USB hubs add extra ports to a laptop or desktop. Our range covers basic USB-A hubs, USB-C hubs, powered desktop hubs and multiport models with extra connections. They suit anyone whose laptop has too few sockets. Brands include StarTech.com, i-tec, j5create and LogiLink.
How to choose a USB hub
Connector on your laptop. Check whether your computer has USB-A or USB-C sockets, because the hub must plug into one of them. Our range includes hubs that connect through USB-C, USB-A and USB-B, so match the cable end to the port you have free.
Speed. Most hubs in our range with a listed speed run at 5000 Mbit/s (USB 3.2 Gen 1), which is enough for external drives, webcams and memory sticks. A smaller group is limited to 480 Mbit/s (USB 2.0), which is fine for keyboards and mice but slow for file transfers. Faster 10000 Mbit/s (USB 3.2 Gen 2) hubs exist for fast SSDs.
Number and type of ports. Four ports is the most common size in our range, with seven and ten-port models for crowded desks. Count how many USB-A devices you connect at once, then add a spare or two. Some hubs also include a 3.5mm audio connection, so check the port list if you need more than USB.
Power supply. A bus-powered hub draws electricity from the laptop, which keeps it light and simple. A hub with its own power adapter is the better choice for external hard drives, phones that charge while connected, or many devices at once, since the laptop port alone may not supply enough current.
Where you will use it. A small, cable-attached hub travels easily in a laptop bag. Larger hubs with seven or more ports stay on the desk and are easier to keep plugged in permanently.
USB hub brands we carry
- StarTech.com: a specialist in connectivity accessories, and the largest brand in this category in our range, with many hub sizes and port layouts.
- i-tec: known for docking stations and USB-C accessories aimed at laptop users.
- j5create: focuses on USB-C hubs and docks that add ports to slim laptops.
- RaidSonic: the company behind the ICY BOX range of storage and USB accessories.
- Exsys: a German brand known for interface and expansion products, including USB hubs.
- TP-Link: better known for networking equipment, and also makes USB hubs.
Also in our range: LogiLink, INLINE, Tracer, Gembird, Natec and LC Power.
USB hub FAQ
What does a USB hub do?
A USB hub turns one USB port into several. You plug it into your computer and connect keyboards, mice, drives or chargers to it. It is useful when a laptop has only two or three ports.
Do I need a powered USB hub?
A powered hub is worth choosing if you connect external hard drives, charge devices or use many peripherals at once. Light devices such as a mouse or keyboard usually work on a bus-powered hub. A separate power adapter keeps the connected devices from draining the laptop.
Will a USB 3.0 hub work with a USB 2.0 port?
Yes, a USB 3.x hub works in a USB 2.0 port, but only at USB 2.0 speed, which is 480 Mbit/s. To get the 5000 Mbit/s a USB 3.2 Gen 1 hub offers, both the computer port and the hub need to support it.
Can I use a USB-C hub on a laptop with only USB-A ports?
Not directly, because the plug types are different. You would need a hub that connects through USB-A, or a USB-C to USB-A adapter. Check the host interface listed on each product before ordering.
