10 Best Usb Hubs for External Hard Drives

When you're working with external hard drives, having the right USB hub can make all the difference. You need a reliable connection to transfer files efficiently, and a hub that can keep up with your workflow. But with so many options out there, it can be tough to know which one to choose. That's why we've narrowed it down to the top 10 USB hubs for external hard drives, each with its unique features and benefits. From compact designs to advanced power delivery, you're about to discover the perfect hub to take your productivity to the next level – but which one will it be?

Key Takeaways

• Consider a USB hub with high power delivery capacity, such as 100W, to handle power-hungry external hard drives.
• Opt for a hub with diverse ports, including HDMI or DisplayPort outputs, to support various devices and high-speed data transfer.
• Ensure the hub is certified compatible with your device and operating system to avoid connectivity issues.
• Choose a compact and durable hub with sturdy connectors and ports to minimize clutter and ensure reliability.
• Verify that the hub provides seamless device recognition and stable power delivery to prevent data loss or corruption.

Microsoft Surface Dock 2

Ideal for Microsoft Surface users looking for a smooth and effective docking experience, the Microsoft Surface Dock 2 stands out as a top choice for those who need reliable connectivity and device support.

With its wired connectivity technology, this docking station supports a variety of devices, including notebooks, desktop PCs, smartphones, monitors, keyboards, and mice. It features six USB ports, including two USB-C ports with 10 Gbps speed and 15W power delivery, as well as a network RJ-45 port and a headphone/microphone combo port.

The dock's compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to integrate into any workspace, while its maximum power supply wattage of 199 W guarantees efficient power distribution.

Best For: Microsoft Surface users looking for a smooth and effective docking experience with reliable connectivity and device support.

Pros:

• Offers seamless connectivity and device support with six USB ports, a network RJ-45 port, and a headphone/microphone combo port.
• Compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to integrate into any workspace.
• Maximum power supply wattage of 199 W guarantees efficient power distribution.

Cons:

• Some users have experienced difficulties with multiple monitors and sound output.
• Some users have reported a screen dimming issue and a lack of helpful information online.
• Some users have had issues with the first dock, including dropping monitors and other problems.

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 offers unparalleled versatility and compatibility.

This docking station boasts a 15-in-2 expansion, featuring dual 4K@30Hz/60Hz HDMI ports, four USB 3.0 ports, one USB-C port, and more.

The USB C PD 3.0 port supports up to 100W power input and 87W charging for MacBook Pro/Air.

The docking station's compact design and Space Gray color match perfectly with MacBook Pro, while its plug-and-play functionality and easy setup guarantee a hassle-free experience.

With its multiple ports, including dual HDMI ports, this docking station is ideal for connecting external hard drives, monitors, and other peripherals, making it an excellent addition to any MacBook Pro setup.

Best For: MacBook Pro users seeking a seamless and efficient way to expand their laptop's capabilities with multiple ports and dual 4K monitor support.

Pros:

• Offers a 15-in-2 expansion with multiple ports, including dual 4K HDMI ports, USB 3.0 ports, and a USB-C port with power delivery up to 100W.
• Compact design and Space Gray color match perfectly with MacBook Pro, and plug-and-play functionality ensures a hassle-free experience.
• Exceptional customer service with prompt response and efficient resolution of issues.

Cons:

• Minor malfunction experienced after a year of usage, although customer service resolved the issue efficiently.
• Headphone jack requires manual selection in System Preferences.
• No specific details on the warranty or durability of the product are provided.

TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station Triple Monitor

Frequently, professionals and heavy users seeking an all-inclusive docking solution with extensive peripheral support will find the TobenONE DisplayLink Docking Station Triple Monitor to be an excellent choice, thanks to its impressive array of 18 powerful ports.

This docking station is compatible with a range of devices, including Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, and full-featured USB-C laptops, and supports various operating systems. It features three HDMI and three DisplayPort outputs, allowing for triple or quad 4K@60Hz monitors.

Additionally, it comes with a 120W power adapter that can charge laptops at up to 100W and phones at 18W via the front USB-C port. With four USB 3.1 and two Type-C ports, it supports data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps, making it an ideal solution for those who need to connect multiple devices simultaneously.

Best For: Professionals and heavy users seeking an all-inclusive docking solution with extensive peripheral support.

Pros:

• Compatible with a range of devices and operating systems, including Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, and full-featured USB-C laptops, macOS, Windows, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android.
• Features 18 powerful ports, including three HDMI and three DisplayPort outputs, allowing for triple or quad 4K@60Hz monitors, and four USB 3.1 and two Type-C ports for fast data transfer speeds.
• Comes with a 120W power adapter that can charge laptops at up to 100W and phones at 18W via the front USB-C port, reducing laptop charging time.

Cons:

• Requires installation of DisplayLink Drivers for proper functioning.
• May require additional power for some laptops when running three monitors.
• Has limited monitor support on macOS, with HDMI 3 and DP 3 unable to be used simultaneously.

Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock

The Lenovo ThinkPad Hybrid USB-C Dock is a top choice for professionals needing a reliable and versatile docking solution. It supports up to two 4K displays and offers a robust array of USB ports. Compatible with most Windows laptops, this dock features 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. It also includes a 10/100/1000 Mb/s Ethernet port for a stable and fast connection.

The dock's compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to take on the go. Customer reviews consistently praise its performance, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. This high rating makes it an excellent option for those in need of a reliable docking solution.

Best For: Professionals who require a reliable and versatile docking solution for their Windows laptops, particularly those who need to connect multiple 4K displays and various USB devices.

Pros:

• Supports up to two 4K displays and offers a robust array of USB ports for connecting multiple devices
• Compact design and lightweight construction make it easy to take on the go
• Excellent customer reviews with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars

Cons:

• Some customers have reported issues with the monitor ports becoming non-functional after a few months of use
• The product's warranty and support process can be difficult to navigate, leading to frustrating experiences for some customers
• May require additional power cords or adapters, which can add to the overall cost and complexity of the product

OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock

What sets the OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock apart as an ideal choice for professionals and creatives is its ability to support up to 8K display or two 5K displays, making it a versatile solution for those who require high-resolution multitasking.

This dock boasts an impressive array of features, including 96W charging, Thunderbolt and USB-C connectivity, and USB4 compatibility. With 11 ports, including a Gigabit Ethernet port and a 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output, users can connect multiple devices simultaneously without compromising performance.

Additionally, the dock's compatibility with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices makes it a valuable asset for those working across different platforms. With its plug-and-play functionality and reliable performance, the OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock is an excellent choice for those seeking a high-quality, multi-connectivity solution.

Best For: Professionals and creatives who require high-resolution multitasking and a versatile multi-connectivity solution.

Pros:

• Supports up to 8K display or two 5K displays for high-resolution multitasking
• Features 11 ports, including a Gigabit Ethernet port and a 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output, for connecting multiple devices simultaneously
• Offers plug-and-play functionality and reliable performance with compatibility with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices

Cons:

• Some users experienced issues with fullscreen video playback on external monitors
• The placement of the charging port may be inconvenient for some users
• No specific information is provided about the product warranty

Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K

Opt for the Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K, which sets itself apart with its robust 65W power delivery and DisplayLink technology, making it an ideal choice for professionals and multimedia enthusiasts who require seamless connectivity and high-resolution dual-monitor support.

This docking station is compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS, and can support up to two monitors with its two HDMI 2.0 ports. Additionally, it features USB-A and USB-C ports for connecting accessories, as well as Ethernet and audio ports for added convenience.

With its 3-year limited lifetime warranty and fully-tested compatibility with various platforms and operating systems, the Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K is a reliable and efficient choice for those seeking a hassle-free connectivity experience.

Best For: Professionals and multimedia enthusiasts who require seamless connectivity and high-resolution dual-monitor support.

Pros:

• Robust 65W power delivery and DisplayLink technology for seamless connectivity and high-resolution dual-monitor support
• Compatible with a wide range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS
• Features 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

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

Designed for professionals and enthusiasts who require extreme connectivity and high-speed performance, the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock stands out with its 18 ports, 98W charging, and 40Gb/s Thunderbolt 4 capabilities.

This dock offers a wide range of connectivity options, including USB-A and USB-C ports, 2.5GbE, and support for single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays. With its powerful 98W charging, users can quickly charge their devices while enjoying fast data transfer speeds.

The CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock is universally compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices, making it an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and high-performance docking solution.

Best For: Professionals and enthusiasts who require extreme connectivity and high-speed performance.

Pros:

• Provides 18 ports of extreme connectivity, including USB-A and USB-C ports, 2.5GbE, and support for single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz displays.
• Offers powerful 98W charging and 40Gb/s Thunderbolt 4 capabilities for fast data transfer speeds.
• Universally compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices, making it an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and high-performance docking solution.

Cons:

• Some users have reported the dock running warm and experiencing network connectivity issues.
• The dock requires a firmware update for best compatibility.
• The high-end price range may be prohibitive for some users.

HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter for Laptops, PCs, & Notebooks

The HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter is an ideal choice for users seeking a compact, universally compatible docking solution. It can support up to three displays while streamlining their workspace.

Designed for both HP and non-HP USB-C and Thunderbolt-enabled laptops, this adapter offers universal compatibility with USB-C functionality. It supports charging, data transfers, and networking between devices.

The compact footprint of 5 x 5 inches reduces clutter and eliminates the need for extra cords and wires, making it an excellent space-saving solution.

Additionally, the adapter provides advanced network manageability features for secure and remote management. Firmware updates are pushed to the laptop for efficient updates.

Best For: Professionals and individuals seeking a compact, universally compatible docking solution that can support multiple displays and streamline their workspace.

Pros:

• Compact design reduces clutter and eliminates the need for extra cords and wires
• Supports up to three displays, making it an ideal solution for multitasking
• Advanced network manageability features provide secure and remote management capabilities

Cons:

• Limited to USB-C and Thunderbolt-enabled laptops, may not be compatible with older devices
• No specific information provided on maximum resolution or refresh rate supported for multiple displays
• May require firmware updates, which could potentially cause downtime or inconvenience

RVP+ 13-in-1 Docking Station for 3 Monitors

For users looking for a comprehensive docking solution that can support triple display setups, the RVP+ 13-in-1 Docking Station for 3 Monitors stands out as a top choice.

This docking station boasts 13 ports and functions, including 4K HDMI and DisplayPort, allowing for seamless connectivity and high-quality visuals. Additionally, it features fast and powerful 100W laptop charging, as well as effortless data transfer with USB-C 3.1 and USB 3.0.

The RVP+ docking station is widely compatible with various devices and operating systems, and its stable Gigabit Ethernet guarantees a wired Internet connection.

With its compact design and impressive features, this docking station has received an impressive 4.3 out of 5 stars from 121 customer reviews.

WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station

This docking station stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and high-performance USB hub for external hard drives, offering flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays and supporting maximum resolutions of 5120x1440p60 (5K Ultrawide) or 4096x2160p60 (Cinema 4K) for dual monitors.

The WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station is compatible with a range of platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, making it a great option for users with multiple devices. It also features six USB 3.0 ports for high-speed data transfer, a Gigabit Ethernet port for fast network speeds, and a 100W power adapter for laptop charging.

Additionally, the docking station supports power delivery through its USB-C port, making it an ideal solution for those seeking a reliable and efficient USB hub.

Best For: Those who need a versatile and high-performance USB hub for external hard drives, with multiple devices across different platforms.

Pros:

• Supports flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays and maximum resolutions of 5120x1440p60 (5K Ultrawide) or 4096x2160p60 (Cinema 4K) for dual monitors.
• Compatible with a range of platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android.
• Features six USB 3.0 ports for high-speed data transfer, a Gigabit Ethernet port for fast network speeds, and a 100W power adapter for laptop charging.

Cons:

• No specific information is provided about the durability or build quality of the product.
• The warranty period is limited to 18 months.
• The product's country of origin is China, which may be a concern for some customers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing USB Hubs for External Hard Drives

When shopping for a USB hub for your external hard drive, you'll want to contemplate a few key factors to guarantee you get the right one for your needs.

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

Power Delivery Capacity

As you shop for a USB hub to support your external hard drives, consider the power delivery capacity to guarantee it can handle the demands of your devices.

You'll want a hub that can provide enough power to charge your devices and run your external hard drives simultaneously.

Look for hubs with high power output, such as 100W, to support fast charging and efficient operation of multiple devices.

It's also essential to verify the hub is compatible with power-hungry devices like laptops and monitors to prevent power issues or device malfunctions.

A USB hub with Power Delivery (PD) technology can intelligently distribute power to connected devices, optimizing charging and data transfer.

Choosing a hub with sufficient power capacity can prevent overheating, data loss, or damage to connected devices, ensuring smooth and reliable operation.

Port Variety and Speed

You'll want to hook up your external hard drives to a USB hub that's equipped with a diverse range of ports, allowing you to connect devices with different interfaces and take advantage of faster data transfer speeds.

When choosing a USB hub, consider one with a variety of ports, including USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB-C, and Thunderbolt. This will guarantee compatibility with different devices and enable you to take advantage of faster data transfer rates.

Look for hubs that offer high-speed data transfer rates, such as USB 3.0 (5 Gbps), USB 3.1 (10 Gbps), or Thunderbolt (up to 40 Gbps), for efficient file transfers.

Additionally, check for dedicated power delivery ports to secure fast charging for your external hard drives and other devices.

If you plan to connect multiple monitors, opt for a hub with multiple HDMI or DisplayPort outputs.

Finally, make sure the hub's total power output can handle the power requirements of your devices simultaneously.

Compatibility and Certifications

To ensure hassle-free connectivity, make certain the USB hub you choose is certified compatible with your specific external hard drive model and operating system. This guarantees that your devices will work seamlessly together, without any unexpected issues.

You'll also want to check the USB hub's compatibility with various operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, and Linux, to secure smooth data transfer.

When selecting a USB hub, look for ones with USB-C ports, which offer faster data transfer speeds and power delivery capabilities for your external hard drives. Additionally, opt for USB hubs with USB 3.0 or higher ports to secure fast data transfer rates.

It's also vital to verify if the USB hub supports the necessary power output for your external hard drives, as insufficient power can cause connectivity issues or data loss.

Physical Design and Build

With compatibility and certifications out of the way, you can now focus on the physical design and build quality of the USB hub, which greatly impacts its durability and reliability in supporting your external hard drives.

When choosing a USB hub, consider its physical design and build quality to guarantee it can withstand the demands of your workspace or travel routine. Look for a compact and space-saving design that fits easily in your workspace or travel bag.

You'll also want to check the sturdiness of the connectors and ports to secure a connection with your external hard drives. The material used in the construction of the USB hub is also essential, as it should be resistant to wear and tear.

Device Recognition and Stability

When connecting your external hard drives, seamless device recognition is essential, and a USB hub that supports plug-and-play functionality guarantees your devices are instantly identified and ready for use. This feature eliminates the need for manual configurations, saving you time and effort.

Also, a hub that provides stable power delivery ensures that your external hard drives receive a consistent flow of power, preventing connectivity issues and data loss.

It's also important to take into account hubs with built-in over-current protection, which safeguards your external hard drives from power surges and short circuits.

Moreover, make sure the hub is compatible with various operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, and Linux, to ensure smooth operation.

If you need to connect multiple external hard drives simultaneously, opt for a hub with multiple USB ports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a USB Hub With a Desktop Computer?

You can definitely use a USB hub with your desktop computer, plugging it into a free USB port to expand your connectivity options and easily connect multiple devices like flash drives, keyboards, and more.

Are USB Hubs Compatible With All Operating Systems?

You'll find that most USB hubs are compatible with popular operating systems like Windows, macOS, and Linux, but you'll need to verify the hub's drivers are compatible with your spec