All devices that include USB ports, from desktop PCs to game consoles, have a limited number of ports. That means you can plug in only so many peripherals, hard drives, and auxiliary devices at once. USB hubs expand the number of your computer’s usable ports and offer additional features such as fast-charging support.
The best USB hubs include four or more ports to expand the total number of usable spaces. Most hubs are designed for data transfers and file syncing, but some will also charge your devices. More capable USB hubs have additional ports such as USB-C or HDMI, and can be used to connect multiple devices.
If you’re concerned only with charging your devices, you should check out our list of the best charging stations. For the best USB hubs, read on.
This hub from Anker features ten ports total, and all of them are USB 3.0, supporting data transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps. That means you can transfer data between devices in seconds or minutes rather than hours. Bright blue LEDs illuminate the ports at the top of the hub when it’s powered on, offering an attractive, futuristic glow.
Best Overall
Anker USB 3.0 SuperSpeed 10-Port USB Data Hub
Supports fast data transfers
Easy to use and hot-swappable
Dedicated power supply
Built-in surge protection
Has only USB ports
Just one fast-charging port
One of the ten ports delivers fast charging, at speeds up to 2A, while the other nine deliver 0.9A each. An integrated surge protector ensures any devices plugged in won’t be damaged by electrical issues. Hot swapping is also possible, which means you can plug and unplug devices while connected to a computer without rebooting or shutting it down.
The hub comes with a 2.6-foot USB 3.0 cable and a power adapter. It’s easy to set up, simple to use, and has a minimal, albeit attractive, design.
Interface: USB, DisplayPort, Ethernet, HDMI, USB 3.0 | Number of Ports: 10 | Data Transfer Rate: Up to 5Gbps
“The charging port delivers more power than the other nine, making it ideal for charging more power hungry devices like phones and tablets.” — Jonno Hill, Product Tester
This ultra-slim, four-port USB hub from uni is one of the more compact options, making it ideal to toss in a backpack, handbag, or luggage. A flexible, braided nylon cable is built into the unit so you never have to worry about leaving it behind. An optional variant is available, which still has the built-in cable, but it’s much larger at 4 feet long.
Most Compact
uni 4-Port Aluminum USB 3.0 Hub
Sleek and durable aluminum chassis
Supports fast data and simultaneous transfers
Nylon braided USB cable built-in
Safety chip for hub and connected devices
No dedicated power
Rounded underside slides on flat surfaces
It supports fast data transfers at speeds up to 5Gbps for expanding USB ports or connecting multiple devices. It also supports USB on the go and simultaneous transfers across all ports. It’s plug-and-play, and no extra drivers are needed for PC, Mac, or select versions of Linux (2.6.14 or later). An integrated safety chip offers overcurrent, overcharge, overvoltage, overheat, and short circuit protection for both the hub and any devices connected to it.
The durable aluminum shell rounds out the features list, and also offers a sleek look. It matches particularly well with aluminum Chromebook and laptop models, as well as most Macbooks.
Interface: USB | Number of Ports: 4 | Data Transfer Rate: Up to 5Gbps
“If you want something portable and reliable, that still looks fantastic, you can’t go wrong with the uni hub. The nylon braided cable and safety chip ensure it will last and keep your devices safe.” — Briley Kenney, Tech Writer
This massive 11-port USB data hub from Wenter is uniquely designed. All 11 of the ports are USB 3.0, but four (marked in red) support fast charging for mobile devices up to 2.4A. Each port has a corresponding power switch with an LED indicator to match. That means you can turn individual ports on and off without cutting power to the entire hub. The LEDs will flicker when data transfers are happening to help you discern which ports are currently in use.
Best Design
WENTER Powered USB 3.0 Hub
11 ports total; seven USB 3.0 and four with fast charging
Dedicated power supply
On/off power switches for every port
Fast data transfers
No safety features
Power and USB cables must be connected
It comes with a power adapter and has a dedicated power supply, which makes sense considering it’s so large. It should be noted that both the power and main USB cable must be connected for it to work.
The chassis is plastic, so no premium materials were used here, but it’s so big it’s hard to imagine anyone breaking this thing without some serious force. It’s about the size of your average surge protector and measures 7.9 x 2.4 x 0.9 inches.
It’s not exactly portable, but it’s certainly a good option for anyone who needs a huge boost in available USB ports. The option to fast-charge four mobile devices at once is ultra convenient. Moreover, it’s plug-and-play compatible with PC, Mac, and Linux systems.
Interface: USB 3.0 | Number of Ports: 11 | Data Transfer Rate: Up to 5Gbps
“The option to turn on and off ports, at will, with the press of a button is ultra-convenient. Not to mention the blend of Red and Blue LED lighting looks great.” — Briley Kenney, Tech Writer
This relatively compact four-port USB 3.0 hub works with both Mac and PC devices, but only supports data transfers—no charging. It has a built-in USB cable that’s 8 inches long and offers decent maneuverability.
Most Versatile
Sabrent 4-Port USB 3.0 Data Hub
All four USB ports are 3.0
Fast data transfers
LED indicators with on/off switches
Built-in USB cable
Data transfer only
No premium materials
You’ll notice right away it features brilliant blue LED indicators for each port, with an on/off switch for each one, as well. You can turn individual ports on or off without disabling power to the rest of the hub. Each port supports fast data transfers up to 5Gbps, and the unit is both plug-and-play and hot-swap compatible.
The chassis is plastic, not a premium material like aluminum, but it’s still plenty durable. What’s most exciting is that this model can be upgraded to seven- and ten-port variants. Both of the larger models feature a similar design, with power switches for individual ports. In that way, this hub is incredibly versatile, as you can choose which size best matches your needs.
Interface: USB 3.0 Type A | Number of Ports: 4 | Data Transfer Rate: Up to 5Gbps
“This hub is affordable and adds four USB 3.0 hubs that support transfer speeds up to 5Gbps. It’s a good option if your laptop or desktop is lacking enough USB ports for data transfers.” — Patrick Hyde, Tech Writer
Forget the silly brand name—this four-port mini USB hub from Wonkegonke is anything but. Wonkegonke didn’t just slap the “mini” moniker on it for no reason. It’s sleek and ultra-portable at just 0.27 inches thick. The built-in USB cable adds convenience, while the rugged but light metal housing keeps it protected even in the messiest of handbags or backpacks. The cable is also surrounded by a damage-resistant shell.
Best Budget
Wonkegonke 4-Port Mini USB 3.0 Hub
Super sleek and portable
Built-in USB cable with damage protection
Rugged but lightweight metal chassis
Fast data transfers
Only one USB 3.0 port
No dedicated power supply
It features one USB 3.0 port and three USB 2.0 ports on the side. The 3.0 port can handle fast data transfers up to 5Gbps, but it is a shame there’s only one. There is no dedicated power, and it doesn’t support charging.
The trade offs mean this isn’t the ideal device for home or office setups, but it’s a good choice for anyone who’s constantly on the move with a lot of devices in tow.
Interface: USB 2.0, USB 3.0 | Number of Ports: 4 | Data Transfer Rate: Up to 5Gbps
“Don’t let the name of the brand fool you, the Wonkegonke 4-port mini USB hub is one of the best for travel, and limited budgets! Just toss it in your bag and go. Plus, it’s compatible with nearly anything USB-related.” — Briley Kenney, Tech Writer
If quantity of ports is your biggest concern, the Acasis 16-port USB hub is one of the biggest you’ll find. All 16 ports are USB 3.0, they all support fast charging up to 2.1A, and they each support fast data transfers up to 5Gbps. No compromises, no ports left behind—just full functionality across the entire unit. There are also seven- and ten-port variants if you want something slightly smaller.
Best High Capacity
ACASIS 16-Port USB 3.0 Data Hub
All 16 ports are USB 3.0
Durable aluminum chassis
Built-in surge protection
Fast data transfers and fast charging
Not ideal for travel
Connection latency for offset ports
This beast is almost 9 inches long and weighs 1.8 pounds. Every port has a power switch, and a bright blue LED indicator. You can turn ports on and off individually, and the light will tell you what’s powered and what’s in use. It’s plug-and-play compatible with PC, Mac, and Linux systems. Plus, it has a built-in surge protector to keep all your devices and the hub safe and secure from electrical failures.
The chassis is aluminum, so it’s tough yet lightweight, and it looks great too. This is the ultimate hub for anyone who wants to connect several devices or transfer data from multiple USB sources at once. It’s worth noting that when plugged into a computer, there is some connection latency for the higher-count ports. But the first four ports are fast and responsive.
Interface: USB 3.0 | Number of Ports: 16 | Data Transfer Rate: Up to 5 Gbps
“It doesn’t get any bigger than this. A massive 16-port hub with all 16 ports offering USB 3.0 and fast-charging support.” — Briley Kenney, Tech Writer
There’s no getting around the fact that $270 is an eyewatering price to pay for a USB hub, but with the CalDigit TS3 Plus, you get a level of quality that helps make up for the sticker shock. There’s no doubt the TS3 Plus is a tool built for professionals, and its space grey color scheme is designed to match your Apple hardware. It’s built tough, and clearly made to last.
Best for Apple
CalDigit TS3 Plus
Wide range of ports
Professional grade build quality
Designed to fit the apple aesthetic
Expensive
The TS3 Plus allows you to maximize the capabilities of a Thunderbolt 3 connection. It features two Thunderbolt 3 ports, one DisplayPort 1.2 port, five USB 3.1 Type-A ports, two USB 3.1 Type-C ports, an SD Card Reader (SD 4.0 UHS-II), a Digital Optical Audio (S/PDIF) port 1x Gigabit, Ethernet, an Analog Audio In and an Analog Audio Out port.
It’s capable of outputting to dual 4K displays (or a single 5K display), 10 GB/s USB 3.1 Gen. 2 capability, and it has the ability to charge Thunderbolt 3 laptops with 85W power delivery. It’s also designed to be used either horizontally or vertically to better accommodate different setups.
Interface: Thunderbolt 3 | Number of Ports: 15 | Data Transfer Rate: Up to 10 Gbps
About Our Trusted Experts
Andy Zahn lives in rural Southwest Washington and has been writing for Lifewire since 2019. He builds his own PCs and loves nothing more than geeking out over the latest gadgets.
Our best overall pick is the Anker SuperSpeed USB 3.0 10-port Hub (view at eBay) because it’s large, reasonably priced, well designed, and highly functional. It also has a built-in surge protector to keep it, and any devices connected to it, safe from electrical failures.
Briley Kenney lives in the always-exciting state of Florida where he works as a freelance copywriter and technology enthusiast. He’s been around computers and electronics his entire life, which has earned him plenty of experience and knowledge in the field.
Jonno Hill has been obsessed with technology ever since he built his first computer in middle school, and began writing for Lifewire in January 2019. He specializes in computers and their peripherals, and he has reviewed several of the USB hubs on this list.
Patrick Hyde lives in Seattle where he works as a digital marketer and freelance copywriter. He has a job in Seattle’s booming tech industry and is an expert in consumer electronics, including personal computers and their peripherals.
What to Look For in a USB Hub
Number of Ports
There is no ideal number - it just depends on what you’re looking for. If you want something lightweight and portable then you’ll want to choose something with fewer ports, sacrificing quantity. If you want something with a lot of ports, you’ll be choosing a much larger hub, sacrificing portability. Typically, the smaller hubs have about three or four ports, while the larger ones can have as many as 16 or more.
- Will fast charging damage your devices?
- To put it simply, fast charging will reduce your battery life slightly more quickly over a long period of time than standard charging speeds, but it’s far from the most significant factor when it comes to battery longevity. Things like heat, cold, and how frequently you recharge have a much greater effect.
- What’s the difference between USB-A and USB-C?
- The letter following USB indicates the physical design of the port. USB-A are the large, square, more familiar ports, and USB-C are the newer, smaller oval ports found on many modern Android smartphones. USB-C is an upgrade in just about every way over USB-A, but perhaps most importantly USB-C is double sided, which means less fumbling to get it oriented correctly.
- What happens if you plug a USB 3.0 device into a USB 2.0 port?
- The USB standard is backward compatible, so USB 3.0 will work fine with USB 2.0 or even USB 1.1. The older USB standards are limited by data transfer rates, so as you go backward you’ll see data transfers taking longer. For instance, when plugging a USB 3.0-ready hard drive into a USB 2.0 port, and initiating a data transfer, you will see only USB 2.0 transfer speeds—up to 480Mbps as opposed to 5Gbps. They work fine, but USB 2.0 and below are slower.
To put it simply, fast charging will reduce your battery life slightly more quickly over a long period of time than standard charging speeds, but it’s far from the most significant factor when it comes to battery longevity. Things like heat, cold, and how frequently you recharge have a much greater effect.
The letter following USB indicates the physical design of the port. USB-A are the large, square, more familiar ports, and USB-C are the newer, smaller oval ports found on many modern Android smartphones. USB-C is an upgrade in just about every way over USB-A, but perhaps most importantly USB-C is double sided, which means less fumbling to get it oriented correctly.
The USB standard is backward compatible, so USB 3.0 will work fine with USB 2.0 or even USB 1.1. The older USB standards are limited by data transfer rates, so as you go backward you’ll see data transfers taking longer. For instance, when plugging a USB 3.0-ready hard drive into a USB 2.0 port, and initiating a data transfer, you will see only USB 2.0 transfer speeds—up to 480Mbps as opposed to 5Gbps. They work fine, but USB 2.0 and below are slower.
Versatility
Some USB ports offer additional functionality such as fast charging, extra ports, and sometimes extra hardware like an SD card reader. If you need only the standard USB ports, then it doesn’t matter what else the hub offers. If you want something with a little more versatility, however, consider some of those extra features.
Compatibility
Almost all hubs are plug-and-play and hot-swappable. The former means they can plug into most computers and you don’t need to install drivers or third-party software. The latter means you can plug in, unplug, and remove USB devices all while the hub is plugged into a computer, and without turning off the system or rebooting. For added compatibility, it depends on what ports and functions are available. A USB-C port, for example, ensures compatibility with Apple devices and other USB-C systems like some Chromebooks.
Safety Features
Surge protection, overcharge protection, and overvoltage protection are all important especially when you have several devices simultaneously plugged into a hub. They’re also important when you’re transferring data, especially if you have a hard drive or flash drive plugged in. An energy surge can corrupt the data and ruin those drives.
