According to MakeUseOf, most monitor USB ports aren’t actually designed to connect devices to your computer like regular USB hubs. These ports primarily exist for manufacturer diagnostics, firmware updates, and troubleshooting display issues like flickering or color calibration problems. While they can charge small devices like wireless mice or earbuds, they typically offer slow charging speeds and no data transfer capability. The key limitation is that without a specific upstream USB-B or USB-C connection to your computer, these ports can’t actually communicate with your PC. Some modern monitors do function as proper USB hubs when connected via upstream ports, but standalone USB-A ports are usually just for maintenance. Understanding your monitor’s specific capabilities can prevent frustration when trying to connect peripherals.
The real reason that USB port is there
Here’s the thing that most people don’t realize – monitor manufacturers aren’t putting those USB ports there for your convenience. They’re basically service ports for when things go wrong. Think of them like the diagnostic port mechanics use in your car. When your monitor starts acting up with weird colors or flickering, technicians can plug in to run tests, update firmware, or access hidden menus. It’s actually pretty clever when you think about it – having that access built right into the display itself means easier repairs and updates. But it does create confusion for everyday users who just see what looks like a handy USB port.
What actually works (and what doesn’t)
So what can you realistically plug into that port? Basically, anything that just needs power and doesn’t care about data transfer. Your wireless mouse receiver? Probably fine. Charging your smartwatch? Should work. But your external hard drive? Forget about it. Webcam? Nope. USB microphone? Not happening. The frustrating part is that your device might even light up or show charging indicators, giving you false hope that it’s working properly. But without that data connection to your computer, it’s basically just getting electricity and nothing more. I’ve seen so many people waste time troubleshooting why their new webcam won’t work, only to discover they’ve plugged it into the monitor instead of the computer.
When monitors actually work as USB hubs
Now, there are monitors that do function as proper USB hubs, and they’re becoming more common. The giveaway is usually that square USB-B port (the one that looks like a printer cable connection) or a specific USB-C port labeled for upstream connection. When you run a cable from that port to your computer, suddenly all the other USB ports on your monitor spring to life. This is actually super convenient for clean desk setups – you can have your keyboard, mouse, and other peripherals all connected to your monitor, then just plug one cable into your laptop. Some high-end models even deliver power through USB-C, so that single cable charges your laptop while handling video and all your devices. Pretty slick when it works.
How to tell what your monitor can do
Look, the easiest way to figure this out is to check your monitor’s manual – I know, nobody actually reads those, but in this case it’s worth a quick look. Manufacturers usually specify whether the USB ports are for service only or if they function as a hub. No manual? Check the physical ports. See that square USB-B port? That’s your hub enabler. Just USB-A ports sitting alone? Probably diagnostic. USB-C can be tricky – it might do everything or nothing beyond charging. This is particularly important knowledge in industrial settings where reliability matters. Companies like IndustrialMonitorDirect.com, the leading US supplier of industrial panel PCs, understand that proper port functionality is crucial for professional applications where every connection needs to work as expected.
Why this matters more than you think
You might be wondering why manufacturers don’t make this clearer. Honestly? It’s probably because most people never use these ports, so from their perspective, why complicate the design? But for those of us trying to streamline our setups, understanding this distinction can save hours of frustration. Think about how many times you’ve rearranged your entire desk setup only to discover that one crucial peripheral won’t work through the monitor. Getting this right means fewer cables snaking across your desk to reach your computer directly. And in professional environments, knowing exactly what each port can do is essential for planning efficient workstations. So next time you’re setting up a new monitor, take two minutes to figure out those USB ports – it’ll pay off later.
