USB expansion cards add extra or newer USB ports to a laptop or computer that does not have enough of them. They suit anyone connecting more drives, docks or peripherals than the built-in ports allow. Our range currently centres on a StarTech.com card with a USB Type-C output interface.
How to choose a USB expansion card
Slot compatibility. Check which expansion slot your computer has before looking at anything else. Cards for laptops have traditionally used ExpressCard or M.2 slots, while desktop cards use PCIe, and a card will not work in a slot of a different type. Your laptop manual or the manufacturer's specification page will list the slots available.
Port type. The card in our range has a USB Type-C output, the reversible connector used by current external SSDs, docks, phones and many monitors. If your devices still use USB Type-A, you will need a short adapter or a card with Type-A ports instead.
USB speed. Cards are sold against a specific USB standard, commonly rated at 5 Gbps or 10 Gbps. Match the rating to what you plan to connect, because a fast external SSD on a slower card will be limited by the card.
Power for connected devices. Portable drives and some docks draw power through the USB port. Check whether the card can supply enough current, and whether it needs an extra power connector from the computer, which is common on cards that drive several high-demand devices.
Operating conditions. The card in our range is specified for operation from 0 to 85 °C, storage from -25 to 85 °C and relative humidity of 20 to 80%. These limits matter if the computer runs in a workshop, a cabinet or a case with little airflow.
Operating system support. Confirm that the card has drivers or built-in support for your version of Windows, Linux or macOS. Most modern cards work with the drivers already included in the operating system, but older systems may need a download.
USB expansion card brands we carry
- StarTech.com: a Canadian manufacturer known for connectivity hardware such as cables, adapters, docks and expansion cards aimed at IT professionals and system builders.
StarTech.com is currently the only brand listed in this category.
USB expansion card FAQ
What does a USB expansion card do?
A USB expansion card adds USB ports to a computer through an internal expansion slot. It is useful when the built-in ports are all in use or when the computer lacks a newer port type such as USB Type-C. The card works independently of the motherboard ports.
Can I add USB Type-C to an older laptop?
Yes, if the laptop has a compatible expansion slot, such as ExpressCard or a free M.2 slot, and the card is made for that slot. If the laptop has no suitable slot, an external USB hub or adapter is the alternative. Check the slot type before buying.
Will a USB expansion card make my devices faster?
It can, but only if the card supports a higher USB standard than your existing ports and the connected device can use that speed. A card rated at 10 Gbps will not speed up a device that only supports 5 Gbps. The slot the card sits in can also limit throughput.
Do I need to install drivers for a USB expansion card?
Often you do not, because current versions of Windows, Linux and macOS include drivers for common USB controllers. Some cards still need a driver from the manufacturer, particularly on older operating systems. The product specification lists the supported systems.
