The best USB hubs make our favorite electronic tools and toys even more useful. A USB hub expands a single USB connection into any number of useful ports, including additional USB ports as well as other modern ports for devices such as those that require HDMI video output or an ethernet connection. You can better organize the cable confusion of your office space with a centralized USB hub, or increase a laptop’s functionality with the addition of several new ports.
After reviewing dozens of different USB hubs, we have identified the best there are for your electronic needs. Considering factors such as port versatility, data transfer speeds, and power delivery we have chosen our top picks and detailed a number of other excellent USB hubs to provide you with a list of the best on sale today.
We’ve chosen the Elrigs USB Multiport Hub as our overall top pick. It’s the most well-rounded USB hub we looked at. This device packs plenty of power into a small package, has multiple useful port types, and comes modestly priced.
The 5 Top-Rated USB Hubs
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best USB Hub Overall | Elrigs USB Multiport Hub | 5.0 |
| Best USB C Hub | Audlin 8 in 1 USB C Adapter | 4.9 |
| Best Budget USB Hub | RAYROW 5 in 1 Hub | 5.0 |
| Best Bus-Powered USB Hub | OOWOLF 100W USB C Hub | 4.8 |
| Best Self-Powered USB Hub | ACASIS 16 Port Powered USB Hub | 4.8 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best USB Hub Overall: Elrigs USB Multiport Hub
You get it all with the Elrigs USB Multiport Hub. There are bigger USB hubs on this list with more ports to play with, but this Elrigs device puts forth a useful amount of functionality in a neat and tidy package that matches or surpasses the data transfer speeds and the device charging power of all the other USB hubs we reviewed.
Among the seven multiuse ports are three USB 3.1 ports with fast-charging capability thanks to their BC 1.2 charging protocol with up to 5V/1.5A output. A 4k capable HDMI port is also available for high-quality video and audio output, and SD and TF card readers are ready to transfer loads of data. All of this is powered by a USB C connection which provides up to a total of 20Gbps data transfer speed. Plug this into your laptop or desktop computer for instant access to numerous devices and files.
This unit is tiny, and we think that is part of what makes it great. Its petite dimensions (1.05cm x 2.89cm x 11.56cm) make this a terrific device for frequent travelers, photographers, and laptop users. It’ll fit right into your pocket, and its aluminum shell is quite durable.
Elrigs USB Multiport Hub Key Features:
- Seven multiuse ports
- Pocket size
- 4k HDMI adapter
- Three fast-charging USB 3.1 ports
Best USB C Hub: Audlin 8 in 1 USB C Adapter
There’s something for everyone, or rather, every device, in the Audlin 8 in 1 USB C Adapter. This bus-powered hub features both USB C male and female ports, giving you full access to modern Apple, Android, and other such devices. The inclusion of a gigabit ethernet port provides access to fast Internet speeds and the HDMI port offers top-notch video and audio streaming. There are also SD and TF card readers and three USB 3.0 ports.
A hearty 60W of power delivery is capable of fast-charging multiple devices from an iPhone to a MacBook. Users praise the Audlin 8 in 1 USB C Adapter for its versatility and reliability, especially when it comes to connecting multiple devices for long, complex sessions of video and audio editing. These large data files, some reaching several gigabytes in size, take time and energy to transfer, and users have found that this Audlin USB hub never disappoints.
The aluminum casing and braided USB C cord are signs of quality design, and the well-fitting ports signify top-notch construction. All in all, this is a fantastic USB hub that anyone can use, and those who require complete USB C functionality will appreciate its compatibility.
Audlin 8 in 1 USB C Adapter Key Features:
- Eight multiuse ports
- USB C male and female ports
- Max 60W charging
- Gigabit ethernet port
Best Budget USB Hub: RAYROW 5 in 1 Hub
If you compared our overall top pick with the RAYROW 5 in 1 Hub, you would be hard-pressed to tell them apart. This USB hub holds many of the same qualities that make our overall top pick great, but it sacrifices a single USB 3.0 port in order to achieve its budget-friendly price point.
This is a USB C powered device that splits that power to two USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port, and an SD/Micro SD card reader. If you don’t need anything more, this will get the job done just as well as the rest. The HDMI port can transmit 4k video at 30Hz, the USB ports transmit at up to 5Gbps, and both the SD and Micro SD cards can be utilized simultaneously to transfer data between the two.
RAYROW 5 in 1 Hub Key Features:
- Five multiuse ports
- Bus-powered USB C connection
- SD/Micro SD card readers
Best Bus-Powered USB Hub: OOWOLF 100W USB C Hub
The 9 in 1 OOWOLF 100W USB C Hub is a powerful unit that is capable of supplying 100W to a single device or divided across multiple devices. All of this power is protected by multiphase safety functions such as reverse current protection, voltage overload protection, and overcurrent surge protection. This hub is also compatible with PC terminal AC adapters for enhanced power stability.
Aside from its awesome power delivery potential, the hub features nine multiuse ports. There are several USB 3.0 ports, male and female USB C ports, solo HDMI, VGA, and 3.5mm audio jack ports, and slots for SD/Micro SD cards.
Versatility and superb power delivery combine in the OOWOLD 100W USB C Hub to make it one of the best USB hubs we’ve seen. Reviews across the board agree that this is a well-designed unit that works well for professional and casual users alike.
OOWOLF 100W USB C Hub Key Features:
- Nine multiuse ports
- 100W power delivery
- PC terminal AC adapter compatible
Best Self-Powered USB Hub: ACASIS 16 Port Powered USB Hub
With as many ports as the ACASIS 16 Port powered USB Hub has, it’s a good idea to power it with a stable, wall-charing 12V power supply. This USB hub is capable of fast-charging multiple devices at speeds of up to 5V/2.4A, and the power source will always be consistent and reliable, that is unless the neighborhood’s power goes out, of course.
What’s neat is that each of the 16 ports has its own on/off power switch and accompanying LED indicator light. This allows you to divert power away from the devices you aren’t using without having to remove its USB cable. The LED indicator lights fire up when its associated port is receiving power to provide you with all the information you need to operate the hub.
The 16 USB 3.0 ports each can transfer data up to 5Gbps to the limit of 20Gbps at the USB C connection point. There is built-in surge protection to protect your devices and the data they carry, and the entire hub is backed by an 18-month warranty.
ACASIS 16 Port Powered USB Hub Key Features:
- 16 USB 3.0 ports with individual power switches
- 90W power delivery
- 18-month warranty
Who Should Buy a USB Hub
There is a multitude of scenarios that could be improved by a USB hub. If you frequently use iPads or other tablets that feature very few, if any, ports aside from the charging port, a compatible USB can essentially turn your tablet into a full-fledged laptop.
The same can be said for modern thin laptops like the MacBook Air which have very few extraneous ports. A USB hub will enhance a laptop’s compatibility and overall functionality.
Office workers with busy computer stations, or at home computer enthusiasts who work with multiple devices at a time for hobbies such as gaming or video editing, can benefit greatly from the versatility of a high-quality USB hub. Access to an array of multiuse ports can help organize a cluttered computer desk and make using your favorite electronic tools all the more convenient. You can upgrade your entire desktop computer experience with a USB hub. For example, USB hubs with multiple HDMI and VGA ports allow you to utilize multiple monitors at once for an elevated visual experience.
If you’re running out of electronics to plug into your new USB plug, consider going wireless with The Best Wireless Chargers.
Important Features to Consider
There are a few important considerations to think through before purchasing a USB Hub.
- Self-powered or bus-powered. The USB hub you choose will either be self-powered or bus-powered. Self-powered devices have a power cord that leads to a traditional wall outlet, while bus-powered devices use the device connection itself to power the hub. More information on this is available below in the FAQ.
- Device connection. The primary device connection, otherwise known as the male port, is a USB hub’s primary limiting factor. For bus-powered devices, it dictates how much power is sent to the hub. In all USB hubs, the device connection dictates how much data can be transferred at any given time. A USB C male connection, for example, can transfer up to 20Gbps of data at all times, and so is then the upper limit if your USB hub no matter how many female ports are on it. USB C hubs are among the fastest available, while a USB A hub would be able to transmit data at about one-fourth the speed by comparison.
- Power delivery. The power delivery speed of a USB hub dictates how much power can be sent to each port, which ultimately limits how fast a device, such as a smartphone, can charge. Some USB hubs dedicate one or more ports for fast-charging devices so that the other ports, specifically the ones that aren’t actively charging a device’s battery, don’t use an unnecessary amount of power. Some USB hubs even have individual power switches for each port so that you can decide where the power is sent without wasting any of it.
- Ports. In choosing a USB hub you have to ask yourself: are you looking for a device that expands the number of USB ports you have available or are you looking to acquire certain types of ports you didn’t otherwise have access to? Or both? USB hubs can either split a USB connection among many other USB ports, or it can be adapted to function as a multiuse device with USB ports, HDMI ports, SD card slots, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a USB hub and how does it work?
USB hubs are adapters that expand a single connection, often a USB A or USB C, into multiple ports. The ports on a USB hub can range in variety from a number of strictly USB ports to an array of ports including various USB types, HDMI, VGA, SD card readers, 3/5mm audio jacks, and more.
Bus-powered USB hubs utilize a single bus connection to both transfer data and power the device. USB C bus connections are the most popular connection today, with USB A and thunderbolt ports as common alternatives. Users would plug this type of USB hub into a device like a laptop computer which would power the hub while the hub expands the laptop’s connection possibilities via the additional ports.
Self-powered USB hubs have a 12V power cord with a wall outlet plug that powers the device. This type of power is stable and can be more powerful than bus-powered USB hubs. The hub receives its power from a standard electrical outlet, which it can then use to charge any other devices attached to it.
Are all USB hubs the same?
USB hubs differ in that they can have a different number of ports from one another and unique types of ports. Keep an eye out for the types of connections you will need from a USB hub, whether that be a suite of USB connections or something more dedicated such as an HDMI port. Additionally, self-powered and bus-powered ports differ from one another as is described in the previous question’s answer.
How many USB hubs can you connect?
The number is endless. This depends upon your power source(s) and how much power will be drained by each additional hub. You don’t want to link hubs into one another as that can overburden the power source.
Does a USB hub affect performance?
USB hubs are restricted by their input connection. For example, a USB C connection can transfer data at 20Gbps, while a USB 3.0 connection can transfer data at 5Gbps. If you connect a USB Hub with a USB C connection and use several USB 3.0 ports at once trying to transfer over 20Gbps it’s not going to happen no matter how many USB 3.0 ports you utilize at one. Thus, while the hub itself is restricted by its original power and speed, the device it is connected to will not suffer any performance issues because the USB hub cannot overload the device.
Other USB Hubs We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other USB Hubs. Even though they didn’t make our five best USB Hub list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your USB connectivity needs. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Bus-Powered USB Hubs
Simple and sleek, the ACHORO 7 port USB 3.0 Hub features a sophisticated aluminum design that is home to seven USB 3.0 ports. The unit is powered by a USB C port in the back, and the bottom has a handy non-slip surface.
Key Features:
- Seven USB 3.0 ports
- Non-slip bottom pad
- Aluminum casting
Cost: $30
AmazonBasics 4-Port Aluminum Hub
The AmazonBasics 4-Port Aluminum Hub can be had in either polished silver or black and either a USB C or USB A power bus. Self-adhesive velcro straps come packaged with the device to ensure secure placement.
Key Features:
- Four USB 3.1 ports
- USB C or USB A power cord options
- One-year warranty
Cost: $20
CHOETECH USB Hub for MacBook Pro
Designed to work flawlessly with MacBook Pro and MacBook Air laptops, this CHOETECH USB Hub attaches to the side of these laptops and utilizes dual USB C ports for maximum power and data transfer. The multiple USB ports, an HDMI port, and SD card readers can function simultaneously.
Key Features:
- Seven multiuse ports
- MacBook Pro and Macbook Air exclusive compatibility
- 100W power delivery
Cost: $25
The extremely versatile ENKLEN USB C Hub splits a single USB C port into an array of ports consisting of two HDMI, one VGA, a Gigabit Ethernet, four USB, SD and Micro SC card readers, and an audio jack.
Key Features:
- Twelve multiuse ports
- 100W power delivery
- Triple display functionality
Cost: $70
Going a step or two beyond most of the competition, the Falwedi 9 in 1 Type C Adapter utilizes a male USB C for bus power and has two female USB C ports that can be utilized simultaneously. A number of other useful ports are available as well.
Key Features:
- Nine multiuse ports
- 100W power delivery
- Includes two USB C female ports
Cost: $35
FlePow Aluminum Multiport Adapter
Fit with built-in smart sensor chips that prevent overheating and short circuits, the FlePow Aluminum Multiport Adapter is a safe choice for those who fear to overburden their USB hub. The aluminum design dissipates heat quickly, and the unit will shut down before damage occurs.
Key Features:
- Seven multiuse ports
- Built-in smart temperature control
- Slim, one-sided port design
Cost: $25
The powerful Lasuney 8 in 1 USB Hub charges itself at a maximum of 100W and limits charging of secondary devices to 84W for safety. Four USB ports, an HDMI, ethernet, and SD card readers make this a multifunctional tool.
Key Features:
- Eight multiuse ports
- 100W power delivery
- Up to 4K video output
Cost: $30
Universally compatible, the LETSCOM USB C Hub can pump out 4K video, download from a gigabit ethernet cable, and read an SD card at over 1000mb per second. Users appreciate its small design and plug-and-play nature.
Key Features:
- Eight multiuse ports
- 60W power delivery
- Up to 4k video output
Cost: $25
The QGeeM 8 in 1 USB C Hub features the most modern ports that most people need including a 3.5mm audio jack, a micro SD card reader, and two female USB C ports. Reviews praise this device for its small stature and some have called it the perfect travel companion.
Key Features:
- Eight multiuse ports
- Audio jack
- Supports SD cards up to two terabyte capacity
Cost: $30
With a port for just about anything you could imagine, the RCA 11 in 1 USB Hub will cover all of your bases. Contemporary slim laptops are often bereft of necessary ports, and that’s where a USB C hub like this RCA model shines.
Key Features:
- Eleven multiuse ports
- Audio jack
- One-year warranty
Cost: $30
Solidly constructed and backed by a lengthy warranty, the VANMASS Premium Hub is as reliable as they come. Four USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port, an ethernet port, and SD card slots line the edges of this minuscule USB C-powered hub.
Key Features:
- Nine multiuse ports
- 90W power delivery
- 30-month warranty
Self-Powered USB Hubs
A smaller version of our overall Best Self-Powered USB Hub Pick, the ACASIS 7 Port Powered USB Hub features the same durable aluminum casing and individual port power switches that we love in the larger edition. There are fewer ports and less power in this model, but it’s certainly adequate for most people’s needs.
Key Features:
- Seven USB 3.0 ports with power switches
- 36W power delivery
- 18-month warranty
Cost: $35
Each of the 16 USB 3.0 ports on the AGEEN 16 Port Powered Hub can transfer data up to a whopping five gigabits per second and has a dedicated power switch. This is an ideal choice for those who have many USB devices that they need quick access to at all times.
Key Features:
- 16 USB 3.0 ports
- Data transfer speeds of up to five gigabits per second
- 12-month warranty
Cost: $70
The AmazonBasics USB C 3.1 Hub features three fast-charging ports and seven standard charging and data transfer ports than can each transfer up to five gigabits per second. LED lights indicate which USB ports are active.
Key Features:
- 10 USB 3.0 ports
- 65W power delivery
- Three fast-charging ports
Cost: $50
Small in dimension yet quite capable, the Anker USB3.0 Data Hub is equipped with six standard USB 3.0 ports which can each transfer up to five gigabits per second as well as a seventh USB A fast-charging port that will charge a device at more than double the speed of the other ports.
Key Features:
- Six USB 3.0 ports and one USB-A charging port
- 36W power delivery
- 18-month warranty
Cost: $35
The atolla Powered USB Hub 3.0 is a mighty device that comes standard with four high-speed data transfer USB 3.0 ports and four fast-charging USB 3.0 ports, each set with its own power switch. The slots light up with blue and red LEDs when powered on.
Key Features:
- Eight USB 3.0 ports
- Four fast-charging ports and four standard ports
- Individual port power switches
Cost: $30
A slim piece of hardware, the LYFNLOVE USB Hub Splitter will fit neatly on your desk or in your pocket if you decide to take it on a trip. Of the seven USB 3.0 ports, one is fast-charging, and the rest maintain a data transfer rate of up to five gigabits per second.
Key Features:
- Seven USB 3.0 ports
- One fast-charging port
- Individual port power switches
Budget USB Hubs
The quality aluminum casing of the BYEASY Powered USB Hub holds three standard USB 3.0 ports and one fast-charging USB 3.0 port. This is a self-powered USB hub with a 5V power supply cable.
Key Features:
- Four USB 3.0 ports
- LED power indicator
- 30-day warranty
Cost: $20
This QGeeM USB C Hub is a smaller version of a previously listed QGeeM hub, and it is impressively capable while marked at such an affordable price point. It holds a USB 2.0 port, USB 3.0 Port, HDMI port, and a type C PD charging port.
Key Features:
- Four multiuse ports
- 100W power delivery
- USB C bus-powered
Cost: $20
Trevoz Aluminum Hub for MacBook Pro
Incredibly powerful, yet restrained to only modern MacBooks, the Trevoz Aluminum Hub is an excellent choice for anyone with a compatible MacBook device. This has multiple USB 3.0 ports, SD card compatibility, and a USB C female port.
Key Features:
- Six multiuse ports
- Up to 40 gigabits per second transfer speed
- MacBook Pro and MacBook Air use only
Cost: $20
