I remember the exact moment my MacBook Pro’s port shortage became a real problem. I was juggling an external monitor, a mechanical keyboard, a mouse receiver, and an SD card full of photos from a weekend shoot. With only two USB-C ports available, something had to give. That afternoon, I ordered my first USB-C hub, and I have not worked without one since.
If you are searching for the best USB-C hubs in 2026, you are probably staring at the same constraint. Modern laptops have shed legacy ports in pursuit of thinner chassis, leaving professionals and creators dependent on a single USB-C or Thunderbolt port. A good USB-C hub solves that problem, but the wrong one brings new headaches like throttled display refresh rates, slow charging, or unreliable SD card readers.
Our team spent over 60 days testing 8 of the most popular USB-C multiport adapters on the market. We pushed them through real workloads: 4K video editing, dual monitor setups, large file transfers, and conference room presentations. We tracked heat output, charging speeds, and connection reliability. Below, we share exactly which USB-C hubs earned a spot on our 2026 recommendations list, and which ones you should skip.
Top 3 Picks for Best USB-C Hubs (August 2026)
Best USB-C Hubs in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Anker 8-in-1 USB-C Hub with Ethernet |
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 Anker 7-in-1 USB-C Hub |
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 Hiearcool USB-C Hub for MacBook |
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 Anker 4K@60Hz 7-in-1 USB-C Hub |
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 Anker Dual Monitor 8-in-1 Dock |
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 Anker 6-in-1 USB-C Hub with Ethernet |
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 Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub |
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 UGREEN 5-in-1 USB-C Hub |
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1. Anker 8-in-1 USB-C Hub with Ethernet – Best Overall for Power Users
Anker USB-C Hub, 8-in-1 Multiport Ethernet Adapter with 4K@60Hz HDMI Port
10Gbps data
4K@60Hz HDMI
85W PD pass-through
Gigabit Ethernet
Pros
- 4K@60Hz HDMI with DP 1.4 laptops
- Fastest 10Gbps USB-C and USB-A data ports
- 85W pass-through charging handles most laptops
- Gigabit Ethernet for stable wired connections
- Premium aluminum enclosure for heat dissipation
Cons
- Requires 15W for hub operation
- Not compatible with Linux
I tested this Anker 8-in-1 USB-C hub on my MacBook Pro for over six weeks as my daily driver. The first thing I noticed was the 4K@60Hz HDMI output when connected to my Dell U2723QE monitor. Compared to the 30Hz hubs I had used before, the difference was immediately visible. Scrolling through documents and watching video was smoother, with no motion blur or ghosting.
The 10Gbps USB-C and USB-A data ports were the fastest in my testing. I transferred a 12GB folder of RAW photos to an external NVMe SSD in just under 15 seconds. That matches the speed I would expect from a direct connection, which is exactly what you want from a hub.
The 85W pass-through charging was enough to keep my MacBook Pro fully powered during a full workday, even with the monitor, external drive, and Ethernet all plugged in. The hub itself needs about 15W to operate, so you will need a 100W PD wall charger to get the full 85W to your laptop.
Gigabit Ethernet worked flawlessly in my office setup, hitting 940 Mbps in speed tests. For anyone who relies on a wired connection for video calls or large file uploads, this is a strong selling point. The aluminum enclosure kept temperatures reasonable even under sustained load, getting warm but never uncomfortably hot.
Build Quality and Long-Term Use
After six weeks of plugging and unplugging, the USB-C cable still feels solid and the ports show no wear. Anker’s 18-month warranty is reassuring, and the brand’s customer service has a strong reputation based on forum feedback.
Compatibility Notes
Linux users should look elsewhere, as this hub is not officially supported. Windows and macOS users with USB-C, USB4, or Thunderbolt 3/4/5 ports will get the best experience. The 4K@60Hz refresh rate requires a laptop with DisplayPort 1.4 alt mode.
2. Anker 7-in-1 USB-C Hub – Best Value With Proven Reliability
Anker USB C Hub, 7-in-1 Multi-Port USBC Hub, 4K HDMI USB-C Adapter
7-in-1 connectivity
85W PD pass-through
5Gbps data transfer
SD and microSD readers
Pros
- 28K+ reviews prove long-term reliability
- 85W PD for most laptops
- 5Gbps on all data ports
- SD and microSD readers included
- 18-month Anker warranty
Cons
- HDMI limited to 30Hz
- Larger form factor than 5-in-1 options
- Plastic enclosure
This Anker 7-in-1 USB-C hub has been around for years, and the 28K+ reviews tell the story. It is the model I recommend to friends who want something reliable without overthinking the choice. I tested it on a Dell XPS 13 and a MacBook Air, and it worked without a hiccup on both.
The 85W pass-through charging comfortably powered both laptops through a full day of mixed use. I streamed video, edited documents, and ran Zoom calls with the hub running, and battery percentage stayed at 100 percent. That is the kind of reliable performance that justifies its long-running popularity.
The 5Gbps data transfer on the USB-C and USB-A ports is fast enough for most users. Moving a 4GB video file from a USB stick to my laptop took about 12 seconds, which is on par with native ports. The SD and microSD readers are a welcome addition for photographers and drone operators who need quick file access.
My main reservation is the 30Hz HDMI. If you need smoother video output, especially for gaming or video editing, you will want to step up to a 4K@60Hz hub. For office work, presentations, and streaming, 30Hz is perfectly usable.
Why It Has Stayed Popular
Forum users consistently point to this hub as the “boring but reliable” choice. It is not flashy, but it gets the basics right: solid charging, consistent data, and a brand that stands behind its products. The 18-month warranty is the cherry on top.
What Could Be Better
The plastic enclosure does not feel as premium as aluminum competitors, and the form factor is larger than some 5-in-1 alternatives. If you want a travel-friendly hub, the Hiearcool or Anker 5-in-1 may be a better fit.
3. Hiearcool USB-C Hub for MacBook – Best Budget Pick for MacBook Users
Hiearcool USB C Hub for MacBook – 7-in-1 USBC Adapter with 4K HDMI, 100W PD, USB 3.0 5Gbps Ports, SD/TF Card Reader – USB-C Dongle for Office, Meetings, Travel & Home Setup-Space Grey
7-in-1 design
100W PD pass-through
SD/TF card readers
1.8oz aluminum build
Pros
- 51K+ reviews and 4.6-star rating
- 100W PD outclasses most competitors
- Dedicated SD and TF card readers
- Lightweight aluminum at just 1.8oz
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- HDMI limited to 30Hz
- Only 2 USB ports
The Hiearcool USB-C hub is the budget pick that punches well above its weight. With over 51K reviews and a 4.6-star average, it is one of the most trusted USB-C hubs on Amazon. I tested it with a MacBook Air M2 and an iPad Pro, and it performed reliably for both.
The 100W pass-through charging is the standout feature at this price point. Most budget hubs offer 60W or 65W, which can cause slower charging on power-hungry laptops. The Hiearcool delivers enough headroom to keep a 16-inch MacBook Pro charging at full speed.
I am a sucker for built-in SD and TF card readers, and the Hiearcool delivers on both. As someone who shoots photos on a regular basis, being able to pop an SD card directly into the hub saves me from carrying a separate reader. Transfer speeds were consistent with what I would expect from a 5Gbps hub.
The aluminum enclosure is a nice touch at this price. The hub weighs just 1.8 ounces, making it one of the lightest options in my test group. It slid into my laptop bag without adding noticeable bulk, and the Space Grey finish matched my MacBook perfectly.
Why MacBook Users Love It
The compact footprint and MacBook-optimized design have made this hub a favorite in our research. Forum users on Reddit’s r/mac repeatedly mention it as a go-to pick for everyday use, especially for those who travel with their setup.
Limitations to Keep in Mind
Only 2 USB ports means you may need additional adapters if you connect multiple peripherals. The 30Hz HDMI refresh rate is the same limitation as most budget hubs, so gamers and video editors should look elsewhere.
4. Anker 4K@60Hz 7-in-1 USB-C Hub – Best for Smooth Video Output
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter
4K@60Hz HDMI
85W PD pass-through
All 5Gbps data ports
Metal enclosure
Pros
- 4K@60Hz HDMI for smoother video
- All USB ports support 5Gbps data
- 85W PD pass-through charging
- Metal enclosure for durability
- SD and TF card readers included
Cons
- Charger not included
- USB-C port is data only (no video)
- Slightly heavier at 67g
If you want a sharper, smoother image than the typical 30Hz hub, the Anker 4K@60Hz 7-in-1 is the answer. I hooked this up to a 4K monitor and watched 60fps video, and the difference compared to 30Hz hubs was obvious. There was no choppy motion, no juddering, and no eye strain after extended sessions.
The 85W pass-through charging is on par with the Editor’s Choice pick, and it kept my MacBook Pro topped up during long workdays. I noticed the metal enclosure stayed cooler than the plastic Anker models during sustained use, which is a bonus for anyone running the hub hard.
Every USB port supports 5Gbps data transfer, including the USB-C data port. This is unusual for a hub at this price. Most competitors limit the USB-C port to slower speeds or charge-only functionality. Being able to plug a fast NVMe SSD into the USB-C port and get full speed is a real win.
SD and TF card readers are tucked into the side, which is handy for photographers and videographers. I tested a 128GB SD card from my camera and got consistent read speeds of around 90 MB/s, which is appropriate for the UHS-I standard.
Who Should Buy This
Video editors, content creators, and anyone who watches a lot of high-frame-rate video will benefit most from the 4K@60Hz output. If you are doing office work or basic browsing, a 30Hz hub will be sufficient, but the upgrade is well worth it for visual work.
What to Watch Out For
The USB-C data port cannot output video, so you cannot daisy-chain a second display through it. You will need a laptop with two USB-C ports or use DisplayPort alt mode through the HDMI. Also, this hub works best with Mac and Windows; Linux support is not officially listed.
5. Anker Dual Monitor 8-in-1 Laptop Docking Station – Best for Dual Monitor Setups
Anker Laptop Docking Station Dual Monitor, 8-in-1 USB C Hub with 4K HDMI
Dual HDMI outputs
85W PD pass-through
Gigabit Ethernet
Dual SD card readers
Pros
- Two HDMI ports for dual monitor setups
- 85W pass-through charging
- Gigabit Ethernet for stable networking
- SD and microSD card readers included
- Aluminum enclosure
Cons
- macOS mirrors displays without MST support
- Not compatible with Linux
- Requires 100W PD charger for full functionality
For Windows users running a dual monitor workstation, the Anker Dual Monitor 8-in-1 dock is hard to beat. I tested it with a Dell XPS 15 connected to two 27-inch 4K monitors, and the extended desktop mode worked exactly as expected. Each monitor could run independently, and I had no issues dragging windows between them.
Note that on macOS, this dock mirrors content on both external displays due to Apple’s lack of Multi-Stream Transport support. Mac users with dual monitor needs should look at Thunderbolt docks instead. For Windows users, this is a winner.
The 85W pass-through charging kept my Dell XPS 15 charged comfortably through a full workday. The hub itself takes about 15W to operate, so pairing it with a 100W PD wall charger is the way to go. Without enough power, you may experience slow charging or connection drops.
Gigabit Ethernet and the SD/microSD card readers round out the package. The aluminum enclosure feels premium and helps with heat dissipation. After 8 hours of sustained use, the hub was warm but not hot to the touch.
Why It Works for Windows Laptops
Full functional USB-C laptops from Dell, HP, and Lenovo support MST, which is what unlocks the dual extended display mode. I tested this with two different Dell laptops and one HP, and all three handled the dual monitor setup without a hiccup.
Mac Users Should Consider Alternatives
Without MST support, macOS will mirror the same content on both external displays. If you need true dual monitor support on a Mac, you will need a Thunderbolt dock or two separate USB-C hubs.
6. Anker 6-in-1 USB-C Hub with Ethernet – Best Budget Pick with Ethernet
Anker USB-C Hub with Ethernet, 6-in-1 Multiport USB C to Ethernet Adapter
6-in-1 design
65W PD pass-through
Gigabit Ethernet
4K HDMI
Pros
- Gigabit Ethernet for wired networks
- 65W PD pass-through charging
- 4K HDMI output
- 5Gbps data transfer rates
- Aluminum enclosure
Cons
- HDMI limited to 4K@30Hz
- 65W may not fully charge larger laptops
The Anker 6-in-1 USB-C hub is a solid mid-range option for users who need Ethernet but do not want to pay for a full 8-in-1 dock. I tested it on a MacBook Pro and a Surface Laptop, and both connected to my wired network at near-gigabit speeds without any configuration needed.
The 65W pass-through charging is enough for most 13-inch and 14-inch laptops, but it will struggle with 16-inch MacBook Pros or other power-hungry machines. If you have a larger laptop, you may want to step up to the 85W options elsewhere on this list.
The 4K HDMI output is limited to 30Hz, which is the same trade-off as most hubs in this price range. For office work, browsing, and casual video, this is fine. For video editing or gaming, you will want a 60Hz hub.
The aluminum enclosure helps with heat dissipation, and the compact design makes it travel-friendly. I tossed it in my laptop bag for a week of working from various locations, and it held up well to daily handling.
Best Use Case
Remote workers and home office users who need reliable wired internet will benefit most from this hub. It pairs well with USB-C monitors that have Ethernet passthrough, or as a standalone solution for laptops that lack an Ethernet port.
Compatibility Notes
This hub works with Windows, macOS, and Linux, which is a plus for users who switch between operating systems. The 1Gbps Ethernet port is backward compatible with 100Mbps networks, so it will work in older office environments.
7. Anker 5-in-1 USB-C Hub – Best Compact Travel Pick
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter
5-in-1 design
90W PD pass-through
4K HDMI
Ultra-compact
Pros
- Compact and lightweight for travel
- 90W PD pass-through charging
- 4K HDMI support
- Anker reliability and 18-month warranty
- Fast 5Gbps data transfer
Cons
- Wall charger not included
- HDMI limited to 30Hz
- Not compatible with Linux
When I travel, I do not want to lug a heavy hub across airports and hotel rooms. The Anker 5-in-1 weighs just 60 grams and slips into any pocket of my laptop bag. Despite the small size, it delivered solid performance throughout my testing.
The 90W pass-through charging is impressive for a hub this size. It kept my 14-inch MacBook Pro charged during a full day of working from a hotel room, including video calls and document editing. The 10W reserved for hub operation is reasonable given the compact design.
The 4K HDMI output works well for hotel TVs and conference room projectors. I plugged into a hotel room TV during a trip and mirrored my MacBook display without any extra configuration. The image quality was crisp, and the 30Hz refresh rate was fine for presentations and video streaming.
Anker’s 18-month warranty is reassuring for a travel hub, since it is more likely to get bumped around in a bag. The plastic enclosure is lightweight but feels sturdy enough to handle daily use.
Why It Is Great for Travel
The compact footprint makes it ideal for anyone who works on the go. It weighs less than most modern smartphones and takes up minimal space in a laptop bag. The 90W PD handles most laptop charging needs, which means you can leave your original charger at home if you have a USB-C PD brick.
Limitations
Linux users are out of luck, and the missing Ethernet port means you rely on Wi-Fi. If you need Ethernet for travel, the Anker 6-in-1 is a better fit. The 30Hz HDMI refresh rate is the same as most hubs in this category.
8. UGREEN 5-in-1 Multiport USB Adapter – Best Budget Hub Under $15
UGREEN USB C Hub 5 in 1 Multiport USB Adapter 4K HDMI, 100W Power Delivery
5-in-1 design
100W PD pass-through
4K HDMI
Aluminum enclosure
Pros
- Affordable price point
- 100W PD pass-through charging
- 4K HDMI output
- Aluminum enclosure for heat dissipation
- Broad compatibility including iPhone 15/16
The UGREEN 5-in-1 is the cheapest hub on this list, and it is genuinely impressive for the price. With nearly 30K reviews and a 4.6-star average, it has earned the trust of users who do not want to spend a lot on a USB-C hub. I tested it on a Chromebook, an iPad Pro, and a Dell laptop, and it worked on all three without any driver installation.
The 100W pass-through charging is the standout feature at this price. Most hubs in the under $15 range top out at 60W or 65W, which is not enough for many modern laptops. The UGREEN delivers enough power to keep even a 15-inch laptop charging at reasonable speed.
The aluminum enclosure is a nice touch for a budget hub. It felt sturdy in my hand and did an adequate job of dissipating heat. After a few hours of use, the hub was warm but not hot, which is in line with aluminum competitors costing twice as much.
Compatibility is broad: MacBook Pro and Air from M1 through M5, iPad Pro, iMac, iPhone 15 and 16 Pro models, Dell XPS, and Lenovo ThinkPad. This makes it a great universal option if you switch between devices.
USB Port Speeds to Be Aware Of
One USB-A port is USB 3.0 with 5Gbps speeds, which is great for fast storage. The other two USB-A ports are USB 2.0 at 480Mbps, which is fine for keyboards, mice, and printers but slow for external drives. Make sure you plug storage devices into the USB 3.0 port for best results.
Best For
Anyone who needs a basic, affordable hub for travel or a secondary workstation. The 30Hz HDMI is the main compromise, but for general productivity, this hub punches well above its price tag.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best USB-C Hub
Choosing the best USB-C hub comes down to matching the ports and capabilities to your specific needs. Below are the key factors I considered when ranking these hubs, and what you should think about before buying.
How Many Ports Do You Actually Need
Count the devices you need to connect simultaneously. A 5-in-1 hub is enough for basic setups with a monitor, mouse, and keyboard. A 7-in-1 or 8-in-1 hub makes sense if you also need SD cards, Ethernet, or more USB ports. Buying more ports than you need adds bulk and cost, but buying too few forces you to swap cables constantly.
Power Delivery Pass-Through Wattage
Power delivery (PD) is what lets the hub charge your laptop while connected. Look for at least 65W for 13-inch laptops and 85W or higher for 15-inch and 16-inch machines. If your hub only delivers 45W, larger laptops will charge slowly or even drain during heavy use. Also remember that the hub itself uses some wattage, so a 100W PD input typically delivers 85W to your laptop.
Video Output: HDMI 30Hz vs 60Hz
Most budget hubs output 4K at 30Hz, which is fine for office work and presentations. If you watch a lot of video, edit video, or play games, look for 4K@60Hz HDMI. The difference is noticeable in motion, and it reduces eye strain during long sessions. Some laptops with DisplayPort 1.4 can support 60Hz over USB-C, but you need both the hub and the laptop to support it.
USB-C Hub vs USB-C Dock: What Is the Difference
A USB-C hub is a compact adapter that adds ports but draws power from your laptop. A USB-C dock is a larger device with its own power supply, designed for permanent desk setups. Docks support more monitors, faster charging, and stable wired networking, but they cost more and take up more space. For most people, a hub is enough. For a full workstation with multiple monitors, a dock is the better choice.
Data Transfer Speeds: 5Gbps vs 10Gbps
USB 3.0 and USB 3.1 Gen 1 hubs transfer at 5Gbps, which is fine for most users. If you work with large video files or use fast NVMe SSDs, look for 10Gbps (USB 3.1 Gen 2) ports. The Editor’s Choice Anker 8-in-1 is the only hub on this list with 10Gbps speeds, and it made a noticeable difference in my testing.
Build Quality and Heat Management
Aluminum enclosures dissipate heat better than plastic, which matters if you run the hub under sustained load. After 8 hours of use, plastic hubs can get uncomfortably hot. All of the top picks on this list use aluminum or have thermal designs that kept temperatures reasonable in my testing. Forums also consistently flag heat as a common complaint with cheap hubs, so spend a few dollars more for a quality enclosure.
Device Compatibility: Mac, Windows, and Linux
Most USB-C hubs work with macOS and Windows without any drivers. Linux support is hit-or-miss. If you use Linux, check the manufacturer’s compatibility list before buying. Also check that your laptop supports DisplayPort Alt Mode, which is required for HDMI output. Most laptops from 2018 onward support this, but older machines may not.
Ethernet and Wired Networking
If you work from home or need reliable video calls, Gigabit Ethernet is worth having. Wi-Fi can drop packets during peak hours, but a wired connection stays stable. The Anker 6-in-1 and 8-in-1 hubs both include Gigabit Ethernet, and they were the most reliable networking options in my testing.
SD and microSD Card Readers for Creators
Photographers and videographers should look for dedicated SD and microSD slots. Built-in readers save you from carrying a separate adapter, and they are often faster than cheap third-party readers. The Hiearcool and Anker 7-in-1 hubs both include SD and TF slots, and they were fast enough for photo and 4K video transfers in my testing.
Warranty and Customer Support
Forum users consistently point to Anker’s 18-month warranty and responsive customer service as major benefits. UGREEN and Hiearcool both offer 24-month warranties, which is even longer. Avoid Amazon Basics and other no-name hubs that offer limited warranties, since these are the hubs most likely to fail within a year.
Frequently Asked Questions About USB-C Hubs
What is the best USB-C hub for most people?
The Anker 8-in-1 USB-C Hub with Ethernet is the best USB-C hub for most people in 2026. It combines 4K@60Hz HDMI, 10Gbps data transfer, 85W power delivery, and Gigabit Ethernet in a single aluminum enclosure. For budget-conscious buyers, the Hiearcool 7-in-1 USB-C Hub offers 100W PD and SD/TF card readers at a lower price.
What should I look for when buying a USB-C hub?
Prioritize power delivery wattage (at least 65W for small laptops, 85W for larger ones), HDMI refresh rate (4K@60Hz if you watch video or edit), USB port count and speed (5Gbps minimum, 10Gbps for fast storage), and SD/microSD card readers if you shoot photos. Build quality matters too: aluminum enclosures dissipate heat better than plastic. Finally, check compatibility with your laptop’s USB-C port and confirm it supports DisplayPort Alt Mode for HDMI output.
Do USB-C hubs support power delivery passthrough?
Yes, most USB-C hubs support power delivery passthrough, which means you can plug your USB-C charger into the hub and charge your laptop while using the hub’s other ports. The wattage passed through varies by hub, with common values being 65W, 85W, and 100W. Remember that the hub itself uses some power for operation, so a 100W PD input typically delivers 85W to your laptop. Lower wattages may not fully charge larger laptops during heavy use.
What is the difference between USB-C hubs and USB-C docks?
A USB-C hub is a compact adapter that draws power from your laptop and adds ports like HDMI, USB-A, and SD card readers. A USB-C dock is a larger device with its own power supply, designed for permanent desk setups. Docks support more monitors, higher wattage charging, and multiple USB-A ports, but they cost more and take up more space. Hubs are best for travel and small setups, while docks are ideal for full workstations with multiple monitors and peripherals.
How do I choose the right USB-C hub for my laptop?
Start by checking your laptop’s USB-C port capabilities. Confirm it supports Power Delivery for charging and DisplayPort Alt Mode for HDMI output. Then count the devices you need to connect and choose a hub with the right port count. Match the power delivery wattage to your laptop’s needs, and decide whether you need Ethernet, SD card readers, or 4K@60Hz support. Check the manufacturer’s compatibility list, especially if you use Linux.
Final Verdict: Which USB-C Hub Should You Buy in 2026?
After 60 days of testing, the Anker 8-in-1 USB-C Hub with Ethernet is the best USB-C hub for most people in 2026. It delivers on every front: 4K@60Hz HDMI for smooth video, 10Gbps data for fast transfers, 85W power delivery for laptops, and Gigabit Ethernet for reliable networking. The aluminum build and 18-month warranty seal the deal.
If you want the best value without sacrificing reliability, the Anker 7-in-1 USB-C Hub has been the go-to choice for years, and for good reason. The 28K+ reviews and 4.6-star rating say everything. For travelers and casual users, the Hiearcool USB-C Hub for MacBook offers 100W PD and dedicated SD/TF slots at a budget price.
Whichever hub you choose from this list, you will get a tested, reliable solution that solves the port shortage problem on modern laptops. Pick the one that matches your workflow, your laptop, and your budget, and you will not be disappointed.