Electronic devices need to be charged frequently, but using up electrical outlets for all of the chargers limits what else can be plugged in to access power at any given time. That’s where USB charging ports come in! These give you the option of charging smartphones, laptops and other personal electronics all at the same time and all in one spot. In order to be included in our buying guide, these products had to have built-in safety measures like protections against overcurrent, overvoltage and short circuiting. If you are in need of more power and want to cut out the adaptors, we’ve got you covered. Our experts have found the best products available for online purchase. Check out our buying guide below. 

What is UL safety certified?

UL stands for Underwriters Laboratories. It is a global safety science company that tests the latest products and technologies for safety before they are marketed around the world. It is the largest and oldest independent testing lab in the United States and it tests 22 billion products every year. Manufacturers routinely submit products hoping to receive a safety certification. As such, it provides testing, inspection, safety-related certification, training and auditing services to manufacturers, service companies, regulators, retailers, consumers and policy makers. It assigns one of three designations to products that pass the tests. UL Listed means that the product meets lab standards and is usable by itself. UL Recognized is assigned to components used in combination with other components to make the final product and UL Certified is used when a product meets multiple standards, including those set by other authorities, such as electrical or building code requirements for a city. Products that have passed the testing usually bear a sticker.

What does USB mean?

USB stands for universal serial bus. It is a technical specification of input and output interfaces. It was first introduced in 1996 and is now a standard cable connection interface for personal computers and electronic devices. Nowadays, there are a variety of USB connectors, including USB-A, which is commonly used on computers, laptops, televisions and game consoles. USB-B connectors are commonly found when you plug in a printer cable or an external hard drive cable to a computer. Mini-USB connectors are used by some cameras and MP3 players. There are several other types of USB cables that are commonly used for smartphones, laptops and computer peripherals.

If you’re looking to purchase a charging hub, there are lots of factors to take into consideration. We’ve got some tips for you.

Small Yet Powerful

This multiple USB charger has 6 smart USB charging ports and detects your devices automatically to deliver the fastest possible charge. Mini in size, but featuring 40W charging output, this USB charging station can be used for multiple types of electronics and will accommodate most of your personal devices. This product has protections against short-circuiting, over-current, overvoltage and overheating. This compact unit can be packed easily for when you’re on the go.

Pros:

Cons:

This is small but extremely powerful. It comes with non-slip feet, a long cord, and hook and loop tape that keeps the cord neat while in use or during transport. It comes in black or white.

Free Up Your Desktop Space

Charge multiple devices at once with this USB charger that has 4 ports. Featuring a smart identification function that will output appropriate current, this product is compatible with smartphones, tablets, Bluetooth speaker headsets and other rechargeable USB devices. This hub has a convenient stand that can be used on your desktop to prop up your device at the perfect viewing angle. This adheres to UL standards and is made from high quality components. This provides overvoltage protection, overcurrent protection, short-circuit protection and is extremely durable.

Pros:

Cons:

This is a great option for travel and replaces all of your chargers with just one device. A 5 foot long cord means you can plug it in anywhere. There are no additional lights on this device, so your room will stay dark while you use it.

Charge Safely Overnight

This charging hub has four ports and will accommodate smartphones, tablets, watches and more. It is portable, lightweight and a perfect option to take with you on your travels. Now your whole family can plug in to charge or you can charge all of your personal devices simultaneously. This takes up very little space and will charge your devices intelligently. Premium chips allow each port to detect your device and automatically provide the optimal current. Trickle mode starts when the battery reaches 80%.

Pros:

Cons:

This is UL listed and features multiple protections including those that guard against overheating, overcurrent, overvoltage and short-circuiting. This device is small but powerful and is suitable for use at home, in the office or even a dorm room.

Guaranteed Compatibility 

Smart port technology maximizes compatibility with Android, Apple and other devices. Charge your devices at full speed with this device. This features overcharge protection and allows you to plug in a total of 10 devices simultaneously. Choose from black or white models. This can also be purchased with 6 ports or 8 ports if you prefer. Industrial quality and UL certification ensures complete protection. Each port has an intelligent chip and LED lights indicate when it’s in operation.

Pros:

Cons:

2.4 amps per port and 12 amps overall make for powerful charging and unlimited energy. This functions only as a power source and will not transmit data. The power cord is 5 feet long, enabling you to use it anywhere.

Transfer Data in Seconds

Designed to save space, this measures less than half an inch in height. Choose a power cord that is .5 feet, 2 feet or 3 feet long. This includes support for USB flash drives, computer mice, keyboards, printers and any other USB device. It has a built-in high performance chip to keep your devices and data safe. It supports hot swapping and there is no need for installation of any software or drivers. It’s plug and play. This device features protection against overvoltage and overcurrent.

Pros:

Cons:

This has wide compatibility, is compact and portable. The USB hub splitter 3.0 syncs data at blazing speeds up to 5Gbps, which is more than 10 times faster than USB 2.0. This means that an HD movie will be transferred in mere seconds.