#Best multipurpose adapter for mac 2018 full#

While the Thunderbolt 3 display market is limited, there are several USB-C options. There aren’t any USB-A ports or other connectivity options, though, which means you might still want to pick up one of the aforementioned docks to expand your connectivity.

The LG UltraFine 5K features three additional USB-C ports and a ThunderBolt 3 port for video and power delivery. While the display had its flaws at the beginning, it has turned into a viable option for Mac users. The best option for many Apple fans is the LG UltraFine 5K, which Apple sells for a whopping $1,299.95. The Thunderbolt 3 display market is virtually nonexistent, or so it seems. While the company is plotting a return with a new external display in 2019, there are a few third-party options worth noting. DisplaysĪpple says the new MacBook Air is capable of powering one external display with 5120×2880 or two external displays with 4096×2304. Since Apple’s exit from the display market back in 2016, things have been a bit messy for Apple users. The Cable Matters Thunderbolt 3 dock is pricer than USB-C alternatives, but you get far more power and versatility. This dock includes 60W power delivery, HDMI 2.0, an SD card reader, 5 USB-A ports, 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports, and Gigabit Ethernet. A popular option here is the Cable Matter Thunderbolt 4 dock. If you want something Thunderbolt 3-enabled with higher performance, you’re going to have to spend more and generally get something with a larger footprint.

Aukey USB-C Hub with 4 USB-A ports – $14.99.

It’s not as versatile as many of the third-party options, but if you want something straight from Apple, it’s a good choice. It’s worth noting that Apple sells its own multi-port USB-C adapter for $60 with USB-C input, HDMI, and USB-A. Buy the VAVA USB-C Hub on Amazon for $59.99. While it’s not Thunderbolt 3-enabled, it’s an affordable, versatile, and well-reviewed USB-C hub that won’t take up too much extra space in your bag. This hub is able to achieve a relatively small footprint, while including HDMI, 3 USB-A ports, an SD card slot, a microSD card slot, USB-C, and 1Gbps Ethernet support. Our top pick is the 8-port VAVA USB-C Hub.

These hubs bring legacy ports to the MacBook Air, such as USB-A, HDMI, and more.įor the ultra-portable MacBook Air, you’re going to want something relatively small and easy to keep in your bag with you at all time. One of the most common accessories for USB-C and Thunderbolt 3-enabled Macs is a hub of some sort.

#Best multipurpose adapter for mac 2018 full#

This is somewhat surprising seeing that the 12-inch MacBook features USB-C connectivity, but it is not a dual-port also capable of Thunderbolt 3.Īs we noted in our full MacBook lineup comparison, the 12-inch MacBook’s USB-C port maxes out a throughput of 5 Gbps, while the Retina MacBook Air’s Thunderbolt 3/USB-C port maxes out at 40 Gbps and supports USB 3.1 Gen 2, which enables speeds of up to 10 Gbps for non-Thunderbolt 3 accessories USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 Hubs

One important thing to note right off the bat is that both USB-C ports on the new MacBook Air are also Thunderbolt 3 capable. Read on as we roundup some of the MacBook Air accessories with USB-C & Thunderbolt 3. While the transition to USB-C is bound to be bumpy for some MacBook Air users, it also opens the MacBook up to a host of new accessories and peripherals. As many anticipated, the new MacBook Air drops all of its legacy ports in favor of USB-C. Apple finally debuted its long-awaited new Retina MacBook Air last Tuesday.