You can also find HDMI, Ethernet, additional USB-C, and SD card or micro SD card slots on some.įiguring out what type of connectivity you need and how many ports you may need to plug into at once will give you a better idea of which hub is best for you. Some offer only multiple USB-A ports, which might be fine if you only plugin things like hard drives or wired keyboards. One of the main differences between hubs is the number and types of ports. If you only need extra ports when at your desk and want the option of running multiple high-end monitors, a docking station should be your pick. All of this means that they are also more expensive and larger than hubs. They are larger than hubs and require a power source beyond the laptop itself, allowing them to power your devices. They frequently have even more ports than USB-C hubs and offer better connectivity for high-resolution monitors. On the other hand, Docking stations are designed to give desktop functionality to a laptop. A hub is likely the best option if you are frequently on the go, have a small workspace, or just don’t need an excessive number of ports. The small size makes them easy to throw in your laptop bag if you travel for work, even if that means heading to your local coffee shop for a change of scenery. They run off of a laptop’s power and are generally very small and lightweight. USB-C hubs also can have various display ports and even ethernet compatibility. They typically offer USB-A ports (frequently multiple) and often offer SD or microSD card slots. While both devices extend the number–and type–of ports that you have access to, there are some differences to pay attention to.Ī USB-C hub’s primary purpose is to expand the number of ports you have access to. If you start looking around for USB-C ports, you may quickly find the term docking station mixed in with hub products. Things to consider before buying a USB-C hub Docking station versus hub Best budget: Yeolibo 9-in-1 USB C Hub Multiport Adapter.Best USB-C docking station: Anker PowerExpand Elite Docking Station.Best for traveling: Kensington SD1650P USB-C 4K Portable Docking Station.

Best for USB-A ports: Plugable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub.

Best for multiple monitor setup: Targus USB-C Universal Quad 4K (QV4K) Docking Station.

Best usb-c hub: EZQuest USB-C Multimedia Hub.

These best USB-C hubs will help you stay connected without slowing you down.

Between dongles for mice and keyboards, hard drives, monitors, and the need to charge headphones and phones, most of us need more–and lots of different types of–ports. Many popular laptops have cut back the number of ports they offer, yet we still need to plug in a growing army of accessories. USB-C hubs are more or less a necessary evil these days.

Best multiport adapter for macbook pro