The best USB-C hubs for Google Chromecast with Google TV

Confirmed by multiple users to work perfectly with the most advanced Chromecast, the Vemont VE-3108 provides the most important expansion ports at an impressive value. The three Type-A ports let you connect a flash drive, mouse and keyboard, and the unit's Power Delivery works perfectly to support all your peripherals without anything dropping out. It's even backed by a full 1-year warranty. The only significant drawback is the lack of SD and microSD card readers.

• Ports: 3x USB-A 3.0 (5Gbps), USB-C (Power Supply), Gigabit Ethernet
• USB-C Power Delivery: 100W
• Price: $23

Anker makes a considerable amount of highly reliable USB-connected gear, and the 7-in-1 341 is no exception. It's reasonably priced and certain to work with Google's most advanced streaming dongle. The SD and microSD card readers make it especially easy to transfer media like photos and home videos from a laptop to your TV. The USB-C Power Delivery capacity far exceeds what the Chromecast demands. This one's perfect for users who are unable or unwilling to run an Ethernet cable to the TV, as it doesn't have an RJ45 jack.

• Ports: 2x USB-A 3.0 (5Gbps), USB-C (Power Supply), HDMI up to 4K 30Hz, microSD slot, SD slot
• USB-C Power Delivery: 85W
• Price: $35

The variety of ports on the UGreen 70409 is wide enough that it could easily turn the average laptop into a media and USB peripheral powerhouse. It offers access to multiple flash drives in addition to SD and microSD cards. The aluminum body does a good job of dissipating heat, which minimizes the risk of malfunction and ensures a long lifespan. It works perfectly with the latest Chromecast with Google TV as long as you have a powerful enough USB-C Power Delivery charger. There's really nothing wrong with this dongle, aside from being a touch pricey.

• Ports: 3 USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet, HDMI, VGA

There's not much to the Itramax Ethernet Adapter, which, as you might gather, is ideal for adding a wired network connection to your Google streaming device. While Wi-Fi is good enough for a lot of users, many people have issues with stuttering and load times due to a weak signal congested wireless networking conditions. If your router is far from your TV and you want to reduce frustration and ensure you're always getting the best possible resolution, this reasonably affordable option is right for you. However, if you want to connect peripherals such as flash drives or a mouse, you're out of luck with this one.

If you're having connection issues and also want to connect a mouse or external storage, the UTechSmart UCN3273 is worth considering. The manufacturer ensures that it supports the Chromecast with Google TV, and the Ethernet jack can reach speeds up to 1Gbps. There are 3 USB Type-A ports for connecting your favorite peripherals, and the aluminum casing is more durable than most and acts as a heat sink. Just be aware that it doesn't have a microSD card reader, so you won't be able to move your entire photo and video library over from a smartphone without transferring the files manually.

• Ports: 3 USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet, HDMI

If you're a stickler for avoiding cable clutter behind your TV, the Anker PowerExpand A8365 should be high on your list. It's considerably slimmer than most of the competition, making it that much easier to tuck out of the way. Despite its compact size, it has a decent port selection that allows you to connect a wired network, USB webcam, and more. After you plug in the USB-C Power Delivery charger, you'll have one free Type-C port and two free Type-A ports, which is enough for most users and the peripherals they need. The only complaints are its lack of SD card readers and the fact that it has one fewer Type-A port than some models, which limits the number of older devices you can plug in.

• Ports: 2 USB-A, 2 USB-C, Ethernet, HDMI

While a USB-C charger seems like a simple device, the Spigen 45W ArcStation Pro actually stands out for a few reasons. For starters, it's built with high-quality internal components including gallium nitride transistors and a controller that supports Programmable Power Supply technology. Those may not help much with the Chromecast in particular, but they're evidence that it's a well-engineered piece of equipment.

What might help Chromecast owners is the detachable cable, which keeps the charger effective in case the included cable ever malfunctions. The only minor negative thing we have to say about it is that there are some 45-watt USB-C chargers that are cheaper, although not by much.

• Maximum Power: 45 watts
• Type: USB-C Power Delivery, PPS
• Cable included: Yes

To keep devices like your external storage and webcam from shutting off during use, you'll need a USB-C PD power source. The Nekteck 45W USB C Wall Charger is the lowest priced one we could track down that meets its manufacturer's claims and delivers enough juice to run both the USB-C hub and Google Chromecast with Google TV. The plug folds away for easy storage, and it supports international voltages in case you need to travel with it. However, some users are rightfully put off by its fixed cable because if that cable malfunctions, the entire thing is shot.

• Output: 5V⎓3A, 9V⎓3A,15V⎓3A, 20V⎓2.25A | PPS: 3.3-11V⎓4.05A, 3.3-16V⎓3.0A
• Input: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz
• Maximum Power: 45W
• Color: Black
• Type: USB-C PD
• Cable included: Yes (non-removable)

Chris Thomas (9 Articles Published)

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