Do USB-C hubs slow down my laptop?

Minimally. The bandwidth is shared across ports, so running an external display + storage transfer simultaneously can reduce speeds. For normal use (display + peripherals), you will not notice any slowdown.

USB-C hub vs Thunderbolt dock — which do I need?

If you use 1-2 external devices and travel, a USB-C hub ($20-60). If you have a full desk setup with monitors, storage, and networking, a Thunderbolt dock ($200-400) handles everything through one cable.

Best USB-C Hubs and Adapters 2026