10 Best Usb Hubs for Charging

When you're constantly juggling multiple devices, a reliable USB hub for charging is a must-have. You're likely tired of dealing with cluttered workspaces and slow charging speeds. That's why you need a high-quality USB hub that can keep up with your demands. From docking stations with multiple ports to compact hubs designed for specific laptops, the options can be overwhelming. But what sets the best USB hubs apart from the rest? Let's take a closer look at the top 10 USB hubs for charging that can revolutionize your workflow and keep your devices powered up.

Key Takeaways

• Consider the number and speed of ports needed, including USB-A, USB-C, and Thunderbolt, to ensure efficient charging and data transfer.
• Evaluate devices' power requirements and assess power delivery options, such as Power Delivery technology and maximum wattage per port.
• Verify device compatibility with various operating systems, laptops, smartphones, and tablets to ensure seamless charging and connectivity.
• Check cable quality and length to prevent signal interference and power loss, and opt for high-grade cables with durable designs.
• Look for additional features like LED indicators, cable management, and heat dissipation mechanisms to ensure safety and enhance overall value.

TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station for MacBook Pro/Air

The TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station stands out as an ideal choice for MacBook Pro and Air users seeking an all-inclusive hub that combines powerful charging capabilities with extensive port options, making it an excellent addition to any workspace.

This docking station boasts 18 powerful ports, including three HDMI and three DisplayPort, allowing users to connect up to four 4K monitors at 60Hz. Additionally, it features four USB 3.1 and two Type-C ports, supporting data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps. The included 120W power adapter can charge laptops with up to 100W and phones with 18W via the front USB-C port, reducing laptop charging time.

With its compatibility with various operating systems and ease of setup, this docking station is a top choice for professionals and users seeking a reliable and efficient hub.

Best For: Professionals and MacBook Pro/Air users seeking an all-inclusive hub with powerful charging capabilities and extensive port options for their workspaces.

Pros:

• Offers 18 powerful ports, including three HDMI and three DisplayPort, for connecting up to four 4K monitors at 60Hz.
• Features a 120W power adapter that can charge laptops with up to 100W and phones with 18W via the front USB-C port, reducing laptop charging time.
• Compatible with various operating systems, including macOS, Windows, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, with easy setup and organization of cables.

Cons:

• Requires installation of DisplayLink Drivers on some operating systems.
• May require additional power for some laptops to run three monitors effectively.
• Limited to three monitors on macOS, with HDMI 3 and DP 3 unable to be used simultaneously.

Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station

Those seeking an all-in-one docking solution with simultaneous charging capabilities for their laptop and phone will find the Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station an ideal choice. This 13-in-1 docking station offers huge expansion with multiple ports and slots, extensive media display support for up to three monitors, and compatibility with various devices and operating systems.

Users have reported positive feedback on the build quality and performance, with seamless connectivity and charging. The Anker 575 also stands out from other docking stations, such as the Dell TB16 Dock, with its ease of use, lack of driver installation, and superior size, connectivity, and functionality.

Overall, the Anker 575 is a reliable and efficient docking solution that's well-suited for desktop use.

Best For: Those who need a reliable and efficient all-in-one docking solution for desktop use with simultaneous charging capabilities for their laptop and phone.

Pros:

• Offers huge expansion with multiple ports and slots for extensive connectivity
• Provides seamless media display support for up to three monitors with compatibility with various devices and operating systems
• Has a superior build quality and performance with ease of use and lack of driver installation

Cons:

• May cause confusion with USB-C formats and PD support
• Has initial issues with accidental power disconnection and misunderstanding
• Has limited compatibility with certain devices and operating systems

Microsoft Surface Dock 2

One standout docking station that caters specifically to Microsoft Surface users is the Microsoft Surface Dock 2, boasting seamless compatibility with Surface products and a robust set of features. This docking station offers six USB ports, including two USB-C ports with 10 Gbps data transfer rates and 15W power delivery. Additionally, it supports multiple monitors, a network connection, and a headphone/microphone combo port.

The Microsoft Surface Dock 2 is a sturdy device, weighing approximately 1.13 lb and measuring 5.12 inches wide, 2.75 inches deep, and 1.18 inches tall. With a maximum power supply wattage of 199 W, it can handle demanding tasks with ease. Users have praised its ease of setup, compatibility, and build quality, making it an excellent choice for Surface users.

Best For: Microsoft Surface users who need a reliable and feature-rich docking station to enhance their productivity and connectivity.

Pros:

• Offers seamless compatibility with Microsoft Surface products and a robust set of features, including six USB ports and support for multiple monitors.
• Provides easy setup and functionality, making it a convenient option for Surface users.
• Features a sturdy build and high-quality performance, making it suitable for demanding tasks.

Cons:

• Some users have reported difficulties with multiple monitors and sound output.
• There have been issues with screen dimming and a lack of helpful online resources to resolve the problem.
• Some users have experienced problems with the first dock, which may lead to the need for a new purchase.

USB C Docking Station for MacBook Pro/Air

For MacBook Pro and Air users seeking an all-inclusive docking solution, this USB C Docking Station stands out with its 15-in-2 expansion capabilities and compatibility with dual 4K monitors.

This docking station boasts an impressive array of ports, including 4x USB 3.0, 1x USB-C, 2x USB 2.0, 2x HDMI, SD/TF card slots, and a 3.5mm audio/mic jack. It also features a Gigabit Ethernet port for stable internet connectivity.

The USB C PD 3.0 port supports up to 87W charging for MacBook Pro/Air, making it an ideal solution for those who need to power their devices while working.

With its compact design and plug-and-play functionality, this docking station is perfect for professionals and individuals who require a reliable and versatile docking solution.

Best For: Professionals and individuals who require a reliable and versatile docking solution for their MacBook Pro/Air.

Pros:

• Offers an impressive array of ports, including 4x USB 3.0, 1x USB-C, 2x USB 2.0, 2x HDMI, SD/TF card slots, and a 3.5mm audio/mic jack.
• Supports up to 87W charging for MacBook Pro/Air, making it an ideal solution for those who need to power their devices while working.
• Compact design and plug-and-play functionality make it easy to use and transport.

Cons:

• Minor malfunction experienced after a year of usage, although customer service was responsive and efficient in resolving the issue.
• Headphone jack requires manual selection in System Preferences, which may be an inconvenience for some users.
• No additional features or unique selling points beyond its versatility and compatibility.

Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K

With its ability to support up to two monitors with two HDMI 2.0 ports and 65W Power Delivery, the Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K is an ideal choice for professionals and heavy users seeking a reliable and high-performance docking solution.

This docking station is designed to support a wide variety of USB-C laptops and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS. It features multiple USB-A and USB-C ports for connecting accessories, as well as Ethernet and audio ports for added convenience.

With a 3-year limited lifetime warranty, users can have peace of mind knowing their investment is protected. Overall, the Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K is a versatile and reliable solution for those seeking to expand their laptop's capabilities.

Best For: Professionals and heavy users seeking a reliable and high-performance docking solution.

Pros:

• Supports up to two monitors with two HDMI 2.0 ports and 65W Power Delivery
• Compatible with a wide variety of USB-C laptops and operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
• Features multiple USB-A and USB-C ports for connecting accessories, as well as Ethernet and audio ports for added convenience

Cons:

• Some users have reported network connectivity issues
• There have been reports of laptops being damaged after using the docking station
• Some users have experienced issues with monitors turning off when the laptop goes to sleep

WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station for Dual Monitors

The WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station is an ideal choice for professionals and gamers seeking high-performance. It supports dual monitors at resolutions of up to 5K Ultrawide or Cinema 4K. The docking station features flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays for seamless connectivity. It is compatible with various platforms including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, making it a versatile option.

The hub includes a Gigabit Ethernet port, six USB 3.0 ports, and a 100W power adapter for laptop charging. With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 485 customers, this product is highly recommended for its performance and reliability. WAVLINK offers an 18-month limited warranty, providing customers with peace of mind.

Best For: Professionals and gamers seeking a high-performance hub that can support dual monitors at high resolutions.

Pros:

• Supports dual monitors with resolutions up to 5K Ultrawide or Cinema 4K
• Compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android
• Offers a range of connectivity options, including a Gigabit Ethernet port and six USB 3.0 ports

Cons:

• Limited warranty period of 18 months
• No specific information on the durability of the product
• Some customers may find the price to be high compared to other docking stations on the market

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

High-performance users seeking an all-encompassing docking solution will appreciate the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock, which boasts an impressive 18 ports of extreme connectivity and powerful 98W charging capabilities.

This dock is universally compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices, making it an ideal choice for Apple M2, M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max, M1 Ultra, Intel-based Macs, Windows PCs, and Chrome OS devices.

With its ability to support single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, and 10Gb/s performance for USB ports, this dock is a game-changer for those seeking a reliable and high-performance docking solution.

Best For: High-performance users seeking an all-encompassing docking solution with extreme connectivity and powerful charging capabilities.

Pros:

• 18 ports of extreme connectivity, including Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, USB-C, and more
• Powerful 98W charging capabilities and support for single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays
• Universally compatible with a wide range of devices, including Apple M2, M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max, M1 Ultra, Intel-based Macs, Windows PCs, and Chrome OS devices

Cons:

• Runs warm/hot due to the nature of high-performance docks
• Some users have reported network connectivity issues
• Some users have suggested replacing memory slots with additional USB ports

Dell WD19S Docking Station with Power Adapter

This docking station stands out for its ability to deliver 90W of power to laptops while supporting up to two 4K monitors, making it an ideal choice for professionals seeking a reliable and versatile USB hub for charging.

The Dell WD19S Docking Station with Power Adapter boasts a range of connectivity options, including three USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A ports, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C ports, two DisplayPort, and one HDMI port. Additionally, it features a RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port, ensuring a stable internet connection.

The docking station comes with a 130W power adapter and a USB Type-C cable, making it easy to set up and use. With its compact design and robust performance, this docking station is a top contender for those seeking a reliable charging solution.

Best For: Professionals seeking a reliable and versatile USB hub for charging and connecting multiple devices to their laptop.

Pros:

• Supports up to two 4K monitors and delivers 90W of power to laptops, making it ideal for professionals who need to multitask.
• Offers a range of connectivity options, including USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A and Type-C ports, DisplayPort, HDMI, and RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet.
• Compact design and robust performance make it a reliable charging solution.

Cons:

• Some users may find the product overpriced, although it is of high quality and performance.
• There have been reports of faulty or used products being received, which can be frustrating for customers.
• No specific dislikes or issues have been mentioned by customers, but some may find the product not meeting their specific needs.

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

With its ability to support up to 100W charging for USB-C laptops and 30W for phones, the Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station is an ideal choice for professionals and heavy users seeking reliable and efficient power delivery.

This docking station expands port options with multiple connectivity options, including dual HDMI and DisplayPort, allowing users to connect up to three monitors for multitasking. The device also features fast file transfer with USB-C and USB-A ports, and an Ethernet port and AUX in/out port for added convenience.

With an 18-month warranty and customer service, users can trust Anker's reputation for quality and reliability. This docking station is a top contender for those seeking a reliable and efficient charging solution.

Best For: Professionals and heavy users seeking reliable and efficient power delivery and multitasking capabilities.

Pros:

• Supports up to 100W charging for USB-C laptops and 30W for phones, making it ideal for heavy users.
• Offers multiple connectivity options, including dual HDMI and DisplayPort, allowing users to connect up to three monitors for multitasking.
• Features fast file transfer with USB-C and USB-A ports, and an Ethernet port and AUX in/out port for added convenience.

Cons:

• Requires DisplayLink drivers for independent display outputs on Macs, which can be an additional step for users.
• Some users have reported USB connection inconsistency and display resolution issues.
• Has limitations for 2K and 4K monitors, with a minimum recommended refresh rate of 60Hz.

Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station

For those seeking a complete docking solution that can support dual monitors with resolutions up to 1920×1200, the Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station is an excellent choice. This docking station features two HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and six USB ports, making it an ideal solution for those who need to expand their laptop's capabilities.

Compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS, it provides flexible expandability and supports dual HD HDMI video outputs. Additionally, it includes USB 3.0 and USB-C cables and comes with a 2-year warranty.

While it's not recommended for gaming and doesn't support HDCP or playback of encrypted/copy-protected content, it's suitable for web and productivity software, making it an excellent option for home or office use.

Best For: Those who need a complete docking solution for expanding their laptop's capabilities, particularly for home or office use with web and productivity software.

Pros:

• Provides flexible expandability for laptops with dual HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and six USB ports
• Compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS, and includes USB 3.0 and USB-C cables
• Suitable for dual-monitor setup with resolutions up to 1920×1200, making it ideal for conference room setups and portable laptop stations

Cons:

• Not recommended for gaming and does not support HDCP or playback of encrypted/copy-protected content
• Does not charge the host PC and does not support DisplayPort connections
• Manual driver installation is required on Mac, and there may be lower resolutions on M1 Macs

Factors to Consider When Choosing USB Hubs for Charging

When you're selecting a USB hub for charging, you'll want to evaluate a few key factors.

You'll need to take into account the types of devices you'll be charging and how much power they require, as well as how many ports you'll need and how fast they should be.

Power Delivery Options

You'll want to evaluate the power delivery options of a USB hub, as they can greatly impact how efficiently you can charge your devices.

With Power Delivery (PD), you can charge devices at varying power levels, such as 18W, 30W, 60W, 87W, or 100W, depending on the hub. This technology allows for fast charging of laptops, tablets, smartphones, and other USB-C enabled devices through the USB hub. Some hubs support multiple PD profiles, adapting to the power requirements of different devices for efficient charging.

When choosing a USB hub for charging, consider the total power output, maximum wattage per port, and compatibility with your devices' charging requirements. PD technology negotiates power levels between the hub and connected devices, optimizing charging speeds while maintaining device safety.

You'll want to make sure the hub can deliver the power your devices need. For example, if you have a laptop that requires 60W charging, you'll need a hub that can support that level of power delivery. By evaluating the power delivery options, you can find a USB hub that meets your charging needs and keeps your devices powered up quickly and efficiently.

Port Availability and Speed

Typically, you need a USB hub that offers a range of ports to accommodate your devices' diverse charging and connectivity requirements. When selecting a hub, consider the number and type of ports available, including USB-A, USB-C, and Thunderbolt.

Verify the hub has a mix of ports for flexibility, such as HDMI, Ethernet, SD card slots, audio jacks, and additional USB connections. This will allow you to charge and connect multiple devices simultaneously.

Look for hubs with fast charging capabilities that support power delivery (PD) standards like 18W, 30W, 60W, 87W, or 100W for efficient device charging. Additionally, check the data transfer speeds of the ports, with USB 2.0 offering up to 480 Mbps, USB 3.0 up to 5 Gbps, and Thunderbolt 3 up to 40 Gbps for quick file transfers.

Device Compatibility Range

Often, you find yourself in need of a USB hub that can support a wide range of devices, from laptops and smartphones to tablets and other USB-powered devices. When selecting a USB hub for charging, it's crucial to take into account the device compatibility range.

You'll want a hub that's compatible with various operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux, to guarantee versatile use.

Verify if the hub can charge a broad array of devices, including laptops that necessitate high wattage charging and smartphones with varying power requirements. Seek out hubs that are compatible with fast charging standards like USB Power Delivery (PD) or Qualcomm Quick Charge for effective and speedy charging of devices.

A hub with numerous ports and diverse connectivity options will enable you to charge different devices simultaneously, boosting productivity and convenience.

Cable Quality and Length

When choosing a USB hub for charging, the quality and length of the cables are essential aspects to take into consideration, as they directly impact the efficiency and reliability of power delivery and data transfer.

You'll want to opt for hubs with high-grade cables that ensure effective power delivery and data transfer. Longer cables provide flexibility in positioning devices for charging and connectivity, so ponder the cable length needed based on the distance between the hub and the devices you want to connect.

Quality cables also prevent issues like signal interference and power loss, ensuring dependable charging and data transmission. To guarantee longevity and consistent performance, look for USB hubs with durable, braided, or shielded cables. These features will help you avoid frustrations like dropped connections or slow charging speeds.

Hub Design and Build

As you search for the perfect USB hub for charging, consider the structure and construction of the device, as it significantly influences its durability, portability, and overall user experience.

You'll want a hub that's built to last, so look for a device made with high-quality materials that can withstand regular use. If you're always on-the-go, a compact and portable design is a must-have. Check if the hub has additional features like LED indicators that show when your devices are fully charged or cable management options to keep your workspace organized.

When evaluating the hub's design, also consider the number and placement of ports. Confirm they meet your connectivity needs and are easily accessible. If you care about aesthetics, choose a hub with