Which USB-C Hub Should You Get? (Checklist)

Which USB-C hub should you get for a sophisticated laptop, phone, and devices that are fast, offers great visuals, and provide ample storage but have few ports?

You might have wondered, "How do I get a super-fast internet connection with an Ethernet cable?" And then there's the challenge of connecting your laptop to a big TV or monitor for some gaming or Netflix binge-watching.

But it gets even more frustrating when you can't easily access your important photos and videos stored on an SD card. And if you're a content creator, you're missing out on the comfort of using a regular mouse and keyboard. Well, guess what? A USB-C hub can come to the rescue and make your tech life much smoother.

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Why Should a USB-C Hub Be Called Good, Bad, or Just Perfect?

Unfortunately, no licensing authority certifies a hub, leaving you to spend time searching for "Which USB-C should you get?". The worst part is, as you explore, you get even more confused with thousands of cheap and expensive brands touting to be the 'best'.

Interestingly, all brands are doing great work and giving maximum value to their customers. But, still, there are a few key points to keep in mind. Before I discuss why a hub is best, should we discuss what a USB-C hub doesn't have?

So, here is what people hate most about a USB-C hub, even if it skyrockets their credit card bills. 

USB-C Hub Getting Hot

Hubs have electronic circuits hidden in the casing. And it's natural for a hub to get hot. But that must not exceed the normal range of 25℃ / 77°F. A good manufacturer will always use engineering control to dissipate or reduce temperature. I'll talk about it later. 

Noisy Audio Quality

While most USB-C hubs provide apt video display output, they compromise the ear-pleasing media jack, commonly called the auxiliary (AUX) jack.  

Dwarf USB-C Cable

The USB-C cable that connects the Hub to the laptop is relatively short (around 6 inches),which may not be ideal for all setups in most cases. Don't you want a longer cable that fits in different use case scenarios?

USB-C Hub Sleeps as Computer Sleeps

Sometimes, when your computer goes to sleep (like a temporary rest mode), the USB-C hub might not work correctly when you wake up your computer. To make it work again, you need to unplug and then plug in the USB-C cable that connects the Hub to your computer. Although you can overcome this flaw by tweaking the computer's power management settings, Hub's outdated driver/firmware retains its effect. 

A USB-C Hub that lacks most of the previously mentioned drawbacks can be considered "Good."

Okay? But what, then, is a Perfect Hub? 

A USB-C hub that stands all the tests of the checklist displayed earlier. 

Moreover, you should know what exactly do you need from YOUR unique usage scenario. Then, find the perfect hub just for you.

🎵 Which USB-C Hub Should You Get?

I understand that you might be weary of reading the same old hubs recommendation articles, so I won't rehash the usual points. Instead, I'd like to offer you some practical insights that you might not have considered when it comes to purchasing a hub. 

· Purpose Over Quantity - When choosing a hub, it's important to think about your specific needs in terms of actual usage. Instead of simply opting for a hub with a multitude of interfaces at the same price point, consider what you'll actually use. Hubs often feature a wide array of ports, but if you rarely use some of them, it might be more worthwhile to invest in a hub with fewer, yet higher-quality and functional ports. This can lead to better performance and longevity.

· Check Charging Capabilities - Most hubs on the market now include USB-C charging ports. However, not all USB-C ports are created equal, especially in terms of power delivery. Pay close attention to the actual charging power they support. Some compact hubs without an additional AC power source may experience power limitations during use. If you plan to connect your hub to a mobile phone or tablet, make sure you use a higher-power charging adapter to ensure a stable connection and prevent issues like false charging due to excessive power consumption.

· Consider Future Needs - As your lifestyle and work requirements change, you may find yourself needing more connectivity options. However, connecting one hub to another doesn't always work seamlessly, and it's essential to understand how data and signal transmission work between hubs. Some connections may have limitations or only support one-way data flow. The overall speed of your connection is determined by the slowest link in the chain, so make sure all connections in your setup support the functionality you need.

· Do not hanging your Hub on you USB-C port - Take into account the physical setup of your workspace. Consider factors like the location of your desktop computer, the size and height of your office desk, the distance from your screen, whether you use a computer stand, its height, and how many monitors you want to connect. Everyone's setup is unique, so think about the practical aspects of where and how you'll place your hub. Properly securing your hub can prevent strain on the USB-C ports caused by dangling cables and accessories, ensuring reliable connections in the long run.

In conclusion, when selecting a hub, prioritize functionality over excess ports, understand the charging capabilities, anticipate future needs, and take into account your workspace's unique characteristics. By doing so, you'll not only make a more informed choice but also ensure a seamless and efficient hub experience for your specific requirements.

Now, as we are ending, I want to reveal the answer to the most pressing question.

Does All USB-C Hubs Get Hot?

Yes, all hubs get warm. It's OK. You don't need to be worried about that. However, it shouldn't fry your system, cables, or gadgets. Make sure your hub is built with fine class Aluminum or Plastic. To let air pass over the casing, many manufacturers use a stand to put on the dock or add little legs, so they should always stay a few centimeters high from the base. 

Which USB-C Hub Is Best: Conclusion

While many may argue that food security is a significant challenge, for tech geeks like us, port security takes the front seat. When it comes to choosing between a sleek device design and an extensive port range, we can't help but lean towards the latter, ending up searching “Which USB-C hub should Iget?”. Bid farewell to port scarcity and welcome the convenience of the perfect USB-C hub.