One-computer desk users
You keep the printer connected to one laptop or desktop but need more USB ports for nearby peripherals. A hub addresses port expansion; it does not change which computer controls the printer.
Who needs which setup?
Two-computer printer sharers
Two work computers need to use the same directly connected USB printer. A peripheral-sharing switch lets them take turns, subject to the switching method and printer compatibility of the particular model.
Desk users planning around cable reach
Your computer sits under the desk, on a stand or away from the printer. The route taken by the host lead and printer cable matters alongside the number of ports.
What should you check before buying?
Start with the number of computers that need a direct USB connection to the printer. Then check the connections and physical layout of the desk.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Two-computer access | Check for two host connections, printer compatibility and a suitable manual or supported automatic switching method. | If two computers need to take turns with one directly connected printer, I need to know which computer controls it. Around 46% of consumers put switching between computers first. |
| Ports for one computer | Match the hub’s host connector to the computer and count the downstream connections needed for the printer and other devices. | If my computer has too few ports, I want the printer and everyday peripherals to stay connected. Roughly 36% of consumers prioritise extra ports for one computer. |
| Cable reach and power | Measure the cable route to the hub or switch; check how any other USB-powered devices will receive power. | With the computer away from the printer, I need cables that reach without strain and a workable connection for my other devices. About 18% of consumers make desk layout and power their primary concern. |
Common buying mistakes
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Buying a hub to share one printer between two computers
A standard hub adds ports to one host. It does not hand a directly connected printer from one computer to another.
If two computers need access, look for a printer or peripheral-sharing switch with the required host connections. Check whether its manual switching suits the desk, or whether any automatic function has software conditions.
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Counting ports without checking the cable path
The port count is little help if the hub cannot connect to the computer or sit where the printer cable reaches comfortably.
Check the computer-side connector and printer cable, then measure the route to the intended hub position, allowing room for cable bends.
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Assuming an unpowered hub suits every attached device
StarTech.com explains that devices on an unpowered hub share the power available from its host connection. Accessories that draw more USB power may need a different arrangement.
List the devices that will draw power through the hub. If that includes portable storage or other higher-draw accessories, compare powered-hub specifications and check the adapter supplied with the model.
A powered hub also needs space for its mains connection and another cable at the desk.
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Treating a 5Gbps rating as a printer-speed promise
A hub’s stated maximum data rate describes link capability, not how quickly a printer will produce pages. TP-Link notes that actual transmission speed depends on the computer and connected devices.
Choose the connections the printer needs first. A higher data-rate rating is more relevant if suitable storage or other peripherals will share the hub.
Relevant brands to consider
TP-Link
Its UH400 is a reference point for adding USB-A ports to one computer.
- TP-Link specifies four USB 3.0 ports, an up-to-5Gbps link rating and backward compatibility with USB 2.0/1.1 for the UH400.
- The UH400 is a one-host hub, not a two-computer printer-sharing switch.
UGREEN
Its four-port USB-A hub with an attached 60cm lead illustrates an option for placing ports farther from one host computer.
- UGREEN describes that model as suitable for connecting a printer alongside other peripherals to one computer.
- Measure the required cable route; this type of hub does not switch a printer between computers.
ATEN
Its US221A addresses the different task of sharing one USB peripheral between two computers.
- ATEN describes pushbutton, utility and automatic switching options for the US221A, along with multifunction-printer support.
- The printer is assigned to one computer at a time; check the switching method you intend to use.
IOGEAR
Its GUB231 is a printer-focused switch for two PCs and/or Macs using one printer or multifunction printer.
- IOGEAR describes manual switching for the GUB231.
- Its printer-specific automatic function uses software and requires administrator rights; check the operating-system conditions before relying on it.
Joybuy hubs for one-computer desks
These hubs are options for adding peripheral connections to one compatible computer at a shared desk. If the printer must move between two computers, look for a peripheral-sharing switch instead.
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AJAZZ AKP01E Visualization Hub 8-in-1
Consider this for a one-computer desk that needs additional peripheral connections. The named variant lists USB-C connectivity, TF/SD card slots and 4K HD projection; confirm that a downstream port fits your printer cable and that the lead reaches the intended position. If other devices need USB power, check the downstream power specifications and included equipment.
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Mokin 2USBC to TB+ hub with USB-A, USB-C, SD/TF and HDMI 4K60Hz
Consider this when one compatible computer needs several kinds of peripheral connection. The product name specifies two USB-A 3.0 ports, one USB-C 3.0 port, SD/TF slots and HDMI 4K60Hz. Confirm the computer’s docking support and connector arrangement, then check the printer cable, cable reach and power needs before choosing it for the desk.
Questions about printer connections
Can an ordinary USB hub let two computers use one USB printer?
No: an ordinary hub expands one computer’s ports. For a printer that two computers must use in turn through a direct USB connection, look for a peripheral-sharing switch; ATEN and IOGEAR describe models that assign the device to one computer at a time.
Do I need a USB 3.0 hub just for a printer?
Not necessarily. Check the printer cable and required ports first. A hub’s higher data-rate rating may matter more when compatible storage is connected alongside the printer; TP-Link notes that actual transmission speed depends on the computer and devices.
What if Windows does not detect the printer through the hub?
Check that the printer is powered on and the USB cable is secure, then try connecting it directly to the computer to help isolate the connection problem. Microsoft Support says a wired printer normally installs after connection; if it does not, try adding it in Printers & scanners and check Windows Update for drivers.
When should I consider a powered USB hub?
Consider one when other devices drawing USB power, particularly portable drives, will share the hub. StarTech.com explains that an unpowered hub shares the host port’s available power. Check the particular hub’s downstream power specifications and adapter before relying on it for those devices.