Symbol: IDG
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 or even the tenth era iPad characteristic the USB-C port as a substitute of Lightning. In truth, the one iPad Apple sells with out USB-C is the ninth era iPad.
The M1 iPad Professional makes use of the much more succesful however identical-looking (and appropriate to USB-C) Thunderbolt connection.
What many of us don’t realise is that the USB-C port is nice for greater than charging or plugging in stressed out earbuds. Apple’s capsules can be used with different peripherals that change into it into a flexible laptop. As such, iPad homeowners have a variety of USB-C equipment to be had to them except their iPad nonetheless makes use of the Lightning connector.
One of the USB-C hubs attach at once into the iPad. Others require a cable connection; some include each, which is helping when the iPad is in a protecting case. We’ve additionally integrated stands for iPads that come with integrated multiport hubs.
Perfect USB-C hubs and docks for iPad
HyperDrive 6-in-1 USB-C Hub – Perfect general USB-C hub for iPad
Execs
- 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- 4K at 60Hz
- Direct have compatibility to iPad
- 60W passthrough charging
Cons
- One colour simplest
- Pricey
Worth When Reviewed: $89.99
Colours: Area Grey
Ports: USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, UHS-I microSD, SD card, 3.5mm audio
Why we find it irresistible: The HDMI port method you’ll be able to upload an exterior show, and it will probably care for 4K shows at 60Hz, even if that may well be a push in case you are the use of the entire different ports on the identical time.
This handsome hub, with built-n USB-C connector, includes a grip that secures it onto an iPad Professional with out destructive the skin. Then again, you’ll be able to take away the grip in case 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’ll be able to use it as a USB-C hub on your MacBook or some other USB-C software, too. It might probably payment 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 have compatibility to iPad
Cons
- Slower USB-A
- 4K at 30Hz
- No card reader
Worth When Reviewed: $59.99
Colours: Black
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (85W), USB-A (480MBbps, 7.5W), HDMI 2.0, Audio Out
Why we find it irresistible: This small hub can attach for your iPad (or MacBook) by way of both the built-in USB-C connector or a removable cable (20in). The cable comes in handy in case your iPad is in a protecting case, and it’s essential use your personal 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 computer on the identical time–particularly at hand for capsules that experience simply the only 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 got examined.
The USB-A port is USB 2.0, so restricted to 480Mbps information move in comparison to the 5Gbps on be offering on one of the crucial different hubs reviewed right here.
Twelve South additionally sells a less-mini however nonetheless extremely moveable StayGo USB-C hub that boasts 9 ports, together with Gigabit Ethernet and SD and Micro USB card readers along the HDMI, USB-A and USB-C passthrough energy supply.
Satechi USB-C Cell Professional Hub SD – lightest USB-C hub
Execs
- 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- 4K at 60Hz
- Direct have compatibility to iPad
- 60W passthrough charging
Cons
- UHS I SD velocity
Worth When Reviewed: $69.99
Colours: Area 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 find it irresistible: 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 somewhat larger than the Twelve South StayGo mini however a couple of grams lighter, and comprises each SD and microSD card reader slots, which can be missing from the StayGo.
The HDMI port can push a 4K track at 60Hz. And the hub can payment 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 rather then an iPad or use with an iPad in a case.
Satechi additionally sells a moderately less expensive USB-C Cell Professional Hub that doesn’t come with the cardboard readers – however this isn’t appropriate with the 2021 iPad Professional M1, which the Cell Professional Hub SD does paintings with.
Kensington StudioDock iPad Docking Station – perfect stand/dock for iPad
Execs
- 8 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- 4K at 60Hz
- Wi-fi software charging
- Stand
Cons
- No longer top adjustable
Worth When Reviewed: $179.99
Colours: Area Grey
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/60W), USB-A (5Gbps), HDMI, SD and microSD card readers, 3.5mm audio
For without equal iPad hub, input the Kensington StudioDock—a full-featured docking station that’s additionally a handsome 120-degree tilting stand that can carry your iPad as much as 13cm from the table. 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 may even fast-charge your iPhone (7.5W) and AirPods (5W) at its base; you’ll be able to additionally upload an non-compulsory Apple Watch charging module for the overall Apple revel in.
The iPad is attached by way of USB-C with 37.5W charging and 5Gbps information move. The newest iPad Professional makes use of USB4/Thunderbolt 4 however it’s backwards appropriate with USB-C, even if a few of its 40Gbps shall be misplaced within the connection.
On the again a unmarried HDMI 2.0 video output connects your iPad to an exterior 4K or HD show at 60Hz; most solution is 3840 x 2160.
Along the HDMI are 3 5Gbps USB-A ports (moderately underpowered at simply 4.5W) and Gigabit Ethernet for stressed out Web entry.
To the facet is a quick UHS-II SD 4.0 card reader, which provides moveable garage for your iPad when hooked up, and a 5Gbps USB-C port (15W). There may be a combo 3.5mm audio jack right here.
The integrated energy provide can be offering as much as 135W.
StudioDock is to be had in 3 fashions, so remember to make a choice the correct oneThe K39160WW is appropriate with the 12.9-inch iPad Professional (2018/2020/2021 and 2022 fashions); the K34031WW StudioDock is appropriate with 11-inch iPad Professional (2018/2020/2021 and 2022 fashions) and iPad Air (2020/2022) however now not with the most recent 10.9-inch (tenth era) iPad. The K34030WW is appropriate with 12.9-inch iPad Professional (2018/2020).
Satechi 6-in-1 Aluminum Stand & Hub – perfect mini USB-C dock
Execs
- 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- 4K at 60Hz
- Integrated iPad stand
Cons
- Bulkier than maximum
Worth When Reviewed: $99.99
Colours: Area 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 find it irresistible: Combining each a stand and a at hand array of easy-access ports on the again, this iPad Professional hub raises your iPad to a greater perspective for viewing and Zoom calls in addition to enabling easy software connection. It folds right into a neat moveable bundle (283g, 10oz), and connects to the iPad with its built-in USB-C cable so the whole thing is integrated.
Plugable USB-C Docking Station (UDS-7IN1) – perfect funds stand/dock for iPad
Execs
- 8 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- Mild, moveable stand
Cons
- No longer top adjustable
- 4K at 30Hz
Worth When Reviewed: $69
Colours: Area 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 find it irresistible: A extra reasonably priced hub/stand choice 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 mix 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 integrated.
On the again, along the HDMI port is some other USB-C port that you’ll be able to hook up with a USB-C wall charger to permit as much as 91W charging for the hooked up software—masses for even the hungriest iPad. The USB-A ports aren’t truly constructed for charging hooked up units, so are restricted to 4.5W charging.
With the HDMI 1.4 port you’ll be able to attach a 4K exterior show at 30Hz. Players and streamers may favor a hub with a minimum of HDMI 2.0 to get the smoothest 60Hz display screen refresh charges, however for normal productiveness utilization 30Hz is completely appropriate.
Fabricated from aluminum, it’s gentle sufficient (303g) to be carried round and it folds up for additonal portability issues. The iPad can also be tilted at the stand for the most efficient viewing angles.
iPadOS 16.1 or later is needed for the use of Level Supervisor to increase your computer display screen to the iPad.
StarTech.com USB-C Multiport Adapter – perfect USB-C hub for passthrough charging
Execs
- 5 ports inc HDMI
- 92W passthrough charging
- 4K at 60Hz
- Direct have compatibility to iPad
Cons
- No card reader
Worth When Reviewed: $115.99
Colours: Area Grey, silver
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/92W), USB-A (5Gbps), USB-A (5Gbps, BC 1.2 Speedy Fee), HDMI, 3.5mm audio
Why we find it irresistible: The 92W passthrough charging is spectacular. Even though this can be overkill when used with a pill, it makes a large distinction while you use it with a computer. The HDMI port method you’ll be able to upload an exterior show, and it will probably care for 4K shows at 60Hz.
This compact hub, with integrated USB-C connector, is the lightest we’ve got 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 – perfect USB-C hub for media controls
Execs
- 6 ports inc HDMI and SD/microSD
- 4K at 60Hz
- Media controls
- Direct have compatibility to iPad
Cons
- Longer than maximum
Worth When Reviewed: $99.99
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/Speedy-forward/Rewind buttons
Why we find it irresistible: Along the at hand further ports, this mini hub provides a row of enormous Play/Pause/Speedy-forward/Rewind buttons at the best for media regulate of your films, songs or podcasts with out interrupting your workflow.
We’ve noticed quicker ports at the different hubs reviewed right here, nevertheless it’s the media buttons that make the adaptation right here.
It might probably attach in a good have compatibility to the iPad or by way of a removable longer 2in cable if you wish to have the additional period.
At 3.85-x-1.14-x-0.47in (98-x-29-x-12mm), it’s somewhat 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
- 3 USB ports
Cons
- Cable have compatibility to iPad
- 4K at 30Hz
- Greater than maximum
Worth When Reviewed: $39.99
Colours: Grey
Ports: USB-C (to iPad), USB-C PD (5Gbps/100W), 3 USB-A (5Gbps), one HDMI 2.0 port, UHS-I SD and microSD Card readers, Gigabit Ethernet
Why we find it irresistible: The Baseus 8-in-1 USB-C Hub does now not have compatibility at once to the iPad, because it’s extra of a normal USB-C hub that may paintings with any USB-C laptop. Whilst that can be a unfavourable level in the case of neatness, it does imply this has extra ports than maximum different hubs reviewed right here.
The built-in USB-C cable itself is reasonably neat, with its finish saved in a distinct slot, making a at hand loop to stay issues tidy. At 132mm lengthy and 82g in weight, it’s better than maximum however nonetheless extremely moveable.
Its eights ports come with Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI (even if 4K at 30Hz relatively than 60Hz), 3 5Gbps USB-A ports, passthrough charging at 100W (overkill for a pill however nice in case you additionally use it with a computer), and each SD and MicroSD card readers.
Caldigit USB-C SOHO Dock
Execs
- 7 ports inc HDMI, DisplayPort and SD/microSD
- Speedy USB-C ports
- 4K at 60Hz
- Small for a dock
Cons
- Massive for an iPad hub
Worth When Reviewed: $79.99
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 find it irresistible: Coming with a separate USB-C cable, this aluminium mini dock has the highest-spec ports.
Even though beautiful small (3.66-x-2.53-x-0.75in or 93-x-64.3-x-19mm) for a docking station, it’s better than the devoted iPad hubs examined right here, so there’s house for each DisplayPort and HDMI ports so you’ll be able to make a selection your most popular connection so as to add an exterior show to the iPad.
Because the cable is removable, you’ll be able to use your personal longer cable if essential, however you’ll want one rated to care for 10Gbps. And as a result of the top bandwidth, the dock can simply care for a 4K show at 60Hz, even with different ports in use.
Learn the overall Caldigit SOHO Dock evaluate.
CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 Part Hub – perfect Thunderbolt 4 hub for a couple of USB units
Execs
- 4 Thunderbolt 4 ports
- 4 rapid USB-A ports
- 5K at 60Hz
- More than one exterior shows
Cons
- No card reader
- Massive for an iPad hub
Worth When Reviewed: $249.99
Colours: Area Grey
Ports: Upstream Thunderbolt 4 (to iPad; 60W PD), 3 downstream Thunderbolt (40Gbps, 15W), 4 USB-A (10Gbps, 7.5W)
Why we find it irresistible: Apple’s iPad Professional (2021) fashions use 40Gbps Thunderbolt relatively than 5Gbps USB-C, to be able to achieve that complete bandwidth a Thunderbolt hub is the most efficient you’ll be able to get.
It is a hub that you’ll be able to additionally use for optimum MacBook bandwidth in addition to along with your iPad Professional. Opting for a hub or dock with the most recent Thunderbolt 4 connection usual makes best possible sense as TB4 is backwards appropriate with USB-C and so will paintings with any USB-C iPad too.
You received’t to find extra fashionable USB ports on a hub than you get right here, and they’re all rated at best speeds.
As such, it’s better than different devoted iPad hubs, measuring 4.48-x-2.74-x-0.7in (114-x-70-18mm) and weighing 6.2oz (180g).
Advisable in case you require a couple of units to hook up with your iPad, and in case you use it with a MacBook, too.
Learn the Caldigit Thunderbolt 4 Part Hub evaluate.
Opting for a USB-C hub
With a hub you’ll be able to upload further USB ports (Kind-C and the older Kind-A), SD and MicroSD card readers, gigabit ethernet, stressed out headphones, cameras, keyboards, and extra. You’ll additionally attach your USB-C iPad for your laptop or to an exterior show the use of a hub’s USB-C, HDMI, DisplayPort outputs. The latest iPad Professional will even hook up with Apple’s Professional Show XDR show.
Some USB-C hubs are specifically designed for the iPad (and have compatibility smartly with the will for a protracted cable connection), however you’ll be able to additionally use an array of generic USB-C hubs. And you’ll be able to take it one step additional with a complete docking station that may additionally paintings along with your computer. Relying on which style 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 fritter away the iPad’s sole port, so that you’ll want a minimum of one further USB-C port at the hub for pass-through charging, as you don’t need your pill’s battery to vanish mid use. Be certain that a minimum of one of the most hub’s USB-C ports is in a position to Energy Supply (PD) for charging. And search for top charging energy if there’s a most wattage at the hub. The iPad calls for a minimum of a 20W charger for quick charging, which the entire hubs can care for however a extra tough charger would possibly permit speeds as much as 30W.
Extra USB-C ports at the hub imply you’ll be able 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 commonest velocity on hubs, however some be offering 10Gbps this is extra succesful for such things as connecting an exterior track.
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 to simply 5Gbps or 10Gbps for USB. Thunderbolt hubs and docks are costlier than their more practical USB-C cousins, however energy customers will have the benefit of the additional bandwidth.
For instance, a Thunderbolt hub or dock can use this bandwidth to attach a 4K show working at 60Hz and also have data-transfer capability for different units reminiscent of onerous drives.
USB-A
Common and reversible, USB-C is a brilliant connector, however maximum people nonetheless have a couple of units that attach by way of the extra not unusual Kind-A USB port, reminiscent of flash reminiscence sticks, onerous drives, and enter units. USB-A ports are principally used for lower-powered units, however the ports do come in numerous 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 couple of USB-A ports, so believe what number of chances are you’ll want to use on the identical time.
SD and microSD Card readers
You’ll attach a digicam or a card reader at once to the iPad’s USB-C port, however a extra versatile possibility is to make use of a hub with both an SD or microSD Card reader, and plenty of hubs have each. Those little reminiscence playing cards also are an reasonably priced moveable garage and backup resolution, with capacities of as much as 1TB. Search for the quicker UHS-II sort reader, which will care for as much as 312MBps information move, in comparison to UHS-II’s most 104MBps.
Gigabit ethernet
Stressed out web or community entry is far quicker than WiFi, so in case you’re the use of your iPad at a table, be certain that the hub you select has a gigabit ethernet port. Another way, you’ll want to use a USB-C-to-gigabit ethernet adapter that plugs at once into your iPad.
Audio
If you wish to hook up some stressed out 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 mainly crucial when the use of an exterior show since the iPad has only one USB-C port and you’ll be able to’t concurrently payment the pill on the identical time. So, you’ll need 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 in case you have an older show).
It you need to reflect your iPad’s display screen to a bigger one, it’s conceivable to attach an exterior show direct with a USB-C cable, however except the track has its personal USB-C enter, search for a hub with a DisplayPort or HDMI port. The usage of a hub’s USB-C port, you are going to want both a USB-C-to-HDMI or USB-C-to-DisplayPort cable or adapter.
For normal productiveness functions, 30Hz display screen charges are appropriate for 4K displays, however 60Hz is best for gaming or action-graphics video. Relying at the cable, chances are you’ll get numerous refresh charges. It’s somewhat complicated, however for probably the most section, 5Gbps USB-C is most commonly restricted to 30Hz (however can also be driven to 60Hz if the bandwidth isn’t taken up via the opposite ports), a 10Gbps USB-C connection will have to permit 60Hz 4K, and Thunderbolt will simply push 6K shows with top refresh charges.
Writer: Simon Jary, Contributing author
Simon used to be Editor of Macworld from the darkish days of 1995 to the triumphant go back of Steve Jobs and the release of the iPhone. His table is a take a look at bench for tech equipment, from USB-C and Thunderbolt docks to chargers, batteries, Powerline adaptors and Fitbits.