Best USB-C Hubs with Pass Through Charging: Top 3 Picks for Power & Connectivity
Let’s face it – modern laptops are sleek and beautiful, but they’ve sacrificed ports for aesthetics. If you’re tired of playing “port roulette” every time you need to connect multiple devices while keeping your laptop charged, you’re not alone. The solution? A USB-C hub with pass through charging that transforms your single USB-C port into a connectivity powerhouse without leaving you tethered to the wall.
We’ve tested and compared the top USB-C hubs that master the art of simultaneous charging and connectivity. Whether you’re a digital nomad juggling presentations, a creative professional managing multiple peripherals, or someone who simply wants their workspace to work smarter, we’ll help you find the perfect hub that keeps your devices powered and connected.
Our Top 3 USB-C Hubs with Pass Through Charging
1. Anker 555 USB-C Hub (8-in-1) (Premium Choice)
Price Range: $50-60
Key Features:
- 85W pass-through charging capability
- 8 ports total: USB-C PD, USB-C data, 2x USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet, microSD/SD slots
- 4K@60Hz video output (DP 1.4 compatible devices)
- 10 Gbps data transfer speeds
- Built-in 7.48″ USB-C cable
- Premium build quality with aluminum construction
- Extensive port selection including Ethernet
- High-speed data transfer and charging
- Works with MacBook, Windows, ChromeOS
- 18-month warranty
- Hub reserves 15W for operation
- Can run warm under full load
- Higher price point
- Not compatible with Linux
- USB-A port or USB-C data port does not support charging
User Experience: Users consistently praise this hub’s reliability and port variety. The Ethernet port is particularly appreciated by professionals who need stable internet connections. However, some users report intermittent connectivity issues and note that the hub can become noticeably warm during intensive use.
Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.3/5) Perfect for power users who need maximum connectivity and don’t mind paying premium prices for premium performance.
2. UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub (Budget Champion)
Price Range: $10-20
Sometimes the best solution is the simplest one. The UGREEN 5-in-1 proves that you don’t need to break the bank for reliable pass through charging USB-C hub functionality.
Key Features:
- 95W pass-through charging (5W reserved for hub operation)
- 5 ports: USB-C PD, 1x USB-A 3.0 (5 Gbps), 2x USB-A 2.0, HDMI
- 4K@30Hz video output
- Plug-and-play compatibility
- Compact, travel-friendly design
- Excellent value for money
- Broad compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android)
- Lightweight and portable
- Simple, reliable operation
- Good build quality for the price
- Limited to 4K@30Hz video output
- Only one high-speed USB-A port
- Mixed reports on power delivery consistency
- Basic port selection compared to premium options
User Experience: Budget-conscious users love this hub’s simplicity and reliability. It’s particularly popular among MacBook users who appreciate its seamless plug-and-play operation. The main complaints center around inconsistent power delivery in some units.
Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.9/5) An excellent entry point for anyone wanting USB-C pass through charging hub functionality without premium pricing.
3. Anker USB C Hub (7-in-1) (Sweet Spot)
Price Range: $30-40
The Anker 341 strikes that perfect balance between features and affordability, making it our pick for most users seeking a reliable USB-C hub with pass through charging capability.
Key Features:
- 85W pass-through charging (15W reserved for hub)
- 7 ports: USB-C PD, USB-C data, 2x USB-A, HDMI, microSD/SD slots
- 4K HDMI output support
- 5 Gbps data transfer speeds
- Premium aluminum construction
- Well-balanced port selection
- Solid build quality with aluminum casing
- Good data transfer speeds
- Reliable 4K video output
- Reasonable pricing for features offered
- USB-C port doesn’t support video output
- Some compatibility issues with certain devices
- HDMI functionality can be inconsistent
- Charging speeds may vary with different devices
User Experience: This hub receives praise for its build quality and reliable operation over extended periods. Users appreciate the dual card slots and find it perfect for travel. Main complaints involve occasional HDMI connectivity issues and slower charging speeds with certain devices.
Verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5) The goldilocks choice, not too basic, not overly complex, just right for most users’ needs.
Comparison Table: Key Specifications
| Feature | Anker USB-C Hub (8-in-1) | UGREEN 5-in-1 | Anker USB C Hub (7-in-1) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pass-Through Charging | 85W | 95W | 85W |
| Total Ports | 8 | 5 | 7 |
| Video Output | 4K@60Hz | 4K@30Hz | 4K@60Hz |
| USB-A Ports | 2 (10 Gbps) | 3 (1×5Gbps, 2×480Mbps) | 2 (5 Gbps) |
| Card Readers | microSD + SD | None | microSD + SD |
| Ethernet Port | Yes | No | No |
| Weight | 4.5 oz | 3.21 oz | 3.5 oz |
| Price Range | $50-60 | $10-20 | $30-40 |
USB Hub Pass Through Charging: What You Need to Know
Understanding how pass through charging USB-C hub technology works can save you from frustrating connectivity issues and help you choose the right hub for your setup.
Pass-through charging allows your hub to receive power from your wall charger and simultaneously deliver power to your connected laptop while operating all its ports. Think of it as a power traffic controller, it manages the flow of electricity to ensure everything gets the juice it needs.
However, not all pass-through charging is created equal. Most hubs reserve 10-15W of power for their own operation, meaning a 100W charger might only deliver 85-90W to your laptop. This is perfectly normal and ensures stable hub operation.
Making Sense of Power Delivery Requirements
The math behind USB-C hub charging can be confusing, but here’s the simple breakdown: always use a charger that’s at least 15-20W higher than your laptop’s charging requirement. If your laptop needs 65W, use an 85W or 100W charger with your hub.
This overhead ensures your hub operates reliably while delivering adequate power to your laptop. Our guide on powered vs unpowered USB hubs explains why powered hubs consistently outperform their unpowered counterparts in real-world scenarios.
Port Performance and Connectivity Considerations
Modern USB-C hubs are incredibly capable, but they’re not magic. Understanding their limitations helps set proper expectations and avoid frustrating connectivity issues.
Data transfer speeds vary significantly between ports. USB-A 3.0 ports typically offer 5 Gbps speeds, while USB-A 2.0 ports max out at 480 Mbps. This difference matters when transferring large files or connecting high-bandwidth devices.
Video output capabilities also vary. While most hubs support 4K resolution, the refresh rate differs – some manage 4K@60Hz while others are limited to 4K@30Hz. For gaming or professional video work, this distinction is crucial.
Connection stability can be affected by power demands. When multiple high-power devices are connected simultaneously, some hubs may struggle with consistent performance and connectivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all laptops support pass-through charging with USB-C hubs?
Most modern laptops with USB-C ports support pass-through charging, but there are exceptions. The laptop must support USB Power Delivery (USB-PD) through its USB-C port. Some older laptops or budget models may have USB-C ports for data only, without power delivery capability.
Why does my hub get warm during use?
Heat generation is normal and expected when hubs handle multiple data streams and power delivery simultaneously. Quality hubs are designed to operate safely at temperatures up to 122°F (50°C). However, excessive heat may indicate overloading or a faulty unit.
Can I use a more powerful charger than recommended?
Yes, using a higher-wattage charger is generally safe. USB-C Power Delivery is designed to negotiate the appropriate power level automatically. Your devices will only draw the power they need, regardless of the charger’s maximum capacity.
Will using a hub affect my laptop’s charging speed?
Slightly, yes. Most hubs reserve 10-15W for their own operation, reducing the power available for your laptop. For example, a 100W charger through a hub might deliver 85W to your laptop. This difference is usually negligible for normal use.
Do USB-C hubs work with tablets and phones?
Compatibility varies by device. Most tablets and phones don’t support the power requirements for full hub functionality. However, many work for basic data transfer and some charging, though often at reduced speeds.
The Bottom Line: Choosing Your Perfect USB-C Hub
Finding the best USB-C hub with pass through charging doesn’t have to feel like solving a puzzle. Whether you choose the feature-packed for maximum connectivity, the budget-friendly UGREEN for essential functionality, or the balanced Anker for everyday reliability, you’re investing in a more productive and less frustrating computing experience.
Remember, the perfect hub is the one that matches your actual usage patterns, not necessarily the one with the most ports or highest specifications. A simpler hub that reliably handles your daily needs will serve you better than a complex one that occasionally hiccups when you need it most.
Your laptop deserves better than port scarcity, and you deserve a workspace that adapts to your needs rather than limiting them. Choose wisely, and prepare to wonder how you ever managed with just one lonely USB-C port.
Looking for more? Check out our workspace category for more affordable products that may interest you!
Featured image credit: Photo by Yogas Design on Unsplash
