in. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. You're probably wondering which hub will best meet your needs, whether it's connecting multiple monitors, charging your devices, or simply expanding your port options. Let's take a closer look at the top contenders, from the USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor to the Dell WD19S Docking Station, to find the perfect fit for your new iMac.

Key Takeaways

• Consider the number of devices and their types to ensure the hub has sufficient ports and power output for your needs.
• Choose a hub with a compact design and suitable weight for easy portability and convenience.
• Verify the hub's compatibility with your iMac's operating system, USB version, and specific features like Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C Power Delivery.
• Look for a hub with sturdy construction, durable materials, and adjustable power delivery for reliable performance and longevity.

USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor for MacBook Pro

For MacBook Pro users seeking a seamless and efficient way to expand their laptop's capabilities, the USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor stands out as an ideal choice, offering an exhaustive 15-in-2 expansion and compatibility solution.

This docking station boasts an impressive array of ports, including two 4K@60Hz/4K@30Hz HDMI ports, four USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C port, two USB 2.0 ports, and an SD/TF card slot.

Additionally, it features a headphone jack and Gigabit Ethernet port, ensuring that users can connect all their essential peripherals with ease.

With its compact design and Space Gray color, this docking station seamlessly integrates with MacBook Pros, providing a clutter-free and organized workspace.

Best For: MacBook Pro users seeking a seamless and efficient way to expand their laptop's capabilities with a reliable and versatile docking station.

Pros:

• Offers an exhaustive 15-in-2 expansion and compatibility solution with multiple ports, including dual 4K HDMI ports, USB 3.0 ports, and Gigabit Ethernet.
• Provides a compact and organized workspace with its Space Gray color and clutter-free design.

Cons:

• May experience minor malfunctions after extended use (over a year).
• Headphone jack requires manual selection in System Preferences.

Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station

The Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station stands out as a top choice for new iMac users seeking an all-encompassing expansion solution, offering a whopping 13 ports and slots to accommodate multiple devices and peripherals simultaneously.

This docking station provides huge expansion capabilities, allowing for simultaneous charging of laptops and phones, while also supporting up to three monitors with extensive media display.

Users have praised the build quality and performance of the Anker 575, citing its compatibility with various devices and operating systems.

Additionally, the docking station has been recommended for desktop use, offering a seamless experience without the need for driver installation.

With its impressive feature set and reliable performance, the Anker 575 is an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable USB-C docking station.

Best For: New iMac users seeking an all-encompassing expansion solution for desktop use.

Pros:

• Offers huge expansion capabilities with 13 ports and slots for multiple devices and peripherals
• Provides simultaneous charging for laptops and phones, and supports up to three monitors with extensive media display

Cons:

• Users may experience confusion with USB-C formats and PD support
• There may be differences in display resolution and refresh rate depending on the device used

Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station

Optimize your laptop's productivity with the Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station, which supports dual monitor setup with resolutions up to 1920×1200.

This docking station features two HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, audio, and six USB ports, making it an ideal solution for expanding your laptop's connectivity.

Compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS, it's a versatile option for various users.

The docking station includes both USB 3.0 and USB-C cables, ensuring flexibility and convenience.

While it doesn't charge your host PC and isn't recommended for gaming, it's perfect for web and productivity software, making it suitable for home or office use.

With a 2-year warranty and positive user reviews, this docking station is a reliable choice for enhancing your laptop's capabilities.

Best For: Professionals and individuals who need to expand their laptop's connectivity for web and productivity software, ideal for home or office use.

Pros:

• Supports dual monitor setup with resolutions up to 1920×1200 and includes both USB 3.0 and USB-C cables for flexibility and convenience.
• Compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS, making it a versatile option for various users.

Cons:

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

Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock (40AF0135US)

Equipped with dual 4K display support and an exhaustive array of ports, the Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock (40AF0135US) is an ideal choice for professionals seeking a reliable and versatile docking solution for their new iMac.

This docking station boasts two DisplayPort 1.2 ports, two HDMI ports, and multiple USB ports, including a 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 stable and fast connection.

With a compact design and a weight of just 1.06 pounds, this dock is easy to take on the go.

Amazon customers have praised its performance, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 161 reviews.

Best For: Professionals seeking a reliable and versatile docking solution for their laptops, particularly those who need to connect multiple monitors and peripherals.

Pros:

• Supports up to two 4K displays with its dual DisplayPort 1.2 ports and two HDMI ports
• Offers a wide range of USB ports, including USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C, Type-A, and USB 2.0 Type-A ports, for connecting various devices

Cons:

• Some customers have reported issues with the monitor ports becoming non-functional after a few months of use
• May require additional power sources, as some users have reported needing to supply their own power Lenovo Thinkpad station

Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K

For users seeking a seamless and efficient way to connect multiple devices and monitors to their new iMac, the Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K stands out with its 65W power delivery and dual HDMI ports, supporting up to two 4K monitors at once.

This docking station is designed to transform and organize your workspace, reducing clutter and increasing productivity.

With its wide compatibility, it supports a variety of USB-C laptops and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.

The docking station also features USB-A and USB-C ports for connecting accessories, as well as Ethernet and audio ports for added convenience.

Best For: Professionals and individuals who need to connect multiple devices and monitors to their USB-C laptops and desire a reliable and efficient docking station.

Pros:

• Supports up to two 4K monitors at once with its dual HDMI ports and 65W power delivery
• Offers wide compatibility with various USB-C laptops and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS

Cons:

• Some users have reported network connectivity issues and laptops being damaged after using the docking station
• Monitors may turn off when the laptop goes to sleep, causing inconvenience

TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station for MacBook Pro/Air

With its impressive 18 powerful ports, the TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station is an ideal choice for MacBook Pro and Air users seeking an exhaustive connectivity solution that can support multiple 4K displays and high-speed data transfer.

This docking station is compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, and full-featured USB-C laptops, and supports various operating systems including macOS 11+, Windows 10, and Chrome OS 100.

The triple/quad 4K extended display feature allows users to connect up to four 4K monitors, making it perfect for multitasking and productivity.

Additionally, the 120W power adapter provides efficient laptop and dock charging, while the super-speed data transfer feature supports up to 10Gbps transfer speeds.

Best For: MacBook Pro and Air users seeking an exhaustive connectivity solution that can support multiple 4K displays and high-speed data transfer.

Pros:

• Supports multiple 4K displays for multitasking and productivity
• Features 18 powerful ports for exhaustive connectivity

Cons:

• Requires installation of DisplayLink Drivers for some operating systems
• May require additional power for some laptops to run 3 monitors effectively

Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station for Laptops and MacBook

This docking station stands out for its ability to support up to three monitors, making it an ideal choice for multitaskers who require simultaneous displays.

The Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station features dual HDMI and DisplayPort, allowing users to expand their port options with multiple connectivity choices.

Additionally, it supports high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones, making it a convenient option for those who need to power multiple devices at once.

With fast file transfer capabilities via USB-C and USB-A ports, this docking station is designed to enhance productivity.

Measuring 6.7 x 3.15 x 0.96 inches and weighing 1.6 ounces, it's a compact and portable solution for users on-the-go.

Best For: Multitaskers who require simultaneous displays and need a compact and portable docking station for their laptops and MacBooks.

Pros:

• Supports up to three monitors for enhanced multitasking capabilities
• High-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones

Cons:

• Requires DisplayLink driver for independent display outputs on Macs
• Some users experience USB connection inconsistency and display resolution issues

RVP+ Docking Station for 3 Monitors with USB C

The RVP+ Docking Station for 3 Monitors with USB C stands out as an ideal choice for those seeking a powerful and versatile USB hub, boasting a 13-in-1 design that supports triple 4K display output and fast 100W laptop charging.

This docking station offers effortless data transfer with USB-C 3.1 and USB 3.0, ensuring seamless connectivity with various devices and operating systems.

Additionally, it features a stable Gigabit Ethernet connection for a wired Internet connection.

With its compact design, measuring 4.73 x 4.73 x 1.46 inches and weighing 0.035 ounces, this docking station is both portable and convenient.

Users have reported positive experiences with high-speed network performance, excellent customer service, and reliable connectivity, earning it a 4.3-star rating from 121 customer reviews.

Best For: Professionals and individuals who require a reliable and versatile docking station for connecting multiple monitors and peripherals to their laptop, while also needing fast charging and high-speed network performance.

Pros:

• Supports triple 4K display output and fast 100W laptop charging for efficient multitasking and productivity
• Offers effortless data transfer with USB-C 3.1 and USB 3.0 for seamless connectivity with various devices and operating systems

Cons:

• Limited HDMI ports, which may not be sufficient for users who require multiple HDMI connections
• No specific details on the material used for the casing or the build quality, which may raise concerns about durability

HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter for Laptops and Notebooks

Designed to accommodate both HP and non-HP laptops, the HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter offers universal compatibility, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking a versatile and reliable docking solution.

This compact dock supports charging, data transfers, and networking between devices, while also allowing for up to three displays.

Its compact design (5 x 5 inches) and single-cable setup reduce clutter and eliminate the need for extra cords and wires.

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

With a 4.4-star average customer rating and a warranty provided by the manufacturer, this adapter is a reliable option for those seeking a high-quality docking solution.

Best For: Professionals and individuals who need a reliable and versatile docking solution for their HP or non-HP laptops.

Pros:

• Universal compatibility with USB-C functionality for both HP and non-HP laptops
• Supports up to three displays, charging, data transfers, and networking between devices

Cons:

• None mentioned in the product description
• None mentioned in the product description

Dell WD19S Docking Station Ultimate Performance Dock

For professionals requiring a seamless and powerful connection to their corporate laptop, the Dell WD19S Docking Station Ultimate Performance Dock stands out with its 90W Power Delivery and ability to handle video from multiple monitors with ease.

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 dock also includes a 130W power adapter and a USB Type-C cable, ensuring a reliable and efficient connection.

With a 4.3-star rating from 84 customer reviews, this docking station is a reliable choice for professionals seeking a high-performance connection.

Best For: Professionals requiring a seamless and powerful connection to their corporate laptop.

Pros:

• Handles video from multiple monitors with ease and provides ample power to the laptop
• Offers a wide range of connectivity options, including USB Type-C, USB Type-A, DisplayPort, and HDMI

Cons:

• Some users have reported receiving faulty or used products
• Dell branded products are considered overpriced by some customers

Factors to Consider When Choosing USB Hubs for New iMac

When selecting a USB hub for your new iMac, you'll want to think carefully about what you need it to do.

You'll need to ponder the types of ports you require, how much power you'll need to deliver, and whether the hub is compatible with your iMac.

Port Options Available

You'll want to ponder the variety of ports a USB hub offers to guarantee it meets your specific needs and those of your devices.

As a new iMac user, you'll likely need multiple USB-C ports to support Thunderbolt 3 connections, as well as USB-A ports for legacy devices. Some hubs may also offer additional ports like HDMI, DisplayPort, or Ethernet, which can expand your iMac's connectivity options and support multiple monitors or a wired internet connection.

When choosing a USB hub, consider the specific needs of your devices and peripherals.

Do you need to connect multiple monitors or external hard drives? Do you have devices that require USB-A or USB-C connections? The number and type of ports on a USB hub will impact its compatibility with different devices, so it's crucial to think about your specific requirements.

Additionally, consider the speed and version of the USB ports, as USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports offer faster data transfer rates than USB 3.2 Gen 1 or USB 2.0 ports. By thinking carefully about the port options available, you can find a USB hub that meets your needs and enhances your iMac experience.

Power Delivery Capacity

Your new iMac's USB hub should be able to deliver sufficient power to all your connected devices, which is why it's crucial to weigh the hub's power delivery capacity before making a purchase.

You'll want a hub that can provide enough power to charge your devices efficiently and safely. USB-C hubs with Power Delivery (PD) are a good option, as they can deliver up to 100W of power, making them suitable for power-hungry devices like laptops.

In contrast, USB-A hubs typically top out at 2.5W, which mightn't be enough for devices that require more power.

When choosing a USB hub, look for one with a power delivery capacity that matches or exceeds the power requirements of your devices.

Some hubs feature adjustable power delivery, allowing you to allocate power to specific devices based on their needs. This can help prevent overheating and reduce energy waste.

Additionally, consider hubs with GaN technology, which can provide higher power delivery capacities while generating less heat than traditional designs.

Compatibility Considerations

With your power delivery needs in check, it's time to guarantee the USB hub you choose is compatible with your iMac's specific requirements.

First, certify the hub is compatible with your iMac's operating system, macOS, to prevent connectivity issues. You'll also want to check if the hub supports your iMac's USB version, such as USB 3.0 or USB-C, for peak data transfer speeds and power delivery.

Consider the number and type of devices you need to connect to the hub, like USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, or Ethernet, to verify it has the required ports and can handle the power demands.

Verify if the hub is compatible with any specific iMac features, such as Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C Power Delivery, to take full advantage of your computer's capabilities.

Be aware of any potential compatibility issues with other devices or accessories connected to your iMac, like keyboards, mice, or monitors, to confirm seamless integration with the USB hub.

Build Quality Matters

When selecting a USB hub for your new iMac, vitally, you must prioritize build quality, as a sturdy and well-constructed hub can significantly impact its performance and longevity.

A well-built hub can withstand daily wear and tear, reducing the risk of damage or malfunction. Look for hubs with aluminum or metal casings, which tend to be more durable and resistant to scratches and corrosion compared to plastic or low-quality materials.

A compact and sleek design not only reduces clutter and keeps your workspace organized but also makes the hub more portable and convenient to use.

Furthermore, hubs with reinforced cables and secure connections are less prone to accidental disconnections, ensuring reliable data transfer. Additionally, a solid build quality can provide better heat dissipation, reducing the risk of overheating and prolonging the lifespan of the device.

Cable Management Ease

You'll appreciate the importance of cable management ease when you're working with multiple devices connected to your new iMac, as it substantially impacts your overall productivity and workspace organization.

A cluttered workspace can be overwhelming and frustrating, making it difficult to focus on your tasks. That's why choosing a USB hub that prioritizes cable management ease is vital.

Opt for a docking station with a compact design and minimal cable clutter. A single-cable setup can also eliminate the need for multiple cords and wires, making it easier to manage your cables.

Additionally, look for a hub with built-in cable organizers or cable ties to keep your cables tidy and organized. Clearly labeled ports and connections can also make it easier to identify and manage your cables.

A vertical design or stand can also help to reduce cable clutter and keep your workspace organized. By considering these factors, you can find a USB hub that promotes cable management ease, allowing you to work more efficiently and stay focused on your tasks.

With a well-organized workspace, you'll be able to maximize your productivity and enjoy a better overall user experience with your new iMac.

Price Point Value

As you've organized your cables and prioritized ease of use, now it's time to weigh the price point value of your ideal USB hub, which can vary greatly depending on the features and brand you choose.

You might think that a higher price point always means a better quality hub, but that's not always the case. Research and compare features and customer reviews to guarantee you're getting the best value for your money.

If you need advanced features like Power Delivery, high-speed data transfer, and multiple display outputs, be prepared to pay a premium, with prices ranging from $100 to over $300.

On the other hand, if you only need basic features like USB-A ports and an Ethernet port, you can find budget-friendly options for under $50.

The brand you choose also plays a role in the price, with well-known brands like Dell and HP often charging more than lesser-known brands for similar products.

When considering the price point value, weigh the cost against the features and benefits the hub provides, as well as the warranty and customer support offered by the manufacturer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are USB Hubs Compatible With Older Imac Models?

You're wondering if USB hubs are compatible with older iMac models. Generally, yes, they are! Most hubs are backward compatible, but you'll want to check the specific hub's specs to ve