True USB-C to USB-C Hub. Do they even exist?

HausOfLandau · November 16, 2019

Hey guys.

The number of devices I have that use with USB-C connections has *thankfully* started to increase. But my Z390 motherboard only has one type C header and one build into the back, and I need more Type-C Ports. So I’ve been looking for a Type-C Hub - that you can plug in into your computer’s Type-C port and it gives you 4 Type-C inputs, and I can’t find them anywhere!

Do they even exist??

SkyHound0202 · November 16, 2019

There's no "true" USB-C to USB-C hub. Those hubs available on the market with one USB-C port exclusively use the port for charging. Those with two USB-C ports are mostly at USB 2.0 speed. The reason being that using a USB-C hub, especially under USB 3.1 Gen 2 protocol, will make the hub itself become a huge bottleneck in terms of power and bandwidth.

If you all you need is a USB-C port and you don't care about DisplayPort capability, you can just buy one of those USB-A to USB-C adapter. It will only carry data and (hopefully enough) power to your device.

However, if want full power & bandwidth and you motherboard has spare PCIe x4 slot(s), you may consider buying an ASmedia-based PCIe to USB-C add-in card like this. If you want DP over USB-C, you will probably need Thunderbolt 3 or a native USB-C port on motherboard that has electric connection to GPU.