USB Type-C allows manufacturers to make thinner laptops by swapping out larger USB ports with smaller ones. We're not quite at a point where all devices support USB Type-C for easier connectivity, so if you have a cable with the traditional Type-A connector (the big bulky ones), then you will need an adapter or a hub to plug it into a PC with USB Type-C ports. We've done the research and rounded up the best USB-C hubs to fit your Macbook or Windows PC with a variety of budgets in mind.
Great Value Hub
Sinstar USB C Hub
Staff Pick
This fancy-looking USB hub is designed for MacBook, but also works just fine with Windows 10 PCs. Because of this, you're getting a hub that looks like a premium accessory and will need to part with some cash for that privilege. It comes rocking some serious connectivity with three USB 3.0 ports, HDMI, Ethernet, SD, microSD, and USB Type-C. You could hook up an extensive collection of devices, including a monitor and even wired access to the internet.
Premium Hub
Insignia 7-Port Type-C Hub
This Insignia hub includes not only two USB Type-A ports but also a Type-C pass-through and HDMI for video, as well as Gigabit LAN and SD card support. It's compact, slim, and looks stylish for packing away on long journeys.
Budget Hub
Wavlink USB-C Hub
This is a simple, budget-friendly hub with nothing but four full-sized USB Type-A ports, perfect if that's all you need from such an accessory. It's also not as pricey as other hubs on the market, saving you a little in the process.
Smart Modular Hub
Dell Dock WD19S 130W
This is a more expensive hub than other solutions included in this list, but it has a few party tricks up its ports. Firstly, it's modular, allowing you to switch out parts for replacements, just in case you need Thunderbolt at a later date. There's also VESA mounting support so you can keep it tucked away behind your monitor. For ports, we're talking USB-C 3.1 Gen 2, three USB-A 3.1 Gen 1, headset/audio jack, two DisplayPort 1.4 ports, HDMI 2.0b, USB-C DisplayPort, and Gigabit LAN.
Thunderbolt 4
Kensington SD5700T
Kensington is another leading company in the world of hubs and docking stations. Its SD5700T Thunderbolt 4 dock is a great choice if you're looking for a permanent solution and have ample space on your desk. It connects to the host with Thunderbolt 4 (or USB-C) and adds 10 ports, including one USB-A 2.0, three USB-A 3.2 (Gen 2), and three downstream Thunderbolt 4. You can get up to 90W charging power back to the laptop.
Expand your horizons with a USB-C hub
Choosing the best laptop docking stations for your office is an easy decision to make. Simply look at the ports all your accessories require, check to see if you have a spare USB-C port on your laptop, and pick one that matches or supersedes what you need.
Sinstar is our top value pick for the best USB-C hubs because it houses three USB 3.0 ports, HDMI, Ethernet, SD, microSD, and USB Type-C. That's quite the collection for a great price. If you want one of the best Thunderbolt 4 hubs & docks, look no further than the Kensington SD5700T.
But should you need something a little more feature-rich, Dell has you covered for a price. The Dell Dock WD19S may cost an eye-watering amount, but you get a modular dock that can even be mounted to the rear of your display. There are a whole host of available ports too.
via https://AiUpNow.com April 15, 2021 at 10:02AM by Rich Edmonds, Khareem Sudlow,