10 Top-Rated USB Hubs for Android TV: Expand Your Connectivity Options

When it comes to expanding your Android TV's connectivity options, you're likely looking for a reliable and efficient USB hub that meets your specific needs. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. You might be wondering, what features should you prioritize? Do you need high-speed data transfer, multiple display support, or versatile docking options? To help you make an informed decision, we've curated a list of the best-rated USB hubs for Android TV, featuring excellent options like the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock and the Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station.

Key Takeaways

• Consider compact and lightweight USB hubs that fit snugly behind your TV or in tight spaces for easy installation and minimal clutter.
• Ensure the USB hub is compatible with your Android TV model and supports a range of peripherals like keyboards, mice, and game controllers.
• Choose a USB hub with high power delivery capacity, up to 100W, to efficiently charge and operate connected devices simultaneously.
• Select a USB hub with a sufficient number of ports to connect all your devices, including external hard drives, keyboards, mice, and controllers.
• Opt for a USB hub with high-speed data transfer rates, such as USB 3.0 or higher, for smooth performance and swift data transfer.

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

Those seeking a versatile and powerful USB hub for their Android TV will find the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock to be an ideal choice, boasting an impressive 18 ports of extreme connectivity that cater to a wide range of devices and peripherals.

This dock provides 98W charging, 40Gb/s Thunderbolt 4, USB-A/C, 2.5GbE, and support for single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays. Its universal compatibility with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices guarantees seamless integration with Apple M2, M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max, M1 Ultra, Intel-based Macs, Windows PCs, and Chrome OS devices.

With its 10Gb/s performance for USB ports and support for SD & microSD 4.0 UHS-II Card Readers, the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock is an excellent option for expanding Android TV connectivity.

Best For: Professionals and users who require high-speed connectivity, multiple display support, and versatile port options for their Mac, PC, or Chrome OS devices.

Pros:

• Offers 18 ports of extreme connectivity, including 98W charging, 40Gb/s Thunderbolt 4, USB-A/C, 2.5GbE, and support for single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays
• Universally compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices, making it a great option for users with multiple devices
• Provides 10Gb/s performance for USB ports and supports SD & microSD 4.0 UHS-II Card Readers, making it an excellent choice for data-intensive tasks

Cons:

• Runs warm or hot due to the nature of high-performance docks
• Some users have reported network connectivity issues
• The memory slots could be replaced with additional USB ports for added convenience

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

The Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station stands out as an ideal choice for users seeking a robust and versatile hub that can simultaneously charge their laptop and phone while supporting up to three monitors, making it an excellent option for individuals who require an all-inclusive desktop setup.

This 13-in-1 docking station offers huge expansion capabilities with multiple ports and slots, ensuring extensive media display with macOS and iPadOS compatibility. Users have praised the build quality and performance, citing it as a reliable choice for desktop use with compatibility across different devices and operating systems.

With its impressive charging capabilities, power pass-through, and seamless performance with HDMI, Ethernet, and USB devices, the Anker 575 is a top contender for those seeking a reliable and efficient docking station.

Best For: Those who require a comprehensive desktop setup with simultaneous charging capabilities for their laptop and phone, and support for up to three monitors.

Pros:

• Huge expansion capabilities with multiple ports and slots for extensive media display
• Reliable performance with seamless connectivity to HDMI, Ethernet, and USB devices
• Positive feedback on build quality and customer service

Cons:

• Confusion with USB-C formats and PD support may cause initial misunderstandings
• Accidental power disconnection may occur
• Limited compatibility with certain devices and operating systems

Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock

Individuals seeking a high-speed docking station with dual 4K monitor support and lightning-fast connectivity will find the Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock an excellent choice.

This docking station offers versatile compatibility with USB-C and USB-A ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, 2.5G Ethernet, and a security lock slot. It supports quick charging, allowing your laptop to be powered up in just 2.5 hours.

The dock features easy port identification with raised tactile indicators on each port and is made with 20% recycled ocean-bound plastic, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 55 customer reviews, this dock is praised for its charging and connectivity capabilities, providing a desktop-like experience.

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 dual 4K monitor support and lightning-fast connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 ports
• Features easy port identification with raised tactile indicators on each port and versatile compatibility with USB-C and USB-A ports
• Made with 20% recycled ocean-bound plastic, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility

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 considered expensive
• Does not have some suggested upgrades, such as higher power delivery, an SD card reader, front-facing audio port, M.2 internal storage option, and the ability to fasten the power supply unit to the dock

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

Android TV users seeking a powerful and versatile docking station for their laptops will appreciate the Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station. This docking station offers high-speed charging, fast file transfer, and triple display capabilities. It features dual HDMI ports and a DisplayPort, allowing users to connect up to three monitors for multitasking.

Additionally, the Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station supports high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones. It includes USB-C and USB-A ports for fast file transfer, along with an Ethernet port and AUX in/out port for added convenience. With a compact design and an 18-month warranty, this docking station is an excellent choice for those seeking to expand their connectivity options.

Best For: Android TV users and laptop owners seeking a powerful and versatile docking station with high-speed charging, fast file transfer, and triple display capabilities.

Pros:

• Supports up to 3 monitors for multitasking with dual HDMI ports and a DisplayPort
• Offers high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones
• Features fast file transfer with USB-C and USB-A ports, as well as an Ethernet port and AUX in/out port for added convenience

Cons:

• Requires DisplayLink driver download for Mac compatibility
• Some users experience USB connection inconsistency and display resolution issues
• Limited refresh rate support for 2K and 4K monitors

RVP+ 13-in-1 Docking Station for Laptops

Opting for a docking station that supports triple display with 4K HDMI and DisplayPort, such as the RVP+ 13-in-1 Docking Station, is ideal for those seeking a seamless connection experience.

This 13-in-1 docking station boasts multiple ports and functions, including fast and powerful 100W laptop charging, effortless data transfer with USB-C 3.1 and USB 3.0, and stable Gigabit Ethernet for a wired Internet connection.

With its compact design and lightweight build, it's easy to take on the go. Users have praised the RVP+ docking station for its high-speed network performance, reliable and convenient design, and excellent customer service.

With a 4.3-star rating and over 121 customer reviews, this docking station is a top choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient connection solution.

Best For: Those seeking a seamless connection experience with triple display capabilities and high-speed network performance.

Pros:

• Supports triple display with 4K HDMI and DisplayPort for an immersive experience
• Fast and powerful 100W laptop charging and effortless data transfer with USB-C 3.1 and USB 3.0
• Compact and lightweight design with multiple functioning ports for reduced cable clutter

Cons:

• Limited HDMI ports, which may be a minor issue for some users
• No other major drawbacks reported by customers
• None mentioned

TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station for MacBook Pro/Air

For professionals seeking a versatile and high-performance docking solution for their MacBook Pro or Air, the TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station stands out with its 18 powerful ports and compatibility with multiple operating systems.

This docking station supports Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, and full-featured USB-C laptops, making it an ideal choice for those who need to connect multiple devices simultaneously.

With triple/quad 4K extended display capabilities, users can connect up to four monitors on Windows or three on macOS, making it perfect for multitasking.

The 120W power adapter guarantees fast charging for laptops and devices, while the four USB 3.1 and two Type-C ports support super-speed data transfer up to 10Gbps.

Best For: Professionals seeking a versatile and high-performance docking solution for their MacBook Pro or Air.

Pros:

• Offers 18 powerful ports for connecting multiple devices simultaneously
• Supports triple/quad 4K extended display capabilities for multitasking
• Features a 120W power adapter for fast charging of laptops and devices

Cons:

• Requires installation of DisplayLink drivers for optimal performance
• May require additional power for some laptops to run 3 monitors effectively
• Has limited monitor support on macOS (HDMI 3 and DP 3 cannot be used simultaneously)

USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor for MacBook Pro

MacBook Pro users seeking a reliable and versatile expansion solution will appreciate the 15-in-2 USB C Docking Station, which offers dual 4K monitor support and a range of ports for seamless connectivity.

This docking station features 15 ports, including two HDMI ports that support dual 4K@60Hz/4K@30Hz in extend mode, four USB 3.0 ports, and one USB-C port with transmission speeds up to 5 Gbps. Additionally, it has a strong power delivery USB C PD 3.0 port that supports up to 100W power input and 87W charging for MacBook Pro/Air.

The compact and minimalist design makes it easy to use, with a plug-and-play setup and intuitive operation.

Best For: MacBook Pro users seeking a reliable and versatile expansion solution for connecting multiple devices and monitors.

Pros:

• Offers dual 4K monitor support and a range of ports for seamless connectivity, including four USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C port, and two HDMI ports.
• Compact and minimalist design makes it easy to use, with a plug-and-play setup and intuitive operation.
• Strong power delivery USB C PD 3.0 port supports up to 100W power input and 87W charging for MacBook Pro/Air.

Cons:

• Minor malfunction experienced after a year of usage, but customer service was prompt and efficient in resolving the issue.
• Headphone jack requires manual selection in System Preferences, which may be inconvenient for some users.
• No other significant drawbacks or issues reported by customers.

WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station

The WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station is an ideal choice for professionals and entertainment enthusiasts who require seamless video interfacing and high-speed data transfer. It stands out due to its support for flexible video outputs and six USB 3.0 ports. This docking station is compatible with various platforms such as Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, making it a versatile option for users with different devices.

It supports flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays, offering maximum resolutions of 5120x1440p60 (5K Ultrawide) or 4096x2160p60 (Cinema 4K) for dual monitors. Additionally, it provides a Gigabit Ethernet port for fast network speeds and comes with a 100W power adapter for laptop charging.

Best For: Professionals and entertainment enthusiasts who require seamless video interfacing and high-speed data transfer.

Pros:

• Supports flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays, offering high-resolution outputs for dual monitors.
• Compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, making it a versatile option for users with different devices.
• Provides a Gigabit Ethernet port for fast network speeds and comes with a 100W power adapter for laptop charging.

Cons:

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

HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter for Laptops and Notebooks

Android TV users seeking a versatile and compact docking solution that can support up to three displays while keeping their workspace organized will appreciate the HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter for Laptops and Notebooks. This adapter is designed for both HP and non-HP USB-C and Thunderbolt-enabled laptops, ensuring universal compatibility with USB-C functionality.

It supports charging, data transfers, and networking between devices, making it an ideal solution for multitasking. With its compact design (5 x 5 inches) and single-cable setup, it reduces clutter and eliminates the need for extra cords and wires. Additionally, it provides advanced network manageability features for secure and remote management, and firmware updates can be pushed to the laptop for efficient updates.

Best For: Android TV users seeking a versatile and compact docking solution that can support up to three displays while keeping their workspace organized.

Pros:

• Supports up to three displays for multitasking
• Compact design (5 x 5 inches) and single-cable setup reduces clutter and eliminates the need for extra cords and wires
• Provides advanced network manageability features for secure and remote management

Cons:

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

Microsoft Surface Dock 2

Designed specifically for Microsoft Surface products, the Surface Dock 2 offers seamless connectivity and expansion capabilities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient docking solution.

This docking station boasts six USB ports, including two USB-C ports with 10 Gbps speed and video display enabled, as well as an Ethernet port and headphone/microphone combo port. With a maximum power supply wattage of 199 W, it can support multiple devices simultaneously.

The Surface Dock 2 has received positive feedback from customers, praising its compatibility, ease of setup, and build quality. However, some users have experienced issues with multiple monitors and sound output.

With a 4.4-star rating and over 340 customer reviews, this dock is a top contender for those looking to expand their connectivity options.

Best For: Microsoft Surface users who need a reliable and efficient docking solution for their devices.

Pros:

• Offers seamless connectivity and expansion capabilities with six USB ports, including two USB-C ports with 10 Gbps speed and video display enabled.
• Easy to set up and use, with a compact design that fits easily on a desk or workspace.
• Supports multiple devices simultaneously with a maximum power supply wattage of 199 W.

Cons:

• Some users have experienced issues with multiple monitors and sound output.
• There have been reports of screen dimming issues and a lack of helpful online resources to resolve the problem.
• Some customers have experienced difficulties with the dock dropping monitors and have had issues with the first-generation dock.

Factors to Consider When Choosing USB Hubs for Android TV

When shopping for a USB hub for your Android TV, you'll want to ponder several key factors to make sure you find the right one.

You'll need to mull over how portable and compact the hub needs to be, as well as its compatibility with your devices.

Portability and Compactness

For a seamless entertainment experience, you'll want a USB hub that fits snugly behind your TV or in tight spaces, making portability and compactness essential factors to take into account. A compact design guarantees easy installation and minimal space consumption, allowing you to discreetly place the hub behind your TV or in cramped areas.

Look for USB hubs with a sleek, lightweight design that won't add bulk or clutter to your entertainment setup. Consider the size and weight of the hub to guarantee it's easily portable and can be moved between different devices or locations as needed. This flexibility is especially useful if you have multiple Android TVs or need to transfer the hub to a different room.

Device Compatibility Range

With your Android TV setup, you'll want a USB hub that plays nicely with a wide range of devices, guaranteeing seamless connectivity and minimal frustration. When choosing a USB hub, consider its compatibility with various Android TV models from different brands and versions. This will guarantee that your hub works smoothly with your specific device, regardless of its manufacturer or operating system.

You should also check if the hub supports a range of peripherals and accessories commonly used with Android TV, such as keyboards, mice, game controllers, and storage devices. This will give you the flexibility to connect multiple devices simultaneously, enhancing your overall user experience.

Opt for a USB hub that offers reliable device compatibility to avoid connectivity issues and ensure a smooth experience with your Android TV setup. By doing so, you'll be able to enjoy uninterrupted entertainment, gaming, or productivity without worrying about compatibility problems.

Power Delivery Capacity

You'll also need to consider the power delivery capacity of your USB hub to make sure it can handle the power requirements of your connected devices. This is important because you don't want your devices to malfunction or charge slowly due to inadequate power supply.

Look for USB hubs with high power output ratings, ideally supporting up to 100W, to guarantee efficient charging and operation. The higher power delivery capacity allows you to charge multiple devices simultaneously without compromising performance.

When selecting a USB hub, make sure it can provide the necessary power to charge your smartphones, tablets, and other devices while connected to your Android TV. It's vital to verify the compatibility of the USB hub's power delivery with your specific Android TV model to avoid any issues with power distribution.

Don't assume that any USB hub will work; take the time to research and find one that meets your power needs. By doing so, you'll be able to enjoy smooth connectivity and effective power delivery for all your devices.

Number of USB Ports

When setting up your Android TV, determine how many USB ports you need to accommodate all your devices, taking into account peripherals like external hard drives, keyboards, mice, and controllers. Having a sufficient number of USB ports is vital to guarantee you can connect all your accessories simultaneously. A higher number of ports means you can connect more devices at once, reducing the need to constantly switch them in and out.

Assess your current and future connectivity needs to determine the best number of USB ports on the hub for your Android TV. Having multiple USB ports will enhance the versatility and functionality of your Android TV, allowing you to connect various peripherals and accessories simultaneously. Make sure the USB hub has enough ports to accommodate all your accessories without the need for additional splitters or hubs, providing a seamless and clutter-free setup.

Speed and Data Transfer

For a smooth Android TV experience, high-speed data transfer rates are vital, as they enable seamless performance and quick file transfers.

When selecting a USB hub, you'll want to ponder the speed and data transfer capabilities to make sure you get the best performance. Look for USB hubs with USB 3.0 or higher ports, which offer swifter data transfer speeds compared to USB 2.0.

You'll want to opt for a hub that can handle high data transfer rates, such as up to 5 Gbps for USB 3.0 and up to 10 Gbps for USB 3.1. Faster data transfer speeds are essential for streaming high-definition content, transferring large files, and connecting multiple devices without lag.

By choosing a USB hub with faster data transfer capabilities, you'll enhance your overall Android TV experience. You'll enjoy smooth connectivity and efficient performance, making it ideal for demanding tasks like 4K video streaming or online gaming.

With a high-speed USB hub, you can say goodbye to buffering and hello to uninterrupted entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a USB Hub With an Older Android TV Model?

You're wondering if you can use a USB hub with an older Android TV model. Generally, yes, you can, but it depends on the TV's USB version and