Credit: Saitek

(First Look) - Whether you need additional USB ports or not, a portable USB hub is a definite necessity if you have, or carry, a plethora of peripherals. Maybe not all of us need a device like this for our desktop PCs, but it’s a pain when you have to keep switching back-and-forth between peripherals on a notebook. What better way to clear that setback than having a portable gadget to remedy the issue…

According to Saitek, "The Saitek USB 2.0 Hub offers 4 additional Hi-Speed ports to allow the operation of multiple devices simultaneously. Accompanied by an external AC power supply, the Saitek USB 2.0 Hub will initiate and connect any USB peripheral device. Designed and presented with modern-office-mobility foremost in mind, this product is compact and pleasing to the eye, providing a sleek and unobtrusive design to be enjoyed by both professional and home office users. Soft illumination effects provide visual indication of port status, together with a power saving On/Off switch which also illuminates when activated."

The average price of the Saitek Hi-Speed USB 2.0 Hub is $39.99.

Initial Thoughts: What has us impressed is Saitek’s way of refining and polishing a dull product into something interesting. Obviously, the functionality won’t change, but the added bonus of activity LED lights and a modern touch certainly brings life to the product. Other than that, there’s nothing much to comment on initially. In terms of the price, $39.99 is fairly reasonable, though you may be able to find USB hubs at somewhat of a low cost. Unless you are specifically looking for a modern looking peripherals connector, feel free to opt for the lower priced model.