10 Best Usb Hubs for Usb C

As you search for the perfect USB-C hub to boost your device's connectivity, you're likely wondering what sets the top models apart from the rest. You've probably got a checklist of must-haves, from high-speed data transfer to multi-monitor support and power delivery capabilities. But with so many options on the market, it can be tough to narrow down your choices. That's why examining the features and benefits of the top 10 USB hubs for USB-C is crucial, and discover which ones will take your productivity to the next level – and which ones might not be worth the investment.

Key Takeaways

• The Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock offers high-speed docking with Thunderbolt 4 ports, dual 4K monitor support, and quick charging.
• When choosing a USB-C hub, consider compatibility with devices and operating systems, number and type of ports, power delivery capabilities, and warranty.
• Power delivery options vary, with some hubs supporting up to 100W charging, and verifying specifications is crucial for device compatibility.
• Multi-monitor support depends on the hub's capabilities, with some offering DisplayPort Alternate Mode or USB-C with DisplayPort for transmitting audio and video signals.

Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock

For those seeking a high-speed docking station that can support dual 4K monitors and offer lightning-fast connectivity, the Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock stands out as a top choice.

This docking station boasts Thunderbolt 4 ports for rapid data transfer, media streaming, and device charging.

Additionally, it features versatile compatibility with USB-C and USB-A ports, a 3.5mm audio jack, 2.5G Ethernet, and a security lock slot.

The dock also supports quick charging, allowing users to power up their laptops in just 2.5 hours.

With its ability to connect up to two 4K monitors, the Microsoft Surface Thunderbolt 4 Dock is an excellent option for those seeking a reliable and high-performance docking solution.

Best For: Those who prioritize Microsoft's design language and need a high-speed docking station with dual 4K monitor support for their Surface laptops.

Pros:

• Offers lightning-fast connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 ports for data transfer, media streaming, and device charging
• Supports quick charging, allowing users to power up their laptops in just 2.5 hours

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 $40 more than the launch price of the older Dock 2

Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station

This Plugable USB 3.0 Universal Laptop Docking Station stands out as an excellent choice for professionals and individuals seeking a reliable and versatile docking solution, offering a unique combination of dual HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and six USB ports.

Compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS, this docking station supports dual monitor setup with resolutions up to 1920×1200, making it ideal for web and productivity software, as well as home or office use.

The inclusion of both USB 3.0 and USB-C cables adds to its flexibility, and users appreciate its ease of use, compatibility, and durability.

With a 2-year warranty, this docking station is a solid investment for those seeking a reliable and feature-rich docking solution.

Best For: Professionals and individuals seeking a reliable and versatile docking solution for web and productivity software, home or office use, and those who need a dual monitor setup with resolutions up to 1920×1200.

Pros:

• Offers a unique combination of dual HDMI ports, Gigabit Ethernet, and six USB ports for flexible expandability.
• Compatible with Windows, Mac, and ChromeOS, making it a versatile option for different laptop users.

Cons:

• Does not charge the host PC, which may be inconvenient for some users.
• Not recommended for gaming, which may limit its appeal for gamers.

OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock

What sets the OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock apart as a top-tier multi-connectivity solution is its ability to deliver 96W of power to a host computer while supporting up to 8K display or two 5K displays.

This dock boasts an impressive array of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and a 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output.

Additionally, it features a Secure Digital (SD) port and supports multi-display setups with up to 8K resolution at 60Hz or 4K at 120Hz.

Compatible with M1/M2 Macs, PCs, and USB-C devices, this dock is designed to provide seamless connectivity and power delivery.

With its compact design and plug-and-play functionality, the OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock is an ideal solution for those seeking a reliable and high-performance docking station.

Best For: Professionals and individuals who need a reliable and high-performance docking station to connect multiple devices, including 8K or 5K displays, to their M1/M2 Macs, PCs, or USB-C devices.

Pros:

• Delivers 96W of power to the host computer and supports up to 8K display or two 5K displays
• Offers a wide range of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 2.0, Gigabit Ethernet, and a 3.5mm Stereo Audio Input/Output

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with fullscreen video playback on external monitors
• The placement of the charging port may be inconvenient for some users

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

Optimizing workspace efficiency, the HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter emerges as a top choice for users seeking a compact, universally compatible dock that supports charging, data transfers, and networking between devices while accommodating up to three displays.

This compact dock, measuring only 5 x 5 inches, reduces clutter and eliminates the need for extra cords and wires with its easy single-cable setup.

Designed for both HP and non-HP USB-C and Thunderbolt-enabled laptops, the dock provides advanced network manageability features for secure and remote management, with firmware updates pushed to the laptop for efficient updates.

With an average customer review rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, the HP USB-C Dock G5 Adapter is a reliable and efficient solution for users seeking a versatile and compact docking station.

Best For: Professionals and individuals seeking a compact, universally compatible docking station that supports multiple displays and advanced network management features.

Pros:

• Compact design with a small footprint, reducing clutter and eliminating the need for extra cords and wires
• Universally compatible with USB-C and Thunderbolt-enabled laptops, supporting charging, data transfers, and networking between devices

Cons:

• No specific cons mentioned in the product description
• No detailed information on the maximum resolution supported by the three displays

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

For professionals and heavy users seeking extreme connectivity and powerful charging, the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock stands out as a top choice, offering 18 ports of extreme connectivity and 98W charging.

This dock provides a single 8K or dual 6K 60Hz display connection, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, and is universally compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices.

Users have reported positive feedback on the ease of setup and functionality, although some have raised concerns about the dock running warm and network connectivity issues.

Despite this, the CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock is considered a game-changer and is worth the investment for its high-end value, function, and aesthetics.

Best For: Professionals and heavy users seeking extreme connectivity and powerful charging.

Pros:

• 18 ports of extreme connectivity and 98W charging for powerful performance
• Universally compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4, and USB-C devices

Cons:

• Runs warm/hot due to the nature of the dock
• Some users have reported network connectivity issues

Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K

The Targus USB C Docking Station Universal DV4K stands out as an excellent choice for professionals and multitaskers who require a reliable and high-performance docking solution that can support up to two 4K monitors and deliver 65W of power.

This docking station is designed to work seamlessly with a wide range of USB-C laptops and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.

With two HDMI 2.0 ports, users can connect multiple monitors without compromising on performance.

Additionally, the docking station features USB-A and USB-C ports, Ethernet, and audio ports, making it an all-in-one solution for connecting accessories and peripherals.

With a 3-year limited lifetime warranty, users can have peace of mind knowing their investment is protected.

Best For: Professionals and multitaskers who require a reliable and high-performance docking solution that can support up to two 4K monitors and deliver 65W of power.

Pros:

• Reliable and high-performance docking solution that can support up to two 4K monitors
• Compatible with a wide range of USB-C laptops and operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS

Cons:

• Some users have reported network connectivity issues
• There have been reports of laptops being damaged or "fried" after using the docking station

WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station

Those seeking a versatile and high-performance docking solution for their laptops will appreciate the WAVLINK Universal USB C Laptop Docking Station, which supports flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays and offers a maximum resolution of 5120x1440p60 (5K Ultrawide) or 4096x2160p60 (Cinema 4K) for dual monitors.

This docking station is compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android, making it a great option for users with different 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, it supports power delivery through the USB-C port, making it a convenient and efficient solution for users.

Best For: Those seeking a versatile and high-performance docking solution for their laptops, especially those with multiple devices running different operating systems.

Pros:

• Supports flexible video interfacing with DP and HDMI displays for dual monitors with high resolutions
• Compatible with various platforms, including Windows, Mac, Chrome OS, Ubuntu, and Android

Cons:

• No mention of audio output options
• Limited compatibility with older versions of operating systems

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

This 13-in-1 docking station stands out as an ideal choice for professionals and gamers who require simultaneous connections to three 4K monitors, thanks to its robust DisplayPort and HDMI capabilities.

With fast and powerful 100W laptop charging, users can effortlessly power their devices while enjoying high-speed data transfer via USB-C 3.1 and USB 3.0.

The docking station's compact design (4.73 x 4.73 x 1.46 inches) and lightweight build (0.035 ounces) make it easy to take on the go.

Additionally, it features a stable Gigabit Ethernet connection for a reliable internet experience.

With an impressive 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 121 customers, this docking station has proven to be a reliable and convenient solution for those seeking a clutter-free workspace.

Best For: Professionals and gamers who require simultaneous connections to multiple 4K monitors and fast laptop charging.

Pros:

• Compact and lightweight design with multiple functioning ports for reduced cable clutter
• Fast charging capabilities with devices that support it and high-speed data transfer via USB-C 3.1 and USB 3.0

Cons:

• Limited HDMI ports, a minor issue for some users
• No specific cons mentioned by users, only a minor issue with limited HDMI ports

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

For users seeking a thorough docking solution with simultaneous charging capabilities, the Anker 575 USB-C Docking Station (13-in-1) stands out as a top choice, offering a huge expansion of multiple ports and slots to accommodate various devices and peripherals.

This docking station provides extensive media display support for up to three monitors, making it an ideal option for desktop use.

Users have reported positive feedback on the build quality and performance, with compatibility across different devices and operating systems.

The Anker 575 also offers seamless charging capabilities, with power pass-through and support for HDMI, Ethernet, and USB devices.

Its compact size, ease of use, and lack of driver installation make it a superior choice compared to other docking stations, such as the Dell TB16 Dock.

Best For: Those seeking a comprehensive docking solution for desktop use with simultaneous charging capabilities and support for multiple devices and peripherals.

Pros:

• Offers huge expansion of multiple ports and slots to accommodate various devices and peripherals
• Provides extensive media display support for up to three monitors

Cons:

• Users may experience confusion with USB-C formats and PD support
• May have initial issues with display resolution and refresh rate

Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station

The Anker 10-in-1 USB C Docking Station is an ideal choice for professionals and multitaskers who require a robust docking solution that can support up to three monitors and fast charging capabilities simultaneously.

This docking station offers multiple connectivity options, including dual HDMI and DisplayPort, allowing users to expand their port options and multitask with ease.

With high-speed charging up to 100W for laptops and 30W for phones, users can quickly recharge their devices while working.

The docking station also features fast file transfer with USB-C and USB-A ports, making it an excellent choice for those who need to transfer large files quickly.

Measuring 6.7 x 3.15 x 0.96 inches and weighing 1.6 ounces, this compact docking station is perfect for those who need a reliable and portable solution.

Best For: Professionals and multitaskers who require a robust docking solution that can support up to three monitors and fast charging capabilities simultaneously.

Pros:

• Supports up to 3 monitors for multitasking with dual HDMI and DisplayPort
• 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

Factors to Consider When Choosing USB Hubs for USB-C

When choosing a USB hub for your USB-C device, you'll want to think about what you need it to do.

You're looking for a hub that can keep up with your workflow, so consider what features are must-haves for you.

From power delivery options to multi-monitor support, you've got several key factors to weigh before making a decision.

Power Delivery Options

The power delivery options of a USB-C hub can substantially impact how you charge your devices.

USB-C hubs can offer power delivery up to 100W, making it possible to charge your laptop and other devices simultaneously. However, not all hubs are created equal, and power delivery capabilities can vary dramatically. Some hubs may only support up to 30W, 60W, or 80W charging, so verifying the specifications before making a purchase is crucial.

When shopping for a USB-C hub, consider the power delivery requirements of your devices.

If you have multiple devices that need charging, look for a hub with multiple power delivery ports. Additionally, keep in mind that the power delivery speed depends on the device's power adapter and the cable used. Faster speeds require higher wattage adapters and specialized cables.

Multi-Monitor Support

Your laptop's ability to support multiple monitors hinges on the USB-C hub's capabilities, so it's crucial to choose a hub that can handle your display needs.

When selecting a hub for multi-monitor support, look for ones that support DisplayPort Alternate Mode (DP Alt Mode) or USB-C with DisplayPort, which can transmit audio and video signals to multiple displays.

Some hubs offer multiple HDMI ports or a combination of HDMI and DisplayPort, allowing you to connect up to four 4K monitors or two 5K monitors, depending on the hub's capabilities and your laptop's graphics card.

Be aware that some hubs require a DisplayLink driver to be installed on your laptop, which may affect performance and compatibility.

Check the hub's specifications to confirm it can support the maximum resolution and refresh rate you need.

Additionally, consider the hub's power delivery capabilities to guarantee it can charge your laptop and power your external displays simultaneously.

Port Variety Matters

With a multitude of devices and peripherals vying for connection, a USB hub's port variety becomes a pivotal factor in determining its overall utility and value.

You'll want a hub that can support your devices, and that means considering the types of ports you need. Do you have older devices that require USB-A connections? Or do you have newer devices that use USB-C? Maybe you need to connect to a monitor or projector via HDMI or DisplayPort. Whatever your needs, a hub with a mix of ports will give you the flexibility you need.

You'll also want to think about the speed of your devices. If you have devices that require high-speed connections, look for a hub with USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports. But if you have slower devices, USB 2.0 ports will suffice.

Additionally, specialized ports like SD or microSD card readers can be a game-changer for specific use cases, like transferring data from cameras or smartphones.

Speed and Compatibility

When shopping for a USB-C hub, factor in its speed and compatibility to guarantee seamless connections and data transfer at the pace you need. You'll want a hub that can keep up with your demands, especially if you're transferring large files regularly.

Look for hubs that support speeds of up to 10 Gbps, which is double the speed of USB 3.0. If you need even faster speeds, consider Thunderbolt 3 or USB 3.2 Gen 2 hubs, which offer speeds of up to 40 Gbps and 20 Gbps, respectively.

It's also vital to verify the hub is compatible with your device's operating system. Some hubs may only work with Windows or macOS, so double-check the manufacturer's specifications before making a purchase.

Additionally, some hubs may require specific drivers or software to function properly, so be sure to check the instructions before buying.

The number and type of ports on the hub can also impact its speed and compatibility. Hubs with multiple USB-C ports and high-speed connections like Ethernet offer greater flexibility and faster data transfer rates.

Compact Design Needs

As you prioritize speed and compatibility in your USB-C hub, you'll also want to contemplate the importance of a compact design that fits your on-the-go lifestyle.

A compact design is vital for users who need to work on-the-go, as it saves space and reduces clutter in your laptop bag or backpack. When choosing a hub, measure its dimensions and compare them to the available space in your workstation or travel bag to determine the ideal compact design for your needs.

Compact USB hubs often have a smaller footprint, making them perfect for cramped workspaces, such as coffee shops or co-working environments. Additionally, a compact design can help reduce the overall weight of your laptop setup, making it easier to transport and store.

As you consider a compact design, look for hubs with a durable and sturdy construction to guarantee they can withstand frequent travel and use. By prioritizing compact design, you'll be able to work efficiently and effectively, no matter where your work takes you.

Durability and Build

You'll want a USB hub for USB-C that's built to last, with a sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of daily use and travel.

A durable hub should have a solid outer casing made from high-quality materials like aluminum or premium plastics. The build quality can be gauged by its weight, with heavier hubs often indicating a more robust construction.

A good hub should have a stable base that prevents it from toppling over when devices are connected.

A well-designed hub should also have a compact footprint that takes up minimal desk space, making it easy to place on a cluttered workspace or toss into a backpack or laptop bag.

The connectors and ports should be securely attached and able to withstand repeated plugging and unplugging without loosening or failing.

The cables should be thick and flexible to minimize the risk of damage or tangling.

Additionally, a good hub should have a thoughtful design that takes into account cable management, with features like built-in cable ties or clips to keep cables organized and untangled.

Warranty and Support

Before making a purchase, check the warranty and support offered by the manufacturer, as an exhaustive warranty can provide peace of mind and protect your investment.

A good warranty will cover repairs or replacements for a reasonable amount of time, usually ranging from one to three years. Look for manufacturers that offer dedicated support channels, such as phone, email, or live chat, in case you encounter any issues with your USB hub.

You'll also want to check the quality of the manufacturer's support resources, such as FAQs&#4