Top Wireless USB Hubs for Untethered Connections
The top pick is the SABRENT USB 3.0 Wireless USB Hub, ideal for users needing to share printers or external drives across a network without Wi-Fi. Its main advantage is plug-and-play simplicity with a dedicated USB dongle, but it lacks the range of Wi-Fi-based hubs.
Wireless USB hubs free your devices from cable clutter and allow sharing peripherals across multiple computers. They are handy for small offices, home setups, or when you need to connect legacy USB devices to modern laptops.
This roundup covers a range of wireless hubs, from simple USB-over-Wi-Fi adapters to full network hubs with multiple ports. We focused on real products available on Amazon, using specifications and owner feedback to compare performance.
Before you buy
Our top picks
SABRENT USB 3.0 Wireless USB Hub
This hub uses a dedicated USB dongle to create a wireless link between your computer and up to four USB devices. It supports USB 3.0 speeds up to 5 Gbps, though real-world throughput is lower. Users report easy setup and reliable connections for printers and external drives within a room.
Pros
- Plug-and-play with no network configuration
- Fast USB 3.0 speeds for a wireless hub
- Compact design with 4 ports
Cons
- Requires a dongle that takes up a USB port
- Range is limited compared to Wi-Fi hubs
IOGEAR Wireless USB Hub
IOGEAR’s wireless hub connects up to 5 USB devices to a computer via a USB dongle. It supports USB 2.0 speeds, which is sufficient for printers and mice. Owners appreciate the compact form and the ability to switch between two computers with a button.
Pros
- 5 ports for more devices
- Can connect to two computers with a switch
- Low latency for input devices
Cons
- USB 2.0 speeds only
- Dongle required
TRENDnet Wireless USB Print Server
This device connects a USB printer to your Wi-Fi network, allowing any computer on the network to print wirelessly. It supports multiple printer brands and includes a USB port for other peripherals. Users report easy setup via web interface and reliable printing.
Pros
- Works with any USB printer
- No dongle needed; uses existing network
- Supports multiple computers
Cons
- Limited to one printer primarily
- Setup may require technical knowledge
StarTech.com Wireless USB Hub
StarTech offers a wireless USB hub designed for industrial environments with a range up to 100 meters (328 feet) using proprietary technology. It has 4 USB 2.0 ports and is ruggedly built. Owners mention it is pricier but reliable for warehouse or workshop use.
Pros
- Exceptional range
- Rugged metal construction
- Good for industrial use
Cons
- High cost
- USB 2.0 speeds only
TP-Link Universal Wireless USB Hub
TP-Link’s hub connects to your router via Ethernet and broadcasts a Wi-Fi signal for USB devices. It includes 4 USB 2.0 ports and supports file sharing, printer sharing, and even 3G/4G modem sharing. Users find it cost-effective but note that setup can be complex.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Multiple functions (file, printer, modem)
- Works with any network
Cons
- Setup is not plug-and-play
- USB 2.0 speeds
D-Link Wireless USB Hub
D-Link’s wireless hub features WPS for quick connection to your wireless router. It has 4 USB 2.0 ports and supports printer and file sharing. Owners like the simple WPS button but mention that speeds are limited for large file transfers.
Pros
- WPS button for easy setup
- Compact design
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Only USB 2.0
- Limited configuration options
Plugable USB 3.0 Sharing Switch
While not wireless, this sharing switch allows two computers to share four USB devices with a button press. It is listed here as an alternative for those who want flexibility without wireless interference. Users praise its reliability and speed.
Pros
- Full USB 3.0 speeds
- Simple switch operation
- No wireless interference
Cons
- Not wireless
- Requires physical access to switch
The lineup, side by side
| # | Model | Ports | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SABRENT USB 3.0 Wireless USB Hub | 4 USB 3.0 ports | Simple plug-and-play wireless USB sharing | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | IOGEAR Wireless USB Hub | 5 USB 2.0 ports | Sharing multiple USB devices wirelessly | 9.0 | Check price |
| 3 | TRENDnet Wireless USB Print Server | 1 USB 2.0 printer port, 1 USB port | Turning a USB printer into a network printer | 8.7 | Check price |
| 4 | StarTech.com Wireless USB Hub | 4 USB 2.0 ports | Industrial and long-range applications | 8.5 | Check price |
| 5 | TP-Link Universal Wireless USB Hub | 4 USB 2.0 ports | Adding USB ports to a Wi-Fi network | 8.3 | Check price |
| 6 | D-Link Wireless USB Hub | 4 USB 2.0 ports | Easy setup with Wi-Fi Protected Setup (WPS) | 8.1 | Check price |
| 7 | Plugable USB 3.0 Sharing Switch | 4 USB 3.0 ports | Wired sharing without wireless | 8.0 | Check price |
Questions worth asking
What is a wireless USB hub?
A wireless USB hub connects USB devices to a computer without physical cables. It uses either a proprietary wireless dongle or your Wi-Fi network to transmit data. This allows you to share printers, external drives, or other peripherals between multiple computers.
How do I choose between a dongle-based and a Wi-Fi-based hub?
Choose a dongle-based hub if you need a simple point-to-point connection with low latency and don’t mind a dedicated dongle. Choose a Wi-Fi-based hub if you want multiple computers to access the devices over your existing network, or if you need remote access. Dongle hubs are often easier to set up, while Wi-Fi hubs offer more flexibility.
Can I share a USB printer with a wireless USB hub?
Yes. Many wireless USB hubs are specifically designed for printer sharing. Some models, like the TRENDnet Wireless USB Print Server, turn a USB printer into a network printer accessible by all computers on your Wi-Fi. Dongle-based hubs also work, but only for the computer connected to the dongle unless you switch the dongle.
What speeds can I expect from a wireless USB hub?
Most wireless USB hubs operate at USB 2.0 speeds (up to 480 Mbps), but real-world data rates are often lower due to wireless overhead. Some newer models support USB 3.0 (up to 5 Gbps), but again, throughput is reduced. For large file transfers, a wired connection is faster.
Do wireless USB hubs work with all operating systems?
Compatibility varies. Most support Windows and macOS. Some also support Linux. Always check the product specifications for supported OS versions. Some hubs require driver installation, while others are plug-and-play.
Can I use a wireless USB hub to connect a USB device to a smart TV?
It depends. Smart TVs typically have limited driver support. Most wireless USB hubs are designed for computers. If you want to connect a USB device to a smart TV, a wired USB connection is more reliable. Some TVs may support USB over IP, but it’s not common.
What is the typical range of a wireless USB hub?
Dongle-based hubs typically have a range of up to 30 feet (10 meters). Wi-Fi-based hubs use your network, so range depends on your Wi-Fi coverage. Industrial models can reach up to 100 meters. Walls and interference can reduce range.
Are there security concerns with wireless USB hubs?
Dongle-based hubs use proprietary signals that are less susceptible to hacking. Wi-Fi-based hubs are subject to your network’s security. Ensure your Wi-Fi uses WPA2 or WPA3 encryption. Some hubs offer password protection for access to connected devices.
Can I use a wireless USB hub to charge my phone?
Most wireless USB hubs are designed for data transfer, not charging. They may provide power, but often at lower currents. It’s not recommended for fast charging. Use a dedicated charger instead.
What is the difference between a wireless USB hub and a USB over Wi-Fi adapter?
A wireless USB hub typically has multiple ports and connects to a computer via a dongle or network. A USB over Wi-Fi adapter often refers to a device that wirelessly extends a single USB connection, like for a webcam or storage. Some hubs include this functionality. The terms are sometimes used interchangeably.
Our pick
For most home and small office users, the SABRENT USB 3.0 Wireless USB Hub offers the best balance of speed, ease of use, and port count. If you need to share a printer over an existing network without a dongle, the TRENDnet Wireless USB Print Server is a solid choice. For those with long-range or industrial needs, consider the StarTech.com model despite its higher cost.
