USB-C Hubs: A Buyer’s Guide and Top Picks for More Ports

Your new laptop is sleek and powerful, but it's missing one key thing: ports. The widespread adoption of USB-C, as convenient as it is, often leaves you stranded when faced with an HDMI monitor, a standard USB drive, or an Ethernet cable. A USB-C hub is the perfect solution to get back the connectivity you deserve.

To help you make an informed decision, we're breaking down the essential criteria for choosing the right multiport USB-C adapter. We'll then present a selection of products that cater to different needs, whether you're an on-the-go professional, a demanding creative, or simply a user looking to streamline their desk setup.

How to Choose the Right Multiport USB-C Adapter

Before you jump on the first model you see, let's review a few crucial technical points to ensure your future hub perfectly meets your needs.

1. Identify Your Connectivity Needs

The number and type of ports are obviously the number one criterion. Take inventory of the peripherals you use daily:

• HDMI or DisplayPort Ports: Essential for connecting one or more external monitors. A USB-C to HDMI hub is the most common model.
• USB-A Ports: For connecting mice, keyboards, external hard drives, or traditional USB flash drives. Check the standard (USB 3.0 for fast transfers, while USB 2.0 is sufficient for a mouse).
• Ethernet Port (RJ45): A USB-C Ethernet hub is a valuable ally for a stable and fast wired internet connection, which is often more reliable than Wi-Fi.
• SD/microSD Card Readers: Very useful for photographers and videographers who need to quickly offload their files.
• USB-C Power Delivery (PD) Port: Allows you to charge your laptop through the hub itself, freeing up another USB-C port on your machine. Essential!

2. Check Video Compatibility (4K, Dual Display)

If your main goal is to connect a monitor, video performance is crucial.

• Resolution and Refresh Rate: Most hubs support 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels). However, pay close attention to the refresh rate: 60Hz provides a perfectly smooth image, ideal for work and video, while 30Hz results in a noticeably choppy display.
• Dual-Display Support: To connect two monitors, you'll need a dual HDMI USB-C adapter. Be sure to check compatibility with your operating system (Windows or macOS), as behaviour can vary (extended displays vs. simple mirroring). This is a particularly sought-after feature in a MacBook Pro dock.

3. Consider Passthrough Charging (Power Delivery)

The Power Delivery (PD) feature turns your hub into a charging station. You plug your laptop's power adapter into the hub's USB-C PD port, and it powers both your machine and the connected peripherals. The supported wattage (W) is a key detail not to be overlooked: a power output of 85W to 100W is recommended for most modern laptops.

Recommended USB-C Hubs

Here is a selection of four USB-C hubs that cater to a range of uses, from the most portable to the most comprehensive.

Apple USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter

Why it stands out This official Apple adapter is the simplest and most reliable solution for users within the brand's ecosystem. It focuses on three essential connectors in an ultra-compact form factor.

Advantages

• The essentials, no frills: 1 HDMI port, 1 USB-A port, and 1 USB-C port for charging.
• Video Quality: Supports 4K resolution at up to 60Hz on recent devices.
• Seamless Integration: Designed to work flawlessly with Macs, iPads, and iPhones equipped with a USB-C port.
• Portability: Its compact design makes it easy to slip into a bag for presentations or travel.

Who is it for? For the Apple device user looking for a minimalist solution to connect an HDMI display and a USB-A peripheral, while still being able to charge their device.

MOKiN 8-in-1 USB-C Hub (HDMI+VGA+3xUSB3.0+SD/TF+PD)

Why it stands out Its versatility is its main strength, thanks in particular to the inclusion of a VGA port that ensures compatibility with older monitors or projectors.

Advantages

• The Swiss Army knife of connectivity: 8 ports including 4K@30Hz HDMI, 1080p VGA, 3 USB 3.0 ports, SD/TF card readers, and a USB-C PD charging port.
• Dual Video Output: Allows you to connect one HDMI and one VGA monitor simultaneously (in mirror mode only).
• Data Transfers: The three USB 3.0 ports offer transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbps.

Who is it for? For the user who needs to connect a wide variety of peripherals, including an older VGA monitor, and is looking for a comprehensive solution for the office or presentations.

UGREEN 10-in-1 USB-C Docking Station (2xHDMI+2xUSB-C+USB-A+SD/TF)

Why it stands out This USB-C docking station is built for performance, with high-speed data ports and support for dual 4K@60Hz displays.

Advantages

• Dual 4K@60Hz Display: Its two HDMI ports allow you to connect two high-resolution monitors with optimal fluidity, compatible with both macOS and Windows (MST).
• Ultra-Fast Transfers: Equipped with USB-C 3.2 and USB-A 3.2 ports reaching 10 Gbps.
• Pro-Level Connectivity: Includes 10 ports, featuring a Gigabit Ethernet port, SD/TF card readers, and various USB ports.
• Powerful Charging: The USB-C PD port supports up to 100W, enough to power the most demanding laptops.

Who is it for? For professionals, creatives, and remote workers who want a powerful desk setup with multiple monitors, fast file transfers, and a wired network connection.

MOKiN 9-in-2 Docking Station for MacBook Pro/Air

Why it stands out This MacBook Pro dock is specifically designed to plug into the two side-by-side USB-C ports on MacBook Pro and Air models, offering a seamless and stable integration.

Advantages

• Custom-Fit Design: Connects directly to the two Thunderbolt/USB-C ports for enhanced stability.
• Dual HDMI Output: Allows you to connect two external monitors with up to 4K@60Hz resolution on a single port, or 4K@30Hz on both.
• Generous Port Selection: Offers 9 ports, including 2x HDMI, 2x USB 3.0, 1x USB 2.0 (ideal for a keyboard/mouse), a Gigabit Ethernet port, card readers, and 100W PD charging.
• Compatibility Note: Extended dual display (two different images) is supported on Macs with Intel, M Pro, and M Max chips. However, it is not supported by Macs with the base M1, M2, or M3 chips, which only support a single external display.

Who is it for? For owners of compatible MacBook Pro or Air models who want a perfectly integrated docking station for a dual-monitor setup and maximum connectivity.

Looking for Other Options?

Does our selection not quite match your needs? If you want to explore a wider range of solutions, many other models are available.

? Discover more options in the Computer HDMI Adapters category

USB-C Hubs FAQ

What's the difference between a USB-C hub and a docking station?

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, a USB-C docking station is generally more comprehensive than a simple hub. It offers more ports, higher performance (like dual 4K@60Hz display support), more powerful charging, and is designed for a stationary desk setup. A hub, on the other hand, is typically more compact, portable, and intended for on-the-go use.

My USB-C hub gets hot. Is that normal?

Yes, it's normal for a USB-C hub to get moderately warm during use. Converting video signals, transferring data, and managing power all generate heat. Models with an aluminium casing actually help dissipate this heat. However, if the hub becomes so hot that it's difficult to touch, it's safer to unplug it and check that it isn't defective.

Are all USB-C ports compatible with video hubs?

No, and this is a crucial point. To transmit a video signal, your computer's USB-C port must support DisplayPort Alternate Mode (or DP Alt Mode). Most modern laptops (MacBook, Dell XPS, HP Spectre, etc.) include this feature, but it's not always the case on tablets or entry-level PCs. Be sure to check your device's specifications before buying. The good news is that Thunderbolt 3 or 4 ports are always compatible.