Systems Report: Best USB-C hubs and dongles: Add ports to your laptop or tablet

{"title": "Top USB-C Adapters and Docking Solutions: Enhancing Connectivity for Laptops and Tablets", "body": ["USB-C adapters effectively expand the connectivity options on your computer, enabling links to older devices such as input devices, input peripherals, output devices, and beyond. Selecting based on expert guidance ensures you avoid unnecessary expenses for these expansions."], ["Standard suggestions for adapters should satisfy the majority of everyday users. For those seeking advanced features, consider specialized selections like desktop-oriented USB-C docking units, premium DisplayLink options, and top Thunderbolt models. These advanced choices demand higher investment but deliver expanded capabilities. A concluding FAQ section assists in making informed decisions."], ["A compact USB-C adapter is a constant companion in my travel bag. Incorporating one into your routine is advisable."], ["PCWorld's credibility in evaluating USB-C adapters and offering purchase guidance stems from decades of delivering computing product insights since 1983. Our evaluation protocols are thorough, free from commercial influences. Reviewers often acquire items independently, though manufacturers occasionally supply evaluation samples."], ["This USB-C adapter suits nearly every user. It features USB-A slots for traditional input devices and peripherals, an HDMI output, a USB-C slot, and a network connection—essentials for such hardware. For additional video outputs or more USB-C links, opt for a higher-tier model."], ["Elegance in a USB-C adapter? This model achieves it. The Anker 8-in-1 USB-C adapter weighs 4.5 ounces, exuding quality through its aluminum and polycarbonate construction that remains temperature-stable. Design-wise, it provides sufficient separation for its dual 5Gbps USB-A slots, includes a 5Gbps USB-C data port, and a secondary USB-C for power delivery up to 85W rated capacity. (Input supports 100W, output limited to 85W.) Card readers for SD and microSD are also integrated."], ["Previously, the Anker 7-in-1 was my choice. The two share similarities, but this version introduces a network port and an HDMI supporting 60Hz refresh—improving on the prior 30Hz limit, which felt increasingly obsolete."], ["Backed by an 18-month warranty and including a storage pouch, this adapter strikes an optimal balance of features and cost."], ["Ideal for simple connectivity boosts, particularly with aging laptops, this adapter offers one HDMI limited to 4K at 30Hz, suitable for a single 1080p screen or a 1440p display. Its dual USB-A ports accommodate input devices or output peripherals. For budget-friendly reliability, it performs adequately."], ["Navigating the vast selection of USB-C adapters on platforms like Amazon can be daunting. Price plays a significant role in my selections, and this personally tested option delivers diverse ports at an exceptional value. (It originated from early iterations of this guide, without dedicated per-product critiques.) Available in various colors, it's practical for locating in luggage."], ["Equipped with two USB-A ports, slots for microSD and SD cards, and an HDMI output, this covers the basics. It handles up to 100W USB-C power input."], ["Shifting from the typical elongated dongle shape, this stable alternative merges docking functionality with portability. The OWC Travel Dock avoids the instability of flimsy dongles, suiting travel or organized workspaces at a low cost."], ["Its integrated USB-C cable is cleverly concealed but somewhat brief when deployed. As a 5-in-1 unit, it supplies core needs: dual USB-A for peripherals, network access, HDMI, and USB-C charging. (Update: An added SD slot increased the price slightly due to tariffs and enhancements.) Full evaluation: OWC USB-C Travel Dock."], ["For contemporary laptops needing extensive legacy port access affordably, the Monoprice unit stands out. Compatibility requires a recent model; an older Surface Book 2 with 8th-gen processor yielded no video output, while newer Samsung and Surface devices with 12th- and 13th-gen chips functioned smoothly."], ["Resembling and priced as a full dock, this 13-in-1 USB-C adapter supports dual 4K outputs (one at 60Hz, one at 30Hz) via compression on 10Gbps USB-C. Ports abound: five USB-A (two at 480Mbps for basic use), dual HDMI 1.2, and a DisplayPort."], ["A dedicated power jack allows using your laptop charger to deliver up to 87W tested back to the device. No USB-C outputs are present, assuming laptop use for that."], ["Full evaluation: Monoprice 13-in-1 Dual-HDMI + DP MST Dock."], ["This model reveals internal operations of USB-C docks, displaying power delivery and alerting on monitor connections. Informative for tech enthusiasts, though overwhelming for casual users."], ["Port division between data and charging feels odd, limiting options for multiple peripherals without an extra USB-A. (A power-only USB-A seems unnecessary.) Still, it meets essentials in a compact, value-driven package."], ["Full evaluation: Mokin 160W GaN All in One Docking Station."], ["Highly technical, this device fascinates and frustrates with its exploratory nature, reporting connections, performance, and errors—appealing to diagnostic-minded users, akin to automotive OBD tools."], ["The Dockcase 10-in-1 Dock's appeal lies in its unprecedented diagnostics."], ["Dockcase variants include a $69.99 6-in-1 and a sleeker 10-in-1 without labels. The detailed, port-rich edition is preferred."], ["Oversized metal build with external connectors signals premium quality, plus an LCD detailing connected devices and specs—like a portable diagnostic tool."], ["Functionally strong as a dock, it needs interface refinements and better documentation. Compact enough for desk use without bulk."], ["Full evaluation: Dockcase Smart USB-C Hub 10-in-1 Explorer Edition."], ["DisplayLink solutions bridge basic USB-C and advanced Thunderbolt, ideal for productivity-focused small businesses or home setups with multiple high-res displays, though less suited for gaming."], ["This upgraded DisplayLink option balances cost and features, pricier than standard USB-C but enriched."], ["Ugreen's 9-in-1 USB-C dock exemplifies solid construction and variable pricing across sellers. Port variety shines at a fair rate, but no power input requires using the laptop's charger for both."], ["Stability is a DisplayLink hallmark, with flicker-free multi-display support. Pricing is competitive; pack a mobile charger."], ["Full evaluation: Ugreen 9-in-1 USB-C (Revodok) Docking Station CM615."], ["DisplayLink suits home offices prioritizing output over gaming."], ["Plugable's model enables three 4K displays via both HDMI and DisplayPort, without Thunderbolt needs."], ["Performance aligns with expectations over 10Gbps compressed links; heavy loads may impact video and storage."], ["Full evaluation: Plugable USB-C Triple 4K HDMI and DisplayPort Display Horizontal Docking Station (UD-6950PDZ)."], ["USB-C adapter testing differs from docking evaluations. A dedicated piece details protocols, but key steps include physical layout assessment, port interference checks, advertised function verification, and balancing cost against features and quality. Complex units often cost more, though not invariably."], ["Mark Hachman here, with three decades in tech reporting and reviews. Expertise spans USB-C adapters, Thunderbolt docks, and DisplayLink, understanding I/O variances for optimal fits. Coverage intensified post-2020 remote work surge, noting demands for mixed display and legacy setups."], ["Evaluate your setup meticulously to select the ideal adapter or dock."], ["Begin by inventorying current or intended peripherals: legacy USB-A drives, SD backups from cameras, or Ethernet for stable networking. Tailored for Windows; macOS has distinct USB-C constraints."], ["Account for simultaneous use of input devices and printers—disconnecting disrupts workflow."], ["Even multi-port laptops benefit from hubs; for single-port models, route power through the adapter."], ["Assess device ports: single or dual USB-C? Separate charging? Hubs with power passthrough are essential if USB-C handles charging only. Verify input wattage matches laptop needs to avoid low-power alerts."], ["Modern monitors increasingly feature USB-C alongside HDMI/DisplayPort, potentially reducing hub reliance."], ["Challenges include awkward rear access; a basic hub simplifies. Some USB-C monitor ports serve as video inputs via direct cable—consult our USB-C monitor guide for distinctions."], ["Hub power inputs charge the laptop, not peripherals directly. Bus-powered hubs draw from the laptop, limiting multi-device efficiency."], ["Dedicated charging ports on docks enable laptop powering and enhanced peripheral charging, though specialized protocols like Samsung's may require direct connections."], ["Laptop USB-C speeds hit 5Gbps or 10Gbps, ample for peripherals but strained by displays, networking, or fast storage."], ["Display requirements guide choices: dongles suffice for 1080p setups; upscale to docks for 1440p/4K. Mitigate bandwidth by offloading networking to Wi-Fi."], ["Thunderbolt offered 40Gbps for dual 4K@60Hz plus peripherals; compatible with USB-C docks. USB4 mirrors this."], ["Intermediates include DisplayLink (compression over USB-C, driver-required, office-optimized) and HBR3/DSC (standard compression, supported on 12th-gen+ Intel, spotty on older)."], ["Thunderbolt ports bear lightning icons, unlike plain USB-C."], ["Platform-specific branding doesn't limit compatibility; Mac-focused hubs work on Windows without extras."], ["No-name adapters often match branded performance at lower costs. Prices fluctuate with promotions, potentially elevating alternatives."], ["Laptops once brimmed with ports, but slim designs favored USB-C/Thunderbolt, leaving legacy gear incompatible—hubs bridge this affordably."], ["For basic legacy and 1080p needs, choose 10Gbps USB-C; for multi-4K or fast storage, DisplayLink or Thunderbolt docks."], ["USB-C uniformity confuses; Thunderbolt ports show lightning logos."], ["Hubs/dongles are portable expansions; docks are desk-bound with more power options."], ["Budget $30-40 for solid hubs; $100+ for feature-rich docks."], ["Quality over brand; heed reviews and match to ports needed. Inexpensive options abound."], ["Docks can seem pricey post-pandemic surges, but costs have stabilized."], ["USB-C tops at 10Gbps; Thunderbolt at 40Gbps (Thunderbolt 5 to 120Gbps)."], ["Laptops may label all as Thunderbolt—check manuals or icons. Dongles hit dual 1080p@60Hz or 4K@30Hz; Thunderbolt dual 4K@60Hz."], ["DisplayLink compresses for multi-4K over USB-C with drivers; plug-and-play for others. Best for static tasks, not intensive data/video."], ["Integrated into USB-C and Thunderbolt guides; bargains mimic premium performance."], ["Daisy-chain USB-C hubs if multiple ports; Thunderbolt allows sequential linking."], ["Heat from components is normal; metal casings aid dissipation."], ["Similar internals explain brand variances."], ["These versatile, low-cost upgrades deserve a spot in every bag."], ["Mark Hachman contributes to PCWorld for 10 years, with 30 years in tech, authoring 3,500+ pieces on hardware and software. Awards include shared Jesse H. Neal for news. Recent office space crunch prompted offloading docks and hubs."]}