Have you ever enthusiastically connected a new monitor, laptop, or game console, only to discover you simply don't have enough ports or connections? You're not alone. We regularly get questions like, "Do I need a USB-C hub or an HDMI switch ?" And that's a valid question, because while they may sometimes look the same, they do completely different things.
In this blog post, I'll explain it to you step by step—without any technicalities. Simple, clear, and practical. By the end, you'll know exactly which of the two is best for your situation.
What exactly does a USB-C hub do?
Let's start with the USB-C hub . Think of it as a power strip, but for your laptop. You plug a single USB-C cable into your laptop, and in return, you suddenly get a whole bunch of extra ports: HDMI, USB-A, SD card, Ethernet, you name it.
Do you work with a modern laptop with few ports (like many MacBooks and Windows Ultrabooks)? Then a USB-C docking station is often indispensable. This allows you to use your mouse, keyboard, external monitor, USB drive, and charger simultaneously. Very practical if you want to connect everything at once at your workstation.
And what about an HDMI switch?
An HDMI switch does something completely different. Instead of connecting one device to multiple devices, it's all about connecting multiple devices to a single screen . Think of your game console, laptop, and media player, all of which you want to use on a single TV or monitor—but you only have one HDMI input available.
Buying an HDMI switch allows you to switch between devices without constantly swapping cables. Our models even have a button or remote control for easy switching. Convenient, right?
What is the big difference then?
It basically comes down to this:
- A USB-C hub expands the capabilities of your laptop or tablet.
- An HDMI switch helps you connect multiple devices to one screen.
They may look similar, but they do something completely different. The hub is primarily for work and productivity, while the Switch is more suited to your TV corner or gaming setup.
When do you choose which?
Scenario 1: You are working on a laptop with only USB-C ports
Then you'll want a USB-C hub . This way, you can connect everything you need: screen, keyboard, mouse, USB drive, charger—all with just one cable.
Scenario 2: You have a TV with only one HDMI input
But you want to connect your PlayStation, laptop, and Apple TV to it. Then an HDMI switch is your solution. You connect all your devices to the switch, and the switch to your TV. Done.
Scenario 3: You have a laptop and want to use an extra screen with it
In that case, you'll also want a USB-C hub with an HDMI port . Note: not all hubs can output video, so check whether it supports "video output."
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use an HDMI switch on my laptop?
Only if you want to connect multiple devices to the same screen. But if you want to connect multiple screens to your laptop, you'll need a USB-C docking station .
Is there a difference between an HDMI splitter and an HDMI switch?
Yes. A switch is multiple devices → one screen.
A splitter is one device → multiple screens.
Can I also use a USB-C hub on my tablet?
Yes, if your tablet supports USB-C and has video output. Many Android tablets and iPads support this.
Does image quality deteriorate when using an HDMI switch?
Not if you use a good switch. Make sure it supports at least 4K 60Hz if you need it.
Finally
In summary:
- Want to expand your laptop with more ports? → Choose a USB-C hub or docking station
- Want to connect multiple devices to one TV or monitor? → Choose an HDMI switch
Still unsure? Send us a message—we're happy to help.
