USB-C seems to be the emerging standard - but all the extensions, hubs etc seem to provide one extra USB-C port. If I'm moving to USB-C for everything, including keyboard, mice, etc how are we supposed to connect them all? Any pointers for useful hubs that provide a reasonable number of USB-C ports?
[Re-Titled by Moderator]
Original Title: USB-C ports needed
Mac mini, macOS 15.7
It sounds like you’re running into one of the common misconceptions about USB-C: while the connector is universal, most hubs prioritize adding traditional USB-A ports because many peripherals still rely on them. True “multi–USB-C” hubs do exist, but they’re less common and often more expensive because each additional USB-C data port requires its own controller.
Your best option is to look for a USB-C docking station that explicitly lists multiple USB-C data ports (not just charging ports), or consider a Thunderbolt dock if your device supports it, since those typically offer higher bandwidth and more flexible port allocation. Before choosing, make sure the hub specifies data speeds for each USB-C port rather than only power delivery...
You mention USB-C. That is a physical port type. What you don't mention is what protocol standards that you want those USB-C ports to support. For example, USB 2.0-4.0, or Thunderbolt 3/4, or both.
Wired keyboards/mice typically only require USB 2.0; however, external drives, for example, can require USB 3.0/4.0 or Thunderbolt 3/4.
Also, to take into consideration, especially for USB devices that are bus-powered, is that a single USB-C port can only supply so much power. Think of this to an electrical wall outlet's restriction on how may things you can plug into it, regardless of using multi-plug adapters.
USB-C hubs are still pricey because they tend to be faster and are the "newest". If you do not need USB-3 speeds you could get a cheaper hub. I have a bunch of things I have connected to an old USB2 hub with USB-A/B ports and a single converter to my USB-C computer port. Mice, keyboards, disc drives, don't need speed. Even my backup doesn't absolutely have to be done at USB-C speeds. Most of my flash drives I think are USB-2 generation so I don't need fast USB3 ports for those. I am still making good use of my 10 port hub. The one thing I would recommend would be to get a powered hub if you have anything connected that needs serious power such as a backup drive, though I think USB-C is better about providing power than older connections.
As for buying one, I'll let you do the legwork. ;-)
You might also consider Bluetooth for keyboards and mice.
Limnos wrote:
USB-C hubs are still pricey because they tend to be faster and are the "newest". If you do not need
...
As for buying one, I'll let you do the legwork. ;-)
Yeah, thanks for that!
People need to catch on to the rapid change in networking hardware and protocols. We are moving to an environment with RCS networking over USB-C connected cables. Haven't the manufacturers worked out how to build hubs with multiple USB-C connectors yet? These legacy devices with outdated connectors are so last year!
No-one has practical recommendations?
How do I connect multiple USB-C devices to a single USB-C port?
