I have a notebook with 4 USB ports 3x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.0. 2 USB 2.0 ports are so close to each other, that for example the TV stick and a second drive, in which case remote control stick, not plugged can be. This also applies to ordinary USB flash drives. Here the cable is the optimal solution (in my case 2). Another advantage also the PC. the sticks are much easier to insert the cord as built-in to the (n) Female (n). Merry Xmas