{"id":1480498,"date":"2021-11-01T01:00:00","date_gmt":"2021-11-01T01:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html"},"modified":"2021-11-01T01:00:00","modified_gmt":"2021-11-01T01:00:00","slug":"the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet","status":"publish","type":"station","link":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/plato-data\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet\/","title":{"rendered":"The best USB-C hubs for your laptop or tablet"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div id=\"link_wrapped_content\">\n<section class=\"wp-block-bigbite-multi-title\">\n<\/section>\n<p>Laptops with USB-C ports are now almost ubiquitous, as the world moves away from slower USB-A ports to this faster, more versatile connection standard. Some laptops <em>only<\/em> have USB-C connections\u2014which means a USB-C hub is essential if you want to connect a wired USB-A mouse or keyboard, or an older wired printer. Of course, it\u2019s also a handy way to add an HDMI connection, an SD card reader, or simply more USB ports for storage.<\/p>\n<p>Fortunately, there are so many USB-C hubs available with various combinations of legacy I\/O that finding one to meet your particular needs is as easy as ordering off a menu.&nbsp;We\u2019ve divided our picks into two categories: basic and full-featured, the latter denoting hubs that offer greater extensibility, including the ability to charge phones. The only problem? Some hubs come and go as manufacturers replace and\/or update them.<\/p>\n<p>Fortunately, USB-C hubs are cheap and interchangeable. Expect to pay about $20 for the \u201cbasic\u201d category of hubs that combine USB-A ports and SD card slots and little more. The more advanced full-featured options can run up to $70 or so, depending upon which ports are included. Paying $50 for an advanced hub is pretty standard, though. For whatever reason, the shelf life of a USB-C hub is short! If one of our listings is sold out, there may be an \u201cupgraded\u201d replacement available.<\/p>\n<p>We purchased numerous USB-C hubs to highlight details you can\u2019t tell from the specs, like whether the ports are crowded together or the hub runs a bit hot. Below our picks you can find information on <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/3318573\/usb-c\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html?page=2#toc-4\">how to choose a USB-C hub versus a high-speed Thunderbolt dock&nbsp;<\/a>and <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/3318573\/usb-c\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html?page=2#toc-5\">how we tested<\/a> our review units. Our <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/3596491\/best-thunderbolt-docks-for-a-laptop-pc.html\">recommendations for the best Thunderbolt docks<\/a> can be found in a separate story. We update our USB-C hub recommendations periodically with new advice on what USB-C hub to buy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"extendedBlock-wrapper block-coreImage undefined\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image\"><a class=\"zoom\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/images.idgesg.net\/images\/article\/2020\/02\/lenovo-yoga-c740-15iml-left-side-100833717-orig.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet.jpg\" alt=\"lenovo yoga c740 15iml left side\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/a><figcaption>\n<p>A USB-C hub connects to the USB-C on the side of your laptop, such as on this Lenovo Yoga C740. In this example, the left port is used for charging, so you\u2019d need to buy a USB-C hub with a charging input to use with this slot. (Of course, you could also buy a hub&nbsp;<em>without<\/em> charging capabilities and use it in the other USB-C port, to the right of the charging port.)<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"the-best-basic-usb-c-hubs\">The best basic USB-C hubs<\/h2>\n<p>You shouldn\u2019t have to think too hard about a basic USB-C hub. Look for a good price, consider whether you want to pay a little extra for something like Ethernet, and try to find products with a good warranty for added peace of mind. Avoid any hubs that connect directly to the port rather than using a cord, as they can block other ports. Also look for longer cords, for easier placement of the hub. You won\u2019t need to worry about software drivers, although a warranty is always a good idea.<\/p>\n<p>Our picks for the best basic USB-C hubs have changed as of May 2021. The Aukey USB-C hub that we previously recommended has either been discontinued or has gone out of stock. We\u2019ve replaced it with the <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B071KPDC3D?tag=pcworld02-20&amp;asc_refurl=https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\" data-product=\"390458\" data-manufacturer=\"17101\" class=\"product-link\" data-vars-product-name=\"Lention C15\" data-vars-product-id=\"390458\" data-vars-category=\"Computers and Peripherals\" data-vars-manufacturer-id=\"17101\" data-vars-manufacturer=\"Lention\" data-vars-vendor=\"amazon\" data-vars-po=\"amazon\" data-vars-link-position-id=\"000\" data-vars-link-position=\"Body Text\" data-vars-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B071KPDC3D\">Lention C15<\/a>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart product-chart\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"lention-c15\">Lention C15<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"Lention C15\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-1.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>Lention\u2019s C15 USB-C hub falls into the \u201cbasic\u201d category, offering just three USB-A Type 3.0 ports, an SD card reader, and a microSD\/TF reader\u2014and that\u2019s it. Note that the USB-A ports are spaced far enough apart to support standard-sized USB keys and cords, but without much wiggle room.<\/p>\n<p>At just under $21, the C15 is dirt-cheap, and tucks easily into your bag.&nbsp;It\u2019s worth noting that customers who have previously purchased the Lention C15 complained that the hub became unreasonably hot and in some instances apparently interfered with their Wi-Fi connection. We noticed no such issues, and the hub warmed up to just 84 degrees Fahrenheit under load, nothing to sweat about.<\/p>\n<p>The C15 features an extra-long USB-C charging cable that stretches a full foot, substantially more than the several inches other USB-C hub makers allocate. If you\u2019re concerned at the prospect of a dangling hub, the C15 is for you! Just remember to flip the microSD card upsde down before inserting it\u2014it\u2019s an odd quirk that some USB-C hubs suffer from, including this one.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"amazonbasics-usb-3-1-type-c-to-3-port-usb-hub-with-ethernet-l6lud001-cs-r\">AmazonBasics USB 3.1 Type C to 3 Port USB Hub with Ethernet (L6LUD001-CS-R)<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"AmazonBasics USB 3.1 Type C to 3 Port USB Hub with Ethernet (L6LUD001-CS-R)\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-2.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>The AmazonBasics&nbsp;L6LUD001-CS-R provides three USB 3.1 Type A ports, plus gigabit ethernet, to your laptop\u2019s existing USB-C port. There are no HDMI or charging inputs; this is merely an incremental step up from the AmazonBasics <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01MCTET84\/ref=twister_B06ZY5GMN9?_encoding=UTF8&amp;psc=1?tag=pcworld02-20&amp;asc_refurl=https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\">L6LUD012-CS-R<\/a>, which forgoes the ethernet capabilities.<\/p>\n<p>This hub is handy for those who don\u2019t have or don\u2019t trust Wi-Fi on the go. The lengthy 14-inch cord adds some flexibility to your desktop layout. The hub performed comparably to the others we\u2019ve tested, and there weren\u2019t any issues with temperature or power.<\/p>\n<p>At press time, the price was only $3 or so above the price of the aforementioned AmazonBasics L6LUD012-CS-R, which makes this a no-brainer if you just want a basic hub. Though the hub ships in both black and white, we noticed Amazon will occasionally discount one or the other by a few dollars.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"the-best-full-featured-usb-c-hubs\">The best full-featured USB-C hubs<\/h2>\n<p>Upper-tier USB-C hubs typically feature even more ports, including ethernet, HDMI, and power inputs. This is essentially the dongle equivalent of a docking station. Many of these fancier hubs feature the same basic 6-inch cable as their more basic cousins, meaning they may dangle from tablets and some laptops. And then, of course, there\u2019s <a class=\"product-link\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B0818PKS4B?tag=pcworld02-20&amp;asc_refurl=https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\" data-product=\"392744\" data-manufacturer=\"10080\" data-vars-product-name=\"IOgear Dock Pro (GUD3C02B)\" data-vars-product-id=\"392744\" data-vars-category=\"Computers and Peripherals\" data-vars-manufacturer-id=\"10080\" data-vars-manufacturer=\"IOGEAR\" data-vars-vendor=\"amazon\" data-vars-po=\"amazon\" data-vars-link-position-id=\"000\" data-vars-link-position=\"Body Text\" data-vars-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B0818PKS4B\">IOgear\u2019s Dock Pro<\/a>, which is as close to a true dock as we\u2019ve seen.<\/p>\n<p>Save for the Dock Pro, all of these hubs use a single display connection, which is fine for everyday use. But if you have the desk space, even a pair of basic 1080p displays can make a difference. We also tested a <a class=\"product-link\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B082KMKQQX?tag=pcworld02-20&amp;asc_refurl=https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\" data-product=\"392393\" data-manufacturer=\"17427\" data-vars-product-name=\"Lasuney Triple Display USB Type C HUB\" data-vars-product-id=\"392393\" data-vars-category=\"Computers\" data-vars-manufacturer-id=\"17427\" data-vars-manufacturer=\"LASUNEY\" data-vars-vendor=\"amazon\" data-vars-po=\"amazon\" data-vars-link-position-id=\"000\" data-vars-link-position=\"Body Text\" data-vars-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B082KMKQQX\">Lasuney dual-HDMI hub<\/a>, which you\u2019ll find in our list of reviewed products at the end. Unfortunately, it didn\u2019t make the cut because of performance issues.<\/p>\n<p>We\u2019ve pushed our Editor\u2019s Choice-winning QGeeM hub down into our \u201creviewed category\u201d for May 2021, and replaced it with the <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B07WGSBV2X?tag=pcworld02-20&amp;asc_refurl=https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\" data-product=\"392948\" data-manufacturer=\"15587\" class=\"product-link\" data-vars-product-name=\"Aukey CB-C70 USB C Hub Adapter with Wireless Charger 5-in-1\" data-vars-product-id=\"392948\" data-vars-category=\"Hubs and Controllers\" data-vars-manufacturer-id=\"15587\" data-vars-manufacturer=\"Aukey\" data-vars-vendor=\"amazon\" data-vars-po=\"amazon\" data-vars-link-position-id=\"000\" data-vars-link-position=\"Body Text\" data-vars-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B07WGSBV2X\">Aukey CB-C70<\/a> for its wireless charging capabilities. We also dropped the IOGear Dock Pro, only because much of its functionality cann be offered by cheaper solutions. One of our top picks, the VAVA VA-UC010, has unfortunately been discontinued.<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart product-chart\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"anker-upgraded-usb-c-hub-adapter-7-in-1-a83460a2\">Anker (Upgraded) USB-C Hub Adapter (7 in 1, A83460A2)<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"Anker (Upgraded) USB-C Hub Adapter (7 in 1, A83460A2)\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-3.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-wrapper\"><span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-label\">MSRP:<\/span> <span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-value\">$39.99<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>Can a USB-C hub feel elegant? This one does. Anker\u2019s 7-in-1 USB-C hub feels surprisingly weighty (3.5 ounces), with a premium metallic (aluminum and polycarbonate) sheen. It\u2019s also a bit more expensive than its rivals. Anker\u2019s hub was among the coolest we\u2019ve tested under load, at about 87 degrees.<\/p>\n<p>Overall, Anker\u2019s hub is well designed, with adequate spacing between the two USB-A ports. Instead of three Type A ports, there\u2019s a USB-C connection for data, plus a second USB-C port for power input at up to 85W rated. An HDMI port allows for 4K\/30Hz video or 1080p\/60Hz video to a single external display, standard for the category. ethernet is excluded, however, so you\u2019ll need to use Wi-Fi instead. Cord length is about 8.5 inches, above the standard 6-inch length.<\/p>\n<p>Anker\u2019s hub was among the fastest we tested to deliver data under load, including simultaneous data transfer between USB-A ports while the SD ports were active. The hub offers an 18-month warranty, and it even ships with a carrying pouch.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"hiearcool-usb-c-hub-ucn-3286\">Hiearcool USB-C Hub (UCN 3286)<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"Hiearcool USB-C Hub (UCN 3286)\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-4.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-wrapper\"><span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-label\">MSRP:<\/span> <span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-value\">$35.99<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>From the box, to the design, to the product number, Hiearcool\u2019s UCN 3286 appears to be a cousin to the FlexPow UCN 3281. The difference is that Hiearcool\u2019s UCN 3286 drops one of the three USB 3.0 ports and replaces it with a USB-C charging port capable of accepting up to 100W of input power.<\/p>\n<p>The 4.5-inch UCN 3286 is made of aluminum, and connects to your laptop via a USB-C cord that\u2019s a bit less than 6 inches. During use, the CN 3286 warmed, though never uncomfortably. The hub supplied enough power for our bus-powered 10Gbps external SSD, even with other devices connected, and the read\/write performance of all devices that we connected met expectations. That included the SD cards, too.<\/p>\n<p>Though the HDMI connection required a few seconds to connect, it worked flawlessly. We were able to power our test notebook via the USB-C input into the hub, and charge a connected phone at normal (not \u201cfast\u201d or \u201cultra-fast\u201d) charging speeds at a measured 4.86W.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"other-usb-c-hubs-we-tested\">Other USB-C hubs we tested<\/h2>\n<p>Your USB-C hub choices extend far beyond what we\u2019ve recommended. Hubs mix and match different port types, and different form factors, too.<\/p>\n<div class=\"extendedBlock-wrapper block-coreImage undefined\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image large\"><a class=\"zoom\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/images.idgesg.net\/images\/article\/2021\/05\/flexpow-hiearcool-usb-c-hub-100887145-orig.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-5.jpg\" alt=\"flexpow hiearcool usb c hub\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/a><figcaption>\n<p>Even though two USB-C hubs may have wildly different brand names, you may sometimes find that they\u2019re otherwise identical.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Pay attention to our ratings, prices, and the quirks of each hub to find alternatives that may fit your specific needs. Pay attention to the prices, too! Deals can be found on older USB-C hubs, which may be discounted as manufacturers push newer models.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart product-chart\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"qgeem-7-in-1-type-c-hub\">QGeeM 7 in 1 Type C Hub<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"QGeeM 7 in 1 Type C Hub\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-6.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-wrapper\"><span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-label\">MSRP:<\/span> <span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-value\">$27.99<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>The QGeeM 7-in-1 Hub I received tried to buy me off with an in-box promotion that promised a $10 Amazon card if I left a positive review. It doesn\u2019t need one, as it\u2019s a compact, lightweight little hub that covers all the basics, save ethernet.<\/p>\n<p>The three USB 3.0 ports are adequately spaced. An HDMI port at the end of the dock supports a single 4K display at 30Hz (or 1080p at 60Hz)\u2014par for the course for a typical USB-C hub. QGeeM\u2019s hub includes support for both SD and microSD slots, using the older, prevalent UHS-I SD card standard. Both cards share the same controller, allowing them to be used one card at a time. It does leave out ethernet, though.<\/p>\n<p>QGeeM\u2019s webpage indicates that it accepts 100W (3A) power delivery though the USB-C input port, though the in-box documentation says it allows for 60W maximum. Nevertheless, a USB-C charger connected to the port reported that it was charging adequately. Under load the hub wamed to about 94 degrees, a comfortable temperature.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>QGeeM doesn\u2019t seem to offer warranty support, and the packaging skimps on niceties like a carrying bag. But this lightweight hub offers everything else a typical user will need, and for a great price.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"aukey-cb-c70-usb-c-hub-adapter-with-wireless-charger-5-in-1\">Aukey CB-C70 USB C Hub Adapter with Wireless Charger 5-in-1<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"Aukey CB-C70 USB C Hub Adapter with Wireless Charger 5-in-1\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-7.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-wrapper\"><span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-label\">MSRP:<\/span> <span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-value\">$49.99<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>Aukey\u2019s 5-in-1 USB-C charging hub with 100W wireless charging (CB-C70) has one flaw you should know about: At press time, a similar <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/AUKEY-ethernet-Delivery-Charging-MacBook\/dp\/B07Z7H3GJK?tag=pcworld02-20&amp;asc_refurl=https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\">Aukey 8-in-1 hub<\/a>&nbsp;(the CB-C71) that offers&nbsp;<em>more<\/em>\u2014ethernet and an SD card slot\u2014is $10&nbsp;<em>less<\/em>. But the CB-C70 offers a decent amount for your money, too.<\/p>\n<p>The Aukey CB-C70 connects to your PC via a 5-inch USB-C cable. Underneath the rounded corners of the CB-C70 (it measures about 3.66\u00d73.2 inches, and weighs 5.6 ounces) hide two USB 3.0 (5Gbps) ports, a USB-C power input, and an HDMI port capable of 4K\/30Hz resolution on a single external monitor. The zinc alloy\/ABS hub can serve as a bus-powered hub, but it won\u2019t wirelessly charge without external power. When connected, it gets warm, but not worryingly hot. Port spacing is fine.<\/p>\n<p>Aukey claims that the hub will wirelessly fast-charge a Qi-compatible Samsung phone when the phone is placed upon the top of the hub, and when the hub is being charged with Samsung\u2019s Fast Charging wall charger or a Quick Charge 2.0\/3.0 charger. We\u2019ve confirmed that. The surface of the CB-C70 is flat, but there\u2019s nothing preventing you from inadvertently knocking it off. Even with external power connected, the hub didn\u2019t supply enough juice to power a 10Gbps bus-powered external SSD, but worked fine on two bus-powered hard drives, though performance fell slightly. And yes, you can charge while copying files.<\/p>\n<p>Aukey\u2019s CB-C70 comes with a 24-month warranty.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"cowzuc-usb-c-hub-and-usb-to-usb-c-adapter\">Cowzuc USB C Hub and USB to USB C Adapter<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"Cowzuc USB C Hub and USB to USB C Adapter\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-8.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-wrapper\"><span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-label\">MSRP:<\/span> <span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-value\">$18.99<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>Cowzuc\u2019s USB-C hub is a cheap, popular choice for a USB-C hub on Amazon, and the low price is arguably its best selling point. There are three USB 2.0 ports, and a USB 3.0 port at the end.<\/p>\n<p>The Cowzuc USB-C Hub 4-in-1 is tiny, measuring about 3.25 inches long, with a cable length of about 4.75 inches. It weighs 0.63 ounces (rated), and is made of metal. Heat was never an issue at all. Spacing, however, may be: The USB-A ports along the side will barely accommodate USB keys and devices, and if one of them is oddly shaped, it might not fit.<\/p>\n<p>The performance of this hub is a mishmash. For USB devices like mice and keyboards, this hub offers no potential problems. But only the end port is USB 3.0 rated, delivering an acceptable 923MB\/s in our testing. The other three ports are USB 2.0 with anemic read-write speeds of between 27- and 36MB\/s. If you\u2019re transferring files from one external device to another, it will take a while.<\/p>\n<p>Though natively USB-C, Cowzuc\u2019s USB-C hub ships with a USB Type A sleeve that fits over the USB-C port, allowing it to be used with a USB-A connector. While that\u2019s handy, that also throttled the USB 3 port somewhat when it was used, as performance slipped to about 407MB\/s.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"iogear-dock-pro-gud3c02b\">IOgear Dock Pro (GUD3C02B)<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"IOgear Dock Pro (GUD3C02B)\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-9.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-wrapper\"><span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-label\">MSRP:<\/span> <span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-value\">$124.95<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>The&nbsp;IOgear Dock Pro (GUD3C02B) is the Big Kahuna of USB-C docks\u2014and, given what it does, you almost wonder why it wasn\u2019t made a Thunderbolt dock instead. At&nbsp;2.9 x 11.02 x 0.5 inches, it\u2019s a thin, long, slanted wedge that props up your laptop with a grippy rubber strip. It\u2019s a true dock, with a number of rear-facing ports optimized for dual displays, with a foot-long USB-C cable to boot.<\/p>\n<p>Specifically, there\u2019s three USB 3.0 (Type A ports), one HDMI 1.4 port, one DisplayPort 1.2 port, Gigabit ethernet, one SD\/SDHC port and a microSD slot (both USH-I), VGA, a 3.5mm jack, and a USB-C port for up to 100W of external charging. Some of the additional ports come with some caveats: The VGA connection must be used solo, for example, and not in conjunction with either DisplayPort or VGA. Remember, all that data passed along the USB-C cable can interfere with one another, but IOgear plays it a bit conservative; the manual says that two hard drives can\u2019t be connected simultaneously, but that\u2019s not true.<\/p>\n<p>Be advised that the BC 1.2 port provides up to 1.5A of power for quick-charging phones, though the port isn\u2019t compatible with the specialized quick-charging schemes of OnePlus or Samsung. (Phones from both manufacturers reported \u201ccharging\u201d when connected, rather than \u201cFast charging\u201d.) Thermal issues weren\u2019t a problem, and performance was surprisingly good, even with HDMI and ethernet connected. The doc supports Power Delivery 3.0 up to 85W, and consumes 15W by itself; in other words, if you have a100W laptop charger feeding power to the hub, 85W will be left over for your laptop to use.<\/p>\n<p>A price of about $125 or so is way more than you\u2019d expect to pay for a USB-C hub, but it\u2019s still less than a higher-speed Thunderbolt dock. Still, this USB-C hub is more of a USB-C dock; it\u2019s not really portable, and the form factor lends itself to a permanent spot on your desk.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"rshtech-usb-c-hub-powered-4-port-usb-splitter-rsh-516\">RSHTECH USB C Hub Powered 4 Port USB Splitter (RSH-516)<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"RSHTECH USB C Hub Powered 4 Port USB Splitter (RSH-516)\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-10.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-wrapper\"><span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-label\">MSRP:<\/span> <span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-value\">$21.99<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>This Rshtech RS-516 USB-C port splitter uses an unusually long 2-foot cable to split a 5Gbps USB 3.0 input (over USB-C) and divide it among four USB 3.0 Type A ports. It\u2019s also uncommon to see those ports controlled by LED-lit button switches, and an optional&nbsp;5V\/2A adapter powering the whole affair.<\/p>\n<p>The port splitter takes the 5Gbps input and splits it among the ports, which are only active if the corresponding LED-lit button is depressed. This applies to both power (the hub will charge, though not fast-charge phones) and data. Port spacing isn\u2019t an issue, and the ABS\/aluminum construct handles heat well.<\/p>\n<p>The Rshtech hub wouldn\u2019t always identify and connect to a bus-powered SSD, but it found every other device we connected to it. The performance of a powered external hard drive plunged to about 20 percent when all ports were occupied, but surged to about 67 percent when the optional power cable was plugged in\u2014 which Rshtech recommends when connected to external storage.<\/p>\n<p>That cable (with a proprietary plug) is a pain, and the issues finding our SSD gave us pause. But we really liked how the hub allowed us access to external hard drives, which spin up and down loudly and randomly.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"iogear-travel-pro-usb-c-mini-dock-gud3c460\">IOGEAR Travel Pro USB-C Mini Dock (GUD3C460)<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"IOGEAR Travel Pro USB-C Mini Dock (GUD3C460)\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-11.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-wrapper\"><span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-label\">MSRP:<\/span> <span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-value\">$41.99<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>At&nbsp;2.8 x 0.31 x 1.22 inches, IOgear\u2019s Travel Pro Mini Dock is an odd duck: an inexpensive, relatively tiny USB-C dock that plugs directly into your laptop, without a connecting cord.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThere\u2019s no way this will work,\u201d you might think\u2014but it does, with just enough room for your laptop\u2019s USB-C charger to sneak in one side of the dock, next to an HDMI cord, then a USB key or cord, and a 3.5mm jack. (The Mini Dock supports up to 60W of power in from an external charger.)<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s fine, of course, if your laptop\u2019s USB-C port is all by its lonesome. Otherwise, the Travel Pro Mini Dock will block ports as it tries to offer expansion capabilities\u2014and that\u2019s a problem for laptops like the Asus ZenBook, which forego a 3.5mm headphone jack but cram their USB-C ports too close together to make IOgear\u2019s dock feasible.<\/p>\n<p>We like the idea, but there are cheaper, better docks out there with more flexibility.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"kingston-nucleum\">Kingston Nucleum<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"Kingston Nucleum\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-12.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-wrapper\"><span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-label\">MSRP:<\/span> <span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-value\">$49.99<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>Kingston\u2019s Nucleum USB-C hub is slightly ununsual in that it offers just two USB 3.1 (5Gbps) Type A ports for mice, keyboards, hard drives, and the like, but adds a pair of USB-C ports. One\u2019s used for power delivery, and that can be a bit of a problem.<\/p>\n<p>The Nucleum passed our performance tests just fine, as did virtually every other hub. Those tests included plugging an external SSD and an external USB hard drive. When we tried to connect two USB hard drives with an HDMI cable attached, one drive wouldn\u2019t be read\u2014there wasn\u2019t enough power. Connecting an external charger to the Nucleum solved the problem.<\/p>\n<p>Otherwise, we really liked the USB port spacing, one on either side. The Nucleum measures 5 x 1.8 x 0.5 inches, perfectly fine for placing inside a backback. The cord measures about 5.75 inches, just a bit shorter than we\u2019d like. The SD card slot is rated at UHS-II, while the microSD slot is rated at UHD-I. The hub\u2019s aluminum construction never warmed to uncomfortable temperatures.&nbsp; A two-year warranty with free technical support is included.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"anker-a8331\">Anker A8331<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"Anker A8331\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-13.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>About the length and shape of a cigar, Anker\u2019s AB331 USB-C hub is for those whose notebook or tablet contains a USB-C port as well as an microSD\/SD card slot, such as the <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/3293414\/microsoft-surface\/microsoft-surface-go-review.html\">Microsoft Surface Go<\/a>. There are three USB 3.0 Type A ports, Gigabit ethernet, and an HDMI connector\u2014but that\u2019s it. You also get Anker\u2019s good reputation for supporting its products.<\/p>\n<p>The hub looks nice, and there\u2019s even a cloth carrying case for its slim 4 x 0.75-inch form. But the USB ports are jammed close enough that three standard USB sticks next to one another barely fit\u2014and watch out if a USB stick is slightly oversized. Why couldn\u2019t Anker have used both sides of its USB-C hub for ports?<\/p>\n<p>(Since we wrote this review, Anker rearranged the hubs and took about $10 off the price, with this <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Anker-Upgraded-Adapter-ethernet-Pixelbook\/dp\/B07X8ZLYLR\/?tag=pcworld02-20&amp;asc_refurl=https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\">redesigned version<\/a>.)<\/p>\n<p>The 6-inch USB-C cord is too short for a tablet with a USB-C connector mounted in its top half, from which this hub would dangle. There\u2019s also no USB-C charging. You shouldn\u2019t have any concerns with overheating, though\u2014we copied files from two USB-connected drives while also downloading a file over ethernet, with no slowdown or noticeable heat gain.<\/p>\n<p>At press time the price was $46\u2014a bit high compared to other hubs we\u2019ve tested.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"lenovo-usb-c-travel-hub-gx90m61235\">Lenovo USB-C Travel Hub (GX90M61235)<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"Lenovo USB-C Travel Hub (GX90M61235)\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-14.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>Lenovo\u2019s&nbsp;<span id=\"productTitle\" class=\"a-size-large\">GX90M61235 USB-C travel hub retains the same black, boxy aesthetic as generations of ThinkPad laptops. The odd pairing of connectors\u2014VGA, HDMI (4K at 30Hz), a single USB 3.0 port, and Gigabit ethernet\u2014means you\u2019ll be using your laptop\u2019s keyboard, possibly a mouse, and either display connector. We\u2019d rather see Lenovo pick either VGA&nbsp;<em>or<\/em> HDMI and add another USB port.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"a-size-large\">To be fair though, all of the ports performed as expected and there was no perceptible heat increase when we tried to saturate the ethernet link and USB-C port simultaneously.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span class=\"a-size-large\">There are better deals elsewhere, in terms of price and ports. But if you need a VGA connector, this is one of the few options available.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"iczi-izec-th01\">ICZI IZEC-TH01<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"ICZI IZEC-TH01\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-15.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>ICZI\u2019s IZEC-TH01 breaks from the typical USB-C hub design, forgoing the \u201ccandy bar\u201d form factor in favor of a radial hub. Two USB 3.0 Type-A ports are seated next to SD and microSD card slots, HDMI (4K at 30Hz)&nbsp;<em>and<\/em> VGA, Gigabit ethernet, and a USB-C input connection for charging your laptop.<\/p>\n<p>The extra-long 11-inch cable wraps around the outside of the hub for storage. Sadly, the radial design means&nbsp;<em>other<\/em> cables (VGA, HDMI, etc.) will end up going in all directions.&nbsp;The center of the hub is taken up by a tray with a magnetic faceplate, large enough to store a dongle.&nbsp;Otherwise, our hub came with no documentation whatsoever, just a 24-month warranty card that\u2019s double the duration of most of its competition.<\/p>\n<p>The IZEC-TH01 does get a bit warm under load (copying files from an SD card to a PC while also copying files from an external hard drive to an SSD, while streaming YouTube) but only to about 88 degrees Fahrenheit. It was a tad faster than other hubs, too. VGA and HDMI can be used simultaneously, and the hub supplies up to 900mA via USB-A for charging.<\/p>\n<p>At 3.75 inches in diameter, IZEC-TH01 is a bit big and bulky for our tastes, especially with cables going every which way. Otherwise it\u2019s a good value, and narrowly misses an Editor\u2019s Choice award.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"amazonbasics-l6lud012-cs-r\">AmazonBasics L6LUD012-CS-R<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"AmazonBasics L6LUD012-CS-R\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-16.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>This AmazonBasics USB-C hub is as simple as its name suggests: one extra-long (14 inches!) USB-C cable to your PC, connected to four USB 3.1 Type A ports for your legacy devices. Note that most hubs provide 5Gbps USB 3.0 ports, while this one provides 10Gbps USB 3.1 connections; you\u2019d probably never notice the difference.<\/p>\n<p>We connected the hub to two bus-powered drives (one a 2.5-inch hard drive, and the other an SSD) plus a USB 3.0, bus-powered DVD-RW drive. We noticed a slight drop in performance while playing back a DVD and copying data between the two drives. But while one commenter on Amazon\u2019s site noticed a power drop, we were able to burn a disc just fine with our drive\u2014it seems enough power gets through the cable. The hub\u2019s surface temperature didn\u2019t rise more than a few degrees above the ambient temperature.<\/p>\n<p>This hub is cheap, basic, and delivers satisfactory performance for a great price. It lacks an SD slot or some of the other connections other hubs include, however, which are literally available for just a few dollars more.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"VA-UC006\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-17.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>While VAVA\u2019s VA-UC006 packs a ton of functionality in a compact package, several&nbsp; design flaws mar what\u2019s otherwise a solid product. This \u201ckitchen sink\u201d hub measures slightly less than 4 x 2 inches, and combines three USB Type A ports, microSD\/SD slots, HDMI (4K at 30Hz), and Gigabit ethernet, plus a USB-C charging port for charging your laptop.<\/p>\n<p>While the 6-inch cord is already shorter than we\u2019d like, that\u2019s just one limitation. The&nbsp;USB ports are spaced too closely together for even a slightly oversized USB key, like a <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/SanDisk-Cruzer-Glide-Flash-Drive\/dp\/B008AF380Q\/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&amp;qid=1544214095&amp;sr=8-2&amp;keywords=sandisk+cruzer+glide?tag=pcworld02-20&amp;asc_refurl=https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\">SanDisk Cruzer Glide<\/a>. The microSD card slot awkwardly forces you to lever the card in with a fingernail, making the card flush with the hub. Because of the hub\u2019s thinness, the ethernet port has a hunged dropjaw, which has the potential to break. During use, the hub heated up to 99 degrees Fahrenheit under load\u2014not uncomfortable, but among the warmest we tried.<\/p>\n<p>We really like VAVA\u2019s goal of combining everything you want it in a small form factor, and we used the VA-UC006 to help set up our tests. But there are other, better alternatives.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"wp-block-product-chart-item product-chart-item\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper\">\n<h3 class=\"product-chart-item__title-wrapper--title\" id=\"lasuney-triple-display-usb-type-c-hub\">Lasuney Triple Display USB Type C HUB<\/h3>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper product-chart-item__image-outer-wrapper--small\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__image-wrapper\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"product-chart-item__image\" alt=\"Lasuney Triple Display USB Type C HUB\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-18.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information\">\n<div class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-wrapper\"><span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-label\">MSRP:<\/span> <span class=\"product-chart-item__information--rrp-value\">$59.99<\/span><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"product-content\">\n<p>Lasuney\u2019s 10-in-1 hub offers a lot for your money, including an unusual mix of not one, but two HDMI ports, and even a DisplayPort. ethernet\u2019s included, too, letting the hub replace many of your wired connections.<\/p>\n<p>Lasuney\u2019s hub is well made, with good port spacing. It doesn\u2019t get uncomfortably warm, either.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s a lot of data to be putting over the USB-C port, though, and while we really like the pair of HDMI ports for dual-display configurations, the fact is that you\u2019ll probably need to limit yourself to a pair of 1080p displays to avoid saturating the bus and slowing down the connection.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>The problem we found, though, is that the SD card slot is way too slow. It took twice as long to transfer data compared to other hubs we tested. In all fairness, our other disk-to-disk tests took about the same amount of time. We really like the flexibility that the Lasuney hub offers, but there are other competing hubs that will do a better job.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<h2 id=\"how-to-choose-a-usb-c-hub-versus-a-thunderbolt-dock\">How to choose a USB-C hub versus a Thunderbolt dock&nbsp;<\/h2>\n<p>Here\u2019s where to start: Take a look at the peripherals you own, or plan to buy. Do you have an old external hard drive that uses a traditional USB-A cable? Do you manually back up photos from an SLR via its SD card? Or is your Wi-Fi connection unreliable enough that you\u2019d prefer ethernet? Figure out what ports you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n<div class=\"extendedBlock-wrapper block-coreImage undefined\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image large\"><a class=\"zoom\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/images.idgesg.net\/images\/article\/2018\/12\/usb-c-hub-power-shot-100781806-orig.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-19.jpg\" alt=\"usb c hub power shot\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/a><figcaption>\n<p>This laptop has several USB-C ports, but if yours has just one, you\u2019ll want to daisy-chain the laptop\u2019s power cord by plugging it directly into the hub, like so.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>It\u2019s also important to take stock of your laptop or tablet\u2019s ports: Does it have one USB-C port or two? If your device only has one port, is there a separate charging connection? If your laptop or tablet has a USB-C port and&nbsp;<em>uses it exclusively for charging<\/em>, you may want a USB-C hub with a dedicated charging input port. Note how much input power it allows for, and confirm that will be sufficient for your laptop. Otherwise, you\u2019ll be forced to choose between charging your laptop and accessing other devices, which makes little sense.<\/p>\n<p>Keep in mind that the hub\u2019s power port is for taking power&nbsp;<em>in<\/em>&nbsp;to your laptop, and not&nbsp;<em>out<\/em>&nbsp;to a phone. But your hub may still be able to charge your phone, with some caveats. A \u201cbus-powered\u201d USB hub connects to your laptop&nbsp;<em>and<\/em> pulls power from it, which it has to share with several devices. A \u201cpowered\u201d or \u201cpower delivery\u201d USB hub will take power from the wall, route it through your hub, and share it with any device connected to it. These devices will make more power available for fast charging your phone. (Your hub won\u2019t enable specialized charging like the <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/3530319\/samsung-galaxy-s20-ultra-review.html?page=2#toc-4\">Samsung Galaxy S20<\/a>\u2019s Super Fast Charging, however, even if you use the supplied Samsung cable. You\u2019ll still need to connect your phone to its charger for that.)<\/p>\n<p>Some newer, pricier laptops now come with Thunderbolt connections, which offer a greater amount of bandwidth than a traditional USB-C connection. Remember, every device that connects to a hub shares bandwidth, but often the USB-C port delivers enough so as not to cause a problem.<\/p>\n<p>The main exception is displays. USB-C delivers enough bandwidth to drive an external 1080p or 4K display, even two (provided your hub has a pair of HDMI or DisplayPort connectors). But while USB-C can drive a pair of 1080p displays at a good 60Hz, it can only run 4K displays at 30Hz, which can be fatiguing on the eyes.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>If you want to run at 60Hz with your 4K monitor\/s, you\u2019ll need a generally more expensive Thunderbolt dock. Our pick for Thunderbolt docks is the <a class=\"product-link\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B07HN4HCYQ?tag=pcworld02-20&amp;asc_refurl=https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\" data-product=\"392736\" data-manufacturer=\"10080\" data-vars-product-name=\"IOgear Thunderbolt 3 Travel Dock (GTD300)\" data-vars-product-id=\"392736\" data-vars-category=\"Computers and Peripherals\" data-vars-manufacturer-id=\"10080\" data-vars-manufacturer=\"IOGEAR\" data-vars-vendor=\"amazon,B&amp;H Photo Video\" data-vars-po=\"amazon\" data-vars-link-position-id=\"000\" data-vars-link-position=\"Body Text\" data-vars-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B07HN4HCYQ\">IOgear GTD300<\/a>, but you can find lots of options in our <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/3596491\/best-thunderbolt-docks-for-a-laptop-pc.html\">roundup of best Thunderbolt docks<\/a>. If you pursue this route, pay attention to details: You\u2019ll need to ensure the dock and monitor support&nbsp;Dual-Mode DisplayPort 1.2 (DP++) ports, and the HDMI ports are rated at HDMI 2.0. The cables, too, need to be rated at the appropriate speeds. A DisplayPort 1.1 connection supports 4K at just 30Hz.<\/p>\n<p>There\u2019s one more wrinkle. Some of the latest laptops (including the <a class=\"product-link\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/click.linksynergy.com\/deeplink?id=*l6kYCuH720&amp;mid=24542&amp;u1=2-1-402858-1-391987-10994&amp;murl=https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/en-us\/store\/configure\/Surface-Pro-7\/8N17J0M5ZZQS?crosssellid=drawer1&amp;selectedColor=86888a&amp;preview=&amp;previewModes=\" data-product=\"391987\" data-manufacturer=\"10994\" data-vars-product-name=\"Microsoft Surface Pro 7\" data-vars-product-id=\"391987\" data-vars-category=\"Computers\" data-vars-manufacturer-id=\"10994\" data-vars-manufacturer=\"Microsoft\" data-vars-vendor=\"amazon,Microsoft\" data-vars-po=\"amazon\" data-vars-link-position-id=\"000\" data-vars-link-position=\"Body Text\" data-vars-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/en-us\/store\/configure\/Surface-Pro-7\/8N17J0M5ZZQS?crosssellid=drawer1&amp;selectedColor=86888a&amp;preview=&amp;previewModes=\">Surface Pro 7<\/a>) include DisplayPort 1.4 and Display Stream Compression (DSC) 1.2, which allow the PC to run a pair of 4K@60Hz displays (or a single 4K@120Hz display)&nbsp;<em>plus<\/em> the attached USB hardware at full speed. For that, you\u2019ll need to have a specialized hub like the <a class=\"addLink\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Cable-Matters-Multiport-DisplayPort-ethernet\/dp\/B06Y5N3YCD?tag=pcworld02-20&amp;asc_refurl=https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\" data-product-name=\"CableMatters&nbsp;201046 USB-C hub\" data-vars-product-name=\"CableMatters&nbsp;201046 USB-C hub\" data-vars-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Cable-Matters-Multiport-DisplayPort-ethernet\/dp\/B06Y5N3YCD\" data-product-id=\"000000\" data-vars-product-id=\"000000\" data-bkmfr=\"CableMatters\" data-vars-bkmfr=\"CableMatters\" data-bkvndr=\"Amazon\" data-vars-bkvndr=\"Amazon\" data-editparamvalues=\"CableMatters&nbsp;201046 USB-C hub|CableMatters|https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Cable-Matters-Multiport-DisplayPort-ethernet\/dp\/B06Y5N3YCD|Amazon|CableMatters&nbsp;201046 USB-C hub|2|Add Link\">CableMatters&nbsp;201046 USB-C hub<\/a><a class=\"removelink\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html#\"><span class=\"removelink-tooltip\" data-removeparamvalues=\"CableMatters&nbsp;201046 USB-C hub|CableMatters|https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Cable-Matters-Multiport-DisplayPort-ethernet\/dp\/B06Y5N3YCD|Amazon|CableMatters&nbsp;201046 USB-C hub|2|Add Link\">Remove non-product link<\/span><\/a>&nbsp;, which allows for 60W host charging with the needed bandwidth to drive a single external display, or something more expensive for a pair of 4K displays over 60Hz refresh rates.<\/p>\n<div class=\"extendedBlock-wrapper block-coreImage undefined\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image large\"><a class=\"zoom\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/images.idgesg.net\/images\/article\/2019\/03\/thunderbolt-3_intel-1-100789844-orig.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-20.jpg\" alt=\"thunderbolt 3 USB4\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/a><figcaption>\n<p>Thunderbolt cables and ports include the little lightning-bolt icon, which differentiates them from the otherwise unmarked USB-C cables.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>Because USB-C is common among Macs, Windows PCs, and phones, some hubs align their branding with a particular platform. Go ahead and use that&nbsp;<a class=\"product-link\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B071G83L1J?tag=pcworld02-20&amp;asc_refurl=https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\" data-product=\"390460\" data-manufacturer=\"15070\" data-vars-product-name=\"Anker A8331\" data-vars-product-id=\"390460\" data-vars-category=\"Computers and Peripherals\" data-vars-manufacturer-id=\"15070\" data-vars-manufacturer=\"Anker\" data-vars-vendor=\"amazon\" data-vars-po=\"amazon\" data-vars-link-position-id=\"000\" data-vars-link-position=\"Body Text\" data-vars-outbound-link=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/product\/B071G83L1J\">Anker hub<\/a>&nbsp;that\u2019s billed as being \u201cfor MacBook Pro 2016\/2017, Chromebook, and XPS\u201d with any Windows PC\u2014we did, and it works just fine. You won\u2019t even need any special software or drivers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"how-we-test-usb-c-hubs\">How we test USB-C hubs<\/h2>\n<p>We originally divided this guide into three categories: USB-C to USB-A hubs; a second group that added microSD and SD card slots; and a third, \u201ckitchen sink\u201d collection that would add a variety of additional ports. We were very pleased to discover that some manufacturers offer SD\/microSD slots for the price of USB-C to USB-A hubs, so we consolidated those features into one \u201cBasic\u201d category.<\/p>\n<p>We used bus-powered peripherals to test each hub: an SSD, a hard drive, and a rewriteable DVD drive, all to make sure enough power was being delivered. We also ran speed tests on those hubs with ethernet connections, just to detect any anomalous results. We performed spot checks with other peripherals.<\/p>\n<p>We conducted standardized tests to transfer a file from the SSD to the laptop; from the hard drive to the SSD; and then from an SD card to the PC, while simultaneously transferring files from the hard drive to the SSD. In some cases we used AJA\u2019s System Tool app to run read and write tests on connected drives. In almost all cases, the performance was identical, with a spread of about 3 percent\u2014good news for you, as that\u2019s one less thing to worry about.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>We measured the surface temperature while these tests were run.&nbsp;You\u2019ll see some buyers on Amazon pages complaining about how hot a hub gets; some do get on the warmer side.<\/p>\n<p>We looked at how SD cards were inserted\u2014you\u2019d be surprised how many don\u2019t work unless they\u2019re inserted upside down!&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>We noted the cord length, as shorter cables limit your options when positioning the hub around your laptop or tablet. Worst case, a short cable causes a hub to dangle from a tablet whose USB-C port is mounted toward the top. We\u2019d also recommend avoiding any hubs that connect directly to the port rather than using a cord, as they can block other ports.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"extendedBlock-wrapper block-coreImage undefined\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image large\"><a class=\"zoom\" rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/images.idgesg.net\/images\/article\/2018\/12\/usb-c-hub-keyd-2-100781809-orig.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"http:\/\/107.21.231.196\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-or-tablet-21.jpg\" alt=\"usb c hub keys 2\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/a><figcaption>\n<p>Why bother testing something as ridiculous as the spacing between the USB Type A ports? Because if you don\u2019t, you can run into this situation: Because the ports are spaced too closely together, only one of these USB keys can be inserted at a time.<\/p>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p>After testing about a dozen USB-C hubs, we can confirm that some no-names perform just as well as their more well-known counterparts, and for less money, too. One thing to keep in mind: Because price is so critical to our recommendations, know that some of the prices may change as manufacturers offer sales. Therefore some hubs we&nbsp;<em>didn\u2019t<\/em> recommend primarily based on price could become more purchase-worthy.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><em>Updated on May 5, 2021 with additional recommendations and more reviews.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<div class=\"affiliate-disclaimer\">\n<p><em>Note: When you purchase something after clicking links in our articles, we may earn a small commission. Read our<\/em> <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/about\/affiliate-link-policy\"><em>affiliate link policy<\/em><\/a> <em>for more details.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"entry-bio\">As PCWorld&#8217;s senior editor, Mark focuses on Microsoft news and chip technology, among other beats. He has formerly written for PCMag, BYTE, Slashdot, eWEEK, and ReadWrite.<\/div>\n<p> <a rel=\"noopener\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html\">Source: https:\/\/www.pcworld.com\/article\/402858\/the-best-usb-c-hubs-for-your-laptop-tablet-or-2-in-1.html<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1480499,"template":"","meta":{"_eb_attr":"","type":"","auto_type":false,"post":"","stream":"","stream_url":"","waveform_data":[],"duration":0,"bpm":0,"downloadable":false,"download_url":"","purchase_title":"","purchase_url":"","post-count-all":0,"like_count":0,"download_count":0,"editor_note":"","copyright":"","captions":[]},"genre":[95],"artist":[99],"mood":[],"activity":[],"station_tag":[3785,3618,5723,8917,5208,8617,5706,5446,5707,5380,5503,5648,5283,7752,3620,5848,9833,6107,5253,3765,3705,3622,8540,7687,6957,3625,5586,6041,6163,5753,5452,7782,8154,3628,9834,5921,5588,3791,5849,3766,5589,6361,5924,6998,5767,5926,3631,6167,5928,3633,7215,8931,3876,5395,3634,3635,5755,6293,5561,3768,5600,7285,5663,7230,5686,5664,5214,6453,3803,5934,3745,5258,3637,6172,5689,5461,9835,7929,7259,5608,3810,3811,3817,5611,5406,5692,5941,3642,6484,5408,5875,3748,5566,3643,3884,7293,3823,7682,5667,8157,3716,3717,5668,3645,3646,5221,3647,8013,8150,7984,8019,5239,5223,9836,3649,5760,6967,6960,3719,5947,8668,5476,5569,5817,3653,3654,7362,6481,9837,3656,5796,3830,6011,5570,5225,3659,3832,3754,3834,3757,8542,6093,5426,3662,3663,3665,7232,6837,3667,3865,7791,3668,5483,6028,5881,3758,5545,3723,5429,8221,3670,6132,6409,5485,5486,5628,3672,7347,3778,8745,6992,5439,5575,5822,5440,5630,6944,5631,3674,3675,3837,8431,6029,3678,3840,6020,5677,5958,3679,5492,9020,3680,7751,3681,3729,5696,7689,5272,6993,5800,5635,6088,5825,5442,3760,6141,7796,3782,6462,6358,6077,3684,6488,5576,3686,8042,6143,9838,3689,5748,5889,8947,3690,6959,5231,9642,3692,5890,3783,3844,3845,3693,3871,3732,3695,8043,5783,7477,3733,3872,8205,3697,3852,8016,3698,5750,9839,5645,3701,3734,3764,5786,5277,9840,3874,3735],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/station\/1480498"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/station"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/station"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1480499"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1480498"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"genre","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/genre?post=1480498"},{"taxonomy":"artist","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/artist?post=1480498"},{"taxonomy":"mood","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/mood?post=1480498"},{"taxonomy":"activity","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/activity?post=1480498"},{"taxonomy":"station_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/platogaming.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/station_tag?post=1480498"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}