5 Things to Consider When Choosing a USB-C Hub or Docking Station in 2026

Laptops have fewer ports as they get lighter and thinner. Because of this, USB-C hubs and docking stations are now necessary equipment for both work and play. Your productivity and experience can be greatly enhanced by selecting the appropriate hub, regardless of whether you're using a MacBook, Surface, or Chromebook.

With so many USB-C hub options available, how do you choose the best one? Before making a purchase, you should think about these five important factors.

1. Does the Port Selection Fit Your Everyday Requirements?

Assessing what ports you truly require should be your first step.

Typical Ports Include:

• HDMI (for external displays)

• USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 (for flash drives, keyboards, and mice)

• SD and Micro SD card readers (very helpful for photographers)

• USB-C Power Delivery (PD) charging port

• Ethernet connector

If you primarily use your laptop for business or education, a hub with HDMI, USB ports, and pass-through charging may be enough.

For instance, the LENTION USB C Hub with 100W Charging (CB-CE18) features:

• 100W PD port

• 4K HDMI

• USB 3.0

• Two USB 2.0 ports

• SD/Micro SD card readers (up to 256GB)

The black variant also supports 4K@60Hz HDMI output, making it a powerful all-in-one option for daily use.

If you frequently connect multiple devices—such as memory cards, external hard drives, flash drives, keyboards, and mice—make sure your hub has enough high-speed ports to support them simultaneously.

Tip: Before making a purchase, list the devices you use regularly and compare them to the available ports.

2. Display Output: 4K? 60Hz? Or Multi-Monitor Support?

Video output features are essential for users who rely on external displays.

Important Questions to Ask:

• Does it support 4K resolution?

• Is it 30Hz or 60Hz?

• Does it support dual or triple monitor setups?

• Is Multi-Stream Transport (MST) supported?

If you need multiple displays for data analysis, coding, trading, or design work, a hub with dual HDMI outputs is a smart choice.

For example, the LENTION USB C Hub with 60W PD, Dual 4K HDMI (CB-CS67) offers:

• Two HDMI outputs

  • One at 4K@60Hz

  • One at 4K@30Hz

• Support for MST (different content on each screen)

• Support for SST (same content mirrored on both screens)

⚠️ Note: Due to chipset limitations, M1 MacBook Air, Pro, and Mac mini devices can only support one external monitor. This is a hardware limitation, not a hub issue.

3. Power Delivery: Is the Charging Power Sufficient?

Power Delivery (PD) wattage is one element that is frequently overlooked.

Typical PD Ratings:

• 60W (fits MacBook Air)

• 87W or 96W (for MacBook Pro)

• 100W (greater power, more reliable operation)

If the hub's power supply is insufficient, you may experience:

• Slow charging

• Unstable accessories

• Battery drain even while connected

For instance, the CB-CE18 supports up to 100W pass-through charging, making it ideal for users who need steady, high-wattage power delivery.

Meanwhile, the CB-CS67 provides 60W PD, which is adequate for daily office use and lightweight laptops.

Pro Tip: For optimal performance, connect the power adapter to the hub before plugging in high-power devices such as external hard drives.

4. Compatibility: Will It Work with Your Device?

Not every USB-C hub is compatible with every device.

Before Purchasing, Confirm:

• Whether your laptop supports Thunderbolt 3 or 4

• Compatibility with your specific MacBook model and year

• Support for Windows or Chromebook devices

• Whether the hub’s design conflicts with laptop cases

For example, the CB-CS67 is specifically designed for newer MacBook Pro/Air models (2016–2020) with dual USB-C ports. However, it may not fit properly if your MacBook has a protective case.

On the other hand, the CB-CE18 is a more versatile USB-C hub compatible with MacBook Pro/Air (2016–2023), iMac, Surface, Chromebook, and other USB-C devices. However, it does not support Apple SuperDrive.

Always verify compatibility before purchasing to avoid unnecessary returns.

5. Build Quality and Heat Management: Is It Reliable for Long-Term Use?

A good USB-C hub should provide:

• Aluminum housing for better heat dissipation

• Anti-interference circuitry

• Multiple safety protections

• Stable driver certification

For example, the CB-CE18 features Stable Driver 3.0 certification, which helps reduce signal interference and ensures consistent power delivery.

The CB-CS67 uses a unibody aluminum alloy design, improving thermal performance while matching the MacBook’s aesthetic.

Poor Build Quality May Result In:

• Overheating

• HDMI flickering

• Data transmission instability

• Fragile or loose ports

Over time, build quality directly impacts reliability and performance.

Final Thoughts: The Right USB-C Hub Makes All the Difference

When selecting a USB-C hub or docking station, keep these five important factors in mind:

1. Are the ports appropriate for your needs?

2. Are the display capabilities sufficient?

3. Is the Power Delivery wattage adequate?

4. Does it work seamlessly with your device?

5. Is the construction reliable for long-term use?

The CB-CE18 is a flexible option if all-in-one expansion with higher power delivery is your priority.

If you require dual- or triple-screen productivity, the CB-CS67 can significantly enhance your workflow.

Selecting the ideal USB-C hub doesn’t just add ports — it elevates your entire workspace experience.