For current MacBook Pro models, you can connect an HDMI display and insert a supported SDXC card without an adapter. You can charge through MagSafe 3 or a Thunderbolt USB-C port. Add a hub or adapter only if your setup needs a port the MacBook Pro lacks, such as USB-A or Ethernet. Before buying anything for multiple displays, check the external-display limits for your exact chip configuration.
Ports on current MacBook Pro models
Apple lists these built-in connections on the current MacBook Pro lineup: MagSafe 3, three Thunderbolt USB-C ports, HDMI, an SDXC card slot, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. Two Thunderbolt ports, MagSafe 3, and the headphone jack are on the left; the third Thunderbolt port, HDMI, and SDXC slot are on the right, according to Apple’s MacBook Pro guide.
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The Thunderbolt generation depends on the chip configuration. Apple specifies Thunderbolt 4 and USB 4 up to 40 Gb/s for M5 models. M5 Pro and M5 Max models have Thunderbolt 5 and USB 4 up to 120 Gb/s. These are Apple’s technical specifications, not independent measurements of real-world transfer speeds.
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Do you need an adapter for your device?
| What you want to connect | What to use | When an adapter is needed |
|---|---|---|
| HDMI monitor or TV | The built-in HDMI port | Usually not, if you connect through HDMI and the display’s requirements are supported. |
| SDXC card | The built-in SDXC slot | Usually not for a supported SDXC card. |
| Power | MagSafe 3, or a USB-C charging cable connected to a Thunderbolt port | Use a compatible charging cable and power adapter; check the listing for the exact model to confirm what is included. |
| USB-A accessory | A USB-C-to-USB-A adapter or a USB-C hub with USB-A | Yes, if your accessory uses USB-A. |
| Wired Ethernet | A compatible USB-C Ethernet adapter or hub | Yes, if you need a wired network connection. |
| DisplayPort monitor | A Thunderbolt USB-C port, which supports DisplayPort output | It depends on the monitor’s input and the cable or adapter needed for the display mode you want. |
The current port list does not include USB-A or Ethernet, so those are the main reasons to consider a hub or adapter. That conclusion follows from Apple’s published port inventory; Apple’s specifications do not establish the performance or reliability of any particular third-party accessory.
#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.
How to choose a display adapter or dock
First identify the MacBook Pro’s chip configuration, then match the connection path to the display’s input. For a single HDMI display, the built-in HDMI port may be all you need. Thunderbolt ports also support DisplayPort output, but the right cable or adapter depends on the monitor’s connector and the display mode.
For a dock or hub intended to run several displays, check all of these details before buying:
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.
- The exact MacBook Pro chip and generation.
- The number of external displays you plan to use.
- Each display’s resolution and refresh rate.
- Which ports and connection path the displays will use.
- Whether the hub also needs to provide charging or data connections.
External-display limits vary by chip
Apple lists support for up to two external displays with M5, up to three with M5 Pro, and up to four with M5 Max. The resolution and refresh-rate combinations depend on the configuration and connection, so the maximum display count alone does not tell you whether a particular setup will work. Confirm the specifications for the exact model on Apple’s MacBook Pro technical specifications before choosing a multi-display dock or adapter.
Charging: MagSafe 3 or USB-C
You can charge through the MagSafe 3 port using the supplied USB-C-to-MagSafe 3 cable and power adapter, or connect a USB-C charge cable to a Thunderbolt port. Apple’s support guide describes both charging paths. The exact power adapter supplied depends on the configuration, so check the sales listing for the specific model rather than assuming every version includes the same adapter.
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.
Older MacBook Pro models may differ
The 14-inch MacBook Pro with M4 from 2024 also has HDMI, SDXC, MagSafe 3, a headphone jack, and three Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, according to Apple’s specifications for that model. Do not assume that every older MacBook Pro has the same ports or display support. Identify the model and year before buying an adapter.
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
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