Type-C Pro Hub

Expand a new MacBook Pro

$100 Manufacturer Satechi, satechi.net Features 2x Thunderbolt 3 connectors

Satechi’s Aluminum Type-C Pro Hub Adapter is specifically for the latest MacBook Pro design, taking up two USB-C ports, but offsetting that with port types the computer normally lacks.

It has two USB-A plus full-size SD and MicroSD ports on the side, and an HDMI port at the back. There are also two USB-C ports: the back one for 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 transfers, the supply of up to 87W of power, or 5K display connectivity, and the front for 5Gbps bandwidth but not charging.

Though it’s $30 more than Apple’s Digital AV Multiport Adapter, you get an extra USB-A port and storage connectivity here. The 4K-capable HDMI port is limited to 30Hz output, which means you’ll get less smooth motion on an external display of that kind, but that’s also true of Apple’s (and many other) USB-C to HDMI adapters.

It’s a little unnerving that the hub is elevated slightly above a desk, but you’d have to purposely push down to put pressure on its connectors.

THE BOTTOM LINE. Though more costly than Apple’s similar offering, the Pro Hub gives you a better range of ports.