Apple’s higher-end iPads have used the common USB-C connector port relatively than Apple’s personal Lightning connector since 2018. Now the iPad Air, iPad mini and even the tenth era iPad characteristic the USB-C port as an alternative of Lightning. In actual fact, the one iPad Apple sells with out USB-C is the ninth era iPad.
What many individuals don’t realise is that the USB-C port is sweet for greater than charging or plugging in wired earbuds. Apple’s tablets will also be used with different peripherals that rework it into a flexible laptop. As such, iPad homeowners have a variety of USB-C equipment out there to them until their iPad nonetheless makes use of the Lightning connector.
A number of the USB-C hubs join straight into the iPad. Others require a cable connection; some include each, which helps when the iPad is in a protecting case. We now have additionally included stands for iPads that embody built-in multiport hubs.
Finest USB-C hubs and docks for iPad
HyperDrive 6-in-1 USB-C Hub – Finest general USB-C hub for iPad
Execs
- 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- 4K at 60Hz
- Direct match to iPad
- 60W passthrough charging
Colours: House Grey
Ports: USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, UHS-I microSD, SD card, 3.5mm audio
Why we like it: The HDMI port means you possibly can add an exterior show, and it could possibly deal with 4K shows at 60Hz, though that may be a push if you’re utilizing all the opposite ports on the identical time.
This handsome hub, with built-n USB-C connector, incorporates a grip that secures it onto an iPad Professional with out damaging the floor. Nevertheless, you possibly can take away the grip should you use a third-party iPad case. It connects direct to the iPad however handily additionally comes with a USB-C extender cable so you need to use it as a USB-C hub on your MacBook or one other USB-C gadget, too. It will probably cost a tool at as much as 60W.
It’s additionally light-weight at simply 47g (1.6oz) and at 3.66-x-1.3-x-0.39in (93-x-33-x-10mm) it’s sufficiently small to slide right into a pocket.
Twelve South StayGo mini – smallest USB-C hub for iPad
Execs
- 4 ports inc HDMI
- Tremendous small and light-weight
- 85W passthrough charging
- Direct match to iPad
Cons
- Slower USB-A
- 4K at 30Hz
- No card reader
Colours: Black
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (85W), USB-A (480MBbps, 7.5W), HDMI 2.0, Audio Out
Why we like it: This small hub can hook up with your iPad (or MacBook) by way of both the built-in USB-C connector or a removable cable (20in). The cable is beneficial in case your iPad is in a protecting case, and you might use your individual longer cable if required. StayGo mini provides simply 4 ports, however sufficient so that you can connect an exterior show (4K at 30Hz), a USB-A tool and headphones in addition to powering your pill or laptop computer on the identical time–particularly helpful for tablets which have simply the one port.
It weighs simply 36g and measures 2.8-x-1.25-x-0.3in (72-x-32-x-8mm), making it the smallest USB-C iPad hub we’ve examined.
The USB-A port is USB 2.0, so restricted to 480Mbps information switch in comparison with the 5Gbps on provide on among the different hubs reviewed right here.
Twelve South additionally sells a less-mini however nonetheless extremely transportable StayGo USB-C hub that boasts 9 ports, together with Gigabit Ethernet and SD and Micro USB card readers alongside the HDMI, USB-A and USB-C passthrough energy supply.
Satechi USB-C Cellular Professional Hub SD – lightest USB-C hub
Execs
- 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- 4K at 60Hz
- Direct match to iPad
- 60W passthrough charging
Colours: House Grey
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, SD and microSD card readers, 3.5mm audio
Why we like it: That is the lightest USB-C hub we examined weighing simply 33g (1.16oz). Its dimensions are 3.85-x-1.45-x-0.4in (98-x-37-x-11mm) so It’s slightly larger than the Twelve South StayGo mini however a number of grams lighter, and contains each SD and microSD card reader slots, that are missing from the StayGo.
The HDMI port can push a 4K monitor at 60Hz. And the hub can cost a tool at as much as 60W by way of the USB-C PD passthrough charger port. It ships with a removable USB-C extension cable if you wish to use it with a tool apart from an iPad or use with an iPad in a case.
Satechi additionally sells a barely cheaper USB-C Cellular Professional Hub that doesn’t embody the cardboard readers – however this isn’t suitable with the 2021 iPad Professional M1, which the Cellular Professional Hub SD does work with.
Kensington StudioDock iPad Docking Station – greatest stand/dock for iPad
Execs
- 8 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- 4K at 60Hz
- Wi-fi gadget charging
- Stand
Colours: House Grey
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, SD and microSD card readers, 3.5mm audio
For the final word iPad hub, enter the Kensington StudioDock—a full-featured docking station that’s additionally a handsome 120-degree tilting stand that can elevate your iPad as much as 13cm from the desk. StudioDock turns your iPad right into a desktop workstation, with connected peripherals, charging and exterior show.
The iPad magnetically attaches in both portrait or panorama mode and can even fast-charge your iPhone (7.5W) and AirPods (5W) at its base; you can too add an non-compulsory Apple Watch charging module for the total Apple expertise.
The iPad is linked by way of USB-C with 37.5W charging and 5Gbps information switch. The most recent iPad Professional makes use of USB4/Thunderbolt 4 however it’s backwards suitable with USB-C, though a few of its 40Gbps will probably be misplaced within the connection.
On the again a single HDMI 2.0 video output connects your iPad to an exterior 4K or HD show at 60Hz; most decision is 3840 x 2160.
Alongside the HDMI are three 5Gbps USB-A ports (barely underpowered at simply 4.5W) and Gigabit Ethernet for wired Web entry.
To the aspect is a quick UHS-II SD 4.0 card reader, which provides transportable storage to your iPad when linked, and a 5Gbps USB-C port (15W). There’s additionally a combo 3.5mm audio jack right here.
The included energy provide can provide as much as 135W.
StudioDock is obtainable in three fashions, so be sure you choose the appropriate oneThe K39160WW is suitable with the 12.9-inch iPad Professional (2018/2020/2021 and 2022 fashions); the K34031WW StudioDock is suitable with 11-inch iPad Professional (2018/2020/2021 and 2022 fashions) and iPad Air (2020/2022) however not with the most recent 10.9-inch (tenth era) iPad. The K34030WW is suitable with 12.9-inch iPad Professional (2018/2020).
Satechi 6-in-1 Aluminum Stand & Hub – greatest mini USB-C dock
Execs
- 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- 4K at 60Hz
- Constructed-in iPad stand
Colours: House Grey
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI (4K at 60Hz), 3.5mm audio, and UHS-I microSD and SD Card readers
Why we like it: Combining each a stand and a helpful array of easy-access ports on the again, this iPad Professional hub raises your iPad to a greater angle for viewing and Zoom calls in addition to enabling easy gadget connection. It folds right into a neat transportable package deal (283g, 10oz), and connects to the iPad with its built-in USB-C cable so all the pieces is included.
Plugable USB-C Docking Station (UDS-7IN1) – greatest funds stand/dock for iPad
Execs
- 8 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- Gentle, transportable stand
Cons
- Not peak adjustable
- 4K at 30Hz
Colours: House Grey
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/91W), 2x USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, SD and microSD card readers, 3.5mm audio
Why we like it: A extra reasonably priced hub/stand different to the mighty Kensington StudioDock is the Plugable USB-C Docking Station, which is each a USB-C dock and a handy stand for as much as a 12.9-inch iPad Professional.
It options two old-school USB-A ports, HDMI 1.4 port, each SD and MicroSD card readers and a mixture In/Out audio port. It connects to the iPad by way of its USB-C port, and a 20-inch (50cm) USB-C cable is included.
On the again, alongside the HDMI port is one other USB-C port that you may hook up with a USB-C wall charger to permit as much as 91W charging for the linked gadget—lots for even the hungriest iPad. The USB-A ports aren’t actually constructed for charging linked units, so are restricted to 4.5W charging.
With the HDMI 1.4 port you possibly can join a 4K exterior show at 30Hz. Players and streamers would possibly favor a hub with at the least HDMI 2.0 to get the smoothest 60Hz display refresh charges, however for normal productiveness utilization 30Hz is completely acceptable.
Fabricated from aluminum, it’s mild sufficient (303g) to be carried round and it folds up for added portability factors. The iPad may be tilted on the stand for one of the best viewing angles.
iPadOS 16.1 or later is required for utilizing Stage Supervisor to increase your laptop computer display to the iPad.
StarTech.com USB-C Multiport Adapter – greatest USB-C hub for passthrough charging
Execs
- 5 ports inc HDMI
- 92W passthrough charging
- 4K at 60Hz
- Direct match to iPad
Colours: House Grey, silver
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/92W), USB-A (5Gbps), USB-A (5Gbps, BC 1.2 Quick Cost), HDMI, 3.5mm audio
Why we like it: The 92W passthrough charging is spectacular. Though this can be overkill when used with a pill, it makes an enormous distinction once you use it with a laptop computer. The HDMI port means you possibly can add an exterior show, and it could possibly deal with 4K shows at 60Hz.
This compact hub, with built-in USB-C connector, is the lightest we’ve examined, at simply 44g (1.5oz). It’s additionally small, at 3.5-x-1.3-x-0.3in (90-x-32-x-8.5mm). In addition to the HDMI and audio port, it options two USB-A ports, one for information (5Gbps) and one for quick charging (7.5W).
HyperDrive 6-in-1 USB-C Media Hub for iPad Professional/Air – greatest USB-C hub for media controls
Execs
- 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- 4K at 60Hz
- Media controls
- Direct match to iPad
Colours: Grey
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), one USB-A (5Gbps), one HDMI 2.0 port, UHS-I SD and microSD Card readers, 3.5mm audio, Play/Pause/Quick-forward/Rewind buttons
Why we like it: Alongside the helpful additional ports, this mini hub provides a row of huge Play/Pause/Quick-forward/Rewind buttons on the highest for media management of your motion pictures, songs or podcasts with out interrupting your workflow.
We’ve seen quicker ports on the opposite hubs reviewed right here, nevertheless it’s the media buttons that make the distinction right here.
It will probably join in a good match to the iPad or by way of a removable longer 2in cable should you want the additional size.
At 3.85-x-1.14-x-0.47in (98-x-29-x-12mm), it’s slightly longer than different iPad hubs examined right here, nevertheless it’s light-weight at simply 41g.
It really works with iPad Professional 11in & 12.9in, iPad Air 4th Gen or iPad mini sixth Gen.
Baseus 8-in-1 USB-C Hub
Execs
- 8 ports inc HDMI, Ethernet and SD/microSD
- 92W passthrough charging
- Three USB ports
Cons
- Cable match to iPad
- 4K at 30Hz
- Bigger than most
Colours: Grey
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/100W), three USB-A (5Gbps), one HDMI 2.0 port, UHS-I SD and microSD Card readers, Gigabit Ethernet
Why we like it: The Baseus 8-in-1 USB-C Hub doesn’t match on to the iPad, because it’s extra of a normal USB-C hub that may work with any USB-C laptop. Whereas which may be a destructive level when it comes to neatness, it does imply this has extra ports than most different hubs reviewed right here.
The built-in USB-C cable itself is kind of neat, with its finish saved in a particular slot, making a helpful loop to maintain issues tidy. At 132mm lengthy and 82g in weight, it’s bigger than most however nonetheless extremely transportable.
Its eights ports embody Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI (though 4K at 30Hz relatively than 60Hz), three 5Gbps USB-A ports, passthrough charging at 100W (overkill for a pill however nice should you additionally use it with a laptop computer), and each SD and MicroSD card readers.
Caldigit USB-C SOHO Dock
Execs
- 7 ports inc HDMI, DisplayPort and SD/microSD
- Quick USB-C ports
- 4K at 60Hz
- Small for a dock
Colours: Silver
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C (10Gbps), USB-C PD (10Gbps/100W), USB-A (10Gbps), DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, UHS II SD, UHS II microSD
Why we like it: Coming with a separate USB-C cable, this aluminium mini dock has the highest-spec ports.
Though fairly small (3.66-x-2.53-x-0.75in or 93-x-64.3-x-19mm) for a docking station, it’s bigger than the devoted iPad hubs examined right here, so there’s house for each DisplayPort and HDMI ports so you possibly can select your most popular connection so as to add an exterior show to the iPad.
Because the cable is removable, you need to use your individual longer cable if needed, however you’ll want one rated to deal with 10Gbps. And due to the excessive bandwidth, the dock can simply deal with a 4K show at 60Hz, even with different ports in use.
Learn the total Caldigit SOHO Dock overview.
CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 Factor Hub – greatest Thunderbolt 4 hub for a number of USB units
Execs
- 4 Thunderbolt 4 ports
- 4 quick USB-A ports
- 5K at 60Hz
- A number of exterior shows
Cons
- No card reader
- Massive for an iPad hub
Colours: House Grey
Ports: Upstream Thunderbolt 4 (to iPad; 60W PD), three downstream Thunderbolt (40Gbps, 15W), 4 USB-A (10Gbps, 7.5W)
Why we like it: Apple’s iPad Professional (2021) fashions use 40Gbps Thunderbolt relatively than 5Gbps USB-C, so to achieve that full bandwidth a Thunderbolt hub is one of the best you will get.
This can be a hub that you may additionally use for optimum MacBook bandwidth in addition to together with your iPad Professional. Selecting a hub or dock with the most recent Thunderbolt 4 connection normal makes good sense as TB4 is backwards suitable with USB-C and so will work with any USB-C iPad too.
You received’t discover extra fashionable USB ports on a hub than you get right here, and they’re all rated at high speeds.
As such, it’s bigger than different devoted iPad hubs, measuring 4.48-x-2.74-x-0.7in (114-x-70-18mm) and weighing 6.2oz (180g).
Really helpful should you require a number of units to connect with your iPad, and should you use it with a MacBook, too.
Learn the Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 Factor Hub overview.
Selecting a USB-C hub
With a hub you possibly can add additional USB ports (Kind-C and the older Kind-A), SD and MicroSD card readers, gigabit ethernet, wired headphones, cameras, keyboards, and extra. You may as well join your USB-C iPad to your laptop or to an exterior show utilizing a hub’s USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort outputs. The latest iPad Professional may even hook up with Apple’s Professional Show XDR show.
Some USB-C hubs are specifically designed for the iPad (and match neatly with the necessity for an extended cable connection), however you can too use an array of generic USB-C hubs. And you may take it one step additional with a full docking station that may additionally work together with your laptop computer. Relying on which mannequin you purchase, a hub or dock connects to the iPad and gives an array of additional ports.
USB-C
No matter hub you purchase will expend the iPad’s sole port, so that you’ll want at the least one additional USB-C port on the hub for pass-through charging, as you don’t need your pill’s battery to fade mid use. Be certain at the least one of many hub’s USB-C ports is able to Energy Supply (PD) for charging. And search for excessive charging energy if there’s a most wattage on the hub. The iPad requires at the least a 20W charger for quick charging, which all of the hubs can deal with however a extra highly effective charger might allow speeds as much as 30W.
Extra USB-C ports on the hub imply you need to use them for extra fashionable peripherals and an exterior show that connects by way of a USB-C cable. The minimal bandwidth of USB 3 is 5Gbps, so that is the most typical velocity on hubs, however some provide 10Gbps that’s extra succesful for issues like connecting an exterior monitor.
Thunderbolt
The M1 iPad Professional makes use of the extra succesful Thunderbolt connection. It makes use of the USB-C connector, however Thunderbolt has bandwidth as much as 40Gbps in comparison with simply 5Gbps or 10Gbps for USB. Thunderbolt hubs and docks are costlier than their easier USB-C cousins, however energy customers will profit from the additional bandwidth.
For instance, a Thunderbolt hub or dock can use this bandwidth to attach a 4K show operating at 60Hz and nonetheless have data-transfer capability for different units comparable to laborious drives.
USB-A
Common and reversible, USB-C is a good connector, however most of us nonetheless have a number of units that join by way of the extra frequent Kind-A USB port, comparable to flash reminiscence sticks, laborious drives, and enter units. USB-A ports are primarily used for lower-powered units, however the ports do come in several speeds. USB 2.0 is the slowest at 480Mbps. USB 3.2 Gen 1 is rated at 5Gbps and USB 3.2 Gen 2 is 10Gbps. Some hubs boast a number of USB-A ports, so take into account what number of you would possibly want to make use of on the identical time.
SD and microSD Card readers
You possibly can join a digicam or a card reader on to the iPad’s USB-C port, however a extra versatile choice is to make use of a hub with both an SD or microSD Card reader, and lots of hubs have each. These little reminiscence playing cards are additionally a cheap transportable storage and backup answer, with capacities of as much as 1TB. Search for the quicker UHS-II kind reader, which may deal with as much as 312MBps information switch, in comparison with UHS-II’s most 104MBps.
Gigabit ethernet
Wired web or community entry is far quicker than WiFi, so should you’re utilizing your iPad at a desk, be certain the hub you select has a gigabit ethernet port. In any other case, you’ll want to make use of a USB-C-to-gigabit ethernet adapter that plugs straight into your iPad.
Audio
If you wish to hook up some wired headphones or a microphone, search for a hub with 3.5mm audio jack port since neither the iPad Professional nor the iPad Air has one.
Exterior shows
A hub is principally important when utilizing an exterior show as a result of the iPad has only one USB-C port and you’ll’t concurrently cost the pill on the identical time. So, you’ll wish to search for a hub with both two USB-C ports (one for charging) or a hub with an HDMI or DisplayPort (and even VGA when you have an older show).
It you wish to mirror your iPad’s display to a bigger one, it’s attainable to attach an exterior show direct with a USB-C cable, however until the monitor has its personal USB-C enter, search for a hub with a DisplayPort or HDMI port. Utilizing a hub’s USB-C port, you have to both a USB-C-to-HDMI or USB-C-to-DisplayPort cable or adapter.
For normal productiveness functions, 30Hz display charges are acceptable for 4K displays, however 60Hz is best for gaming or action-graphics video. Relying on the cable, you would possibly get diverse refresh charges. It’s slightly complicated, however for probably the most half, 5Gbps USB-C is generally restricted to 30Hz (however may be pushed to 60Hz if the bandwidth is just not taken up by the opposite ports), a 10Gbps USB-C connection ought to enable 60Hz 4K, and Thunderbolt will simply push 6K shows with excessive refresh charges.
