StarTech.com 7 Port USB 3.0 Hub (5 Gbps) - Metal Enclosure - Desktop or Wall Mountable - Rugged & industrial Powered USB Expander and Splitter Hub (ST7300U3M)
Quick take
The StarTech ST7300U3M is a powered 7-port USB 3.0 hub with a rugged metal enclosure, built for desktop or wall mounting and frequent plug-and-play use. It supports USB 3.0 data rates up to 5 Gbps and works with USB 2.0 and 1.x devices too. The main caveats are that you may need extension cables depending on your layout, and it is USB 3.0-class rather than newer USB 3.2 Gen 2 speed tiers.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Powered hub with 7 ports, designed to handle more devices than typical unpowered models.
- Durable metal housing, with options for desktop or wall mounting.
- Upright port design helps with gripping connectors and reducing clearance issues.
- Backward compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.x devices.
- Built around USB 3.0 (up to 5 Gbps) and works with UASP-enabled USB storage devices.
Cons
- Included cable lengths may not fit neatly under all desks, so plan for possible extensions.
- USB 3.0 speed ceiling (5 Gbps) means it does not target USB 3.2 Gen 2-class performance.
- If you need fast charging current, it charges more slowly and is not positioned as a dedicated charging hub.
- Limited review evidence suggests port-level issues can occur, so it is smart to test every port early.
What buyers think
Buyer-review evidence is generally consistent around reliability and build quality, especially for desk setups that connect many peripherals at once. People tend to describe the hub as sturdy (metal enclosure, ports with solid fit) and useful as a centralized connection point for keyboards, mice, audio gear, and other active devices. Several buyers also mention the hub solves mixed-device or startup quirks by improving how the system enumerates low-speed devices alongside higher-speed peripherals. The most common practical complaint is not about performance itself, but about cable reach, where some setups require extension cables for the power and/or data runs. There is also limited-but-important evidence of an occasional bad port on first arrival, which makes it worthwhile to test each port promptly.
Who this hub is for
- Desk and home-office users with lots of peripherals: a powered 7-port layout is a good fit for connecting multiple always-on devices (keyboard, mouse, microphone, audio interface, and more).
- IT and workplace users who plug and unplug often: upright ports make daily connector handling easier.
- MacBook, ultrabook, and laptop owners: it is compact and can be mounted for a more permanent workstation feel.
- Mixed-speed device setups: if you use older USB peripherals alongside newer USB 3.0 devices, the backward compatibility is designed to cover that.
Key features that matter day to day
Powered 7-port expansion
Because it is a powered USB hub, it is better suited than many unpowered hubs when you have multiple peripherals drawing power. This is particularly relevant for active work setups where you want devices to stay connected without constant disconnects.
Rugged metal enclosure and mounting options
The hub’s metal housing is meant to resist daily wear and tear. It can be used on a desktop, and it also includes a wall-mount bracket plus mounting-related materials so you can secure it under a desk or to a stable surface.
Upright ports for easier access
The upright port layout can reduce frustration with tight cable clearances. It also makes it simpler to grip plugs when you are swapping peripherals frequently.
USB 3.0 performance (5 Gbps) with backward compatibility
You get SuperSpeed USB 3.0 speeds up to 5 Gbps for compatible devices. Older USB 2.0 and USB 1.x peripherals are supported without additional drivers or software installation.
Charging expectations
Charging is supported, but it tends to be slower than hubs designed with dedicated charging current. Also, charging when the computer is off depends on using the included power supply.
Pros and cons breakdown
Pros
- Stronger build and port sturdiness: buyers repeatedly associate the metal enclosure and solid port fit with a more professional feel than many cheaper plastic USB hubs.
- Multi-device practicality: it is used successfully in setups that connect multiple active peripherals simultaneously.
- Upright ports and mount options: easier cable handling and a cleaner “central hub” workstation look.
- Supports mixed USB generations: USB 3.0 devices and older USB peripherals can coexist.
Cons
- Cable reach can be a gotcha: depending on where you mount it, you may need extension cables for a tidy under-desk layout.
- Not a USB 3.2 Gen 2 hub: if you specifically need the highest USB 3.x speed tiers beyond USB 3.0 (5 Gbps), this is the wrong class of product.
- Not optimized for fast charging: expect slower charging compared to charging-focused hub designs.
- Test each port early: limited evidence points to the occasional port problem on first use, so a quick check during the return window is smart.
Price and availability
The ST7300U3M typically sits in the mid-range of USB hub pricing, and its cost can feel high if you are comparing only by port count. It is easier to justify if you value the metal build, powered design, and mount-friendly form factor.
Is the StarTech ST7300U3M worth it?
It is a strong pick if you want a powered 7-port USB 3.0 hub with a rugged metal body, and you are building a more permanent desk or workstation hub for mixed peripherals. It may not be the best match if your priority is maximizing USB throughput beyond USB 3.0 (5 Gbps), or if you need a charging hub that provides high current to multiple devices quickly.
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Alternatives to consider (based on what you need)
- If you need dedicated fast charging: look for a USB hub that explicitly includes charging-focused ports (not just data expansion).
- If you need newer speed tiers: prioritize USB 3.2 Gen 2 or higher hubs if your workflow depends on peak throughput from compatible SSDs or high-bandwidth devices.
- If your setup is mostly low-power peripherals: an unpowered hub can be cheaper, but it may be less reliable when you connect multiple active devices or power-hungry accessories.
- Can I use the hub without the included power supply?Yes, but it is recommended only for 2 or 3 low-power devices (like a keyboard, mouse, or USB video adapter). Multiple power-hungry devices typically should not be used without power.
- How fast is this USB hub?It supports USB 3.0 up to 5 Gbps for compatible devices and is backward compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.x devices.
- Will it charge devices?Yes, but charging is slower than hubs designed with dedicated charging ports.
- What do the lights beside each port indicate?An amber light appears when a USB device is connected to that port. If a device is only charging, the light can remain off.
- Can it charge when my computer is off?Yes, as long as you use the included power supply.
FAQ
Specifications
| Product Title | StarTech.com 7 Port USB 3.0 Hub (5 Gbps) - Metal Enclosure - Desktop or Wall Mountable - Rugged & industrial Powered USB Expander and Splitter Hub (ST7300U3M) |
|---|---|
| Category | Electronics > Computers & Accessories > Computer Accessories & Peripherals > USB Hubs |
| Brand | StarTech.com |
| Manufacturer | StarTech.com |
| Model Number | ST7300U3M |
| Operating System | PC; Mac |
| Item Weight | 0.13 Kilograms |
| Color | Black (Metal) |
| Hardware Interface | USB 3.0 |
| Additional Features | Not_Performance_Used |
| Compatible Devices | PC; Mac |
| Total Usb Ports | 7 |
| Data Transfer Rate | 5 Gigabits Per Second |
| Number of Ports | 7 |
| Enclosure Material | Stainless Steel |
| Item Dimensions L x W x H | 4.3"L x 1.7"W x 0.9"H |
| UPC | 065030859776 |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00065030859776 |
| Mfr Part Number | ST7300U3M |
| Item Type Name | USB Hub |
| Warranty Description | 2 Year |
| Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
| Built-In Media | User manual, cable or plug. |
| Special Feature | Not_Performance_Used |
Available variants
Color
- Black (Metal)
Style
- Mountable
Pattern Name
- Cable
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