Do USB-C hubs slow down MacBook Pro performance?

USB-C hubs share the bandwidth of a single USB-C/Thunderbolt port. In practice, the impact is minimal for typical use — HDMI output, USB peripherals, and SD card reading work simultaneously without noticeable slowdowns. Performance impact becomes apparent only when simultaneously transferring large files to external drives while outputting 4K video and using multiple USB devices. For normal productivity use, you will not notice any performance impact.

Why do some hubs get hot?

USB-C hubs convert and route data between different standards (USB-C to HDMI, USB-C to USB-A, etc.) — this conversion generates heat. Hubs get warmest when driving 4K displays while passing through high-wattage charging. Aluminum hubs dissipate heat better than plastic hubs. Heat is normal and expected — it does not indicate a problem unless the hub becomes too hot to touch comfortably, which would suggest a defective unit.

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