Recommended Free Tools
Before editing the Windows Registry, create a restore point from Start > Create a restore point. If System Protection is off for the Windows drive, turn it on first. For a more targeted fallback, export the registry key you plan to change as a separate .reg file.
Before you begin
- Save your work and back up important personal files separately. System Restore is for rolling back system state, not for protecting personal files.
- Follow trusted instructions for the exact registry key and value. Microsoft warns that an improper registry change can cause system instability, application errors, or prevent Windows from starting.
Create a restore point in Windows 10 or Windows 11
- Open System Protection. Select Start, search for Create a restore point, and open that result. Alternatively, press Win+R, enter
systempropertiesprotection.exe, and press Enter. Microsoft documents these System Protection steps. - Check protection for the Windows drive. In System Properties > System Protection, find the drive where Windows is installed. If protection is off, select the drive, choose Configure, select Turn on system protection, set the disk-space allocation, and select Apply. There is no universal minimum allocation specified in the cited Microsoft instructions.
- Create the point. On the System Protection tab, select Create. Enter a description that identifies the change, such as “Before changing [setting] registry value,” then select Create again. Wait for Windows to confirm that the restore point was created.
Once protection is enabled, Windows may also create restore points automatically when needed. A manual point gives you a clearly labeled point immediately before your planned registry change.
Add a targeted backup of the registry key
A restore point covers broader system state; an export is a separate copy of the particular key or subkey you select. To create one, open Registry Editor, select the key or subkey you intend to change, and choose File > Export. Save the .reg file somewhere you can find later. Microsoft’s Registry Editor guidance describes restoring an export with File > Import.
Keep the export distinct from your personal-file backup: each protects a different thing. An exported key is useful for restoring that specific registry content, while System Restore can roll back a wider set of system changes.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
What System Restore changes—and what it does not
Microsoft says System Restore can revert system files, registry settings, and installed programs to the state they were in when the selected restore point was created. It does not affect personal files. However, it can undo relevant system changes made since that point, including changes involving applications, drivers, updates, or settings. Review Scan for affected programs if that option is available before confirming a restore. See Microsoft’s System Restore guidance.
Restore Windows if the change causes a problem
If Windows still starts
Open System Restore and select the restore point you created before the registry edit. Check the affected-programs list where available, then follow the prompts. The exact route to open System Restore can vary by Windows version; Microsoft’s recovery options page describes the available recovery methods.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
If Windows will not start normally
Enter Windows Recovery Environment and select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > System Restore. Choose the restore point and follow the prompts. On an encrypted device, Windows may ask for the BitLocker recovery key. Microsoft describes the recovery environment and its options in Windows Recovery Environment guidance.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Choose the right recovery layer
| Safeguard | What it helps recover | What it does not replace |
|---|---|---|
| System Restore point | Broader system state, including system files, registry settings, and installed programs | A separate backup of personal files |
Registry key export (.reg) |
The selected registry key or subkey, which can later be imported | A rollback of all system changes or a personal-file backup |
| Personal-file backup | Your backed-up personal files | A restore point or targeted registry-key copy |
Registry safety checklist
- Confirm the exact key and value from a trusted, relevant source before editing.
- Create the restore point immediately before the change, and give it a recognizable description.
- Export the specific key or subkey if you may need to restore that registry content directly.
- Keep personal files backed up independently; System Restore is not a file-backup tool.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
