Connecting USB devices to new system: front panel? external?

[teddymines]

What is the best way to interface USB devices to a PC?

My current build has 2 front panel USB 3.0 ports accessible thru the front case bezel, and it has a few USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports on the back of the motherboard. There are also headers for both on the board (currently unused).

Are there any decent external devices that sit on the desktop by the monitor, that take a USB 3.0 cable from the back? I've seen a few online, but none I've seen have good reviews. This would be nice for plugging in a camera, scanner, or external drive because it would be right on the desktop.

Or is it better to have a front panel with USB 3.0 ports, and drive it off the headers on the motherboard?

 

[alvine]

i would recommend using the rear usb ports to devices you dont unplug so you can use the front ones for usb external hard drive for example
you can get a usb hub and plug it to the rear and have the hub located next to your monitor but I have not seen the usb 3.0 versions

 

[cball1311]

Here is a bunch of USB 3.0 hubs from Newegg.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Description=USB 3.0 hub&Submit=ENE