Best USB-C Hubs & Docking Stations 2025
Expert-tested hubs and docks with real bandwidth tests and port performance comparisons
Modern laptops sacrifice ports for thinness—a good hub or dock restores that connectivity. We've analyzed expert reviews from The Verge, Tom's Hardware, and CNET to find hubs and docks with verified performance and reliability.
Our Recommendation
For full workstation setup, the CalDigit TS4 is the gold standard with 18 ports and 98W charging. Budget-conscious pros should consider the Anker 777 at $279. For travel, the Anker 341 at $34 covers basic needs without bulk.
Hub vs Dock
Hubs ($30-100): Portable, fewer ports, no external power. Docks ($200-400+): Desktop, many ports, charges laptop.
Thunderbolt vs USB-C
Thunderbolt 4: 40Gbps, multiple 4K displays, premium price. USB-C: 10Gbps, single display, universal compatibility.
How We Evaluate USB-C Hubs
Our recommendations prioritize real-world performance:
- • Port Performance: Actual data transfer speeds vs. advertised
- • Display Support: Resolution, refresh rate, and multi-monitor capability
- • Power Delivery: Measured charging wattage to laptop
- • Thermal Management: Heat generation during sustained use
- • Reliability: Connection stability and long-term durability
Top Picks Compared
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
$399
Best For
Professional workstations, creative pros, multi-monitor setups
Key Specs
Pros
- + 18 total ports (most in class)
- + 98W laptop power delivery
- + 2.5Gb Ethernet built-in
- + Dual 6K display support
Cons
- - Very expensive
- - Requires Thunderbolt 4 laptop
- - Large desktop footprint
Anker 777 Thunderbolt Dock
$279
Best For
Home office setups, dual monitor users, budget-conscious pros
Key Specs
Pros
- + 12 ports at competitive price
- + 90W power delivery
- + Dual 4K60Hz display support
- + Compact vertical design
Cons
- - No SD card reader
- - Limited to 90W charging
- - Requires Thunderbolt
Anker 341 USB-C Hub (7-in-1)
$34
Best For
Travelers, light users, basic connectivity needs
Key Specs
Pros
- + Excellent price at $34
- + Compact for travel
- + 4K60Hz HDMI output
- + 100W power passthrough
Cons
- - No Ethernet port
- - Single display only
- - USB 3.0 speeds (not 3.2)
Satechi USB-C Multiport MX
$99
Best For
MacBook users, design-conscious buyers, matching aesthetics
Key Specs
Pros
- + Space Gray matches MacBook perfectly
- + 10 ports including Ethernet
- + SD and microSD slots
- + Solid aluminum build
Cons
- - Single display output
- - 100W passthrough only
- - Premium price for USB-C
Plugable TBT4-UDZ Thunderbolt 4 Dock
$319
Best For
Multi-monitor enthusiasts, Windows power users, developer setups
Key Specs
Pros
- + Triple 4K display support
- + 96W power delivery
- + Front-facing ports
- + Works with USB4 and TB4
Cons
- - Large form factor
- - No SD card slot
- - Needs Thunderbolt for full features
Quick Comparison
| Model | Ports | Power | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| CalDigit TS4 | 18 | 98W | $399 |
| Anker 777 | 12 | 90W | $279 |
| Anker 341 | 7 | 100W PT | $34 |
| Satechi MX | 10 | 100W PT | $99 |
| Plugable TBT4-UDZ | 11 | 96W | $319 |
Buying Guide
Essential Ports
HDMI/DisplayPort for monitors. USB-A for legacy devices. SD card for photographers. Ethernet for reliable networking.
Power Delivery
60W minimum for ultrabooks. 90W+ for MacBook Pro 14". 140W for MacBook Pro 16" at full speed.
Display Support
USB-C: Single 4K typically. Thunderbolt: Dual 4K or single 8K. Check your laptop's capabilities first.
Mac vs Windows
macOS has stricter display limitations. Check dock compatibility specifically for Mac multi-monitor support.
Bottom Line
For professional workstations, the CalDigit TS4 remains the benchmark with its 18 ports and 98W charging—worth the investment for creative pros. Budget-conscious users get excellent value from the Anker 777 at $279. For portable use, the Anker 341 at $34 handles basic connectivity without bulk. MacBook users wanting aesthetic match should consider the Satechi MX.