USB hubs and docks are for anyone who has run out of ports on a computer or laptop. Our range has over 200 models, from simple USB-A and USB-C hubs with four or seven ports to docks that connect several devices through a single cable.
Brands include CONCEPTRONIC, AXAGON, EQUIP, GEMBIRD and UNITEK.
How to choose a USB hub or dock
Connection to the computer. Start by checking which free port your computer has. Our range includes models with a USB-A or USB-C cable, and a few with USB 2.0 or Micro-B. If your laptop has only USB-C, choose a hub with a USB-C plug so you do not need an extra adapter.
Data transfer speed. Many of the hubs we stock run at 5 Gbit/s (USB 3.2 Gen 1). That is enough for keyboards, mice, printers and most external drives. USB 2.0 models reach 480 Mbit/s, so they suit slower peripherals only. For fast external SSDs, look for a 10 Gbit/s or faster model, though there are fewer of these.
Number of ports. Four-port models are the most common, but there are also hubs with five, seven or ten ports. It is worth buying a few more ports than you need today, because free sockets run out quickly. Keep in mind that all ports share the bandwidth of a single connection.
Power supply. A hub without an external power adapter draws current from the computer. If you plan to connect several external drives or charge phones, choose a model with its own power supply. This is more often found on hubs with a larger number of ports.
Hub or dock. A hub only multiplies USB ports. A dock may also add a video output, an Ethernet port, a card reader or laptop charging, but this differs from model to model, so check the port list of the specific product.
Brands in our range
- AXAGON: a Czech manufacturer known for USB adapters, card readers and drive enclosures.
- ICY BOX: a German manufacturer that specialises in drive enclosures and docking stations.
- DELOCK: a German manufacturer with a very large selection of connectors, adapters and cables.
- LINDY: a company founded in Germany, known for connection cables and professional connectivity solutions.
- DIGITUS: an ASSMANN brand widely used for networking and connectivity equipment.
Also in our range: CONCEPTRONIC, EQUIP, GEMBIRD, UNITEK, VENTION, LOGILINK and GRAUGEAR.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a USB hub and a dock?
A hub only adds more USB ports, while a dock usually adds other connections as well, such as a video output or an Ethernet port. If you just need more sockets for a mouse, keyboard and flash drive, a hub is enough. A dock is useful when you want to connect a laptop to a monitor and other equipment with a single cable.
Does a USB hub slow down connected devices?
A hub does not slow down an individual device, but all its ports share the bandwidth of one connection. If you use several fast drives at once, each gets only part of the available speed. For slower peripherals such as a mouse or keyboard, the difference is practically unnoticeable.
Do I need a USB hub with external power?
You need a power adapter when connecting devices that draw a lot of current: several external drives, cameras or phone charging. A keyboard, mouse and flash drive usually run fine on the computer's own power. If you are unsure, a model with external power is the safer option.
Can I connect a USB-A hub to a USB-C port?
Yes, you can use a USB-C to USB-A adapter or choose a hub with a USB-C plug. The speed then depends on the slowest link in the chain: the computer port, the adapter or the hub itself. Check that all the parts support the same USB speed.
