UGREEN USB Hub 3.0 vs Anker USB C Hub

Overview of UGREEN USB Hub 3.0 and Anker USB C Hub

The UGREEN USB Hub 3.0 is priced at £6.28, while the Anker USB C Hub is available for £9.99. Both hubs serve to expand connectivity options but cater to different needs and device compatibilities. While the UGREEN hub focuses on providing additional USB-A ports, the Anker hub offers a more versatile range of features, including HDMI support and pass-through charging.

Design and Build Quality

The UGREEN USB Hub 3.0 is designed to be compact and portable, measuring only 0.4 inches thick and weighing just 33 grams. This makes it an excellent choice for users who travel frequently or who have limited desk space. In contrast, the Anker USB C Hub is a 5-in-1 device that incorporates more functionalities, which may result in a larger footprint. However, its design aims to balance portability with the need for multiple connections.

Connectivity Options

UGREEN’s USB Hub 3.0 transforms a single USB-A port into four additional USB-A ports, making it ideal for users who rely heavily on USB peripherals like mice and keyboards. This hub also supports a maximum transfer speed of 5Gbps, allowing users to quickly transfer large files. The Anker USB C Hub takes connectivity a step further with its 5-in-1 configuration, featuring two USB-A 2.0 ports, one USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. Its advanced connectivity options cater well to modern laptops that primarily use USB-C.

Speed and Performance

Both the UGREEN and Anker hubs boast impressive data transfer speeds. The UGREEN USB Hub 3.0 supports a maximum transfer speed of 5Gbps, facilitating quick file transfers, such as transferring a 10 GB file in approximately 16.4 seconds. The Anker USB C Hub, while also featuring a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port, includes two USB 2.0 ports with a transfer speed of 480Mbps. This means while the UGREEN hub excels in speed across all its ports, the Anker hub provides a mix of speeds suitable for different tasks.

Compatibility and Usability

The UGREEN USB Hub 3.0 is compatible not only with computers but also works seamlessly with devices like Xbox Series, PS5, and various car systems. This wide compatibility ensures that it meets diverse user needs. The Anker USB C Hub, on the other hand, is primarily designed for USB-C devices and also offers pass-through charging capabilities. However, it is worth noting that the USB-C power delivery input can only connect to an external wall charger, limiting its utility for powering peripherals.

Additional Features

The Anker USB C Hub comes with a 4K HDMI display capability, allowing it to deliver high-resolution visuals at 30Hz, which is a significant advantage for users needing to connect their devices to larger screens. This feature is absent in the UGREEN hub, which solely focuses on expanding USB-A connectivity. Additionally, Anker provides a welcome guide and an 18-month warranty, adding value for buyers concerned with after-sales support.

Price Comparison

The UGREEN USB Hub 3.0 is priced at £6.28, making it a cost-effective solution for users looking to expand their USB connections without breaking the bank. In contrast, the Anker USB C Hub, at £9.99, is slightly more expensive but offers additional features that may justify the higher price for some users. The decision ultimately comes down to whether the extra functionalities of the Anker hub are worth the additional cost.

Which should you buy?

In summary, the choice between the UGREEN USB Hub 3.0 and the Anker USB C Hub largely depends on your specific needs. If you require a simple, cost-effective USB-A hub primarily for connecting peripherals, the UGREEN USB Hub 3.0 is an excellent choice at £6.28. However, if you need a versatile hub with HDMI support and pass-through charging for your USB-C devices, the Anker USB C Hub at £9.99 may be the better option. Consider your device compatibility and required features to make the most informed decision.