Belkin 7 Port 2-in-1 USB 2.0 Hub

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Why is it essential? Most external devices these days work via a USB connection and with a limited number of ports on your computer, this can cause problems. A USB hub not only gives you extra ports for things like your mouse, keyboard, printer, hard drive and wireless adapters, but it also cleans up your desk. You can have your USB connections within easy access but not poking out all over your monitor or the front of your machine.

Key features: The USB hub features a detachable section – great for when you are travelling. It features 7 USB 2.0 ports, three on the base unit and four on the detachable section. A power adapter to connect to the mains ensures maximum compatibility when using devices without their own power source and it comes with a handy tray to hold paper clips or USB pen drives.

Cost: The 2-in-1 retails at £25, reasonably expensive for a USB hub but for the extra features included, it’s well worth it.

Conclusion: This device is plug and play, meaning it’ll work straight out of the box. The addition of the detachable section is a great idea too, allowing you the flexibility of taking a smaller hub on holiday without having to unplug everything from your home computer. The clip action on the detachable section is a bit stiff occasionally but this helps prevent accidental unplugging when you remove a USB cable.