On the hunt for a USB hub? We bought the top seven models to test in a head-to-head showdown to see which are the best for various applications. These devices come in a vast array of designs and styles for all kinds of different purposes. Over the course of several weeks, we used each hub in the lab and at home to carefully inspect them for their ports and features, how well they travel, and their looks. In the end, we identified which models are the best overall, which is the best bargain, and which ones have specialized purposes.
For those who work and play with lots of electronics, it's super useful to have a USB hub that accepts several types of high-quality cables and top-notch memory cards, from the best usb flash drives to the top-ranked microSD cards. Picking out a hub to fit all of your needs can definitely be a hassle, but we're positive that you'll be able to find a perfect match in this lineup.The 5 Best USB Hubs
We put USB hubs to the test from brands like Anker, QGeeM, Satechi, and more
Credit: Laura Casner
Our Top Picks
By Ross Patton ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ Oct 26, 2022
REASONS TO BUY
Individual LED power switch for each port
2-ft cable
REASONS TO AVOID
Doesn't charge devices
If you're in the market for a simplistic USB 3.0 hub with some slick features, look no further than the Sabrent HB-UM43. This model has an LED-backlit switch for each port so that you can toggle which devices are talking to your computer without unplugging them from the hub. We love the 2-foot cable — with a cable that long, you can keep the hub entirely out of your workspace.
The ultimate downside to the Sabrent HB-UM43 is that it doesn't charge devices. If you are looking for a way to charge phones, cameras, or other USB-powered toys, our best advice is to look into a hub that plugs into an additional power source rather than divide one USB plug's worth of power into four. Regardless of the flaws, this is the perfect device for those looking to have push-button control over several USB 3.0 devices plugged in at once.
Credit: Laura Casner
REASONS TO BUY
No cables
Sleek design
Protective cloth carrying sleeve
REASONS TO AVOID
Pricey
Not compatible with most Macbook cases
Anker is well known in the tech world for making quality products, and their PowerExpand Direct is most definitely on our list. This newer style of USB hub attaches directly to the body of your Macbook, eliminating the need for a cable. Without this extra cable, the design looks much cleaner. This hub is compatible with Macbooks, keeping your workspace looking as clear as can be. The PowerExpand Direct also includes a sleek cloth carrying case for those often on the go.
Although the PowerExpand Direct does have a USB C port dedicated to a Macbook power cord, some people may not like that it takes up both ports on the laptop at all times. It also won't work with many cases, so your Macbook likely needs to be bare-bones to use this model. This hub is far from the most affordable model. If you're shopping on a budget, it'd be wise to check out a different model. Despite the downsides associated with the PowerExpand Direct, we still think it's the best USB hub for newer Macbooks with two USB C ports.
Credit: Laura Casner
REASONS TO BUY
Very basic
Affordable
Included cable tie
REASONS TO AVOID
No power buttons
Won't charge devices
If all you are looking for is a bare-bones USB 3.0 hub, the Anker 4-Port is a solid choice. The concept of this hub is simple - just plug it in, and you're transferring data at the USB 3.0 standard of 5Gbps. Anker also receives bonus points for including a handy velcro tie to keep the extra-long cord from getting tangled.
The Anker 4-Port is most definitely missing some bells and whistles. Other USB 3.0 hubs in our review include power buttons for each port or are even capable of charging larger devices such as phones and tablets. Still, this model works for those looking for a simplistic way to expand to several ports from a single USB 3.0 port.
Credit: Laura Casner
REASONS TO BUY
Inexpensive
Variety of ports
REASONS TO AVOID
Only one USB C port
A bit heavy and clunky
If you need a 7-in-1 USB C hub but don't want to break the bank, check out the QGeeM USB C. The ports included in this model are USB C, HDMI, SD, Micro SD, and three USB 3.0s — if that sounds like it would work for you, the QGeeM is probably a good bet.
Our main complaint with the QGeeM is that it only has one USB C port, which would presumably be used for the power cord if your device only has one port on it. Other than that, we did find it to be relatively big and bulky when compared to other models with the same functionality. Still, if budget is an issue, this is a great choice.
Credit: Laura Casner
REASONS TO BUY
On/off switches
Smart charging port
REASONS TO AVOID
Only USB 3.0 ports
Requires AC
Bulky
If you know that you will be connecting USB 3.0 devices and lots of them, the Atolla Powered USB hub is the way to go. This model has seven slots on top of the housing that each has power buttons so you can pick and choose which devices are connected to your computer at any given time. The Atolla also includes one smart charging port at the end of the device with a high enough power output to charge phones and tablets, bringing the total number of USB 3.0 ports to eight.
The Atolla Powered isn't exactly ideal for traveling for a couple of critical reasons. First of all, the use of the included power adapter cord is required, so you need to be sure that you're near a wall plug. This model is also very bulky — some USB hubs are a fraction of the size. When you consider the added bulk from the power cord, this package takes up quite a bit of room in a laptop bag or briefcase. Still, if you know you want a large number of USB 3.0 ports and that you won't be moving your hub around much, we'd say the Atolla is a fantastic choice.
Credit: Laura Casner
REASONS TO BUY
Stylish
Unique design
REASONS TO AVOID
Lacks HDMI
No card readers
If you like your functional products to be beautiful, too, check out the LENTION 4-in-1 USB hub. With a classy rose gold wrap, you'll be getting away from the monotonous grays and silvers of most other hubs. We also enjoy the T design of the C13 — it's a nice break from most other hubs' long, skinny design. This 4-in-1 hub includes one USB C port, one USB 3.0 port, and two USB 2.0 ports, so if that's all you need, then look no further.
The LENTION has a few significant shortcomings, though. For one, it lacks an HDMI. If you have a newer laptop and you're looking to hook up to an external monitor or TV, this is a pretty big deal. The C13 is also devoid of any type of card reader. If transferring media directly from an SD or Micro-SD card is your goal, you're going to need a different model. If all you're looking for is an excellent-looking USB hub with a few ports, this is still a great choice.
Credit: Laura Casner
REASONS TO BUY
Good port configuration
Ethernet port
REASONS TO AVOID
Very pricey
The Satechi Aluminum offers similar performance to many of the other USB hubs in our review that are similar in appearance, and it has an Ethernet port. We also like that the SD and Micro SD card slots are on the front of the hub, but the USB 3.0s and the HDMI port on the back. This makes sense for those who will be using their hub in a more permanent setting than those who are always traveling.
The biggest drawback that we can see with the Satechi Aluminum is the price. Unless you can find this model on sale, it likely makes sense to go with a more affordable USB hub.
Credit: Laura Casner
Why You Should Trust Us
After hours of research, we narrowed our selection down to the top models for several applications and then purchased the best ones for a real head-to-head showdown. We carefully considered their capabilities, varying functions, and overall aesthetic feel. At GearLab, we purchase retail products just like our readers to ensure zero bias, and we never accept promotional products or freebies from manufacturers. We tell it like it is, sharing our findings from our testing data.
Our full-time review editor Ross Patton took the wheel for this project. Ross has more than a decade of product review experience working on categories ranging from winter recreation equipment and camping gear to modern-age electronic devices such as Bluetooth trackers and ergonomic keyboards. Ross's professional experience, coupled with his passion for travel and his hobby of editing action sports films, ensures that he has used these products to their maximum potential.
Analysis and Test Results
Although it's hard to compare some of these products side-by-side due to their vastly different functions, styles, and features, we cover their strengths and weaknesses in the metrics of functionality, portability, and style below. The right hub for you will depend entirely on your specific applications — there is no "best" hub for everyone.
Functionality
Before we worry about portability and looks, we need to discuss what each USB hub actually does. There won't be any benefit in owning a good-looking, compact model if it doesn't perform the tasks you need.
Know Your Ports
Before making a purchase, be sure to know whether you will be plugging your hub into a USB C port or a USB 3.0 port.
Before making a purchase, be sure to know whether you will be plugging your hub into a USB C port or a USB 3.0 port.
The QGeeM has a multitude of ports, including a USB C, SD, Micro SD, HDMI, and three USB 3.0s If you aren't worried about HDMI, Ethernet, audio, or card readers, the LENTION 4-in-1 works perfectly for a USB C power throughput and has two USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0 ports. As far as Macbook-specific USB C hubs go, we love that the Anker PowerExpand Direct 7 has all of the ports mentioned above except for Ethernet and audio and that it also has an extra USB C port.
The PowerExpand Direct attaches to your Macbook Pro without any cables.
Credit: Laura Casner
When it comes to USB 3.0 hubs' functionality, it's hard to top the Atolla Powered model. With seven ports that each have their own power button and lights, plus a bonus port that charges devices such as tablets and smartphones, you'll have plenty of space to get your USB 3.0 jobs done. When it comes to smaller 3.0 hubs, the Sabrent HB-UM43 also offers lights and power buttons for each port; there are just fewer of them. If simplicity is what you're searching for, the Anker 4-Port is as basic as they come.
If multiple USB 3.0 ports are what you're looking for, the Atolla is the way to go.
Credit: Laura Casner
Portability
For those who are always on the move, portability is crucial. Whether you're working out of a messenger bag or a briefcase, you aren't going to want a bulky hub that needs a wall plug. On the other hand, if you're looking for a USB hub to be a permanent fixture in your home or workplace, this metric won't matter at all.
The best Macbook USB C hub for portability is the Anker PowerExpand Direct 7. Not only is this model tiny, but it also has no cables thanks to its direct plug design, and it comes with a plush fabric carrying case. The next smallest hubs are the Sabrent HB-UM43 and Anker 4-Port, but keep in mind these two devices are USB 3.0 only. The smallest USB C-specific hub is the LENTION 4-in-1 — it hardly takes up any room in a laptop bag at all.
The PowerExpand Direct comes with a cloth sheath for travel.
Credit: Ross Patton
The QGeeM is only slightly larger than the LENTION, although the orientation is different. The Atolla Powered is unequivocally bulky and is probably not the best model to travel with unless you have extra space, and you know you're going to need the additional USB 3.0 ports.
The Atolla Powered is a bit on the bulky side.
Credit: Ross Patton
Style
Finally, we must discuss style. We feel that a workplace that's easy on the eyes can make for added productivity, so looks can make a world of difference. As far as USB C models, we can't imagine a much prettier model than the LENTION 4-in-1. This model comes in silver, space gray, gold, and rose gold, so you can pick the color to suit your current setup or personality.
We love the rose gold color of the LENTION C13.
Credit: Ross Patton
If you're looking for a Macbook Pro-specific version and want a minimalist look with as little added clutter as possible, the Anker PowerExpand Direct 7 is the way to go. It's the same space gray as Macbooks, and with no cables, it almost looks like part of the laptop.
The Anker PowerExpand Direct almost looks like part of your Macbook Pro.
Credit: Ross Patton
Conclusion
USB hubs are an often necessary accessory for particular laptops, tasks, and applications. The difference in functionality, price, size, and style is boundless — we are here to help. It is our duty to help you make the most knowledgeable purchase possible so that you end up with the perfect USB hub for you and your wants and needs.
— Ross Patton
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