Does anyone know what devices don’t have to be plugged directly into the computer (Mac USB)? I have a hub but it seems like it’s not enough power for most things.
I always get powered hubs for that reason. I think trial and error are your best bet.
stevebob: thx
I have two of these that I bought on sale for around $40 
Anker 10 Port 60W Data Hub with 7 USB 3.0 Ports and ...
Anker 10 Port 60W Data Hub with 7 USB 3.0 Ports and ... 
stevebob: Thank you! I feel like I have one of those but I don’t know what its specs are.
If it has its own power supply that plugs into the wall that's what you need. For external drives you should make sure it's USB 3.
I have hubs that have power supplies.
beken: 👍 I do feel like I’ve used powered hubs and still gotten messages but I’ll give it a shot.