StarTech.com 4-Port USB 2.0 Extender Hub over Single CAT5e/CAT6 Ethernet Cable (RJ45) - 330ft (100m) - USB Extender Hub Adapter Kit - Metal Housing - Externally Powered - 480 Mbps

Product Overview

AI-generated summary

For £308 ex-VAT, this StarTech USB 2.0 “over Ethernet” hub is only a good buy if you *really* need to get USB peripherals about 100m away using existing Cat5e/6 cabling. In the real world it’s a neat, reliable way to run a few low-to-mid bandwidth devices (think scanners, small peripherals, dongles, receipt printers, maybe a camera only if it’s happy on USB2). The metal housing and externally powered design are the right signs for use in offices/warehouses where reliability matters more than fussing with USB power budgets.

That said, you should not buy it if you expect it to behave like a normal desk USB hub for “anything and everything.” USB 2.0 is the limiting factor (and some devices are picky about timing), so high-throughput or latency-sensitive gear (fast storage, some video capture, certain webcams/streaming devices) can be a disappointment. Also, it’s pricey compared to simpler short-range USB extenders, so unless you already have the structured cabing and truly need the distance, you’ll likely get better value by placing devices closer or using a different connectivity approach.

**Who should buy:** UK SMB/IT teams fitting out remote workstations or small sites where peripherals need to sit far from the PC and you’re happy with USB 2.0 performance. **Who shouldn’t:** anyone trying to extend performance-hungry or timing-sensitive USB devices—or who just wants a cheap “make it work” extender for short runs.