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What would be the best Hub for 2020 MacBook?
- Thread starter levmc
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You would need a 5 GHz router and then would need to connect to the 5 GHz signal.
Unfortunately, 2.4 GHz is the one that has interference with USB 3.2 (AKA USB 3.0, 3.1, 3.1 gen 1, 3.1 gen 2, and Superspeed...there is like a gazillion names now). Chances are any hub is going to interfere to some extent if you are are using it in combination with any USB generation that is faster than USB 2.0 (480 Mbps). A Speedtest with and without the router can confirm how speeds are impacted, and time will show you if overall connectivity is impacted. You may want to first try one of the hubs you were considering to see how bad the interference is, as it varies based on many factors. If the interference is extremely bad, then you can try things such as switching channels or you may want to consider getting a 5 GHz router if your current router does not support 5GHz. It's definitely worth purchasing from somewhere with free returns!
Additionally, docks and hubs that are distanced further away from the Mac (also keeping the USB devices distanced) that use a quality shielded cable can often mitigate the issue. However, these are usually pricier than the ones that have short cables permanently attached to the hub, and require an independent power supply.
Unfortunately, 2.4 GHz is the one that has interference with USB 3.2 (AKA USB 3.0, 3.1, 3.1 gen 1, 3.1 gen 2, and Superspeed...there is like a gazillion names now). Chances are any hub is going to interfere to some extent if you are are using it in combination with any USB generation that is faster than USB 2.0 (480 Mbps). A Speedtest with and without the router can confirm how speeds are impacted, and time will show you if overall connectivity is impacted. You may want to first try one of the hubs you were considering to see how bad the interference is, as it varies based on many factors. If the interference is extremely bad, then you can try things such as switching channels or you may want to consider getting a 5 GHz router if your current router does not support 5GHz. It's definitely worth purchasing from somewhere with free returns!
Additionally, docks and hubs that are distanced further away from the Mac (also keeping the USB devices distanced) that use a quality shielded cable can often mitigate the issue. However, these are usually pricier than the ones that have short cables permanently attached to the hub, and require an independent power supply.
If you are looking for a powered hub with power delivery, an example of a pricier hub could be something like this:
However, this is a more expensive solution and it might not be necessary for your situation.
If you do not need a powered hub or power delivery, you could go with something like this:
(This alone might work perfectly fine without interference. You would have to try it to know for sure.)
But, if you get interference with this passive hub, then you can add a high-quality, shielded cable of say 3-6 feet and move the physical location of the hub further away from the MacBook Pro:
Some hubs also have passthrough charging. They are often inexpensive but I've personally found these more commonly cause WiFi issues...my assumption is because it places the cables that cause the problem in closer proximity to the MBP's WiFi card.
Finally, do note that if you are using 2.5-inch hard disk drives that rely on the hub for power, sometimes it is a hit and miss with how well they play with passive hubs, especially with some 7200 RPM 2.5-inch hard disk drives that consume a bit more power.
Plugable USB-C Dock with 4K HDMI and 60W Charging, Compatible with Thunderbolt 3/4, USB4, and USB C iPhone, iPad, Windows, and Chromebook 1Gbps Ethernet, 3X USB 3.0, 2X USB 2.0, Driverless
FEATURES—The Plugable UD-CA1A is PCMag.com Editors' Choice award-winning Universal USB 3.1 Type-C docking station with Power Delivery. 4K-capable HDMI display (4K at 30Hz, 2560x1600 and lower at 60Hz). Provides 60W of power to charge your attached system COMPATIBILITY—Single display docking expan...
www.amazon.com
If you do not need a powered hub or power delivery, you could go with something like this:
Plugable 3-Port USB 3.0 Hub with Gigabit Ethernet | Compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and ChromeOS | Portable USB-C/USB-A Bus-Powered RJ45 GbE LAN Adapter for Laptops, MacBooks, Chromebooks
CONNECT ANYWHERE—Upgrade your tablet, laptop, or PC to wired Gigabit Ethernet speeds via USB-C or USB 3.0. USB Type-C and USB-A 3.0 cables included. Expand your USB 3.0 connectivity with this travel-friendly 3 port hub PORTABLE DESIGN—Featuring a compact aluminum frame, this sturdy hub is travel-...
www.amazon.com
But, if you get interference with this passive hub, then you can add a high-quality, shielded cable of say 3-6 feet and move the physical location of the hub further away from the MacBook Pro:
Cable Matters USB C to USB B 3.0 Cable - 6.6ft, USBB to USBC Cable with Type-B 3.0 Connector, Black
The Cable Matters USB 3.1 Type-C to Type-B is specifically designed to connect current generation external hard drives, USB switches, docking stations, and port replicators to the new release computers such as the 2015 MacBook and Google Chromebook. Preserve your investment ...
www.amazon.com
Some hubs also have passthrough charging. They are often inexpensive but I've personally found these more commonly cause WiFi issues...my assumption is because it places the cables that cause the problem in closer proximity to the MBP's WiFi card.
Finally, do note that if you are using 2.5-inch hard disk drives that rely on the hub for power, sometimes it is a hit and miss with how well they play with passive hubs, especially with some 7200 RPM 2.5-inch hard disk drives that consume a bit more power.
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