USB hubs let you add USB ports to your existing setup by converting a singular USB socket into a hub of USB plug ports. You can use them to add external storage, connect a computer mouse or keyboard, charge and connect smartphones, and more. If you need more USB port access for your device, a USB hub may be the perfect solution.
Finding the best USB port hub for your needs can be a complicated task. As such, we’ve hunted down some of the most impressive USB hubs in Australia and gone over their features in-depth. Additionally, a helpful buyer’s guide has been included so that you can more easily narrow down your options.
1. Orico 4 Port Powered USB 3.1 Gen2 USB Hub – Best Overall
With a 3.1 Gen 2 interface, this USB hub has a potential transmission speed of 10 Gbps. It effortlessly adds four USB 3.0 ports to your computer in a matter of seconds. It’s also backwards compatible with USB 3.0, 2.0 and 1.1 ports. With plug and play operation, you don’t need any software. Simply hook it up and you’re all set.
This USB hub features an ergonomic 32° angle of inclination making it easier to connect your devices. A simple, elegant, and nicely designed USB port hub, it’s perfect for a range of applications. The Orico 4 Port USB Hub is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux. This is easily one of the best USB hubs on the market.
What We Like:
- Fast transfer speeds for efficient performance
- Compatible with Mac OS, Linux, and Windows
- USB Gen 3.1 with backwards compatible connection
- Fast, dependable, and efficient
What We Don’t Like:
- Shifts around a bit due to its lightweight design
2. Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Ultra Slim USB Hub – Best Portable Option
![Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub, Ultra-Slim Data USB Hub with 2 ft Extended Cable [Charging Not Supported], for MacBook, Mac Pro, Mac Mini, iMac, Surface Pro, XPS, PC, Flash Drive, Mobile HDD](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31EVVjapPYL.jpg)
Anker is known for its fast and reliable device chargers. This USB 3.0 is perfect for anyone who needs something compact and portable with a damage-resistant design and quick data transfer speeds. It connects easily with USB 3.0 ports and adds four USB ports to your device. Its 5Gbps data transfer speeds are ideal for movies, music, or transferring a photo library in just a few seconds.
With its long cord and protective design, this is the perfect portable USB hub. However, we wouldn’t recommend this hub for anyone who needs a USB hub for heavy-duty usage at their desk. It’s better for use while travelling and for transferring information on-the-fly.
What We Like:
- Fast data transfer speeds
- USB 3.0 compatible
- Durable protective design
- Long cable makes it portable and versatile
What We Don’t Like:
- Not ideal for heavy-duty use
3. Anker PowerExpand+ Adapter 7-in-1 USB C Hub
This 7-in-1 USB C PD has impressive expansion capabilities. With its USB C hubs and an array of other connectivity features, it’s a versatile and capable option. It connects to Mac OS USB C ports and comes with 4K 30Hz HDMI and a high-speed Ethernet port. It also includes SD/TF card readers and 2 USB A data ports. With its high-velocity pass-through charging, you’ll have plenty of power delivery as well. It even comes with a travel pouch.
This USB C hub can be used to solve an array of issues and is optimized for those who need all-in-one data transfer functionality. Keep in mind that this USB C hub may not be compatible with all laptops, especially those with more than 45W pass-through requirements.
What We Like:
- Versatile 7-in-1 functionality
- Durable design
- USB C hub
- Includes travel pouch
What We Don’t Like:
- Not compatible with some devices
4. Sabrent 4-Port USB Hub with Individual Power Switches
This is a durable and well-made option that can connect almost any USB type device. It’s perfect for organizing smartphones, tablets, printers, external hard drives, keyboards, and more. It features four LED indicators which display the power status for each port.
If you want to stay organized as you connect your devices, this may just be the best USB hub for you. Other key features of this hub include fast 5 Gbps transfer speeds, USB 3.0 ports, and USB 2.0 and USB 1.1 compatibility. It works with Mac OS, Windows, and Linux. Keep in mind that while this device transfers data well, it has not been designed for charging smartphones, laptops, and the like.
What We Like:
- Mac OS, Linux, and Windows compatibility
- LED indicator lights
- Backward compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1
- Ideal for organization and data transfer
What We Don’t Like:
- Limited power output
5. Alogic USB-C Dock Hub with 4K
This Alohic USB C dock offers next-generation USB C connectivity and a peripheral design that works with Thunderbolt 3 enabled computers. This is an advanced USB hub that has universal connectivity for an array of ports including an HDMI with 4K/30Hz port, a mini display port, a gigabit ethernet port, and two USB 3.1 (USB-A) ports for standard USB devices and accessories.
It also has micro SD and SD card readers and a USB-C port. This USB C port supports 100W of power delivery, so it can be used for charging a laptop and data transmission simultaneously. This is the ultimate all-heavy-duty in-one USB hub. It’s ideal for anyone who wants full connectivity and cross-platform transfer compatibility in the same device. The only downside is its high price tag.
What We Like:
- Full universal connectivity
- Includes USB 3.0 ports and USB C port
- Powerful charging and data transmission
- Supports HDMI
What We Don’t Like:
- Comparatively expensive
6. Novoo USB Type C Hub with SD Card & 4K HDMI Port
This little device boasts a multitude of useful access ports in one compact and lightweight package. It has some of the best user ratings and provides a range of connectivity features for fast and easy data transfers from pretty much anywhere.
With its 4K display adapter, you can mirror or extend the display from a laptop to a TV. The USB 3.0 ports run at 5 Gbps and let you connect accessories or transfer data at high speeds.
What We Like:
- Supports USB 3.0 accessories
- Two USB ports
- Comes with 4K display adapter
- SD and TF card reader access
What We Don’t Like:
- Not very powerful
7. Smartdevil 4 Port Portable USB 3.0 Hub
For fast and stable data transmission, the Smart Devil 4 Port USB 3.0 hub is one of the best options out there. It has four USB port synchronicity and can transmit large-capacity hard disk information. With its 10TB hard disk, it can be easily read and transfer data with stable transmission and power.
This device supports USB 3.0 synchronous data transmission and USB flash drive devices as well. It offers plug and play operation and is compatible with Windows, Mac OS X, Linux, and more. It also can be used for charging with 500mAh output. While it charges slowly, it still can power a range of smartphones and devices.
What We Like:
- Best option for table data transmission
- Supports USB 3.0
- Powers devices
- Compatible with most systems
What We Don’t Like:
- Slow charging
USB Hub Buyer’s Guide
USB hubs can serve a range of functions depending on their connectivity features. In this guide, we will go over the common specifications of these devices to help you decide which options will work best for you.
USB 3.0 vs USB C
There are currently two popular types of USB ports: USB C ports and USB 3.0 ports.
USB C types are reversible and can be plugged in facing up or down. USB C ports can usually support USB types 3.1, 3.0, and 2.0. USB 3.0 ports provide faster charging and data transmission speeds.
While most 3.0 USB ports transmit data at around 5 Gbps, Gen 1 USB 3.1 ports can transmit information at speeds as high as 10 Gbps. Since USB-C may soon be the new standard for charging devices and transferring data, having a compatible hub available is a good idea.
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Operating System Compatibility
Not all devices are cross-platform compatible. This means that cords or accessories that have been designed to work with a Macbook might not work with Dell laptop. Fortunately, most USB 3.0 and USB C hubs are compatible with a range of operating systems. Generally, USB hubs will work with Mac OS, Google Chromebook, Windows and Linux.
However, USB hubs are in many cases incompatible with Nintendo Switch, Macbook USB SuperDrive, Dell XPS, or Samsung phone and tablet stock adapters. This is because some charging ports can not produce enough power to support devices. If one of your devices is among the unsupported systems listed, you may be able to transfer data, but you will probably not be able to transmit power.
Charging and Data Transfer
Some USB hubs have been designed primarily for the transfer of data between devices. Others provide slower transfer speeds but offer power output so that you can charge your devices. Additionally, some USB hubs have been designed to do both jobs efficiently. The best USB charging and data transfer devices will feature plenty of connectivity ports and support various operating systems with separate ports to provide charging functionality.
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Features to Look For
One of the easiest ways to ensure that you’ll select the ideal USB hub for your needs is to know what features matter most to you and then narrow down your options from there. Here are some features to keep an eye out for.
• Data Transfer Speed – Transfer speeds can vary and are measured in Gigabits Per Second (Gbps). The higher the Gbps, the faster the data transfer will be.
• Number of USB Ports – Devices may offer anywhere from one to eight ports. Make sure that you have plenty of USB ports available for the devices you need to connect.
• Operating System Compatibility – One of the most common issues people see when transferring is operating system incompatibility.
• Charging and Power Input/Output – If you plan to charge your device from a hub setup, be sure that the power output and input specifications match.
