Headset-first laptop users
If the headset is your main peripheral, check its plug and the laptop’s available port before considering extra display or network connections. A hub labelled USB-C does not necessarily have a USB-A port for the headset.
Who needs which setup?
Fixed-desk multi-peripheral users
If a headset shares the hub with storage, a webcam or other devices, consider how power is shared. StarTech.com explains that an external power adapter can increase the power available to connected ports compared with relying on the computer’s port alone.
Bright-window workstation users
Check the hub’s cable reach so its ports remain accessible while you arrange the screen to avoid glare. The Health and Safety Executive advises against placing a screen directly facing windows or bright lights where that causes reflections.
What should you check?
Match the connections first, then decide whether shared power, cable reach or laptop charging changes the type of hub you need.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Headset and computer connections | Match the headset’s USB-A or USB-C plug to a downstream data port, and the hub’s host connection to the computer. | If my headset uses USB-A, I want to know it will plug straight into the hub and that the hub will connect to my laptop; around 36% of consumers put connector compatibility first. |
| Power shared across devices | List the devices that will share the hub and check whether it uses an external power adapter. | When my headset stays connected beside other peripherals, I care about the power available to them together; for around 29% of consumers, that shared-power need comes first. |
| Cable reach and placement | Measure from the computer to the intended hub position, and check the host cable’s length and whether it is fixed. | I need the ports within reach without placing my screen where window reflections interfere with work; around 21% of consumers prioritise desk placement. |
| Expansion with laptop charging | Check the laptop’s USB-C Power Delivery requirements against the hub’s pass-through limit, and confirm the required charger and cable. | If I charge my laptop through the same connection, I want the hub to accommodate that arrangement as well as my headset; charging expansion comes first for around 14% of consumers. |
Common buying mistakes
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Choosing USB-C-only ports for a USB-A headset
A USB-C hub need not have USB-A ports: Belkin’s AVC021 has four USB-C ports, so a USB-A headset cannot plug into it directly.
Check the headset plug against the hub’s downstream data ports before comparing its other features.
Using a USB-A headset with a USB-C-only port layout may require a suitable adapter and adds another connection point.
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Assuming a bus-powered hub has unlimited power
StarTech.com explains that power available to an unpowered hub is shared across its ports. That matters more when the headset is joined by devices with greater power needs.
Check how the hub is powered and consider a self-powered model if several peripherals will remain connected.
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Reading a Power Delivery figure as guaranteed laptop charging
Anker states that its A8365 supports up to 53 W pass-through charging when used with a 65 W charger; the charger and cable are not included.
Compare the hub’s stated pass-through power with the laptop’s requirements and check the charger and cable needed for that setup.
For the Anker A8365, you will need to provide the compatible charger and cable separately.
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Expecting hub placement to solve screen glare
A longer cable can give you more choice about where the hub sits, but it does not remove reflections from the display. The Health and Safety Executive advises arranging the desk and screen to avoid glare.
Check cable reach, then position the screen and adjust window coverings as needed to reduce reflections.
Relevant brands for reference
Anker
Anker’s A8365 is a compact USB-C hub with USB-A and USB-C data ports, HDMI, Ethernet and a Power Delivery input.
- Anker states that the A8365 supports up to 53 W pass-through charging with a 65 W charger.
- The charger and cable are not included; its USB data ports do not provide charging or display output, and Anker lists this model as incompatible with M2-powered MacBooks.
Belkin
Belkin’s AVC021 expands a USB-C computer connection with four USB-C ports and HDMI.
- Belkin specifies a 20 cm tethered cable and up to 100 W Power Delivery to the host for this model.
- Its ports do not directly accept a USB-A headset, and the stated 12 W peripheral output is shared across the USB-C ports.
StarTech.com
StarTech.com’s 5G7AIBS-USB-HUB-EU is a self-powered desktop hub with seven USB-A ports.
- StarTech.com specifies an included 65 W power supply, one-metre USB-C and USB-A host cables, individual port switches and support for USB headsets.
- This desktop model requires mains power and takes up more desk space than a compact hub.
Joybuy products
Related products coming soon.
Questions about USB hubs
Do I need a powered hub for one USB headset?
Not necessarily: a headset used on its own may not call for an external power supply. StarTech.com explains that an unpowered hub shares the computer port’s available power across connected devices, so consider a self-powered hub if other peripherals will also need substantial power.
Can I charge my laptop through the hub while using a headset?
Yes, if the laptop, hub, charger and cable support the required USB-C Power Delivery arrangement. For Anker’s A8365, the stated pass-through limit is up to 53 W with a 65 W charger; Anker says the charger and cable are not included.
Does a bright window change which USB hub I need?
The window mainly changes where you may want to place the hub and screen, rather than the USB connection you need. Check cable reach so you can keep the ports accessible while following the Health and Safety Executive’s advice to arrange the screen away from glare and bright reflections.
What should I do with an old USB hub?
Take it to an appropriate electrical recycling collection point rather than putting it in household rubbish. GOV.UK gives this advice for electrical products displaying the crossed-out wheelie-bin symbol.