USB hubs have been a lifesaver to all of us who have multiple devices using USB ports. Just imagine if you had to connect each device separately. That would be highly inconvenient and time-consuming.
A USB hub can simplify life by allowing you to plug several devices into one single port on your computer or laptop.
So what is a USB hub exactly? USB hub definition is a device to help you connect more devices to the same port, creating a centralized hub for data exchange.
How does a USB hub work? By providing multiple ports to be used in series enabling each device access to the same power source. To ensure you get the best performance from your USB hub, it's important to choose one with the appropriate connection type and bandwidth for your devices.
With a quality USB hub, you can conveniently connect all your technology-driven essentials without all the hassle!
Reasons Why You Might Need a USB Hub
After understanding what the USB HUB is and how it works, our experts break down why you might find the USB Hub extremely useful.
Too many devices and not enough USB ports
Some laptops and computers have a few USB ports but some only have two, and that is just not enough.
If you need to connect your keyboard, mouse, and mobile or external drive, the USB hub will help to set this up very easily.
Whether it's a USB hub for your home office or a small USB hub to help you on the go to connect multiple devices, it will give the number of USB ports you need.
Data transfer
When you need to move photos from your mobile to your laptop or get some important papers printed out or simply upload music, the USB hub makes it simple to transfer data between your different USB devices and your computer. This all can be done very easily and at the same time.
Charging multiple devices
The best use you'll get out of the USB hub is charging several devices at the same time. Your computer or laptop is plugged not plugged in? No worries, when you connect your devices to the powered USB hub, they will all be powered and charged, yes, even the power-hungry ones.
Our experts will go over the different types of USB hubs and the definition of self-powered vs bus powered.
Types of USB port hubs
There are two basic types of USB port hubs: powered and non-powered.
Powered USB port hubs receive power from the computer to which they are connected and can draw power to support devices with higher power requirements.
Non-powered port USB hubs need an external power source, usually an AC adaptor, to provide the necessary power for devices requiring a high volume of energy.
Both these types of USB port hubs are crucial for expanding the USB port connection possibilities of a single computer or other devices that utilize USB ports for various uses.
Self Powered vs. Bus Powered
When it comes to powered USB hubs, you have two primary options: self-powered or bus powered. A powered hub is powered externally through an AC plug, a separate port on the hub itself, or a combination of both. Bus-powered hubs draw their power from the laptop’s single USB-C port.
If you're looking for convenience and fewer wires a Bus-powered solution like a USB-C Hub is ideal. But if you want maximum performance and flexibility, investing in a self-powered USB hub is probably best to give you more control over your device's power output.
Our experts top choice:
SABRENT 16-Port USB 3.0 Data HUB and Charger with Individual switches [90 Watts] (HB-PU16)
4.5 out of 5 stars
12,335 ratings
This 16-Port USB Hub will help you to simply plug and get the support of
different speeds ranging from super-speed (5Gbps) to high-speed (480Mbps) to full-speed (12Mbps) or low-speed (1.5Mbps) transmissions. It means you can work, play, download, and everything in between. You can also easily access and charge all your devices for maximum capabilities.
The 16 Port USB Hub is the one you should invest in when you need to work remotely or enjoy online games or take an online course. It's ideal if you have multiple users and devices so you all can run uninterrupted.
Ranked second:
USB Hub Powered, 13 Multi-Port USB Hub with 10 USB 3.0 Ports, 2 IQ Quick Charge 3.0 Ports, and Port with up to 2,4A, Powered USB Splitter with Cords C and A, Unibody Aluminum USB HUB - by LATORICE
4.4 out of 5 stars
612 ratings
This USB hub can be beneficial if you need a few ports but not as many as the first expert's top pick. It will still give you multiple USBs to connect and organize several devices. The two quick charge ports can gain high speed, and the sturdy construction will keep the aluminum USB will not splitter from heating. You will be able to connect your devices: smartphones, USB flash drives, laptops, desktops, and get more compatibility.
Budget friendly:
USB C Hub, Hiearcool Adapter USB C Dongle for MacBook Pro, 7 in 1 USB C to HDMI Multport Adapter Compatible for USB C Laptops and Other Type C Devices (4K HDMI USB3.0 SD/TF Card Reader 100W PD)
4.6 out of 5 stars
37,819 ratings
This recommended option is right for you if you’re a student or when you work from home and you don’t have several devices to be connected simultaneously but still like to keep a study performance.
The USB C Adapter perfectly combines all the functionalities you need: HDMI, card adapter, and charging port. You will get images with a high 3D resolution experience, and the two high-speed ports will transfer data quickly. The compact size and the design make it super easy to use on the go, and you need additional power or any software installation
We covered a few basics to keep in mind while selecting the right USB Hub. First, we can all agree that we absolutely need it in today's world. Second, now it's up to you to consider carefully: your budget, what you're going to use it for, and what other devices will be connected and activated at once. This will surely allow you to get the most out of your electronics gadgets.
Jonathan Levi is a writer who embraces the strange and surreal, weaving them into captivating narratives that resonate on a deeper level. His unique perspective allows him to place these extraordinary elements within a broader context.
When he's not writing, Jonathan finds solace in the world of literature. Whether it's delving into the latest news articles or immersing himself in the depths of offline books, Jonathan's thirst for knowledge and storytelling is insatiable. In Jonathan's downtime, you may catch him indulging in the thrill of a suspenseful binge-watching session. And when he's seeking a change of pace, he turns to the classic of puzzle-solving: Tetris.