Thunderbolt Card Reader For Mac Pro
A thunderbolt card reader would be insanely expensive for absolutely no benefit. Does anyone know if there's an SDHC card reader with Thunderbolt 2 connections or if I am SOL and have to make due with USB 3 until I upgrade to a MBP with Thunderbolt 3/USB-C? I use it with a 2012 15' MacBook Pro Retina, a G-Tech Thunderbolt 3 RAID, a. Thunder3 Dock Pro. Thunderbolt™ 3 Docking Station for Professionals, with 10Gbps Network, CFast Reader, and More! Packed full of features, this Thunderbolt™ 3 docking station comes with all the essential interfaces you will need to connect your peripherals and more. Ingest P2 Content, Fast Sonnet's Thunderbolt™ Pro P2 Card Reader quickly transfers files from Panasonic® P2 memory cards to your Mac® (with Thunderbolt or Thunderbolt 2 ports) on location, in the studio, or in the edit suite. Durable aluminum Mac-Style design and compatible with MacBook Pro 2018-2016 and other computer with USB-C Driver free and compatible with Mac OS, Windows OS, Android system powered USB Type- C Devices. EQUIPD 7 in 1 Aluminum Type C Adapter USB C Charging Port, 4K HDMI Output, 1 USB 3.0/2 USB 2.0 Ports, SD/microSD Card Reader MacBook Pro 13.
While the modern MacBook Pro is powerful and portable, there may be times where you want more of a desktop setup, with a larger monitor and tons of peripherals.
Thanks to powerful Thunderbolt 3 technology, you can have the best of both worlds. While the ports look identical to USB-C, there are some significant differences between Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C.
When I plugged in my Lexar Pro ExpressCard CompactFlash Reader I was able to get 42MB/s read speeds off my 300x CF card -- the theoretical limit for the card (and the same speed as when the reader was plugged directly into the ExpressCard slot of my Macbook Pro.). USB C SD Card Reader HDMI Adapter for MacBook Pro 2018/2017,MacBook Air 2018, Surface Book 2, Lenovo Yoga 920, 5 in 1 Type C Thunderbolt 3 Hub with SD/Micro SD Card Reader, 4K HDMI, 2 USB 3.0 Ports. Jan 05, 2012 When I plugged in my Lexar Pro ExpressCard CompactFlash Reader I was able to get 42MB/s read speeds off my 300x CF card -- the theoretical limit for the card (and the same speed as when the reader was plugged directly into the ExpressCard slot of my Macbook Pro.).
Thunderbolt 3 docks plug into a compatible port and can solve the dongle dilemma by offering USB, HDMI, and many other connections. We’re highlighting some of the best docks to transform your MacBook Pro into a desktop workstation.
1. Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Dock
Plugable Thunderbolt 3 DockPlugable Thunderbolt 3 Dock Buy Now On Amazon $239.00
With Plugable’s Thunderbolt 3 Dock, there’s no need to worry about lugging an additional power brick and cable for most MacBook Pros. One Thunderbolt 3 port on the dock provides up to 60 watts of power, which is the maximum for many 13-inch MacBook models. You can still use it to power up a 15-inch version. However, it won’t charge as quickly compared to using the Apple-provided 87 watt power adapter.
Along with a DisplayPort on the rear, there’s an additional Thunderbolt 3 port to daisy chain another dock or connect another device. Definitely take a look at how daisy chaining Thunderbolt 3 docks can power up your experience with Mac accessories.
A Gigabit Ethernet connection lives next to four USB-A 3.0 ports for other peripherals. On the front of the dock is a single USB-A 3.0 port and a headphone jack. As a nice touch to help save space on your desk, the dock is available for use in either a horizontal or vertical orientation.
2. Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Express Dock HD
Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Express Dock HDBelkin Thunderbolt 3 Express Dock HD Buy Now On Amazon $291.97
Belkin’s Thunderbolt 3 Express Dock HD provides a full 85 watts of power. Even 15-inch MacBook Pro models will charge at the maximum possible speed. With the additional Thunderbolt 3 plug and DisplayPort, you can plug in two 4K displays at 60Hz or a single 5K monitor at 60Hz.
The dock features two audio out ports, one on the rear and another on the front of the dock next to a single USB-A 3.0 port. On the back, you’ll find two additional USB-A 3.0 ports, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and two Thunderbolt 3 ports.
3. CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 Mini Dock
CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 Mini DockCalDigit Thunderbolt 3 Mini Dock Buy Now On Amazon $129.99
Docking stations aren’t just for home use. The CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 Mini Dock is perfect for traveling. Just insert the built-in Thunderbolt 3 cable into your MacBook Pro, and you’ll be ready to go. There’s no need for an additional power plug.
With its dual HDMI connections, you can easily connect up to two 4K displays simultaneously running at 60Hz. There is also a USB-A 3.0 and USB-A 2.0 port for additional legacy devices.
And instead of having to battle dodgy or non-existent hotel Wi-Fi, the dock has Gigabit Ethernet connectivity.
A version of the dock with dual DisplayPorts, a single USB 3.0 port, and Gigabit Ethernet is also available. Both types are made with aluminum to help the dock withstand the rigors of travel.
4. Promise Technology Thunderbolt 3 Dock
Promise Technology Thunderbolt 3 Dock TD-300 (USB/Ethernet/Audio/HDMI/SD Reader)Promise Technology Thunderbolt 3 Dock TD-300 (USB/Ethernet/Audio/HDMI/SD Reader) Buy Now On Amazon $227.99
Photographers will definitely enjoy the Promise Technology Thunderbolt 3 Dock, as it offers a built-in SD card reader. Along with that nice perk, you’ll find two USB-A 3.0 ports and an audio in/out jack on the front.
Instead of DisplayPort, the dock offers a single HDMI 2.0 port on the rear. You’ll also find three additional USB-A 3.0 ports, a Gigabit Ethernet port, and two Thunderbolt 3 ports. One of those supports power delivery of up to 60 watts to a MacBook Pro.
5. Kensington SD5000T Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station
Kensington SD5200T Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station - 170 Watts with Power Delivery - Dual Monitor 4k for Mac and PC (K38300NA)Kensington SD5200T Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station - 170 Watts with Power Delivery - Dual Monitor 4k for Mac and PC (K38300NA) Buy Now On Amazon $248.00
Offering a full 85 watts of power, the Kensington SD5000T Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station is a great option for either version of the MacBook Pro. There’s a unique option to help control clutter if you’re low on desk space. You can purchase an optional mounting plate that will place the dock on the back of any VESA-compatible monitor. There’s also a Kensington lock slot on the rear to help prevent the dock from being stolen.
The front of the dock features a USB-C port and USB-A 3.0 port. The USB-C port offers up to 15 watts of power, while the USB-A 3.0 port is a fast-charging 2.1 amp version. On the back, you’ll find a Gigabit Ethernet port, a USB-A 3.0 port, audio in and out ports, two Thunderbolt 3 ports, and a DisplayPort plug.
6. StarTech.com TB3DKDPMAW Thunderbolt 3 Dock
StarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 Docking StationStarTech.com Thunderbolt 3 Docking Station Buy Now On Amazon $186.88
If you’re looking to save some money compared to other options, take a look at the StarTech.com TB3DKDPMAW Thunderbolt 3 Dock. The only major feature missing is the ability to quickly charge a MacBook Pro without a charging brick and additional cable. It does offer a slow 15 watts of power. But that won’t do much to charge your laptop in a timely fashion.
On the front of the dock, you’ll find a USB-C and USB-A 3.0 port. The rear sports a number of ports, including Gigabit Ethernet, one USB-A 3.0, audio in and out, two Thunderbolt 3, and a DisplayPort.
More Power for Your MacBook Pro
Using one of these Thunderbolt 3 docks, you can easily turn a MacBook Pro into a desktop powerhouse. And Apple has made it even easier starting with the 2018 MacBook Pro models, since all four ports support the protocol.
Thunderbolt 3 technology can do much more than just power docking stations. It even provides a speedy way to integrate a RAID external storage system5 Thunderbolt RAID Systems to Serve Your External Data Storage Needs5 Thunderbolt RAID Systems to Serve Your External Data Storage NeedsRAID systems are awesome for external storage, and with Thunderbolt 3, they're faster than ever. Here are the best Thunderbolt-compatible RAID units.Read More to store important data. And check out some of the best external hard drives for MacThe Best External Hard Drives for a MacThe Best External Hard Drives for a MacNeed more storage? Check out the best external hard drives for Mac to add more space easily.Read More if you need more space, too.
Explore more about: Cable Management, MacBook, Thunderbolt.
Is it possible to use a 3rd party mouse that has multiple buttons, to create Macros on them? On a Mac? I currently do this on a PC but have MAC at work.
I do certain things all day long on my MAC and would like a button to push on my Mouse that will do that function example copy/paste my name.
The new MacBook Pro comes with two or four external ports, depending on the model you pick. And the new MacBook Air has a pair of ports. But those ports are only of one type: Thunderbolt 3, which is compatible with USB-C.
But you probably have devices that use USB-A, Thunderbolt 1, Thunderbolt 2, DisplayPort, HDMI, or something else. How do you connect these devices? With an adapter.
If you’re planning to buy a new MacBook Pro or MacBook Air, make sure you set aside a considerable amount of cash for the adapters you need. Apple doesn’t include any in the box, except for a power adapter.
Your best bet is to get a combination dock, like the Satechi Slim Aluminum Type-C Multi-Port Adapter ($60 on Amazon). It connects via USB-C, and includes a USB-C pass-through port, two USB 3.0 ports, and an HDMI port with 4K (30Hz) support. With this, you don’t have to carry around multiple adapters.
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If you don’t want a dock, or you can’t find a dock with the mix of connections you need, Apple or another company probably has an adapter for you. We’ve come up with this guide to help you sort out what you need, and we link to the appropriate adapter in the online Apple Store or on Amazon. You can also use the quick link list below to jump to the info you need.
How to connect:
Be sure to check the return policies; sometimes adapters from third-parties don’t work. Read user reviews whenever possible, and read the specifications to make sure the adapter can do what you need it to do.
If there’s a connection we missed, or you have advice on what adapters to buy, let us know on Twitter or Facebook.
How to connect USB-C devices
The Thunderbolt 3 ports in the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air work with USB-C devices, which have the same connector shape. If you want to use a USB-C device, you can just plug it into one of the Thunderbolt 3 ports. No adapter necessary. Whew.
How to connect USB-A devices
USB-A is the USB connector with which you’re probably most familiar. It’s the USB connector that was on the previous MacBooks, and it’s the connector that comes on your iOS device’s sync cable in the box. (Terms like USB 3 and USB 2 refer to the speed at which data travels through the connector.)
This problem first came up when Apple released the 12-inch MacBook, which has a single USB-C port. You can get a dock, like the before-mentioned Satechi. Or you can get Apple’s $19 USB-C to USB Adapter.
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If you need to connect multiple USB-A devices, get a USB-C to USB-A hub. Anker sells a USB-C to 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub ($16 on Amazon) that provides four USB-A ports.
How to connect micro B SuperSpeed devices
This connector is often used with external storage devices. You’ll need a new cable, like the $15 StarTech USB C to Micro USB Cable.
The name of the cable is confusing, because it could be mistaken for micro USB. But if you check the product page on StarTech’s website, you can see a clear shot of the micro B SuperSpeed connector on the cable, which is quite different from micro USB.
How to connect an iPhone or iPad
If you are still using the USB-A to Lightning (or 30-pin, if you’re using an older iOS device) cable that came with your device, you can get the USB-C to USB Adapter mentioned above in the USB-A section.
Don’t want an adapter? Buy a $19 USB-C to Lightning Cable (1 m) from Apple. You can get a 2-meter version for $35 from Apple.
How to connect the Lightning EarPods
There’s now a USB-C to Lightning adapter, thanks to the folks at Anker. It’s $30 on Amazon. This adapter has a female Lightning connector on one end, so you can plug in your Lightning earphones. The other side is a standard USB-C connector that you plug into your MacBook.
How to connect headphones with a 3.5mm headphone plug
You’re in luck. The MacBook Pro and MacBook Air comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack. Just plug it in and you’re good to go. That was easy.
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Now, say you need a second headphone jack. You can use a splitter, like the Belkin Speaker and Headphone 3.5 mm AUX Audio Cable Splitter ($5 on Amazon). Or you can use a USB-C to headphone adapter, like this Motorola one on Amazon for $9, or you can get the $12 Google USB-C Digital to 3.5 mm headphone adapter. If you need multiple headphone jacks, the $15 Belkin RockStar 5-Jack Multi Headphone Audio Splitter plugs into the headphone jack and adds five jacks.
How to connect Thunderbolt 1 and Thunderbolt 2 devices
Older versions of Thunderbolt have a different connector than Thunderbolt 3. The adapter you need is Apple’s $49 Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter.
How to connect an external display
This one can eat up a chunk of your budget, because there are so many different types of display connectors. Be prepared to buy several adapters.
DisplayPort and mini DisplayPort
To connect to a DisplayPort display, you need a USB-C to DisplayPort cable or adapter. Amazon sells the Cable Matters USB-C to DisplayPort Adapter cable for $17, and it supports 4K video at 60Hz.
To connect a display with mini DisplayPort, you need an adapter like the Belinda USB C Type to Mini DisplayPort/Mini DP Adapter Cable ($19 on Amazon).
HDMI
Apple offers the USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter, a $69 device that also provides a USB-A port and a USB-C port that’s for charging only. Be warned: Apple released a new version of this adapter (model number A2119) in August 2019 that supports HDMI 2.0. The older version (model number A1621) supports HDMI 1.4. If you shop in person, you can check the box for the model number, and at an Apple store, you very likely will get the new model. But if you shop elsewhere, you could end up with the old model. Apple has a support document that details the differences between the two adapters.
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If you don’t want to spend that much, you can get an adapter that’s just a USB-C to HDMI adapter, such as UGreen’s USB-C to HDMI Adapter ($16 on Amazon). We really like the Nonda USB-C to HDMI Adapter ($16 on Amazon). When shopping for such adapters, look out for 1080p support. The Nonda adapter has 4K video support.
DVI
Kanex has a USB-C to DVI Adapter ($24 on Amazon). It also has other USB-C video adapters, including a VGA adapter, an HDMI adapter, and a DisplayPort adapter.
VGA
To connect a VGA display, Apple has a USB-C VGA Multiport Adapter ($64 on Amazon). In addition to a VGA to USB-C connection, it also provides a USB-A port for connecting a USB device, and a USB-C charging port to keep your laptop battery happy.
On the more affordable side but without the USB ports is the Simple.Fly USB-C to VGA Adapter, which is available on Amazon for $14.
How to connect the MacBook Pro to ethernet
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You’ll probably use Wi-Fi most of the time, but using a wired ethernet connection has its advantages. To connect to an ethernet network, you need an adapter like the Belkin USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, which is available on Amazon for $22.
How to connect SD cards
If you use a DLSR or other type of stand-alone camera, it might have a way to transfer your files wirelessly. If not, you need an adapter to access the SD card, like the Cable Matters Dual Slot USB C Card Reader ($10 on Amazon).
If you have a USB-A card reader, you can try using the Apple’s $19 USB-C to USB Adapter, or get a USB-C dock.
How to connect FireWire devices
Ugh, this one could be a problem. Apple has a Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter for $29, but it has a older Thunderbolt connector that doesn’t plug into the Thunderbolt 3 port on a new MacBook Pro.
You could try daisy-chaining adapters, but that’s always risky and may not work. Plug the Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter into Apple’s $49 Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter and then plug that into the MacBook Pro.
How to connect a printer with USB-B
Many printers nowadays have wireless support, so there’s no need for a cable. But maybe you have an older printer, or you find wireless printing unreliable. Most consumer printers have a USB-B port. It’s a squarish connector, much different from USB-A or USB-C.
You need a cable like the Cable Matters USB C Printer Cable, which has a USB-C to USB-B connection. A 1 meter cable is $7; other lengths are available.
If you already have a USB-C to USB Adapter, you can take the USB-A to USB-B cable that came with your printer and plug it into the adapter. Then you plug the adapter into the laptop.
How to add a MagSafe power connector to the 13-inch MacBook Pro
The power adapter that comes with the new MacBook Pro plugs into a Thunderbolt 3 port. Sadly, there is no breakaway MagSafe connector. If you’ve ever had to plug in your MacBook at a coffee shop and had someone trip over the power cable, you know how much of a lifesaver MagSafe can be.
Thunderbolt Card Reader For Mac Pro
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But you can still add a MagSafe connector to the new 13-inch MacBook Pro. Griffin’s BreakSafe Magnetic USB-C Power Cable ($16 on Amazon) is a power-only cable that is used to charge the laptop. It includes an adapter that acts like a MagSafe connector. Our review of the BreakSafe covers how it works with a 12-inch MacBook, but the breakaway connector should work the same way for the new MacBook Pro.
Apple Usb C Card Reader
However, Griffin specifically states that the cable works with the 13-inch laptop; the company doesn’t say it’s compatible with the 15-inch MacBook Pro. That’s because the cable is rated at 60 watts, and the 13-inch MacBook Pro has a 61-watt power adapter. The 15-inch MacBook Pro has an 87-watt power adapter; that’s more wattage than the Griffin cable is designed to handle.