As technology advances, computers, especially laptops, are getting smaller, thinner, and lighter and the number of ports is decreasing. The introduction of USB Type C has pushed this trend even further, as a single port can now both deliver power and transfer data. If you have a USB-C laptop, you may be looking for a way to increase the number of ports. A USB-C hub can provide instant additional ports for your laptop* and when purchasing a hub, there are several factors to consider.
*Equipped with a USB-C port
Number and Type of Ports
Perhaps the most important decision to make is how many ports, and what type of ports, you need. For example, if you use a laptop but dislike using the track pad as a mouse, a hub with a Type-A port to plug an external mouse into may be important to you. If you’re an avid photographer who uses SD or microSD cards, and want to edit your photos on a laptop, consider a hub that contains SD or microSD slots. Or if you need to use an Ethernet cable for wired internet connections, a hub with an Ethernet port will meet your needs. Most hubs will at least come with some Type-A ports, for USB drives and Type-A devices. But if you wish to use non-Type-A devices, be sure to get a hub that has both the type and number of ports you need.
Power Delivery
In some newer laptop models, the only USB-C port is the charging port and if you wish to use a USB hub to increase your USB connectivity options, getting a hub that offers power delivery may also be important to you. Power delivery allows you to charge your laptop while using your hub, thus ensuring your laptop remains charged while working across devices.
Size
You may also want to consider the size of the hub as well as cable length. Some hubs are designed to be more portable, so that you can take them with you as easily as you take your laptop, some are designed to be more stationary, remaining plugged in at your desk. Again, consider how you wish to use the hub. If you plan on taking it with you, a slimmer, more portable design may be better. Cable length may be important if, for example, you intend to keep it at your desk and want to make sure it reaches your computer with ease.