10 USB Hubs if You Just Bought a New Laptop and You’re Already Out of Ports

10 USB Hubs if You Just Bought a New Laptop and You’re Already Out of Ports
Contributor: Gizmodo Australia
At Gizmodo, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. We have affiliate and advertising partnerships, which means we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. BTW – prices are accurate and items in stock at the time of posting.

Those of you who have bought a new laptop in the last few years have probably noticed a decrease in the number of USB ports. In fact, recent MacBook Pro models offer only three Thunderbolt 4/USB-C ports nowadays, which has forced many to pick up a USB hub in order to transfer files or extend their screens.

While Bluetooth is an essential feature that all modern gadgets must have, there are still plenty of uses that are overlooked when designers forgo the basic necessity of a USB port. For instance, ever since we started working from home, there’s been a demand for computer monitors, which in turn, leads to the need for a HDMI port.

With so many devices comes the unwelcome Gordian knot of cable management and a lack of available power points. In the past, you may have used your laptop as an expensive USB charging hub to rejuice all of your gadgets. But now, all of your devices are competing for priority on probably limited desk space. Choosing between charging your phone, mouse, keyboard and whether you need to export those files from your SSD is a matter best avoided.

The solution for these problems is thankfully quite simple and doesn’t even have to be all that expensive, because all you need is a USB hub to connect up to your computer. However, you shouldn’t just shop on price alone. While USB is a standard, there’s a few questions you should consider before making your decision.

[related_content first=”1231068″]

How many ports do I really need?

This isn’t as stupid a question as it seems, because it’s not just a matter of working out the number of peripherals you’re going to connect. More ports means a larger USB charging hub, and quite possibly the need for an external power supply to ensure that connected gadgets will actually work through it. Although a 49-port USB hub is still overkill if you ask us. A smaller hub may deliver fewer ports, but could be easier if you’re constantly on the go and want something simple to connect up just a few key gadgets to.

What ports do I need?

usb hub
Here’s a depiction of all the different types of ports you might have. Image: iStock/SpicyTruffel

The vast majority of USB ports sold currently tend to concentrate on offering USB-A type ports, but there are some that will include additional USB-C type slots as well. Others may include ports that strip out the data channels so they’re focused purely on charging connected gadgets, which could be a handy way to cut down on cable clutter if you want to charge your smartphone from them.

How fast does it need to be?

If you’re only connecting up a mouse or keyboard, then a slower USB 2.0 compatible hub is okay, but you probably want to buy a USB hub that will last you a good number of years. If you’re using any kind of storage device then USB 3.0 is vastly preferable thanks to its higher data transfer speeds. You can use a USB 3.0 storage device on a USB 2.0 hub, but should really only do so if you’re looking for an excuse to take a coffee break, because those transfer speeds are going to be slow.

Do I want or need other features?

USB connections on a USB charging hub can be taken for granted, given it’s right there in the name and everything. You don’t have to stop there, however, with some models offering extra features such as connectivity lights for ports in use, ethernet adaptors for wired internet or inbuilt SD card readers for DSLR users.

The best USB hubs for you to consider

ORICO 4-Port USB3.0 Clip-Type Hub

USB hub
Image: Orico

ORICO’s hub is designed for those who need portability, with a design that’s meant to clip onto the side of your desk or under your monitor in order to save space.

Where to buy: Amazon ($32.99) | Catch ($33.69)

Sabrent 4-Port USB 3.0 Data Hub

USB hub
Image: Sabrent

Sabrent’s 4-port USB hub includes individual LED power switches for each connection.

Where to buy: Amazon ($14.99) | eBay ($19.99)

Tersely 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub

Image: Tersely

Tersely’s simple hub sells itself on being cheap and fairly small.

Where to buy: Amazon ($12.95) | eBay ($19.99)

Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Ultra Slim Data Hub

usb hubs
Image: Anker

Anker’s USB hub includes a lengthy 60cm cable and four USB 3.0 ports for your peripherals.

Where to buy: Amazon ($19.99) | eBay ($19.99) | Kogan ($32.95)

Kokovolta Vertical Data Hub

Image: Kokovolta

As the name suggests, the unique selling point for Kokovolta’s Hub is that it sits vertically, making it a decent option for desk workers.

Where to buy: Amazon ($25.90) | eBay ($35.99)

Novoo USB Type C Hub Adapter

Image: NOVOO

It’s only got two USB 3.0 ports, but Novoo’s hub also supports 4K HDMI and SD/MicroSD card readers if you need an all-purpose hub.

Where to buy: Amazon ($29.99) | eBay ($39.99)

IVETTO USB 3.0 7-Port Hub, $39.43

Image: Ivetto

If you need lots of ports, IVETTO has you covered with its seven-port hub.

Where to buy: Amazon ($57.04)

MOKIN 9-in-1 USB-C Hub

USB hub
Image: MOKIN

Need more ports and a wide range of options to accommodate the occasional HDMI adapter, SD card reader or Ethernet port? This MOKIN can cater to all of that and more.

Where to buy: Amazon ($99.99)

Satechi USB-C Clamp Hub

Image: Satechi

If you happen to have the new 2021 iMac, you can go with this nifty clamp hub which snaps onto your computer monitor. Not only does it offer an additional six ports for card readers or USB-compatible devices, but it’ll also save you some desk space in the long run.

Where to buy: Amazon ($89.99) | DigiDirect ($99.99) | eBay ($89.99)

Bonelk Long-Life USB-C to 4 Port USB 3.0 Slim Hub

USB hub
Image: Bonelk

In the end, if you’re just a simple person with simple tastes, you can opt for this Bonelk USB charging hub. It has only three ports for HDMI, USB-C and USB-A, plus it comes in a vibrant blue or green colour, so it’ll never get lost in a sea of monochrome desk accessories.

Where to buy: Bonelk ($44.99)


The Cheapest NBN 50 Plans

It’s the most popular NBN speed in Australia for a reason. Here are the cheapest plans available.

At Gizmodo, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. We have affiliate and advertising partnerships, which means we may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. BTW – prices are accurate and items in stock at the time of posting.