However, buying a USB hub compatible with Linux isn’t always straightforward because of the sheer number of hubs available in the market. If you too are unsure, this article is specially catered for you. After thorough market research, we have selected the best USB hubs for Linux systems for our reviews section. There’s also a buyer’s guide in the first part of the article to help you select the most appropriate USB hub.
Buyers Guide
Before diving into our product line, it is better to focus on what makes a USB Hub worth buying. Here are certain factors that need a rundown before you make up your mind.
- Compatibility
Whatever USB hubs that you will come across in this post support Linux and many other systems. Connecting different devices shouldn’t require time-consuming software downloads to run them. With these hubs, you have maximum device connectivity in sync with your operating system.
- Data Transfer Speed
It is all about efficiency and trusts me, no one wants to be stuck for hours when transferring large files. When stuck between two options, pick the one that can transfer more data in less time.
- How Many Ports?
Isn’t it great to have some extra in the bank? You never know how and when you might need an additional port to do a quick data transfer or connect a printer real quick. It all depends on your personal use.
Here’s is a small tip! Always get a USB Hub that has an additional 2 or 3 ports than your targeted use. You will never get disappointed when something needs a quick fix. Moreover, charging ports is always a cherry on top. They have different power transfers, up to 1A to 2A, instead of the data port transfer around 500mA. Another vital detail is the port placement. This pointer may seem useless, and those many port hubs may look quite attractive. But it is all in vain when you can’t accommodate 2 USBs next to one another. Choose one which has evenly spaced and well-distributed ports.
- Power Source
There are usually two variations, bus/port connecting to your laptop and a powered USB Hub. The former proves its worthwhile traveling, as searching for a power outlet while on the move may not always be easy. Although for desk-related work, it is wise to pick the latter as the HUB will not affect your primary computer’s power, and it will also steer away from disconnection issues.
- USB 2.0 or 3.0?
Try to stay current and in sync with technology trends. Newer generations always have updated transfer speeds. But, it takes time for a trend to set in, and newer versions do cost more. So, be in line with what suits your device. You can always get connectors when you face the dilemma of your USB Hub not supporting the latest USB 3.0.
Our Top Five USB Hubs for Linux
1. AUKEY YTCBH36
The best USB Hub for Linux is the one by AUKEY. This is a USB 3.0 Hub that has 4 cleverly placed ports. Out of these, 2 of them can support for 2.4 GHz wireless and MIDI devices.
The Aluminium, slim, lightweight body is quite easily manageable. Besides, its housing exhibits great heat dissipation, which in turn promises longevity of the device. The thin structure takes up less space and helps with the overall setup of your computer. As for transfer speed, this Hub syncs data at a high speed of 5Gbps. Which means you can transfer an HD movie in seconds between devices.
This AUKEY USB Hub is compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, Mac OS x 10.6 – 10.12, or later and the Linux 2.6.12 or Later. It works well with USB A peripherals, allowing you to connect to any Flash drives, keyboards, mice, or other external hardware.
Simply plug and play for instant data transfer without extra installations. It also blesses your system with overcurrent and short circuit protection, electromagnetic interference, and electrostatic discharge. It offers durability while having value for money. Though, the cable length is short and comes with no charging ports.
Buy Here: Amazon
2. Anker 4 Port USB Hub
In the second place, we have another 4 port USB 3.0 hub backed by a 2 ft extended cable. This is yet another slim and sleek USB Hub that takes almost no room and manages to classify your USBs accordingly.
AS for the data transferring speed, this device also supports blazing data transfers up to 5 Gbps! The Anker is all about increasing your productivity at work. The fast transfers paired with its 2ft long damage resistant cable, a plastic-cased 35 grams body for comfortable workstation setups, help the user get things done faster and conveniently.
What’s more, the durable cable strap is free which prevents it from cluttering and exhibits flexibility around your workstation. It is compatible with multiple OS, including all versions of Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.
The Anker is a durable, slim, and lightweight USB Hub that enables fast data transfers. However, the device does not carry charging ports, and devices connected to it must not exceed 900 mA. If you need to organize your workspace and manage many devices, the affordable yet reliable Anker USB hub is highly recommended.
Buy Here: Amazon
3. Sabrent 7-Port USB 3.0 Plus 3 Smart Charging Ports
Another affordable yet, an exquisite piece of USB Hub is by Sabrent. These come in many variants, with a different number of ports. We are discussing the HB-B7C3.
This ten-port beast has 7 data transfer ports and 3 fast-charging ones. The charging ports have auto optimized current speeds, with up to 2.4 amps per port. You can easily charge a tablet and a fast-charging phone together. To avoid it from overcharging, simply switch its power off with the switches given adjacent to them.
The Larger versions are 60 W power output supported Hubs. Hence they can support heavy externals without dipping the main source of power. All Sabrent USB Hubs are compatible with all versions of Windows, Mac OS, and Linux and further backward compatibility with USB 2.0 and 1.1 devices.
The package comes with an additional power adaptor and USB cables for you to set up your mega USB Hub station and organize it to the fullest. Just plug them in and start connecting. Nevertheless, the power cable may hinder your work while on the move, as you’ll be needing a power outlet nearby.
Buy Here: Amazon
4. Hiearcool USB C Hubb, Multiport Adaptor
In fourth, we have an intelligent piece of USB Hub perfect for multiple tasks in one go. This is a USB C to HDMI hub equipped with USB 3.0 x 2, 4K@30 HDMI, SD/TF card adaptor, and up to 100W/20V/5A Type C PD Charging port (where data transfer isn’t supported).
It has a wide range of compatibility that makes connectivity between devices really easy and opens up your operating system to endless possibilities. (XP/7/8/10/Vista/Chrome/OS/Mac OS/Linux/Android Etc. This USB Hub is a 100 W Power Delivery Supported device. It comes equipped with a super-smart chip, supports USB C pass through 100 W charging.
But that’s not all!
This adaptor is also designed to prevent overloading, over-voltage, over-current, short-circuit, overcharge, and voltage and heat protection. It also supports high-speed data transfers, up to 5Gbps, and charging up to 5V at 0.9A. It’s a work efficient travel size USB Hub. Still, you may not always find power outlets to power the device for heavier externals.
Buy Here: Amazon
5. Powered USB Hub 3.0 Atolla 7 Port USB Data Hub Splitter
Lastly, we have a 7 port external USB 3.0 Hub. It comes along with a 100cm USB Hub cord that turns one USB port to 7 real quick. You also get a 5V/4A power adaptor (with a 120cm electrical cord) to back it up when connected to heavier externals. This Hub offers instant expansion and allows you to connect to any keyboards, Mouse, and other USBs.
Wait, there’s more!
This USB Hub has a super blazing transfer speed of up to 5 Gbps and manages to transfer large files in mere seconds. As for charging your other devices, the USB 3.0 splitter gives a port designed solely for charging. You can easily juice your iPads or phones quicker and safer with its charging power of 2.4 A.
This Hub is compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, XP, Mac OS, and Linux. The system is a simple plug and play, with no further system downloads to run efficiently. The switches next to each port, let you be in control of port activation and save power. However, the unit itself is bulkier than the rest, and there is a limit of 4 Amperes for total connected devices.
Buy Here: Amazon
Closing Thoughts
When searching for a USB Hub for your Linux operating system, make sure it is compatible with a wide range of devices to expand your connectivity options. Also, try to have an estimate of ports needed and whether you rely on such ports for charging or not. These three main factors will help you find the best fit USB Hub for your personal use. That’s about it for now! Thank you for reading.
from Linux Hint https://ift.tt/3iVfAtW
0 Comments