Best USB-C hubs and docking stations for iPad Pro in 2023
Are you using an iPad but not making full use of its USB-C port? Then you are surely missing out on some important benefits that your iPad has to offer. Apple switched to a USB-C connector port for its iPads in 2018 and things have never been the same again. The USB-C port on iPad provides easy access and compatibility with other peripherals. To enable this multi-functionality, you can use a USB-C dock and turn your iPad into a desktop setup.
There are a variety of iPad-compatible USB-C hubs on the market these days, so choosing the perfect one can be tricky. That’s why I’ve put together this list highlighting the best USB-C hubs and docking stations for the iPad Pro.
1. Anker – Editors’ Choice
With Anker’s PowerExpand Direct 6-in-1 USB-C Hub, you get the best of both worlds: functionality and affordability. This device converts your iPad’s USB-C port into 6 efficient ports for a variety of activities. You get a USB-C port, an HDMI port, a USB-A port for 5Gbps transfer, SD/microSD card slots, and a 3.5mm headphone jack.
The PowerExpand Direct adapter supports 60W power input and fast pass-through charging for your iPad without compromising other features. The simple design includes a brushed aluminum body that complements the look of your iPad Pro.
In addition, this USB-C docking station system allows you to stream video at up to [email protected] resolution by connecting the HDMI output to a supported monitor. The 3.5mm headphone jack supports 48Hz/16bit transmission for unparalleled sound. Plus, the SD and microSD card slots support multiple SD card formats, so you’ll never have trouble accessing your photos and media.
You can also connect a 38W or higher USB-C PD charger and a USB-C to C cable to the Anker PowerExpand Direct hub to get pass-through charging for your iPad Pro. Make sure the adapter supports 15V to access full charge speed. The hub will charge without affecting the functionality of other ports. This USB-C dock is compatible with iPad Pro 11″/iPad Pro 12.9″2018/2020, but not iPad Pro 12.9″2021.
pros
- Laconic and stylish design
- Aluminum exteriors for fast heat loss
- Compatible with multiple devices
- Supports Ethernet and HDMI for high quality playback
Minuses
- The audio port does not support EarPods volume control.
2. Belkin is a powerful iPad Pro docking station
If you’re looking for the best USB-C hubs for iPad, Belkin is your solid choice. The Belkin 7-in-1 hub has enough room for all your peripherals. It includes two USB-A 3.0 ports, one USB-C PD 3.0 port providing up to 100W charging, SD and micro-SD 3.0 card readers, one HDMI 4K 1.4 port, and 3.5mm audio in/out. Switch to the Power Delivery 3.0 port to charge your phone, tablet or other device at the same time.
Enjoy [email protected] monitor resolution with the Belkin 7-in-1 USB-C Hub by connecting your iPad, MacBook, Windows and other compatible devices. Just plug in a multi-functional docking station that only needs 15W of power to keep your peripherals powered at all times. The device provides 5Gbps data transfer for a seamless connection to your devices.
pros
- Gigabit Ethernet for convenient online surfing
- HDMI for high resolution 4K display
- Pass-through charging up to 85W so you don’t have to choose between port expansion and power
Minuses
- Users report intermittent crashes
3. Satechi is an innovative iPad to USB-C adapter
Satechi is a world famous brand specializing in innovative technology products and accessories. The Satechi Type-C Mobile Pro Hub Adapter thrives as one of the first hubs built specifically for the iPad Pro 2020/2018. It comes with a USB-C PD charging port and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It also supports 4K HDMI and has USB 3.0 ports. This universal USB-C adapter provides an unparalleled user experience, making it easy to access all your vital peripherals.
You get access to a seamless 4K HDMI display with a 60Hz refresh rate for all your presentations, video calls and conference calls. The USB-C power port supports bidirectional charging of your iPad Pro. You can also use the portable power bank to charge connected USB-C devices. Be sure to use a 30W or higher power adapter for fast charging.
Compatible with iPad Pro M1 2021, iPad Mini (6th generation), iPad Pro 2020/2018 and MacBook Air 2020/2018. It does not support iPad 2017 and earlier.
pros
- Aluminum housing for fast heat dissipation
- Portable and stylish
- 60W PD charging without limiting other functions
Minuses
- Doesn’t work with 2017 and earlier iPad models
- No SD card reader support
- No gigabit ethernet
4. HyperDrive is a multifunctional docking station for the iPad.
HyperDrive is a recognized brand of electronic products. The 6-in-1 USB-C Multi-Purpose Charger is a reliable tool that keeps all your peripherals connected. This portable hub supports HDMI 4K @ 60Hz, USB 3.0, 60W Power Delivery port, 3.5mm audio jack, 104MB/s SD card slot and UHS-I Micro-SD card reader. Also, you can use the HyperDrive adapter dongle on iPad Pro 2020/2019/2018, iPad Air 2020 and iPad Pro M1.
Rely on the HyperDrive HDMI Adapter to view any supported app on compatible iPad versions in full screen for the best experience. The comfortable grip of this 6-in-1 USB-C adapter secures the hub on the iPad it’s connected to. With this USB-C docking station, you can double the refresh rate when streaming video and data at 5Gbps. To use the hub with an iPad Pro, you must exchange the standard grip for the included optional grip.
pros
- Power 60 W
- Interchangeable and detachable handle for more safety
- Global Patent Structure
Minuses
- Expensive
- Longer than other hubs
5. Hiearcool is an 8-in-1 USB-C eco-friendly hub
Hiearcool offers an excellent 8-in-1 USB-C hub that will effectively meet all your requirements. This multifunctional hub is equipped with one HDMI 4K port, one Ethernet port, one power port, three USB 3.0 ports and one TF/SD card reader. The USB-C hub reduces desktop clutter and eliminates the hassle of adding or removing peripherals on your device. In addition, the latest ultra-intelligent chip delivers up to 100W of power for fast charging.
HDMI support is ideal for connecting your game consoles, TV, projector or monitor to your iPad and enjoy vivid 4K resolution at 60Hz refresh rate. The SD/TF reader allows you to read and write at up to 104Mbps with a simple hub connection. You can transfer data at high speeds up to 5Gbps using the three USB 3.0 ports offered by the Hiearcool USB-C Hub for iPad. Hiearcool promotes sustainable products certified for their carbon footprint.
pros
- aluminum exteriors
- Ethernet port for ultra-fast online surfing
- No lag with [email protected] HDMI
- Also compatible with MacOS, Windows, Chrome OS
- Comes in multiple colors
Minuses
- Heat problems during data transfer
- Does not support high resolution monitors
6. UGREEN – High Quality 6-in-1 USB C Hub
UGREEN brings you one of the best USB-C hubs and docks for iPad Pro with the 6-in-1 USB-C adapter. The device saves you the trouble of repeatedly plugging and unplugging devices. In addition, it comes with a [secure email] HDMI port, SD/TF card slots, and three USB 3.0 ports.
You can expand your screen with a USB-C hub adapter to stream 4K UHD, 1080p HD and 3D video to a monitor, projector or HDTV. So you can enjoy movies on the big screen or make extensive presentations for a business meeting. Three USB 3.0 ports allow you to connect multiple peripherals such as keyboards, mice, MP3 players, hard drives, flash drives, printers, etc. What’s more, the flash drive supports data transfer up to 5Gbps, so you can share HD movies/files with your friends within a second.
The 104MB/s speed of the USB-C HDMI hub lets you transfer photos or videos from your camera card to your laptop in seconds so you can view them whenever you want. The USB-C to USB adapter works well with various USB-C devices such as MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, iMac, MacBook M1, M2, Chrome Book, Surface, HP, etc.
pros
- 10 times faster than USB 2.0
- Aluminum housing for fast heat loss
- Lightweight and portable
Minuses
- No gigabit ethernet
- No USB-C pass-through charging
7. BYEASY USB-C Hub with Stand
BYEASY has released a unique USB-C hub with stand that offers the perfect combination of style and functionality. The 7-in-1 USB-C Dock for iPad offers [email protected] HDMI, a 60W PD charging port, two USB 3.0 ports, and an SD/TF card reader. With the hub’s HDMI port, you can stream 4K 3840×2160 video at 30Hz to an external monitor or projector.
Get fast data transfers up to 5Gbps using two USB 3.0 ports. You can also connect a keyboard, mouse, external drive, USB driver, etc. to the USB 3.0 ports. The easily rotating stand of the USB-C hub allows you to adjust the viewing angle to your preference. With cable-free setup, you can improve your efficiency and productivity. The USB-C hub is compatible with iPad Pro 2021/2020/2018, iPad Air 2020, MacBook Air M1, MacBook Air 2018, etc.
pros
- Folding and rotating stand
- Supports high quality video streaming
Minuses
- The base is not stable due to the small size
8. NXPGKEA – 7-in-1 USB-C Adapter for iPad
The NXPGKEA 7-in-1 USB-C adapter is a powerful option that allows you to access multiple devices at the same time. This hub is equipped with HDMI port, USB 3.0 port, SD/microSD card slot, 3.5mm audio jack, USB-C data port and USB-C PD port. It works with iPad Pro 11″/12.9″2021/2020/2018, iPad Air 5, iPad Air 4 and iPad mini-6.
Extend your screen with a 4K HDMI display and stream [email protected] UHD, [email protected] and [email protected] quality video to monitors, HDTVs or projectors. The built-in DAC audio chip converts the digital signal to high-resolution audio up to 384kHz-32bit audio output. Use the USB 3.0 port to connect a USB flash drive, hard drive, mouse, keyboard, and other USB devices for data transfer at 5Gbps. The USB-C PD port provides 60W high-speed iPad charging.
pros
- Supports Apple Smart/Magic Keyboard.
- Fast data transfer via USB
- 60W full speed charging
Minuses
- Small USB port
- Limited shelf life
9. QGeem – 4-in-1 Pocket USB-C Hub
The QGeem 4-in-1 USB Adapter is the perfect partner for iPad users. This USB 3.0-enabled USB C-HDMI adapter makes it easy to transfer and back up files, pictures, and videos at speeds up to 5Gbps. Plus, you can use the USB 2.0 port to easily connect a mouse, keyboard, and more. This instrument has three USB-A 3.0 ports, an SD/TF card slot, one USB-C Thunderbolt port, and a microSD card slot.
The HDMI port on the QGeem USB-C hub allows you to stream 4K video at a smooth 30Hz. You can also enjoy Full HD 1080P video by extending your screen to an HD TV, monitor or projector. In addition, the adapter allows you to access 3D video and audio synchronization. You don’t need an external driver to use this USB-C hub. It delivers 100W of power to a USB Power Delivery laptop and provides additional power to the hard drive, DVD driver, and accessories connected to the USB ports at the same time. Unfortunately, this is not for Apple SuperDrive.
pros
- Different ports offer multiple connections at the same time
- Fast data transfer via high-speed USB ports
- Easy to carry due to low weight
- Convenient design
Minuses
- Overheat
10. Zedela – Budget Docking Station
With the Zedela 6-in-1 USB-C Hub, you get access to high-quality services at an affordable price. This adapter has six additional ports, including one 4K HDMI, three USB 3.0 and two USB-C. Multiple ports connect your iPad or laptop to multiple peripherals at the same time.
The USB to HDMI adapter allows you to extend the screen to a monitor, projector or TV and enjoy the image on a 4K ultra high definition display. It provides wide compatibility that extends to MacBook Pro 2018/2017/2016, MacBook Air 2018, MacBook 2017/2016/2015, iMac, etc. Get ultra-fast 5Gbps data transfer. The device is also compatible with USB 2.0, USB 1.1 and USB 1.0. The PD port can charge your laptop and other Type-C devices.
pros
- Compatible with multiple USB-C devices
- 12 month warranty
- Small size for easy portability
Minuses
- Connects via cable with hanging key
- No SD or microSD card slot
Summarizing
By introducing support for the USB-C connector, Apple tried to expand the operational capabilities of the iPad. The list here introduces you to some of the best USB-C hubs and docks for the iPad Pro. All the USB-C hubs mentioned here will increase the efficiency of a single USB-C on your iPad, turning it into a multi-purpose device. You can choose a hub that suits your interests and pockets.
Feel free to contact me in the comments section with suggestions, questions, and best solutions for iPad USB-C products.
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