10 Best Usb Hubs for External Drives

You're likely no stranger to the frustration of limited USB ports on your laptop, especially when working with external drives. You need a reliable and efficient way to connect your devices without sacrificing performance. That's where the best USB hubs for external drives come in. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. From compact designs to extensive port offerings, each hub has its unique strengths. You're probably wondering which ones stand out from the crowd and can meet your specific needs. Let's take a closer look at the top contenders that can elevate your workflow.

Key Takeaways

• Consider the number and types of available ports to ensure compatibility with your devices and future expansion needs.
• Check the power delivery capabilities of the hub to ensure it can charge your devices efficiently.
• Verify the hub's compatibility with your devices and operating systems to avoid connectivity issues.
• Look for hubs with high-speed data transfer options, such as USB 3.0 or Thunderbolt 4, for efficient file transfers.
• Consider a hub's cable management system and compact design for a organized and portable workflow.

HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter

For users seeking a versatile and compact docking solution that can support multiple devices and displays, the HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter is an ideal choice. 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, and can connect up to three displays.

With a compact footprint of 5 x 5 inches, it reduces clutter and eliminates the need for extra cords and wires, making it an excellent space-saving solution. The HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter also provides advanced network manageability features for secure and remote management, and firmware updates can be pushed to the laptop for efficient updates.

Best For: Users seeking a versatile and compact docking solution that can support multiple devices and displays.

Pros:

• Compact footprint reduces clutter and eliminates the need for extra cords and wires
• Supports up to three displays for enhanced productivity
• Provides advanced network manageability features for secure and remote management

Cons:

• May not be compatible with older laptops that do not have USB-C functionality
• May require firmware updates to ensure optimal performance
• No specific details on the warranty and support information provided by the manufacturer

TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station for MacBook Pro/Air

Best connectivity and versatility await MacBook Pro and Air users with the TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station, boasting an impressive 18 powerful ports that cater to a wide range of devices and peripherals.

Compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, and full-featured USB-C laptops, this docking station supports various operating systems, including macOS 11+, Windows 10 or later, Chrome OS 100 or later, Ubuntu, and Android.

The TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station features triple/quad 4K extended display capabilities, allowing users to connect up to four monitors on Windows and three on macOS. Additionally, it includes a powerful 120W power adapter, supporting laptop charging up to 100W and phone charging via the front USB-C port.

Best For: MacBook Pro and Air users who need a versatile docking station with multiple ports and high-speed data transfer capabilities.

Pros:

• Offers 18 powerful ports, including 3x HDMI and 3x DisplayPort, for connecting multiple devices and peripherals
• Supports triple/quad 4K extended display capabilities and high-speed data transfer up to 10Gbps
• Includes a powerful 120W power adapter for laptop and phone charging, reducing laptop charging time

Cons:

• Requires installation of DisplayLink drivers for macOS, which may require additional technical support
• May not support HDMI 3 and DP 3 simultaneously on macOS
• May require additional power for some laptops to run 3 monitors effectively

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

Offering an unparalleled 18 ports of extreme connectivity, the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock is an ideal solution for professionals and heavy users seeking a centralized hub for their external drives and peripherals. This dock provides powerful 98W charging, supporting single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays, and features 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet for reliable network connectivity.

With its universal compatibility, it seamlessly connects with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices, making it an excellent choice for Apple M2, M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max, M1 Ultra, Intel-based Macs, Windows PCs, and Chrome OS devices.

While some users have reported minor issues with heat and network connectivity, the overall feedback highlights its ease of setup and functionality.

Best For: Professionals and heavy users seeking a centralized hub for their external drives and peripherals.

Pros:

• Offers an unparalleled 18 ports of extreme connectivity for seamless connection to multiple devices.
• Provides powerful 98W charging and supports single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays for enhanced productivity.
• Features 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet for reliable network connectivity and universal compatibility with various devices.

Cons:

• Some users have reported minor issues with heat and network connectivity.
• Runs warm/hot due to the nature of the dock, which may be a concern for some users.
• Has a high-end price range, which may be a barrier for some buyers.

Microsoft Surface Dock 2

The Microsoft Surface Dock 2 stands out as an ideal solution for those seeking a seamless docking experience specifically designed for Microsoft Surface products, boasting a sleek and compact design with six USB ports and advanced connectivity options.

With a compact footprint of 11.6 x 5.6 x 4.4 inches and weighing just 1 pound, this dock is designed for convenience and portability. The Surface Dock 2 features two USB-C ports with 10 Gbps speeds, two USB-C video display enabled ports, and two additional USB ports, making it an excellent choice for connecting multiple devices.

Additionally, it includes a network RJ-45 port and a headphone/microphone combo port, providing an all-encompassing connectivity solution. With a maximum power supply wattage of 199 W, this dock is capable of supporting multiple devices and peripherals.

Best For: Microsoft Surface users who need a reliable and feature-rich docking station for their devices.

Pros:

• Offers seamless connectivity and compatibility with Microsoft Surface products
• Features advanced connectivity options, including six USB ports, network RJ-45 port, and headphone/microphone combo port
• Boasts a compact and portable design with a maximum power supply wattage of 199 W

Cons:

• Some users experience difficulties with multiple monitors and sound output
• Screen dimming issue has been reported by some users, with limited helpful information available online
• Dropping monitors and issues with the first dock have been reported by some users

USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor for MacBook Pro

Designed specifically for MacBook Pro users, this USB C Docking Station Dual Monitor stands out for its 15-in-2 expansion and compatibility, supporting dual 4K monitors and a multitude of ports, making it an ideal choice for professionals and creatives who require high-speed data transmission and reliable connectivity.

This docking station boasts an impressive array of ports, including 4 USB 3.0, 2 USB 2.0, 1 USB-C, 2 HDMI, and more, allowing for seamless connection of multiple devices. Additionally, its compact design and Space Gray color ensure a sleek and minimalist look that complements the MacBook Pro.

With its dependable performance, easy setup, and exceptional customer service, this docking station is a top choice for those seeking a dependable and versatile USB hub for their external drives.

Best For: Professionals and creatives who require high-speed data transmission and reliable connectivity for their MacBook Pro.

Pros:

• Supports dual 4K monitors and a multitude of ports for seamless connection of multiple devices
• Boasts a compact design and Space Gray color for a sleek and minimalist look
• Offers dependable performance, easy setup, and exceptional customer service

Cons:

• May experience minor malfunctions after extended use (over a year)
• Headphone jack requires manual selection in System Preferences
• None mentioned by customers aside from the minor malfunction issue

OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock

For users seeking a strong multi-connectivity solution that can power their devices efficiently, the OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock stands out with its 96W charging capability and compatibility with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices.

This dock boasts an impressive array of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output, making it an ideal choice for users with multiple devices.

With its ability to support up to 8K @ 60Hz or 4K @ 120Hz displays, this dock is perfect for those who require high-resolution visuals.

Moreover, its 96W power delivery to the host computer and 15W to external devices ensures efficient charging.

Best For: Professionals and creatives who need a reliable and efficient multi-connectivity solution for their M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices.

Pros:

• Connects multiple devices and monitors efficiently, including up to 8K @ 60Hz or 4K @ 120Hz displays
• Offers high-speed charging capabilities, with 96W power delivery to the host computer and 15W to external devices
• Compatible with a wide range of devices, including M1/M2 Macs, Intel Macs with Thunderbolt 3, and PCs with USB-C ports

Cons:

• Some users may experience issues with fullscreen video playback on external monitors
• The placement of the charging port may not be ideal for all users
• May require some troubleshooting to overcome limitations of MacBook Pro with limited ports

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

Those seeking a versatile docking station that can support up to three monitors, charge their laptop at 100W, and transfer files at high speeds will appreciate the Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station. This docking station boasts multiple connectivity options, including dual HDMI and DisplayPort, allowing users to connect up to three monitors for multitasking.

It also supports high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones. Additionally, the docking station features fast file transfer with USB-C and USB-A ports, making it ideal for those who need to transfer large files quickly.

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

Best For: Those who need a versatile docking station that can support multiple monitors, high-speed charging, and fast file transfer for multitasking and productivity.

Pros:

• Supports up to three monitors for multitasking and has multiple connectivity options, including dual HDMI and DisplayPort
• Offers high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones, making it convenient for users who need to charge their devices quickly
• Features fast file transfer with USB-C and USB-A ports, ideal for those who need to transfer large files quickly

Cons:

• Requires DisplayLink drivers for Mac compatibility, which may be an additional step for some users
• Some users have reported USB connection inconsistency and display resolution issues
• May have limitations for 2K and 4K monitors, with a minimum recommended refresh rate of 60Hz

Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock

The Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock is an excellent choice for users looking for a high-speed docking station. It supports dual 4K monitors and offers Thunderbolt 4 ports for lightning-fast connectivity, making it ideal for data transfer, media streaming, and device charging.

This docking station is highly versatile with its 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 users to power up their laptops in just 2.5 hours.

The dock's design is user-friendly, featuring raised tactile indicators on each port for easy identification. Furthermore, its construction includes 20% recycled ocean-bound plastic, showcasing a commitment to sustainability.

Best For: Those who prioritize Microsoft's design language and need a high-quality Thunderbolt dock for their Surface laptops.

Pros:

• Offers lightning-fast connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 ports for data transfer, media streaming, and device charging
• Supports dual 4K monitor setup and quick charging, allowing users to power up their laptops in just 2.5 hours
• Features easy port identification with raised tactile indicators on each port and a commitment to sustainability with 20% recycled ocean-bound plastic construction

Cons:

• Lacks some features compared to other docks, such as triple/quad monitor support, HDMI, DisplayPort, and SD card readers
• Considered expensive, priced at $300
• Does not have higher power delivery, an SD card reader, front-facing audio port, M.2 internal storage option, or the ability to fasten the power supply unit to the dock

Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock with USB-A Adapter

Compatible with most Windows laptops, the Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock with USB-A Adapter stands out as an ideal choice for professionals seeking a reliable docking solution that can support up to two 4K displays.

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
• 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 perfect for professionals on-the-go.

It has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 161 customers, making it a popular choice among professionals.

Best For: Professionals seeking a reliable docking solution that can support up to two 4K displays and need a compact and portable dock for their Windows laptops.

Pros:

• Supports up to two 4K displays with multiple port options, including DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB-C
• Compact and lightweight design makes it perfect for professionals on-the-go
• Has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 161 customers, indicating high customer satisfaction

Cons:

• Some customers 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
• Some customers have reported that the product does not come with a power cord, which can be an additional expense

WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station

If you're seeking a versatile docking station that can support dual 4K monitors at 60Hz and provide fast network speeds through a Gigabit Ethernet port, the WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station is an excellent choice.

This docking station supports flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays, offering a maximum resolution of 5120x1440p60 (5K Ultrawide) or 4096x2160p60 (Cinema 4K) for dual monitors.

It's compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, and provides six USB 3.0 ports for high-speed data transfer. Additionally, it comes with a 100W power adapter for laptop charging and supports power delivery through the USB-C port.

With an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars from 485 customers, this docking station is highly recommended.

Best For: Professionals and gamers who need a reliable docking station to connect multiple 4K monitors and peripherals to their laptop while also providing fast network speeds and power delivery.

Pros:

• Supports dual 4K monitors at 60Hz with flexible video interfacing options
• Compatible with a wide range of platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android
• Provides six USB 3.0 ports for high-speed data transfer and a 100W power adapter for laptop charging

Cons:

• No specific information is provided about the docking station's compatibility with certain laptop models
• The product's warranty is limited to 18 months
• The country of origin is China, which may be a concern for some customers

Factors to Consider When Choosing USB Hubs for External Drives

When selecting a USB hub for your external drives, you'll want to ponder a few key factors to guarantee you get the right one for your needs.

You'll need to contemplate the power delivery options, the number of ports available, and the compatibility with your devices.

Additionally, you'll want to examine the data transfer speeds and the cable management system to ensure smooth and efficient operation.

Power Delivery Options

You'll frequently encounter USB hubs with varying power delivery options, making it important to choose one that effectively charges your devices.

When selecting a USB hub, consider the power delivery options it offers. Look for hubs with Power Delivery (PD) support to guarantee fast charging capabilities. Check the maximum power output of the hub to guarantee it can meet the charging requirements of your devices.

If you need to charge multiple devices simultaneously, such as laptops, tablets, and smartphones, opt for a hub with high power delivery capacity. It's essential to select a hub with Power Delivery capabilities that match or exceed the power requirements of your devices for best performance. This will ensure that your devices receive the necessary power to function properly.

Don't settle for a hub that can't keep up with your devices' power demands. By choosing a hub with the right power delivery options, you'll enjoy efficient and hassle-free charging.

Number of Ports Available

With your external drive setup in mind, count the number of devices you need to connect simultaneously to determine the ideal number of ports on your USB hub. You'll want a hub that can accommodate all your external drives and other devices at the same time.

Look for a hub with multiple ports to connect various external drives, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, and more. Having extra ports on the hub allows for future expansion of your external drive setup without needing additional hubs.

Moreover, choosing a hub with enough ports will avoid the need for daisy-chaining drives, which can impact data transfer speeds and performance. You'll appreciate the convenience of having all your devices connected directly to the hub, ensuring efficient workflow and organization with your external drives.

Don't underestimate the importance of port count – it's vital to select a hub that meets your current and future needs. By doing so, you'll guarantee a seamless and efficient experience with your external drives.

Compatibility With Devices

After determining the ideal number of ports for your external drive setup, consider the devices you'll be connecting to make sure the USB hub is compatible with your laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone. You'll want to verify the hub supports your device's operating system, whether it's Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, or Linux. Check if the hub is compatible with Thunderbolt, USB-C, or USB 3.0 connections, as these will impact data transfer speeds and charging capabilities.

Take stock of the types and number of ports on the USB hub to accommodate your external drives, peripherals, and other devices. Will you need multiple USB-A ports or a mix of USB-A and USB-C? Confirm the power output of the USB hub to guarantee it can adequately power your external drives and other connected devices. You don't want your devices to shut down or malfunction due to insufficient power supply.

Data Transfer Speeds

When shopping for a USB hub for your external drives, the data transfer speed it offers can make a considerable difference in your workflow efficiency and overall user experience.

You'll want to take into account the type of external drives you have, whether they're HDDs or SSDs, to ensure compatibility with the hub's data transfer capabilities.

USB 3.0 hubs offer up to 5 Gbps, while USB 3.1 and 3.2 hubs can reach speeds of up to 10 Gbps and 20 Gbps, respectively.

Faster data transfer speeds are crucial for quicker file transfers, backups, and accessing large multimedia files.

If you work with large datasets or high-resolution media content, a USB hub with faster data transfer speeds can significantly enhance your workflow efficiency.

By understanding the data transfer speeds of USB hubs, you can choose the right one to meet your specific needs for speed, reliability, and performance.

Don't settle for slow data transfer speeds – opt for a hub that can keep up with your demands.

Cable Management System

As you prioritize speedy data transfer, don't overlook the importance of a well-organized workspace, where a good cable management system in your USB hub can make all the difference.

A clutter-free setup not only looks more professional, but it also reduces the risk of damage to your devices and cables. Look for a USB hub that offers a cable management system that meets your specific needs.

Some hubs come with designated cable routing channels, clips, or hooks to keep cables neat and organized. This feature can be a game-changer, especially if you have multiple devices connected to your hub.

By keeping your cables tidy, you'll spend less tim