Whether it's standard USBs or something that uses the connection, like a mouse and keyboard, we know the struggle of always running low on slots. Even the best computers can struggle to have enough ports to accommodate a mouse, keyboard, controller, and so forth. Luckily, you can always pick up a USB hub to help solve this issue.
A USB hub can come in a few different designs and shapes, but they often resemble a charging station or a power socket extension. Some are small, usually with four ports, but others are large and can go all the way up to 16 slots. Regardless, the function is the same; they are an extension of your device's available USB ports.
You can use a USB hub for more than just expanding the number of available ports. They're a great tool for organising and streamlining your setup. Want to keep all of your memory stick storage in one place? Connect them using a hub and once finished, you can just disconnect the hub from the device instead of each memory stick individually. In fact, if you're low on slots and want to transfer files between sticks, a hub allows you to cut out the part where you would move a file onto your device, swap sticks, and then move it into the new one. Now, you would just be able to drag and drop.
That's a brief gist of what a USB hub is and what it can do, but there's more to discuss, including alternative options, other ways to use a USB hub, and what downsides one has compared to a direct connection.
What about a USB splitter?
In many cases, a USB splitter is just another name for a USB hub, and the two are used interchangeably. However, a USB splitter does differ from a hub in a few ways.
Most notably, a splitter doesn't have a hub to which you connect your devices. Instead, each connection is run through a small cable to the main head. You might prefer a splitter if your desk has room for a few more wires but not enough space for a hub to sit.
Another thing to consider regarding a USB splitter is its capacity. Whereas a hub can range from four to 16 slots, a splitter usually has between two and four. If you only need to turn one USB connection into two, then a splitter might be a more manageable and practical choice. Although, if you want to create an organised system, we suggest a USB hub.
What else can a USB hub do?
While the model pictured above is a simple and basic USB hub, options are out there for more versatile designs. For example, some models allow you to turn individual ports on and off, so you can flip them around to have only what you need available.
The best of the best for USB hubs are those that aren't just limited to the titular connection type. Some have connections for HDMI and other cables, making them a much more versatile tool. These are especially useful if you have a laptop, as the extra slots go a long way to matching the convenience of a full computer.
A USB isn't just capable of connecting devices and transferring files; some connections can charge devices. This is less of an ability of a USB hub but rather an aspect of the USB port. If you have ever tried to transfer files from your phone to your computer, you might have noticed that it charges the device as you use it. Sometimes, you will need to switch between file transfer and charging modes, but other times, both can happen simultaneously. Naturally, with a USB hub, this allows you to charge multiple devices via a USB connection. It won't be as strong or as fast as other methods, but it can help out when you need it most.
Why not use a USB hub at all times?
Have you ever used a charging station and noticed that the more plugged in, the slower the speed is compared to plugging a single one in at the wall? The same principle stands for a USB hub. Whatever device you use with it, whether a laptop, computer or something else, the hub will connect through one port. As such, the overall speed will be a bit hampered.
Luckily, this isn't much of an issue for transferring files. At worst, the process might take a couple of seconds, maybe up to a minute longer. It will be more noticeable with charging, but it should still get the job done.
The real drawback is with external accessories such as a mouse, keyboard, or controller. Even just with a small cable extension and nothing else plugged in, you might notice a bit of delay from what you press or move to when it occurs. It's minor, but the more you have plugged in, the worse this input lag gets.
As such, we suggest you prioritise your main available USB slots for these items. Losing in a video game to a delayed motion is one kind of frustration, but a sluggish mouse can be maddening. It's okay in a pinch, but definitely far from ideal.
Of course, these weaknesses are easy to avoid. So long as you use a USB hub for its main purposes, you'll have a handy little tool for keeping organised and not stressing over juggling ports.
Kyle Purves is a Commercial Content Writer for What’s The Best, with an avid interest in all things gaming and tech.
They’re well-versed in reviewing a variety of tech products, with a soft spot for speakers and earphones. They’re also no stranger to hunting down the best savings, always wanting to get the best deal possible. Outside of work, they can often be found playing through an RPG, listening to Japanese noise rock, or trying to catch up with their ever-expanding list of shows and anime to watch. If possible, they try to play Dungeons and Dragons a couple of times a week, but getting six adults to be free at the same time is easier said than done.
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