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If you have the latest 2021 MacBook Pro model, whether it’s 14-inch or 16-inch, you may have noticed that you’re missing a lot of ports found on legacy laptops and those classic peripherals (even those made by Apple!) can no longer be connected to your Mac.
So what’s up with these new ports, and how do you use your external monitors, work equipment, or even a wired mouse with this MacBook?
A USB-C hub can expand connectivity and allow you to operate more devices simultaneously than you could when using the ports on the laptop alone. This added connectivity can make these powerful machines even more capable.
The new MacBook Pro models with M1 Pro or M1 Max chip have more connection ports than previous versions of the computer, but that still might not be enough if you want to complete many tasks or simply want to expand your possibilities. That’s where a USB-C hub comes in helpful.
This post will show you all of the best USB-C hubs compatible with the latest version of the MacBook Pro. I’ll provide you with some other helpful information to help you pick a product that best meets your needs.
Let’s dive in.
What Ports Does New MacBook Pro 2021 Have and Not Have?
Before jumping into listing all of the best USB-C hubs, it’s important to look at the new MacBook Pro to see just what ports it does and does not have. This can help you figure out what additional ports you might need from a hub.
The 2021 MacBook Pro Models have more ports than previous versions of these popular computers. That’s excellent news for extra connectivity to meet a variety of needs.
The 14” and 16” models both come with three Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, an SDXC card slot, an HDMI port, a 3.5mm audio port, and a MagSafe 3 power port to charge the laptop. This is an upgrade from earlier models that only had two Thunderbolt ports.
Despite the increased number of ports, there still are a few common ports that the latest MacBook Pros do not have. These include USB-A ports, VGA ports, a microSD card slot, and an ethernet port.
If you need or require any of the ports mentioned above that don’t come standard with the 2021 MacBook Pro models, you will want to consider getting a USB-C hub.
Note: a MacBook Pro docking station may be a better choice for you. Read this article docking station vs USB-C hub to see the detailed differences.
Best USB-C Hub for New 2021 MacBook Pro: Top Picks
Here are the top picks for the best USB-C hub for the new 2021 MacBook Pro laptops. All of the models you see below are compatible with these computers and will give you added connectivity.
1. UGREEN USB C Hub
- Best for: Simplicity
- Key features: Simple and sleek design, broad compatibility, small size, reliable data transfer speeds
- Number of Ports: 6
- Connection Type: USB-C
- Cost: $
The UGREEN USB C Hub features a slim and sleek design that makes it a simple solution for expanding the connectivity needs of your 2021 MacBook Pro. This one is also very affordable and checks all the boxes you want for a quality hub.
This model features six ports, including a 4K at 60Hz HDMI port, three USB 3.0 ports, and a microSD/SD card reader. All of this connects to your computer with a single flexible USB C dongle that is durable and flexible for long-lasting use.
The small physical size of the UGREEN hub makes it a solid option to take on the go, and it’s perfect for travel or keeping your desk space well organized. I also like the high-speed HDMI port for connecting an additional monitor.
Overall, this is a solid little unit, but I wish it offered an additional USB-C port or two. That limits some file transfer capabilities compared to the USB 3.0 ports it does come with.
2. Satechi Aluminum Multi-Port Adapter V2
- Best for: Ethernet Connections
- Key features: Has an ethernet port, aluminum design, slim and compact, plug and play capabilities
- Number of Ports: 8
- Connection Type: USB-C
- Cost: $$$
The Satechi Aluminum Multi-Port Adapter V2 features an ethernet port, which not all USB-C hubs offer. This makes it a solid choice if you need that type of port or just want to have it in case you do.
This unit also has a small and compact design that still gives you eight ports to expand your computer’s connectivity. These include a 4K HDMI port, ethernet port, a microSD/SD port, three USB 3.0 ports, and a USB-C PD port that’s capable of charging.
You also get easy plug-and-play use out of this one, and you simply need to plug it into the USB-C port on your MacBook Pro, and you’ll be ready for action. This also means not much can go wrong when getting started.
I like the higher number of ports on this Satechi model, but the cost is also higher. It’s not extremely expensive but costs considerably more than other options on the list.
3. MOKiN USB C Hub Multiport Adapter
- Best for: Compact Design
- Key features: Compact, affordable, plenty of ports, can help connect hardware to your laptop
- Number of Ports: 8
- Connection Type: USB-C
- Cost: $
If you are looking for a USB-C hub with a large number of ports that still has a relatively small profile, check out the MOKiN USB-C Hub Multiport Adapter. This model gives you eight ports in a compact design that is great for travel or staying organized.
The available ports include a 4K UHD HDMI port, VGA slot, SD card slot, TF memory card slot, three USB 3.0 ports, and a USB-C power port for pass-through charging. This gives you plenty of connection possibilities with reliable transfer speeds.
The design of this model is nice because it utilizes both sides of the hub to provide you with plenty of ports without adding much size. The flexible USB-C dongle will let you adjust your setup any way you like.
Some of the ports on this one might not be as useful (like the VGA and TF memory card) for modern needs, but it’s still a very capable and convenient hub.
4. Syntech USB C to USB HUB
- Best for: Budget Option
- Key features: Very affordable, comes with USB-C to USB adapter, multiple cord sizes available
- Number of Ports: 4
- Connection Type: USB-C
- Cost: $
The Syntech USB C to USB HUB is an affordable option that will give you extra connectivity without spending much money to make it happen. Even though it’s cheap, you still get four high-speed USB 3.0 ports.
This unit is also very compact, making it easy to travel with. You can slip it into a pocket or your computer bag, and it will barely take up any space at all.
It also comes with a USB-C to USB adapter, so it is backward compatible if you want to use it with devices other than your 2021 MacBook Pro. I also like that you can choose from a 0.5 ft or 2ft connection cable.
You are limited to only USB 3.0 ports here, which might not be helpful for everyone. But the price is right if it meets your needs.
5. LENTION USB C Hub
- Best for: USB Ports
- Key features: Great for extra USB connectivity, small design, affordable, multiple colors available
- Number of Ports: 4
- Connection Type: USB-C
- Cost: $
The LENTION USB C Hub is another option that delivers increased USB connectivity by allowing four additional USB 3.0 ports. This will connect to your MacBook Pro through a USB-C cable.
You also get a small design that is highly portable and easy to pack up and take with you just about anywhere. It’s also highly affordable but still has a pretty durable design, so it should last for years of regular use.
Another feature is that this one is available in multiple color options so that you can match it to your computer or workspace. It doesn’t improve its capabilities, but it’s still a nice touch.
The downside here is that this hub only offers USB 3.0 ports, so its connectivity possibilities are somewhat limited.
6. HyperDrive USB-C Hub Adapter
- Best for: Broad Connectivity
- Key features: High number of ports, slim design, wide compatibility, fast data transfer speeds
- Number of Ports: 9
- Connection Type: USB-C
- Cost: $$$
The HyperDrive USB-C Hub Adapter features the highest number of ports of any hub on the list, making it a good option for anyone with broad connectivity needs. It’s a quality choice all-around and still has a small design despite an increased number of ports.
This model comes with nine ports, including a 4K at 30Hz HDMI port, three USB 3.1 ports, a microSD/SD card slot, a 3.5mm audio jack, an ethernet port, and a pass-through USB-C charging port.
All of this connectivity gives you plenty of options to put this hub into action for professional or personal uses. It should be able to tackle just about any task.
The HyperDrive is very capable, but it also comes at a higher price. It’s still relatively affordable compared to other tech items but not necessarily a budget choice.
7. IVANKY 7-in-1 USB C Hub
- Best for: Innovative Design
- Key features: Thermal design, good connectivity, small and compact, pass-through charging
- Number of Ports: 7
- Connection Type: USB-C
- Cost: $$
The IVANKY 7-in-1 USB C Hub features an innovative thermal design that was created to help prevent it from getting hot when you have it running at full blast. This means you can utilize every single port it offers without worry.
This model gives you broad connectivity through 7 different ports, including three USB 3.0 ports, a 4K at 30Hz HDMI port, microSD/SD card slots, and a pass-through USB-C power port.
It also has a small and compact design that is durable and built to last. That makes it a solid option to travel with and adds lasting value.
This one doesn’t have VGA or Ethernet ports, so you’ll need to find another option if you need those connections.
8. ANKER USB C Hub
- Best for: Affordability Meets Functionality
- Key features: Affordable price with many ports, compact design, reliable use, 18-month guarantee
- Number of Ports: 7
- Connection Type: USB-C
- Cost: $$
The ANKER USB C Hub offers a great mix of affordability and functionality thanks to an approachable price tag and seven different ports for good expansion.
This small and compact unit still gives you a 4K at 30Hz HDMI port, microSD/SD card slots, two USB 3.0 ports, a USB-C data port, and a USB-C input port.
It also comes with an 18-month warranty that gives you extra peace of mind that the unit is built to last a long time.
This one is a little smaller and wider than other models I’ve seen, which makes it appear a little less durable. I still think it will hold up fine for travel and other purposes, but it seems more fragile.
Best USB-C Hub for New 2021 MacBook Pro: What to Consider
Here are some important factors to consider when deciding what USB-C hub meets your connectivity needs.
Number/Type of Ports
The most significant factor to consider when choosing a USB-C hub to pair with your new MacBook Pro is the number and type of ports that it comes with. You need to make sure it can expand your connectivity through the ports you need.
Most USB-C hubs will give you an additional 2 to 8 ports once it is plugged into your laptop. If you need to connect many devices or just want the ability to do so, go with a larger number of ports. If your connectivity needs are pretty basic, you won’t need as many ports.
You also want to check to make sure that the ports on the USB-C hub are the specific type you need to connect to other devices. Double-check these connections before you make a purchase, so you aren’t left with a hub that won’t function as you need it to.
Connection Style
Another thing to consider is connection style. By this, I’m talking about what sort of input plugs the USB-C hub into your MacBook Pro. All of the models listed here offer USB-C connectivity, but there are different hubs out there that might have a different connection type.
This is another thing to check for before purchasing because you don’t want to be in a situation where the hub you buy doesn’t actually plug into the computer. You also don’t want a design that plugs into a slower port than a USB-C port.
Compatibility
Similar to connection style, you need to make sure that the USB-C hub you buy is compatible with your MacBook Pro. All of the options listed here are fully compatible with the 2021 MacBook Pro models.
But if you want to check out other options or have a different computer, you always need to ensure that they are compatible with one another. Check the tech specs on the hub to make sure it matches the available ports on your computer.
Size
Size is another thing to keep in mind when purchasing a USB-C hub. While most of these devices are pretty small and portable, if you want a very tiny one for whatever reason, that might limit how many ports it has.
Most hubs will be about the size of the palm of your hand and maybe two fingers wide. They are easy to travel with and don’t take up much space on a desk or table. Just keep size in mind if you want ultimate convenience or to help you keep your workspace better organized.
FAQs
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about USB-C hubs related to the new MacBook Pro models.
How do I add more C ports to USB Mac?
The easiest way to add more C ports to a USB Mac is to use a USB-C hub. These convenient adapters will plug right into your Mac and give you anywhere from 2 to 4 or more additional C ports. You can also use a docking station, although that’s a more expensive solution.
Does Apple make a USB hub?
Apple does not make a branded USB hub. The company lists several different USB hubs in its online store, but these are made from brands other than Apple. Even so, they will still work with Apple devices.
Which USB C hub does Apple recommend?
Apple doesn’t specifically recommend any USB C hubs. There are many good options out there, and as long as the hubs are compatible with your computer model, they will work fine and provide you with added connectivity.
Do I need a powered USB C hub?
No, most USB C hubs do not need external power to operate. They are powered by your computer and will turn on once plugged into a USB C port. Many offer pass-through charging, so you can still power your device if it’s USB-C powered.
Final Thoughts
If you think you’ll need more ports than what is already built into your 2021 MacBook Pro, you are going to need a USB-C hub. Even if you don’t have a need for it right now, these devices are affordable and are an excellent addition for every MacBook Pro owner to have around.
All of the hubs listed here will work well with the newest 2021 MacBook Pro models. They can help you plug in more devices to your computer, which can come in useful in various professional and personal situations.
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