Ipad Type C Hub

That one USB-C or Thunderbolt port will suffice if all you use it for is charging or wired earbuds, but Apple’s tablets can also be used with many other peripherals that transform it into a versatile computer. This good-looking hub, with built-n USB-C connector, features a grip that secures it onto an iPad Pro without damaging the surface.

Twelve South StayGo mini – smallest and lightest USB-C hub for iPad Pros 4 ports inc HDMI Twelve South also sells a less-mini but still highly portable StayGo USB-C hub that boasts nine ports, including Gigabit Ethernet and SD and Micro USB card readers alongside the HDMI, USB-A and USB-C passthrough power delivery. StarTech.com USB C Multiport Adapter – best USB-C hub for passthrough charging Pros 5 ports inc HDMI At 3.7oz (106g) it’s heavier than most of the other hubs tested here, but it is still light enough not to register in a travel bag, and small enough to slip into a trouser pocket. Satechi 6-in-1 Aluminum Stand & Hub – best mini USB-C dock Pros 6 ports inc HDMI It folds into a neat portable package (283g, 10oz), and connects to the iPad with its integrated USB-C cable so everything is included.

Media controls Cons Longer than most MSRP: $99.99 Best Prices Today: Colors: Gray Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), one USB-A (5Gbps), one HDMI 2.0 port, UHS-I SD and microSD Card readers, 3.5mm audio, Play/Pause/Fast-forward/Rewind buttons Why we love it: Alongside the handy extra ports, this mini hub adds a row of large Play/Pause/Fast-forward/Rewind buttons on the top for media control of your movies, songs or podcasts without interrupting your workflow. We’ve seen faster ports on the other hubs reviewed here, but it’s the media buttons that make the difference here. It can connect in a tight fit to the iPad or via a detachable longer 2in cable if you need the extra length. Large for an iPad hub MSRP: $229.99 Best Prices Today: Colors: Space Gray Ports: Upstream Thunderbolt 4 (to iPad; 60W PD), three downstream Thunderbolt (40Gbps, 15W), four USB-A (10Gbps, 7.5W) Why we love it: While Apple’s iPad use 5Gbps USB-C rather than 40Gbps Thunderbolt, if you want a hub that you can use for maximum MacBook bandwidth as well as with your iPad Pro, choosing a hub or dock with the latest Thunderbolt 4 connection standard makes perfect sense as TB4 is backwards compatible with USB-C. You won’t find more modern USB ports on a hub than you get here, and they are all rated at top speeds.

With a hub you can add extra USB ports (Type-C and the older Type-A), SD and MicroSD card readers, gigabit ethernet, wired headphones, cameras, keyboards, and more. You can also connect your iPad Pro to your computer or to an external display using a hub’s USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort outputs. Depending on which model you buy, a hub or dock connects to the iPad and offers an array of extra ports. The minimum bandwidth of USB 3 is 5Gbps, so this is the most common speed on hubs, but some offer 10Gbps that is more capable for things like connecting an external monitor.

Thunderbolt hubs and docks are more expensive than their simpler USB-C cousins, but power users will benefit from the extra bandwidth. For example, a Thunderbolt hub or dock can use this bandwidth to connect a 4K display running at 60Hz and still have data-transfer capacity for other devices such as hard drives.

Wired internet or network access is much faster than WiFi, so if you’re using your iPad at a desk, make sure the hub you choose has a gigabit ethernet port. A hub is basically essential when using an external display because the iPad has just one USB-C port and you can’t simultaneously charge the tablet at the same time.

For general productivity purposes, 30Hz screen rates are acceptable for 4K monitors, but 60Hz is better for gaming or action-graphics video.

Charge and connect with the USB-C port on your iPad

Your iPad uses the DisplayPort protocol to support connections to USB-C displays1 with these resolutions: Your iPad matches the frame rate and dynamic range of currently playing content when you turn on Allow Display Mode Changes.

The best USB Type-C hubs in 2022

Along the way, we’ve noticed little quirks, such as ports too small for USB sticks and HDMI inputs that don’t work as well with PCs. EZQuest USB-C Multimedia Hub A virtually flawless USB-C hub for laptops Specifications Ports: 3 x USB-A 3.0, 1 x USB-C, 1 x HDMI output, 1 x SDHC card reader, 1 x Micro SDHC card reader, 1 x Gigabit Ethernet Today’s Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at BHPhoto (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Support for multiple devices + Sleek aluminum design + 4K support + Dual SD card readers + 100W power delivery Reasons to avoid – No Thunderbolt 4 – No dual-screen support With a competitive price, all the right ports to manage extra PC peripherals and storage devices, the added perk of 100W passthrough power delivery, and compatibility with virtually every platform, this sleek and travel-friendly hub will get the job done. Plugable USB-C 7-in-1 Hub The best overall USB-C hub for MacBooks Specifications Ports: 3 x USB-A 3.0, 1 x USB-C, 1 x HDMI v1.4, 1 x SD card reader, 1 x microSD Today’s Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Newegg (opens in new tab) View at Walmart (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Multiple ports + 4K HDMI support + Small and lightweight + Very affordable Reasons to avoid – Dodgy pass-through power delivery

With three USB 3.0 ports with 5Gbps transfer speeds, HDMI 1.4 connectivity which can support 4K resolution at 30Hz, and two SD card readers, there’s not much else a laptop user who is on the move will need. Targus USB-C Dual HDMI 4K Docking Station A stellar hybrid USB-C hub in disguise Specifications Ports: 2 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 Alt Mode, 2 x HDMI 2.0 output, 1 x SD card reader, 1 x Micro SD card reader, 1 x Gigabit Ethernet Today’s Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Dell (opens in new tab) View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Support for multiple devices + Travel-friendly + Dual 4K support at 60Hz + Dual SD card readers + 100W power delivery Reasons to avoid – Odd port placement – One USB-A for charging – Pricey

MacBook Air or Dell XPS 13 owners are due an awakening for port expansion, but any laptop user will get a kick out of how simple yet handy Targus’ dock can be in most circumstances. Kensington SD1650P USB-C 4K Portable Docking Station The best versatile, travel-friendly hub Specifications Ports : 2 x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB-C 3.2 Gen1, 1 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x VGA Full HD, 1 x RJ45 Ethernet Today’s Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Kensington (US) (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Support for multiple devices + Neat portable design + 100W pass-through power + 4K support Reasons to avoid – Pricey – Additional ports needed – No dual-screen support

Not only does the hybrid dock charge your Windows laptop with impressive 100W pass-through power while adding several ports, but it can also do the same for a MacBook, iPad, and even an Android tablet. It’s a shame the price and limited selection of ports lets the SD1650P Portable Docking Station down, especially when other hubs are significantly more affordable.

If you can excuse the awkward port placement and don’t have a 16-inch MacBook Pro (2020), this mobile dock is a solid purchase for traveling professionals. Dell DA300 6-in-1 USB-C Hub The best overall USB Type-C hub you can buy Specifications Ports: 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x VGA, 1 x RJ45 Ethernet, 1 x USB 3.1 Type-C, 1 x USB-A 3.1 Today’s Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Wide-variety of ports + Petite + Concealed cable Reasons to avoid – Pricey

Landhoo 5-in-1 USB Type-C Hub An slick and adaptable USB-Type C Hub Specifications Ports: 1 x HDMI, 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x SD card slot, 1 x microSD card slot, 1 x USB Type-C (charging) Today’s Best Deals Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Type-C charging port + Adds HDMI, SD memory ports Reasons to avoid – Not the strongest connection Pass-through charging, SD card readers, three USB 3.0 ports, and HDMI output mean it has everything we look for in a Type-C hub.

Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Mini Dock A solid choice for high-resolution displays Specifications Ports: 1 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x RJ45 Ethernet, 1 x USB 3.1 Today’s Best Deals View at CORSAIR (opens in new tab) Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + High speeds + 4K support + Tuck-away wire + Petite Reasons to avoid – Pricey

This dock allows you to enjoy fast Thunderbolt speeds and the luxury of two 4K extended displays, and it also has a slim design with a convenient tuck-away wire.

It’s a little pricey for $149 (even when it’s on sale for $99), but overall, the Elgato Thunderbolt 3 Mini Dock is a solid choice if you’re interested in connecting to high-resolution displays. Euasoo 9-in-1 USB-C Hub A fantastic USB Type-C hub with a few hiccups Specifications Ports: 1 x USB Type-C, 3 x USB 3.0, 1 x HDMI, 1 x RJ45 Ethernet, 1 x microSD card slot, 1 x SD card slot, 1 x 3.5mm headphone jack Today’s Best Deals Check Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + A ton of ports + Pass-through Charging Reasons to avoid – Audio jack is unreliable The spacing between the USB ports is enough so that connectors don’t touch, but its wire connecting to the laptop is annoyingly short. However, there are USB-C accessories and cables that make charging and transferring data even better for the best laptops, best Chromebooks, and best tablets on the market.

Charge and connect with the USB-C port on your iPad

Your iPad uses the DisplayPort protocol to support connections to USB-C displays1 with these resolutions: Your iPad matches the frame rate and dynamic range of currently playing content when you turn on Allow Display Mode Changes.

The Best USB-C Hubs and Docks for the iPad Pro and iPad Air in 2022

Buying USB-C hubs and docks is a great way to add wired accessories to your iPad. When choosing an iPad dock, make sure that it is a station that can charge your other Apple gadgets. These docks offer connectivity up to 3 external monitors and even support a maximum 8K resolution to a single screen. Just because a USB-C hub and a dock offer a wide range of features, it does not mean that you have to pay higher prices for them.

This portable dock has an integrated hub that gives the perfect position to your iPad. The dock can transform into a 2-in-1 hub and a stand for your iPad and tablet into a portable workstation.

It has 8 ways to connect and two easy-access USB ports that support blazing-fast transfers. The port is perfect and highly optimized for MacBook Pro/Air and compatible with any USB-C device. It is compatible with MacBook, iPad Pro 2018, Ultrabook, Chromebook, PC, and most USB-C devices to work with popular legacy connections. It supports up to 4K 60 Hz HDMI 2.0 (HDR) video, 2-Ports USB-A Hub, RRS audio for headset/mic, and 1x USB-C.

The design of the hub is compact and portable, which makes it convenient to use for business travels or work from home. This USB connector has a built-in center-positioned for a flush cable-less connection to iPad Pro, Surface Pro 7, Google Pixel book, and other USB-C tablets, Chrome books, and laptops.

Best USB-C hubs for iPad Pro 2022

The HyperDrive USB-C Hub Adapter includes 60W power delivery, Gigabit Ethernet, 4K HDMI, 3x USB 3.1, SD & MicroSD reader, and 3.5mm audio jack. Despite being designed specifically for the iPad Pro, the HyperDrive can still work with your MacBook and other USB-C devices too, so it’s quite universally compatible.

HyperDrive also has optional grips and extension cables for this adapter to make it possible to be used with iPad Pros with screen protectors, cases, and other USB-C devices. HyperDrive 9-in-1 USB-C Hub Adapter for iPad Pro As if designed by Apple Today’s Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at Amazon (opens in new tab) View at BHPhoto (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Provides nine ports + Optional grips and cables to work with cases + Crystal clear video through HDMI + Compatible with other devices Reasons to avoid – iPad needs to be in landscape orientation – Does need occasional firmware updates for the hub itself The HyperDrive Hub Adapter comes in aluminum made to match your iPad Pro and provides nine ports, plus pass-through charging. Zedela 6-in-1 USB-C Hub Lots of options for cheap Today’s Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Super affordable price + Comes with six ports + Compatible with any other USB-C device + Small and portable size Reasons to avoid – Connects via a cable so that it will hang – No SD or microSD card slot If you want something simple that allows you to connect your iPad to display video on a monitor, then this Pro Hub Adapter from Satechi gets the job done and then some. Satechi Type-C Mobile Pro Hub Adapter Simplicity and affordability Today’s Best Deals View at Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy + Small and compact with seamless finishes + Gives you four additional ports + Affordable price + Includes USB-C Power Delivery charging + Highly compatible with other USB-C devices Reasons to avoid – No SD or microSD card slot You get 4K HDMI output, USB-C PD charging, SD card reader, USB 3.0 port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.

The PD charging port provides up to 60W of power, so there won’t be any reason to worry about battery life.

You get fast data transfer, crystal clear picture quality, and stable connections — all in one small, compact package.

HyperDrive 6-in-1 USB-C Hub

Take complete advantage of iPadOS with direct access to the iPad’s data storage drives. Aluminum enclosure designed to perfectly match your Apple device in every way. World’s first removable and replaceable grip secures the hub onto your iPad Pro and allows compatibility with screen protectors and protective cases.

iPad Pro USB-C hubs: the best, worst, and weirdest options

The iPad Pro’s single USB Type-C port is one of my main frustrations about an otherwise truly stellar piece of technology. If the iPad Pro is going to be your one and only computer, you might be drawn to USB-C hubs that are specifically designed to latch onto Apple’s flagship tablet. The two I tested include USB-C (for both data and pass-through charging of the iPad), a USB-A 3.0 port, microSD, SD, HDMI, and a headphone jack.

Attached to the aluminum hub is a grip that distributes the weight across more of your iPad to prevent strain on the USB-C port.

Note, however, that the unit I got from B&H lacks a second grip that’s compatible with screen protectors, which came bundled with the version Kickstarter backers received. USB-C is reversible, yes, but if you flip this bare-bones hub around, the longer grip edge will create enough of a gap between your iPad Pro and Apple’s keyboard to prevent it from working. The USB-C port supports USB PD at up to 60W, which is plenty for charging the iPad Pro at the fastest possible speed, and I got a steady video feed from the HDMI jack on top. A permanently affixed USB-C cable plugs into your iPad and powers the hub, which is designed to be used with or without Apple’s Smart Keyboard Folio.

It’s the same selection (albeit with USB 3.1 instead of 3.0), but hey, this style makes the iPad Pro look like some sort of sci-fi computer.

Unfortunately, this hub is machined so precisely that it’s not going to fit right if you’ve got a tempered glass screen protector on your iPad Pro because the edges will start lifting up. You can get it on there enough to where it won’t come off, but I didn’t love the idea of the glass protector being tightly squeezed against the iPad’s very expensive display. It includes Ethernet, which can prove important in hotels and other travel situations or if you favor working with a wired internet connection at home.

And last, it doesn’t lay flat when used with a 12.9-inch iPad Pro propped up in a Smart Keyboard, if that’s something that’ll bug you. That cable is inevitably going to face a lot of wear and tear and could give out long before any of the technology inside the hub itself does. The 2018 iPad Pro is capable of sending 4K at 60Hz to an external display, but I’ve seen next to no hubs that can manage being a middleman if you need that kind of smooth video. The 2018 iPad Pro is capable of sending 4K at 60Hz to an external display, but I’ve seen next to no hubs that can manage being a middleman if you need that kind of smooth video.

At other moments, you might have to unplug the hub and reconnect before a USB accessory — like an Apogee microphone, in my case — is properly recognized by iOS.