5 USB Gadgets That Make Better Use of Your PC Ports

• Key Takeaways:
• Turn spare USB ports into productivity and comfort tools: foot pedals, mouse jigglers, mug warmers, monitor light bars, and USB-charged screwdrivers.
• Check port type and power delivery: USB 2.0 offers lower power and slower data than USB 3.x or USB-C.
• Hardware mouse jigglers are harder to detect than software, but use responsibly. A powered hub or PCIe USB card can expand capacity.

Why your spare USB ports matter

USB stands for Universal Serial Bus, and modern PCs often include multiple ports that go unused. Those ports can power small devices, provide data connections, or charge rechargeable tools.

Before you plug anything in, note the port generation. USB 2.0 provides less power and slower data transfer than USB 3.1/3.2 or USB-C, which matters for some accessories.

Five practical gadgets to plug into spare USB ports

1) Foot pedal for hands-free hotkeys — Elgato Stream Deck Pedal

USB foot pedals add three programmable switches for macros, mute toggles, or push-to-talk. The Elgato Stream Deck Pedal maps actions to software shortcuts, useful for streamers, editors, and transcribers.

Use a USB port with stable power; the pedal itself has minimal requirements and works with standard 5V USB ports.

2) Hardware mouse jiggler — Meatanty USB-C jiggler

Physical mouse jigglers simulate cursor motion so a PC remains active without running software. Devices like the Meatanty USB-C jiggler identify as an optical mouse to the OS and offer multiple motion modes.

Hardware jigglers are less likely to be flagged by monitoring software than scripted solutions, but consider company policies and game rules before using one.

3) Mug warmer — Smart Tech USB mug warmer

A compact mug warmer draws 5V from a USB port to keep coffee or tea warm at your desk. Thermostatic control prevents overheating and most models are portable enough for commuters.

They run on standard USB power, so any free 5V port or a power bank will typically suffice.

4) Monitor light bar — Monster smart color duo

Monitor light bars provide directed desk illumination without screen glare. The Monster Illuminessence duo supports RGB control (Razer Chroma compatible) and mounts to most displays, powered via USB.

They’re ideal for evening work and reduce eye strain by brightening your keyboard area.

5) USB‑charged electric screwdriver — HOTO 25‑in‑1

Mini electric screwdrivers charge over USB-C and are handy for quick repairs on phones, consoles, and peripherals. HOTO’s compact kit stores magnetic bits inside the case and delivers around two hours of runtime on a charge.

These tools aren’t powered directly from a PC while in use but rely on USB charging, making them a convenient desk accessory.

Compatibility and expansion tips

If you need more ports or higher power, add a powered USB hub or install a PCIe USB expansion card. For high-draw devices, prefer USB 3.x or dedicated power sources.

Free ports are a small upgrade opportunity: use them to boost comfort, workflow, and quick repairs rather than just connecting another drive.