USB hub is a device designed to add more USB ports to a computer. Normally, a USB hub has somewhere between 2-20 additional ports. Many may even have hundreds of extra ports which kinda overkill unless there’s a good reason to use it.
Albeit looks pretty much the same, USB hubs are distinguished based on two categories: powered USB hub and non-powered USB hub. But what are the differences?
Here is a quick look of them.
Table of Contents
Powered USB Hub: Best for powering devices
Powered USB hubs or active USB hubs require an external power source aside from the computer. Generally, they suck power from a wall socket to maintain consistent power output. Each of any given ports rated for 500 mA.
This type of USB hub can be useful if you want to connect to power-hungry devices such as a speaker, scanner, camera, or even charging a smartphone. However, you have to find a power outlet that closes enough to your PC.
Pros:
- Constant reliable power
- Good for high-energy devices
- Won’t hurt the PC’s power supply
- Great for RGB accessories
Cons:
- Requires power outlet
- Not practical for laptop/notebook/tablet
- The average price is higher
Recommended powered USB hubs:
- Sabrent 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub $15,99
- Anker 60W Data Hub $36,59
Non-Powered USB Hub: Just okay for daily usage
Unlike powered USB hubs that consume electricity from the wall socket, the non-powered USB hub takes energy directly from the computer. The power rate it takes from the computer is 500 mA. So, if the USB hub has five ports, each port only receives 100 mA respectively.
Although each port may have significantly less power, this non-powered USB hub is still practical for some basic peripherals like a wired mouse, keyboard, gaming pad, or just transferring data from smartphones.
Recharging an electronic device through a non-powered USB hub isn’t the best way to go as its power may constantly change and could damage the battery in the long run.
Pros:
- Good for low-energy devices
- More practical for laptop/notebook/tablet
- No wall socket needed
- Cheaper and more common
Cons:
- Unstable power flow
- Not recommended for high-power devices
- Not recommended for charging
Recommended non-powered USB hubs:
- Sabrent 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub $9,99
- Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub $11,99
Powered USB Hub vs. Non-Powered USB Hub in comparison
| Powered USB Hub | Non-Powered USB Hub | |
| Power source | Wall socket | Computer |
| Power capacity | 500mA on each port | 500mA divided by total ports |
| Power reliability | Stable | Unstable |
| High-mobility | No | Yes |
| Bandwidth speed | Divided for each port | Divided for each port |
| Price | $$ | $ |
| Good for | High-power devices | Low-power devices |
Conclusion: the core difference is the power
If you are using a computer and have a wall socket near it, and want to use full RGB systems, charging smartphones, or connecting other high-power devices, then a powered USB hub is great for you.
On the other hand, a non-powered USB hub is a perfect companion for laptops that commonly has fewer ports than a PC. However, it can also be used for a desktop PC if you just want to transfer files from a camera or powering a keyboard and mouse.
Other than power, price, and mobility, both powered USB hubs and non-powered USB hubs are pretty much identical.
Additional Insights: Choosing the Right USB Hub for Your Needs
What about hybrid USB hubs?
If you’re torn between powered and non-powered USB hubs, hybrid models might be worth considering. These hubs can function as both powered and non-powered, offering flexibility depending on your setup. When plugged into a power outlet, they act as a powered hub, providing stable energy for high-demand devices. Without an external power source, they switch to non-powered mode, making them portable and convenient for basic peripherals.
USB-C hubs: A modern alternative
For those using newer devices, USB-C hubs offer enhanced compatibility and speed. Many USB-C hubs are equipped with features like Thunderbolt 3 or 4 support, enabling data transfer speeds up to 40Gbps. These hubs often include additional ports like HDMI, SD card readers, and Ethernet connections, making them a versatile choice for professionals and tech enthusiasts. If you’re interested in exploring USB-C hubs, you can check options like Anker USB-C Hubs.
Maintenance tips for long-lasting performance
To ensure your USB hub remains functional over time:
- Avoid overloading non-powered hubs with high-energy devices.
- Use quality cables to prevent signal degradation.
- Regularly clean the ports to avoid dust accumulation.
- For powered hubs, ensure the power adapter is compatible with your region’s voltage standards.
FAQ
What is the maximum number of devices I can connect to a USB hub?
The number of devices depends on the hub’s specifications and the power requirements of connected devices. Powered hubs generally support more devices without performance loss compared to non-powered ones.
Can I use a powered USB hub without plugging it into an outlet?
No, powered USB hubs require an external power source to function properly. Without it, they cannot provide stable power to connected devices.
Are there any risks of using non-powered USB hubs with high-power devices?
Yes, connecting high-power devices to a non-powered hub can result in unstable performance or even damage to the hub or connected devices due to insufficient power supply.
Do all USB-C hubs support Thunderbolt?
Not all USB-C hubs are Thunderbolt-compatible. Check the product specifications before purchasing if you require Thunderbolt features like ultra-fast data transfer or multi-monitor support.
By understanding your specific needs and considering these options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your setup and usage requirements.
