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- 1. What is a USB Splitter?
- 2. What is a USB Hub?
- 3. A Comprehensive Comparison Between USB Splitters and USB Hubs
What is a USB hub?
A USB hub is a hardware device that splits one USB port into two or more, effectively increasing the number of devices that can be connected to a single USB port. It allows for multiple external devices to operate concurrently on the same computer in parallel.
With a USB hub, you can connect the USB end to your computer's USB port, and then plug other peripheral devices into the external ports, such as a mouse, keyboard, printer, scanner, USB hard drive, and so on.
Another unique feature of the USB splitter is that it prevents your computer from getting overloaded, ensuring smooth operation.
What is a USB Hub?
A USB hub, also referred to as a USB port hub or multi-adapter, is unlike a splitter. It resembles a mini power outlet with one end featuring a USB interface for connecting to your computer's host, and the other end being the HUB that expands into multiple ports. All devices share the bandwidth available on the hub. This allows interaction with multiple USB devices simultaneously, such as mice, keyboards, printers, USB drives, and portable storage drives. In addition to USB ports, hubs may feature extras like a USB to HDMI adapter, Ethernet ports, or Mini USB for wired internet connections and better screen displays.
There are various types of USB hubs available. Depending on the port, they come in three different versions: USB 2.0 hubs, USB 3.0 hubs, and USB 3.1 (Type-C) hubs.
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With so many iterations and versions, it can be hard to tell them apart. If you're having trouble differentiating between the three, check out this article, which details the different types of USB, their generations, and how to add more USB ports to your computer: USB 2.0 vs USB 3.0 vs USB 3.1: Which Should You Have and Why?
Comprehensive Comparison Between USB Splitters and USB Hubs
By now, you should have a good idea of what a USB splitter and a USB hub are. But how do you choose which one to buy or use? Here's a comprehensive and in-depth comparison between the two. Hopefully, this will help you make the right decision after reading through it.
| Comparison Item | Data Recovery Service Provider | Hard Drive Data Recovery Software |
|---|---|---|
| Intended Users |
|
|
| USB Splitter | USB Hub | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Similarities | Purpose and Functionality | Both are used to connect additional external peripherals, expanding the built-in USB slots on a computer. You can connect devices like mice, keyboards, printers, scanners, etc. to your computer. | |
| Differences | Appearance | One USB port splits into multiple USB cables | Hub expands into multiple ports |
| USB Ports | Only provides USB ports | Supports Ethernet, HDMI, or USB-C ports in addition to USB | |
| Transfer Speed | No data transfer function | Transfers data at a speed of 480 Mbps | |
| Power Supply | No power supply for USB splitters | USB hubs provide extra power to each port | |
For example, if your laptop has only one USB port and it's already occupied by another device, you'll need a USB hub to connect an HDMI adapter for displaying PC content on a monitor.
A USB hub is your best bet if you need to connect more than one device to a single USB port.
Bottom line
In summary, this article provides a comprehensive guide on USB splitters and USB hubs, along with a comparison between the two. They share similarities but also have distinct differences. Our aim is for you to gain a thorough understanding of both and make informed choices when using or purchasing them.