USB hubs and expansion cards add extra connections to a laptop or desktop PC, and they suit anyone who has run out of ports for drives, a mouse or other accessories. Our range includes external USB hubs and PCIe expansion cards that fit inside a desktop computer. Most models come from DELOCK, StarTech.com, LINDY, NEDIS and EXSYS.
How to choose a USB hub or expansion card
Hub or expansion card. A hub plugs into an existing USB port by cable and works with laptops and desktops alike. A PCIe expansion card goes into a slot inside a desktop PC and adds ports directly to the motherboard, so it is not an option for a laptop. Our range has both types, with several cards using a PCIe interface.
Host connection and speed. Check which port your computer actually has. Many of our hubs connect through USB-C (USB 3.2 Gen 1), and there are also models with USB-A, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C and the older USB 2.0 Type-B. Gen 1 is rated at up to 5 Gbit/s and Gen 2 at up to 10 Gbit/s, and the slowest link in the chain sets the overall speed.
Number and type of ports. Hubs with 4 ports are the most common in our range, and there are also models with 6, 7 or 8. If you have many devices, choose a higher count. If you often plug in newer devices with USB-C, check how many ports are of that type, because not every hub mixes USB-A and USB-C.
Power supply. A hub without an external power adapter draws energy from the computer, which is usually enough for a mouse, keyboard or memory stick. For external hard drives or charging several devices, a hub with its own power adapter is the safer choice.
Compatibility with your PC. Before buying an expansion card, make sure the motherboard has a free PCIe slot and that the card's bracket fits your case. Small-form-factor PCs often need a low-profile bracket.
Brands we carry
- StarTech.com: a Canadian company that makes connectivity accessories for professional use, including hubs, expansion cards and adapters.
- DELOCK: known for a large number of cables, adapters and interface cards covering many connection scenarios.
- LINDY: a company founded in Germany, known for cables and connectivity solutions for offices and audio-visual equipment.
- EXSYS: makes interface expansion cards, for example for extra USB or serial ports.
- AXAGON: a Czech manufacturer of USB hubs, adapters and other computer accessories.
Also in our range: NEDIS, LogiLink, ROLINE, eSTUFF, INLINE and Renkforce.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a USB hub and a PCIe expansion card?
A hub is an external device that plugs into an existing USB port, while a PCIe expansion card is installed inside a desktop PC. A hub also works with a laptop, whereas a card adds ports connected directly to the motherboard.
Does a USB hub slow down connected devices?
All ports on a hub share the bandwidth of a single port on the computer. A mouse or keyboard will not notice, but several fast external drives used at the same time through one hub can see lower transfer speeds.
When do I need a hub with an external power supply?
You need one when you connect power-hungry devices such as external hard drives or phones that you want to charge. Without it, the computer's port may not supply enough energy, and devices can disconnect or behave unreliably.
Can I connect a USB 3.2 hub to a USB 2.0 port?
Yes, USB standards are backwards compatible, so the hub will work with an older port. Speed is then limited by USB 2.0, which carries up to 480 Mbit/s, so fast drives will run slower than the hub itself allows.
