What is a USB Hub? (and what type should I buy?)

What is a USB hub?

A USB hub is a device that expands the number of USB ports available on a computer or other host device. It allows you to connect multiple USB peripherals and accessories simultaneously, overcoming the limitation of limited built-in USB ports on many devices.

It’s basically a unit with several USB ports on it and a lead with one USB plug which you plug into your computer. Simple!

USB hubs typically have a single upstream port (the lead with the plug on it) that connects to the host device, such as a computer, and multiple downstream ports (the extra USB sockets) where you can plug in USB devices.

When you connect a USB hub to your computer, it acts as an intermediary, allowing you to connect more devices than the available USB ports on your computer would permit.

Why do I need a USB hub?

Here’s what USB hubs do and why you might want one:

1. Expand USB Connectivity: USB hubs provide additional USB ports, allowing you to connect more devices to your computer. This is particularly useful when you have multiple peripherals like printers, scanners, external hard drives, keyboards, mice, webcams, or other USB-powered devices.
2. Simplify Cable Management: By using a USB hub, you can reduce cable clutter. Instead of having multiple USB cables connected directly to your computer, you can connect them to the hub, keeping your workspace tidy and organized. Who doesn’t love that?
3. Convenience and Flexibility: USB hubs offer convenience and flexibility by providing easy access to multiple USB ports in one centralized location. This makes it simple to connect and disconnect devices as needed, without having to reach around your computer or constantly swap cables.
4. Compatibility: USB hubs are compatible with various USB devices, regardless of whether they use USB 2.0, USB 3.0, or USB-C standards. They ensure backward compatibility, allowing you to connect older USB devices to newer USB ports, and vice versa.
5. Power Management: Some USB hubs come with dedicated charging ports or provide sufficient power to charge USB-powered devices like smartphones, tablets, or Bluetooth headphones even when your computer is turned off or in sleep mode.
6. Easy Portability: Portable USB hubs are compact and lightweight, making them ideal for travellers or people who frequently use multiple USB devices on the go. These hubs are often bus-powered, drawing power directly from the host device without requiring an additional power source.

Overall, a USB hub is a practical solution to overcome the limitation of available USB ports on your computer or other devices. It simplifies connectivity, reduces cable clutter, and enhances your ability to connect and use multiple USB devices simultaneously.

What are the different types of USB hubs?

USB hubs come in different types based on their functionality and design. Here are the common types of USB hubs:

Self-Powered USB Hub: This type of hub requires its own power source, usually through an AC adapter. It can provide full power to each port, making it suitable for high-power devices like external hard drives.

Bus-Powered USB Hub: A bus-powered hub draws power directly from the host device (e.g., computer or laptop) to operate. It doesn’t have its own power supply and may have limitations on the power it can provide to connected devices.

Portable USB Hub: These hubs are compact and designed for easy portability. They usually have a smaller number of ports and may be bus-powered or have an optional external power supply.

Desktop USB Hub: Desktop hubs are larger and typically designed for use in a fixed location. They often come with multiple ports and may have additional features like built-in card readers, audio ports, or Ethernet ports.

USB-C Hub: USB-C hubs are specifically designed for devices with USB Type-C ports. They allow you to connect various peripherals and accessories to devices like laptops or tablets that have limited or no other ports.

USB 3.0/3.1 Hub: These hubs support the USB 3.0 or USB 3.1 standard, offering faster data transfer speeds compared to older USB 2.0 hubs. They are backwards compatible with USB 2.0 devices but provide the best performance when used with USB 3.0/3.1 compatible devices.

USB Hub with Charging Ports: Some hubs come with dedicated charging ports that can provide higher power output for charging smartphones, tablets, or other USB-powered devices even when the hub is connected to a computer.

Industrial USB Hub: Industrial hubs are designed to withstand harsh environments and may feature rugged construction, higher durability, and protection against dust, moisture, or temperature extremes.

These are the common types of USB hubs available on the market. When choosing a USB hub, consider the number of ports you need, the power requirements of your devices, the transfer speed you desire, and any specific features or compatibility requirements for your setup.

Too much choice! Which hub should I get?

If I had to choose just one type of USB hub, I would recommend a USB-C hub.

USB-C hubs have become increasingly popular due to the growing adoption of USB Type-C ports on modern devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones. USB-C hubs offer several advantages:

1. Versatility: USB-C hubs provide a wide range of connectivity options. They typically feature USB Type-C ports, USB-A ports, HDMI or DisplayPort outputs, SD card slots, Ethernet ports, and more. This versatility allows you to connect various peripherals, displays, and accessories to your device through a single USB-C port.
2. Data Transfer Speed: USB-C hubs often support USB 3.1 or even Thunderbolt 3 technology, which provides high-speed data transfer rates. This allows for faster file transfers and seamless usage of high-bandwidth devices like external storage drives or video capture devices.
3. Power Delivery: USB-C hubs with Power Delivery (PD) capabilities can deliver power to charge your laptop or other USB-powered devices while simultaneously connecting peripherals. This is particularly useful when you have limited power outlets or need to charge multiple devices at once.
4. Compact and Portable: USB-C hubs are usually compact and lightweight, making them highly portable. They are convenient for travel or working on-the-go, allowing you to expand your device’s connectivity options without sacrificing mobility.
5. Future-Proofing: USB-C has become a widely adopted standard, and many devices now feature USB-C ports. By investing in a USB-C hub, you ensure compatibility with current and future devices, reducing the need for additional adapters or dongles.

However, it’s important to note that the choice of a USB hub depends on your specific needs and the devices you own.

If you primarily use devices with older USB-A ports, a USB 3.0/3.1 hub might be more suitable. Similarly, if you have a significant number of high-power USB peripherals, a self-powered USB hub might be the better choice.

Consider your requirements and the devices you own before making a decision.