Best USB-C Adapters and Hubs of 2025: Expand Your Laptop Ports
Best USB-C Adapters and Hubs of 2025: Expand Your Laptop Ports Back in the day, laptops had a ton of connectors and ports scattered along their sides. Only recently, however, have hardware makers slimmed down their devices even more, leaving no room for things like HDMI output or an Ethernet jack.
Sure, laptops (along with Apple MacBooks and Dell's XPS line) and tablets (like Apple's iPad Professional) increasingly use the latest popular USB-C connection — or closer to Thunderbolt 3 or 4 and USB4 — as a result of its small size and versatility: the port can be used for a variety of issues with connecting peripherals, displays and charging.
However, for those who still want to attach non-USB-C gadgets to their USB-C laptop or tablet, you’ll need a USB-C hub or adapter. This can let you connect heavy-duty external drives, memory sticks, DVD drives, phone chargers, wired Gigabit Ethernet connections, and an external display or conference projector.
An adapter often replaces a single port, while a hub provides multiple ports. For more substantial options, however, and less portable multi-port options, look for a modern USB-C docking station.
Within our list of favorites, we list all the different ports you might need on a hub or adapter; like USB-A, USB-C, Gigabit Ethernet, SD and microSD card readers, HDMI, DisplayPort, power, and audio.
The good news is that there is a wide range of high-quality USB-C adapters and converters available now at a low cost. Listed here are our suggestions.
Baseus 8-in-1 USB-C Hub - Best Value USB-C Hub
Professionals
- 8 ports including Ethernet, 4K HDMI
- 100W PD
- 3 USB-A ports (5Gbps)
cons
- 4K at 30Hz
- slow card readers
Worth Reviewing:
$39.99
You get 8 ports to add to your laptop with the awesome 8-in-1 USB-C Hub from Baseus. It’s the glorious USB-C PD pass-through charging options (at up to 100W) so you don’t lose a useful USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 port on your laptop if you have to charge or sync. There are three USB-A ports pushing data at 5Gbps, but it’s a bit frustrating for devices that charge at 7.5W at a time.
There are SD and MicroSD (TF) slots for storing game cards, so you'll be able to slot in a Digicam card or use flash memory for more laptop storage.
Gigabit Ethernet is also available, as is an HDMI port that might help with 4K displays at 30Hz - not a refresh rate to excite gamers but enough for many of us.
The USB-C cable's built-in termination can be stored in a designated slot, making a useful loop for keeping things organized, and can be used to carry from a hook, if desired. There's an LED indicator to indicate exercise.
Baseus has a variety of USB-C hubs for fewer or additional ports; they're available on Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk .
EZQuest USB-C Multimedia 10-in-1 Gen 2 Hub - Best USB-C Hub for Fast Ports
Professionals
- 10 ports including Ethernet, 4K HDMI at 60Hz
- 100W PD
- 2 USB-C ports (10Gbps, 1 at 7.5W)
- 2 USB-A ports (5Gbps, 7.5W)
Worth when reviewed:
$89.99
This USB-C hub is packed with advanced ports, along with 4K HDMI at 60Hz (if your device supports DP 1.4) and Gigabit Ethernet.
There are three USB-C ports, one for 100W charging (88W for the laptop and 10W to the hub for USB device charging) and two rated at 10Gbps for fast data transfer. One of the many USB-C ports and each of the 5Gbps USB-A ports can charge related gadgets at 7.5W.
An SD card and MicroSD card reader are included, but on the slower UHS-I band. A built-in 3.5mm audio jack rounds out the impressive 10 ports.
The sturdy built-in cable is about a foot long, which is longer than most of the USB-C hubs reviewed here.
7 in 1 USB-C Multifunctional Hub Plugable - Inexpensive Multi-Port USB-C Hub
Professionals
- 7 Ports Inc. 4K HDMI
- 87W PD
cons
- 4K at 30Hz
- slow card readers
Worth Reviewing:
$39.95
This compact and affordable 7-port multi-functional USB-C hub features seven built-in USB-C ports, along with a 4K HDMI output for including an external display, power pass-through (87W) to cost-effective gadgets, three 5Gbps USB-A ports, and SD and microSD slots.
HDMI 1.4 port must be used to output to a 4K display (at 30Hz) or Full HD 1080p projector or display.
Charging on the go is especially useful if your laptop or USB-C device only has one USB-C port. The 87W of power is more than you get from most hubs.
At 88g, it's lightweight and, as with many gimbals, includes a short built-in cable, so it works well as a portable touring machine.
There are three USB-A ports available which can also deliver 7.5 watts of power to charge various gadgets.
There's only one USB-C port, so look elsewhere for those who want more of the latest popular USB device.
Wired web can't be currently, however, don't worry, Plugable has a 7-in-1 USB-C hub that extends the USB-A port for Gigabit Ethernet.
Satechi USB4 Multiport Adapter with 2.5G Ethernet - Best USB4 Hub for Speed
Professionals
- 40Gbps USB4.0
- 10Gbps USB-C and USB-A
- 2.5G Ethernet
cons
- Not the most cost effective.
- No card reader
Worth when reviewed:
$149.99
This hub isn't simply USB-C, it's the latest USB4, so it offers a full 40Gbps bandwidth for USB4 and Thunderbolt computer systems, however, it can be backwards compatible with any USB-C laptop or notebook.
Built for pace everywhere. The two USB-C ports (one of which offers 100W charging) and one USB-A port are rated at 10Gbps, and the HDMI port can join an external display at 4K at 60Hz — and up to 8K at 60Hz for home Windows PCs.
Its feature is actually MultiGig 2.5G Ethernet, 2.5x as fast as Gigabit Ethernet, and perfect for the latest WiFi 6 routers and networks.
11 in 1 Plugable USB-C Hub - Best USB-C to HDMI Hub (Windows Home)
Professionals
- 11 INC ports. Twin 4K HDMI at 60Hz
- 87W PD
cons
- slow card readers
- Twin Mirrored Deals on Mac
This hub wins by having the best variety of ports (an unimaginable 11) of any hub reviewed here. That also makes it the longest hub (8.7 inches, 22 cm) we've examined.
Two HDMI ports can help with two external 4K displays at 60Hz for Windows laptops, but there's only one port in that spec for a Mac or two Mac displays that could be mirrored more sensibly than extended.
The USB ports (1x USB-C and 3x USB-A) are rated at 5Gbps. Some hubs we've reviewed boast 10Gbps USB ports.
There are Gigabit Ethernet, SD, and MicroSD card readers (only UHS-I, reasonably, rather than the older UHS-II).
Hyperdrive Twin 4K HDMI 10-in-1 USB-C Hub - Best USB-C to HDMI Twin Hub (Mac)
Professionals
- Supports two external 4K displays
- 10 ports, INC. 5Gbps USB-C and USB-A
cons
- The second 4K display is a reasonable 30Hz than 60Hz.
- slow card readers
- Expensive
Worth when reviewed:
$199.99
When you don't want to pay for a full docking station and still require multiple external displays, this 10-port hub is as close as you'll get to a portable dock that supports two displays. Caldigit's Thunderbolt 4 Factor Hub is another one but requires adapters to attach displays to its Thunderbolt 4 ports.
Owners of Apple's regular M1 or M2 MacBooks will likely be happy that this hub gets around the limitations of the previous MacBook display with some good InstantView software.
However, Windows Home customers may find more value with Pluggable's cheaper 11-in-1 USB-C hub, which isn't as good for Mac customers since it doesn't offer extended pairing with a Mac.
There's a USB-C port and two USB-A ports, all at 5Gbps, if not super-fast, and an additional USB-C port that can pass power to related gadgets at 100W (85W to a laptop).
Gigabit Ethernet, UHS-I SD and MicroSD card readers, and a combo audio jack round out the amazing ten ports available.
Hyperdrive 7-in-1 USB-C Hub Stand - Best USB-C Hub and Laptop Stand
Professionals
- 7 ports including 4K HDMI
- 100W PD
- 2x USB-A (5Gbps)
cons
- 4K at 30Hz
- slow card readers
Worth when reviewed:
$99.99
This clever hybrid machine is both a laptop stand and a 7-port USB-C hub. It might be all you need to carry with you when you travel and it works just as well as if you were sitting comfortably inside your home or workplace.
The lightweight, foldable stand elevates your laptop (up to 17") to a healthier viewing angle, with 5 comfortable settings.
Along one side, there are six built-in ports and a USB-C PD (100W) to keep your laptop charged through the built-in cable.
There's a 5Gbps USB-C port, two 5Gbps USB-A ports, a 4K 30Hz HDMI video port, and SD and microSD (104MB/s UHS-I) card readers.
Satechi USB-C Hybrid Multiport Adapter - Best USB-C Adapter with SSD Enclosure
Professionals
- SSD container
- 4K HDMI at 60Hz
- 100W PD
- 2 USB-A ports (10Gbps)
Worth when reviewed:
$89.99
The Satechi USB-C Hybrid Multiport Adapter isn't just a four-port USB-C hub. The hidden secret is the enclosure that lets you add SSD storage to liven up your memory zone, backup data, and switch data at 5Gbps, without taking up an extra USB-C port.
After all, you'll be able to add an SSD to most USB-C hubs, but this one only lets you carry one with you because the SSD on the adapter matches the one on the drive. It only supports SATA M.2 SSDs (the SSD is not included in the price).
There's a 100W USB-C PD charging port (15W is required to power the hub itself), and a powerful 4K 60Hz HDMI display output for connecting an external display. Two USB-A 3.1 ports help with fast data transfer at up to 10Gbps.
Satechi 4-Port USB-C Hub - Best USB -C Hub for Multiple USB-C Ports
cons
- No transit for shipping
- Low charging port
Worth Reviewing:
$39.99
Laptops typically have either USB-C or Thunderbolt ports, so some customers will crave more modern connectors.
The Satechi 4-Port USB-C Hub features 4 USB-C ports, which can take up the minimum ports of most laptops and help add Sort-C SSDs, flash drives, and various peripherals.
USB-C is rated at 5Gbps.
The EZQuest USB-C Gen 2 Hub 7-Port reviewed later is more expensive but consists of 4 USB-C ports and 3 USB-A ports, plus 100W passthrough charging.
Nonda USB-C to USB 3.0 Adapter - Best Easy USB-C to USB 3.0 Adapter
Professionals
- Easy converter
- inexpensive
Worth Reviewing:
$9.99
This is the easiest trick you need to add a USB-A (USB 3.0) device to a USB-C slot on your laptop, Mac or PC.
Basically, it's a single-port USB-C male to USB 3.0 female adapter, rated at 5Gbps. Connect your charging cable, memory stick, keyboard, etc.
Different adapters have a range of ports. This one simply has one, and that's probably all you need. Really, they come in a pack of two, so they're doubly useful at an excellent value.
UGreen USB-C to 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub - Best USB-C Hub for Old School USB Ports
Professionals
- Easy USB-A Hub
- inexpensive
Worth Reviewing:
$15.99
If all you want is a set of older, more common USB-A ports to add a phone charging cable, memory stick, or heavy-duty external drive, you definitely don't want an extra multi-use hub — simply an adapter with a row of USB 3.0 ports.
There are several of these, but for a high-quality model, check out the UGreen USB-C to 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub, which is cheap and very portable.
It has 4 USB 3.0 ports, and even a 12W micro-USB energy port for further energy provided for gadgets that require it—though that is weak and nowhere close to sufficient to cost a laptop computer!
Even with this useful further, it is best to simply take into account many of the 4 ports for information switch more reasonably than powered gadgets.
There’s no HDMI, no further USB-C port for passthrough charging, no reminiscence card slots, or Gigabit Ethernet. However who cares: you simply need just a few old-style USB ports, and this has sufficient to fulfill probably the most ardent accent fan.
Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 Factor Hub – Finest Thunderbolt 4 hub
Professionals
- 4x top-end Thunderbolt 4 ports (40Gbps, 15W)
- 4x speedy USB-A ports (10Gbps, 7.5W)
- 60W PD
Cons
- Could require further adapters for shows and Ethernet
Worth when reviewed:
$249.99
Caldigit's Thunderbolt 4 Factor Hub is both backwards-looking and future-proof, and is a welcome addition to modern laptops that might be feeling the benefits of the latest popular connection. As such, it's the latest USB-C hub.
It features four 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 ports (compatible with USB-C, Thunderbolt 3, and Thunderbolt 4) plus four 10Gbps USB-A ports. One of the many TB4 ports is upstream, so it connects to your computer; the other three are downstream to connect various gadgets.
Power delivery to external devices is even more impressive than the various hubs reviewed here, with up to 15W on the Thunderbolt ports.
The TB4 ports should be used to add external USB-C displays or, with a USB-C display adapter, multiple HDMI or DisplayPort displays—plus other gadgets, all at high speeds. When it comes to a Thunderbolt-enabled laptop, the Factor Hub can add up to an 8K display, or dual 4K 60Hz displays.
When you want to get into the web wired, you'll be able to add a USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet adapter.
Learn all about us
Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 Factor Hub Review
HyperDrive 6-in-1 USB-C Hub for iPad Professional and Air - Best USB-C Hub for iPad
Professionals
- Designed for iPad USB-C devices
- 6 ports including 4K HDMI at 60Hz
- Works with any USB-C laptop.
- 60W PD
cons
- Non-iPad devices must be connected via cable.
- slow card readers
Worth when reviewed:
$89.99
iPad Pro and Air (2018 and 2020) customers will appreciate the aluminum USB-C hub that turns the tablet's single USB-C port into six ports: 5Gbps charging, 60W PD, 5Gbps USB-A, 3.5mm audio, HDMI (4K at 60Hz), and UHS-I MicroSD and SD Card readers.
Hyper claims it was the world's most crowdfunded iPad Pro build and USB-C hub.
Available in either space gray or silver, this handsome hub includes a grip that secures it to the iPad Pro without damaging the floor. You'll be able to remove the grip for those who use a third-party iPad case.
It comes with a USB-C extender cable so you can also use it as a USB-C hub for your non-iPad computer systems, along with MacBooks, Windows laptops, and various tablets.
MST Plugable USB-C Twin 4K HDMI Adapter - Best for Twin 4K HDMI
Professionals
- Twin 4K HDMI at 60Hz
- HDCP helps streaming providers
cons
- One long view for Mac
Worth Reviewing:
$39.95
The USBC-MSTH2 is a driverless direct resolution for those who want to add displays to their laptops via a single USB-C or Thunderbolt port.
It takes advantage of Windows Home and Chromebook-friendly MST (Multi-Stream Transport) expertise that lets customers extend or mirror their display to two additional 3840 x 2160 displays at 60Hz refresh rates. The laptop should be aided by DP 1.4 to help with 4K. Laptops with DP 1.2 are limited to HD (1080p) 60Hz throughout each display.
Since there is no MST, Macs are limited to just one extended display, with a second display that mirrors only the laptop's screen.
The adapter helps with over-the-bandwidth HDCP protection, which is a copy protection system that stops digital content from being captured from display to display. This means that unlike some HDMI adapters, it works well with streaming apps like Netflix, Hulu, and ESPN.
EZQuest USB-C Gen 2 Hub 7 Port Adapter
Professionals
- 7 outlets
- 100W PD
- 4x USB-C (3x 10Gbps)
- 3 USB-A ports (5Gbps)
cons
- USB-C ports charge at just 2.5W
- No card reader
Worth when reviewed:
$79.99
This USB-C hub eschews HDMI or Ethernet ports for a robust seven USB ports: four modern USB-C ports and three USB-A, so you'll be able to plug in old and new gadgets as you see fit, along with Ethernet or HDMI adapters for those who want those too. When you have to buy more adapters, this hub offers extra flexibility.
Three of the USB-C ports are rated at 10Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen. 2) for fast data transfer, with the reverse at 5Gbps and aiming to charge your laptop at 100W. All three USB-A ports offer 5Gbps bandwidth.
The information key is great but the charging capacity of all 7 multi ports is weak.
The built-in USB-C cable is 22cm (9 inches) long.
Kingston Nucleum 7-Port USB-C Hub - 7-Port USB-C Hub with 2 USB-C Ports
Professionals
- 7 ports including 4K HDMI
- 60W PD
- 2x USB-A (5Gbps)
- 2x USB-C (5Gbps)
cons
- 4K at 30Hz
- slow card readers
Worth Reviewing:
$49.99
The standard Kingston Nucleum 7-port features seven ports from a single USB-C connection, along with 4K HDMI output (30Hz), power pass-through (60W) for cost-effective devices, two USB-C ports (5Gbps), two USB-A ports at 5Gbps, and SD and microSD slots.
You'll be able to power a USB-C laptop while connected as well as a USB flash drive and charge your smartphone. It's compact in size and lightweight, and includes a brief built-in cable so it works well as a travel accent.
The old-school USB-A ports also provide power pass-through for charging gadgets like your smartphone or Bluetooth headphones.
The USB-C port on the Nucleum can be used for charging, and the additional USB-C port can join your various additional modern gadgets for information.
The one port it lacks is Gigabit Ethernet. When you're proud of your Wi-Fi, that pickup isn't really that important.
Startech.com USB-C Multiport 4-in-1 Video Adapter - Best USB-C Adapter for Display Port Choice
Professionals
- Multiple display options
- 4K at 60Hz via miniDP
- 95W PD
Worth Reviewing:
From $63.05
The Startech.com USB-C Multiport 4-in-1 Video Adapter can connect your USB-C laptop to a VGA, DVI, HDMI or Mini DisplayPort (mDP) display. It has almost the full package besides the full DisplayPort.
The short breakout cable includes a magnetic retainer that secures it in place while you're not using it.
HDMI and mDP outputs help to achieve UHD 4K resolution. All outputs (HDMI, mDP, VGA, DVI) help to achieve high resolution up to 1920 x 1200. The adapter is suitable for USB-C DP Alt Mode devices.
Available in aluminum, rose gold, and space gray, it's capable of satisfying owners of Apple MacBooks — however, it should work with Windows laptops, too.
TrendNet TUC-ET5G - Best for Ultra-Fast Ethernet
Worth when reviewed:
$131.99
Most of the USB-C adapters reviewed here have a Gigabit Ethernet port, however, none other than the TrendNet TUC-ET5G can boast 5X Gigabit speeds for the fastest wired transfer ever.
This is the first USB-C to 5GBASE-T (5Gps) Ethernet adapter on the market that works with existing Cat5e or higher cables. Now you can add super-fast Ethernet (which you often only find on high-end workstations like the Mac Professional) to your laptop.
It's not cheap, but it's the fastest. TrendNet also sells a TUC-ET2G model that can handle 2.5GBASE-T (2.5Gbps), which is about half the price and still 2.5x faster than Gigabit Ethernet. However, the fastest is that only the TUC-ET5G will do.
Moshi Symbus Q - Best USB-C Docking Station with Q1 Wi-Fi Charging
Professionals
- 5 ports including 4K HDMI at 60Hz and Ethernet
- 15W Wi-Fi Charging Pad
- 60W PD
- 2 USB-A ports (5Gbps, one fast charging)
Worth when reviewed:
$219.95
The Moshi Symbus Q is identical to the HyperDrive hub above. It offers slightly less performance at a slightly increased value, but you're really paying for the kind of premium finish and build quality that Moshi offers.
As with the HyperDrive, this can be a USB-C hub that doubles as a 15W Qi Wi-Fi charger. Then, it packs in two USB-A 3.1 ports, 4K HDMI at 60Hz, and Gigabit ethernet, while it enables 60W USB-C PD charging regardless of which laptop it's plugged into.
The main body is built from aluminium, so it feels fairly sturdy, while there's a grippy, rubbery finish on the top to keep any glass-backed phones from slipping. Thankfully, it'll also cost as much as most phone cases.
Keep in mind that this only consumes power from the mains, so even for those who do not want to use it for charging, you will still have to plug it in, which means that this is more suitable for leaving your desk, more reasonably than a travel hub.
Startech.com USB-C Audio Adapter & Cost - Best Audio Jack Adapter
Professionals
- Easy Audio Jack Adapter
- 60W PD
Worth Reviewing:
$34.99
In case your laptop computer, pill, and even USB-C telephone lacks a 3.5mm audio jack, then this straightforward and compact 2-in-1 adapter is what you want for those who nonetheless use wired headphones, speakers, or microphones.
It doesn't just feature an audio jack, it has a USB-C port for 60W power delivery (PD). You'll be able to plug it into your USB-C wall charger, or it may be disconnected via the bus.
It is long in size and plugs in more directly than a cable, and may include different ports on the laptop.
OWC USB-C Journey Dock E - Small USB-C Dock
Professionals
- Integrated
- 100W PD
- 4K HDMI at 60Hz
- Fast card reader
Worth when reviewed:
$64.99
The OWC USB-C 6-Port Journey Dock E is small, yet it has at least one of every port you could want, whether it's out and about or simply in your home office or inside the workplace.
There are two 5Gbps USB-A ports, a USB-C PD port (100W), HDMI 2.0, an SD card reader (UHS-II fast), and Gigabit Ethernet for wired web access.
HDMI 2.0 is an improvement over most adapters using HDMI 1.4 and can go up to 60Hz with 4K displays.
Weighing in at 174 grams, it's heavier than many of the USB-C adapters we've reviewed here, but we still prefer its compact, sturdy form factor.
The word that indicates that the USB-C cable that connects to your laptop is kind of short (15 cm) so it should sit properly after the host. After all, the ports can settle for any size of cable for the required gadgets and equipment.
As a small dock, more logical than a pocket adapter, it is small, powerful, well designed and consists of a Gigabit Ethernet network.
There's also a slightly cheaper model without Ethernet, though we'd argue that wired web input is crucial for any device that calls itself a dock.
Startech.com USB-C Twin Monitor Multiport Adapter
Professionals
- Select three display ports
- 10Gbps USB-C and USB-A ports
- Built-in coiled USB-C cable
Worth when reviewed:
$214.99
The Startech.com USB-C Twin Monitor Multiport Adapter is portable but somewhat chunky, and includes a sleek, built-in USB-C cable rated at 10Gbps.
It has two display ports: one HDMI 2.0 that can connect to a 4K display at 60Hz, and a VGA port that delivers 1080p HD. Next up is a fast 10Gbps USB-C port that can connect to a 4K display (using DP Alt mode) at 60Hz. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to use all three at the same time, though you can combine the three.
Additionally, 10Gbps USB-C and USB-A ports are included, as well as a USB-C PD port (88W for the laptop). To power it, there's a gigabit Ethernet port rounding out the useful assortment of ports.
Kensington UH1440P USB -C Twin Video Cell Dock
Professionals
- Select three display ports
cons
- Twin HD screens only
- Expensive
- slow card readers
Worth when reviewed:
$119.45
The Kensington UH1440P has a selection of DisplayPort, HDMI, and VGA, though it's limited to most external displays, and this can only be done in 1080p. It does help with a single 4K display at 30Hz.
There are three 5Gbps USB-A ports, two of which can charge devices at 7.5W. Gigabit Ethernet is included, as are a 3.5mm audio jack, and UHS-I SD and MicroSD card readers.
Charging via USB-C can power a related laptop at up to 85W.
Satechi Aluminum Sort-C Slim Multi-Port 4K Adapter - Lightweight USB-C Hub
cons
- Low USB-A charging
- No card reader
Worth when reviewed:
$54.99
Available in a variety of colors (silver, gold, rose gold, and space gray) to match Apple MacBooks—and while it's compatible with any USB-C laptop—the Satechi Aluminum Sort-C Slim Multi-Port Adapter 4K is probably one of the lightest and smallest USB-C multi-port hubs we've seen.
Weighing in at 46 grams and each slim and short, the hub/adapter features dual USB 3.0 ports for traditional equipment and a 4K HDMI port for displays and projectors.
Plus, it has an additional USB-C port for 60W charging, so you'll be able to keep your laptop powered up while you're using it.
The multi-purpose cable is 15cm long.
What's a USB-C hub?
While these items are sometimes described and labeled as adapters or dongles (since many gadgets cling to them) they are hubs that take a single port on your laptop or tablet and add many different, varied connection ports.
For you, there is something extra substantial to install in your laptop at home or inside the workplace, with more ports and the right power supply, it is better to consider a complete USB-C docking station that has much more ports and full power supply (USB PD) for your laptop at the same time.
The latest common connection is Thunderbolt 4 or USB4. We've tested the most effective Thunderbolt 4 hubs and docks.
First, consider what you want from a hub or switch. Most are multi-port, so multiple types of connection performance are included.
USB-A: This is the basic, non-reversible USB. Do you simply want to connect some equipment—a memory stick, a hard drive, a webcam—that uses common USB connections? In that case, there are plenty of easy-to-find, low-cost adapters out there, and almost all of them boast at least one. Speeds range from 480Mbps (USB 2.0) to 5Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 1) and 10Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 2).
USB-C: This is the latest reversible USB. There isn't a lot of equipment you'll find with USB-A, however, an additional Sort C port can be used for data and, if labeled as such, to supply power via a USB-C wall charger.
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TB4 is backwards compatible with USB-C and TB3, though some Windows laptops and home PCs won't support TB3; likely all current Apple MacBooks. Check out our roundup of the most effective Thunderbolt 3 docks and the most effective Thunderbolt 4 docks.
USB4 : Using a similar connector as USB-C, USB4, like Thunderbolt, is an additional, subtle and rarely popular connection.
Be sure to check the USB speed rating when selecting your hub, as it varies from 480Mbps (USB 2.0) to 40Gbps (USB4, Thunderbolt 3, or 4). Get additional education regarding the differences between USB-C, USB4, Thunderbolt 3, and Thunderbolt 4.
HDMI: Want an HDMI port for your laptop? Many USB-C hubs embody HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), along with 4K. Many of the HDMI hubs listed here support 4K displays at 30Hz reasonably well compared to 60Hz 4K which provides increased graphics for sharper videos and games.
DisplayPort : These display ports are usually found on full-fledged docking stations (see hyperlink above) but you will need to purchase USB-C DisplayPort adapters.
VGA: That is fairly a previous video port not often discovered on fashionable shows, however in case you are shifting between workplaces so much (or have a previous monitor), then the choice is perhaps helpful to you.
Power: Some laptops and most tablets only have one USB-C port, so add an adapter and you won’t have anything left to charge your laptop at the same time. In this case, it’s best to look for a hub with an additional USB-C port for power delivery (PD) so you can keep your laptop running while using the adapter.
This is called pass-through charging. 85W and up will power most laptops at full speed. One of the best docks will provide enough power for the relevant devices in addition to the laptop, though a well-functioning hub will probably suffice for those who don’t use all the ports at once. Keep in mind that for many, you’ll need a separate wall charger to produce this pass-through power—your laptop charger should suffice. Check out our roundup of the best USB-C chargers for a few recommended PD chargers.
The drives basically require much less power. For example, a 12-inch iPad Professional at full speed will cost about 40 watts.
Ethernet: Even with a very widespread Wi-Fi network, you can’t beat the speed of a wired Ethernet connection, yet it’s found in motels and outside your router quite naturally. In this case, you want a hub with an RJ45 Ethernet port—and make sure it’s a Gigabit Ethernet connection to switch information quickly. More expensive switches use the newer 2.5GBASE-T or 5GBASE-T ports that offer multi-gigabit speeds capable of up to 5Gbps compared to current Cat5e or higher cabling. However, 1Gbps Ethernet is likely fast enough for many.
Reminiscence Playing Cards: Fewer laptops have recently embodied memory card slots—none from Apple. If these are vital to you, look for SD, MicroSD, and TF card slots on a hub or adapter. You’ll soon be able to add portable storage to your laptop setup for cheap. Many of the USB-C hubs reviewed here offer slower UHS-I rates (104MBps) than UHS-II (312MBps). For faster card readers, look for a USB-C drive alternative.
Audio : Many people use Wi-Fi Bluetooth headphones and a sound system, however, if you want to include wired headphones or a sound system with your laptop, you will definitely want a 3.5mm audio jack on your hub.
Second, consider portability . If your laptop is one that uses USB-C, you’ll likely need the hub to travel with you and it’s never going to be a huge rock. So, look for portability in size and weight. There are adapters that are small and lightweight enough that you can throw them in your laptop bag and even your pocket and never find out.
The third, in fact, is value . There are some very low-cost USB-C adapters on the market, however, we've tried to select the standard end of the market (but still at a low cost) so that you don't risk protecting your device and even your home with a dangerously low-cost adapter.
Cables: Check out our roundup of the most effective USB-C cables if that's all you're looking for.
Docking stations: Larger, more capable (and often less portable) docks can pack in multiple extra ports and join dual 4K displays in extended mode; see our best USB-C docking stations roundup for additional picks.