The difference between powered and non-powered USB hubs. As the name suggests, the fundamental difference lies in how they draw power. Powered hubs come with their own AC adapter and plug into the mains; Unpowered hubs plug into a computer’s USB port and draw power from its battery.

1. It is one of the best-selling Hub as it contains everything a pro user looks for: high-speed data transfer and power delivery port, 4K HDMI + 4K mini Display Port for an outstanding display setup, with two more expansion USB-A 3.0 ports and memory card slots for more convenient data transfer.
2. In terms of data transfer speeds, the USB 3.0 ports can provide anything up to 5Gbps, fast enough for large media-rich files. It’s also compatible with almost any Windows or Mac operating system. However, if you own a newer Macbook, you need a Thunderbolt to USB adapter for it to work. It would also make a cool gift for tech lovers.

If you’re a workaholic or working on multiple devices with your MacBook Pro, you will surely need more ports on your Mac to work on! Isn’t it?! This is where most of the users prefer USB-C hubs for MacBook Pro that has SD card readers, USB 3.0, HDMI, Ethernet, Thunderbolt 3, and a lot more ports! From connecting an external hard drive to SD card or from a projector to a printer, you will need a USB-C hub to connect these older peripherals to your new MacBook Pro. That’s why we’ve reviewed the best USB-C multiport adapters that can turn your desk into a docking station.

Best USB-C Multiport Adapters for MacBook Pro

1. Purgo 7-in-2 USB-C Hub

Purgo is the best in class and most compact USB-C hub ever! The space grey and silver colors exactly match with your MacBook Pro too. Total 7 ports can be used simultaneously to perform multiple tasks at a glance. Access to 4K HDMI port, 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3, 2 USB 3.0 ports, Micro & SD card reader slot and Gigabit Ethernet port which speeds up to 1000Mbps!

The multiport adapter supports up to 100W power delivery so that you can charge your MacBook Pro within no time and meanwhile using the other ports of the hub without any interruptions. It comes with an 18-month warranty and works with MacBook Air as well apart from MacBook Pro.

USP: Sleek & Compact with 7 ports!
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2. CharJenPro

This USB-C multiport hub is just made for MacBook Pro and MacBook Air only! With almost similar ports as compared to Purgo, CharJenPro looks more sturdy with Aluminum coating and they also call it as MacBar. It’s easy to use and fits in right there without any movements when needed!

The slots in CharJen Pro are HDMI port, 2 x USB 3.0 ports, 1 Thunderbolt 3 USB-C port, USB C port, SD & Micro SD card readers. The only thing missing is it doesn’t have Gigabit Ethernet port. This USB-C hub is available in silver and space gray colors.

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3. TOTU

With more than 10 ports, TOTU would be my pick if I had to choose a staggering USB C multiport adapter at a decent price. Be it a pen drive, hard drive, SD card, a keyboard or an Ethernet cable, TOTU has got it covered! The 4K HDMI output from this hub is crystal clear as always!

TOTU hud includes of 11 ports and they are Ethernet, 2 USB 3.0 ports, 2 USB 2.0 ports, type C PD charging point, 4K HDMI, Vega, Micro SD & TF card reader. Data transfer happens at a lightning speed when you use TOTU USB C Hub for MacBook Pro.

USP: 11 Ports with Fastest Data Transfer
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4. TBI Pro

TBI pro is the only USB C hub that has all the ports covered so far. It has a total of 12 ports in its multiport adapter. The ports are as follows: SD and Micro SD card reader, RJ45 Gigabit port, 4 x USB 3.0 ports, HDMI 4K port, VGA 1080p port, 4K 30Hz MiniDP port, USB Type-C port.

The most interesting port which I found is a 3.5mm audio jack port. It’s not available in the top-rated USB C multiport adapters as well. If you want this port as well apart from the other ones, TBI pro is your way to go! Take note that the HDMI port cannot work with MiniDP port simultaneously. It’s available in silver color!

USP: 3.5mm Audio Jack Port
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5. Purefix

Purefix is one of the finest MacBook pro network adapter if you’re looking for the same. With 7 ports in total and compact in style, Purefix lures me to get one for my MacBook pro. The slim hub made of aluminum is specially designed for MacBook Pro and MacBook Air as well. It’s available in space grey and silver colors.

While the Gigabit Ethernet port can speed up to 1000Mbps, the type-A ports provide data transfer speeds up to 50Gbps. The available ports are 2 x USB 3.0 ports, SD & Micro card reader, Thunderbolt 3, Gigabit Ethernet and 4K HDMI! And not to forget about the 100W power delivery factor as well. So it’s an all-in-one package overall!

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USP: 1 Year Guarantee*
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6. GIKERSY

This USB C multiport hub is made for MacBook Pro 2019, 2018, 2017 & 2016 models. With 2 HDMI ports, GIKERSY is the first in the list to have it. It comes with 3 USB-C 3.0 ports out of which 2 are for data transfers, and 1 is for charging only. The USB-C PD port charges your MacBook Pro at a rapid speed.

The adapter also comes with 2 USB 3.0 ports to connect your necessary peripherals. It also has 3.5mm jack which can be used for calling or to hear your favorite music as well.

USP: 2 HDMI Ports with 3.5mm jack!
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7. iTeknic

iTeknic doesn’t connect with a direct port but it connects with an extended wire with a USB C type slot to your MacBook Pro. It’s compact hence making it easy to carry on the go! It comes with 6 ports HDMI, Ethernet, PD charging point and 3 USB 3.0 ports. Transfer your files within seconds and with RJ45 Ethernet, get speeds up to 1000Gbps.

In short, it has covered all the basic things and is just short of a card reader. Well, that’s completely fine when you get iTeknic USB-C multiport adapter for MacBook pro at an affordable price.

USP: Affordable
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8. FALWEDI

The compact design and the limited number of ports attracts me to get FALWEDI’s USB C Hub for MacBook Pro. With 2 USB 3.0 ports, 1 Thunderbolt port, 1 Ethernet port, 1 4K HDMI port, SD & TF card reader port, it’s a perfect pick for a mid-range multiport adapter for your MacBook Pro.

The Ethernet port ensures that the internet speed can go up to 1Gbps and the USB 3.0 ports make sure that your data is transferred without any interruptions to a pen drive or an external hard disk.

USP: Compact and Sturdy!
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9. Andobil

Andobil’s USB C multiport adapter looks classic, at least to me! With sleek and compact design along with 7 necessary ports, it stands out as the best MacBook Pro USB C multiport adapters in today’s list for me. Be it a keyboard, a smartphone, a hard drive, etc. you can connect it all with your MacBook Pro with the help of Andobil USB C hub.

The hub has 1 HDMI port, 1 Thunderbolt 3 port, 2 USB 3.0 ports for data transfer, 1 USB-C port for data only, Micro SD card port and SD card port. I think these 7 basic ports are enough for any user to pick a product, at least for me. I don’t know why but I loved this one personally. It’s available in silver and grey colors.

USP: Compact and Made of Aluminum
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10. CharJenPro MacBar E

CharJenPro is back again with its 2nd product in today’s listing. The only difference between both is the Ethernet port. This product has Gigabit Ethernet port and the previous one doesn’t have it. In this, you don’t have a USB C port.

Rest of the ports are similar to product #2 in this list. In the product name, E stands for Ethernet in this case. This USB C multiport hub is available in space grey and silver colors.

USP: Fastest Ethernet Port
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11. Purgo USB C Hub without Ethernet Port

If you want to skip Ethernet port and add a USB C port to your hub, this Purgo multiport adapter is your way to go! The rest of the ports are almost the same as mentioned in product #1 in this list. The only difference is this product comes without Ethernet port and has a USB C port which isn’t available in the previous product.

This is a perfect USB C hub for those who use Wi-Fi and wants to make use of USB C port to connect various supported devices. Moreover, Purgo comes in gold, silver and space grey colors.

USP: Extra USB C Port (No Ethernet Port)
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12. ALLEASA

This beast looked like a power bank when I first saw it. It gives a powerful statement when you get it in your hands. Alleasa’s USB C multiport adapter for MacBook Pro looks sturdy and it connects with your laptop with a cable instead of direct port. It’s compatible with Dell, HP, Asus, Huawei Matebook, Chromebook and a lot more type c laptops apart from MacBook Pro.

ALLEASA USB C hub comes with a 4K HDMI port, RJ45 Ethernet port, Type C charging port, 3 x USB 3.0 port, SD card reader port and TF card reader slot. All in all, it has all the bases covered. The device comes with a 12-month warranty and free tech Amazon support included.

USP: Compatible with Various Laptop Brands
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13. AUKEY

Aukey’s USB-C multiport hub looks classic in design and fits your MacBook pro tightly. Be it connecting your monitor or your iPhone. This adapter can do it all for you. The hub comes with 1 4K HDMI port, 1 Thunderbolt 3 port, 2 x USB 3.0 ports, USB-C Data port, SD and Micro SD card reader ports.

The product comes with a 24-month product replacement warranty card and has free tech support included. AUKEY comes in space grey color only.

USP: 24 Month Warranty
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14. Ansbell

If you’re looking for an adapter that fits in your MacBook Pro, has all the basic ports at an affordable price, Ansbell is your way to go! Be it a printer, hard disk, projector, keyboard or a pen drive, and you can connect it all with your MacBook Pro by just spending a decent amount.

Ansbell’s USB C multiport hub for MacBook Pro comes with 1 HDMI port, 1 Thunderbolt 3 port, 2 x USB 3.0 ports, 1 USB-C type port, 1 SD card port and 1 Micro SD card port. The product comes in space grey color along with 12 months money-back warranty.

USP: Slim, Compact & Affordable!
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15. Intpw

Last but not least, Intpw has 8 ports. This multiport hub has 3.5mm jack port included along with 1 HDMI port, 1 Thunderbolt 3 port, 2 x USB 3.0 ports, 1 USB-C 2.0 data port, 1 USB-C 3.0 data port, 1 Power delivery port.

With a maximum of 1.3mm gap in between the port and MacBook Pro without a case will not affect the performance. The product comes with a free leather case included.

USP: 3.5mmm Jack Port & Free Leather Case
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So these are some of the best USB-C multiport adapters for MacBook Pro.

Summing Up…

If you ask me, I will go with TBI pro as it has 12 ports and it will connect a lot of devices simultaneously with ease. In terms of compact design and basic ports, I would go with Purgo.

Recommended Products to Buy!

So which of these USB-C multiport hubs you loved?

Jignesh Padhiyar is the co-founder of iGeeksBlog.com who has a keen eye for news, rumors and all the unusual stuff that happens around Apple products. During his tight schedule, Jignesh finds some moments of respite to share side-splitting contents on social media.

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In this article, we are going to identify the bottleneck of external storage drives and attempt to get the best possible data transfer speed out of your Akitio product.

To better understand what might be slowing down your drive and how you can improve the data transfer rate to get better speeds, we will look at each of the components separately.

Hard Disk Drives (HDD) and Solid State Drives (SSD)

The transfer speed can vary a lot depending on the drive model, even if it's the same type of drive, so it's always a good idea to check the specifications first and if possible, refer to an actual test result with that particular drive. In addition, there are certain limitations depending on the type of drive and its interface.

SATA HDD

A hard disk drive (HDD) uses one ore more rotating disks (platters) and due to the way the data is stored and accessed, such a drive is usually limited to a transfer rate of about 100-200 MB/s. You can stripe multiple drives to achieve faster speeds but in most cases, the bottleneck will be the drive itself.

SATA-III SSD

A solid state disk (SSD), at least with most models nowadays, can usually reach the limit of the SATA-III interface. The SATA-III interface, also known as SATA 3 or SATA 6B/s interface limits the transfer rate to about 550 MB/s.

TRIM

For a solid state disk (SSD), when using the drive without TRIM support over a longer period of time, the performance could be reduced. In order for TRIM to work, it has to be supported by all of the components, including the drive, the enclosure and the OS. If any of these components do not pass on the TRIM command, it will not work. It could be because the SSD doesn't support TRIM, because the OS doesn't support TRIM, because the SSD is part of a RAID or the TRIM command is not passed on to the drive due to the controller in the external enclosure.

PCIe SSD

A PCIe SSD can potentially reach much faster transfer rates than a SATA-III drive but the actual speed will depend on the model and type of drive (e.g. SATA, AHCI or NVMe based SSD). You can use a M.2 module or a PCIe drive in one of our Thunderbolt 2 or Thunderbolt 3 PCIe expansion chassis but there are a copule of things to keep in mind.

For the best performance, an NVMe based SSD will deliver the fastest speeds but at the time this article was written, macOS does not yet support 3rd party NVMe drives, so this works only on Windows (Update: macOS High Sierra and above now support 3rd party NVMe drives). Also, the speed of the drive could be limited by either the Thunderbolt or the PCIe interface. The fastest solution at this time is a Thunderbolt 3 PCIe expansion chassis with a Gen3 x4 PCIe interface and a Thunderbolt 3 connection, able to deliver a maximum of about 2750 MB/s. If the PCIe SSD is using a Gen2 x8 or Gen3 x8 interface, it will be limited to 4 lanes only.

Storage Interface

With the direct attached storage drives from Akitio, you often have multiples choices when it comes to the connection to the computer. For slower hard disk drives, the bottleneck is most likely the drive itself, so the interface doesn't make much of a difference but for faster SSDs and for multiple drives, the interface can make a big difference.

USB

Almost every computer has a USB port, making USB the ideal interface for drives that are used on more than just your own computer. For single HDDs, even the first generation of USB 3.1 (USB 3.0) is fast enough and will not limit your transfer rate. For SSDs, it's best to use the second generation of USB 3.1 at 10Gbps but for multiple drives, the transfer rate will be limited to around 700-800 MB/s and that's with the faster USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface.

Thunderbolt

With Thunderbolt 3, currently the latest generation of the Thunderbolt interface, you get plenty of bandwidth even for multiple drives and when daisy chaining additional Thunderbolt drives. The bottleneck of the Thunderbolt 3 interface is at around 2750 MB/s but for now, only certain NVMe SSDs can reach these kind of speeds, so in most cases, the transfer rate will not be limited.

With Thunderbolt 2, the bottleneck is at around 1375 MB/s. This kind of bandwidth is ideal for up to 4 SATA-III drives but it's not fast enough for an NVMe based SSD and even four SATA-III SSDs can be limited by this interface.

The first generation of Thunderbolt is similar to the USB 3.1 Gen 2 interface. The transfer rate will be limited to around 700-800 MB/s, which is ideal for multiple HDDs or 1-2 SSDs but not for more than 2 drives.

External Storage Enclosure

Aside from the interface, there are additional factors that could potentially slow down the transfer rate of your drives. To see what your enclosure is capable of, please refer to the benchmark results on the product page of your particular model but following are some things that can affect the disk speed.

Bus powered drives

Depending on the power requirements, under some circumstances, it might be necessary to throttle the read & write speeds of a drive when it's installed in a bus powered enclosure (e.g. Palm RAID or Neutrino Thunderbolt Edition). This is why a drive might run slightly slower than it usually would when installed inside a computer.

USB and RAID controller

When comparing the transfer rate of the same drive installed in the computer and in the external enclosure, there might be a slight difference in the transfer rate due to the electronics and overhead in the external enclosure. Even between different USB enclosures or between different RAID controllers, results may vary slightly.

PCIe to SATA controller

Not all Thunderbolt enclosures are built the same and to get the most speed out of a single SSD, you need to make sure that the SATA controller provides enough bandwidth to let the drive run at full SATA 6B/s speeds. For more information, please refer to this article about making full use of the SATA 6Gb/s interface.

The PCIe to SATA controller does not only affect the speed of a single drive but also limits the transfer rate of certain enclosures like the Thunder3 Quad and the Thunder3 Quad Mini. These 4-bay enclosures use either 4x PCIe to SATA controllers with one Gen-2 PCIe lane per controller for the Thunder3 Quad or 2x PCIe to SATA controllers with two Gen-2 PCIe lanes per controller for the Thunder3 Quad Mini, limiting the total transfer rate of the internal disks to about 1480 MB/s, even though the Thunderbolt 3 interface would be capable of faster speeds. You can still daisy chain additional Thunderbolt 3 devices and make use of the full 40Gbps bandwidth though.

Cables and adapters

For slower interfaces like USB 3.1 Gen 1, the cable usually doesn't affect the transfer rate, so any cable should work fine. For faster interfaces like USB 3.1 Gen 2 and Thunderbolt, the type and quality of the cable can affect not only the transfer rates but also the functionality, so it's important to always use the cables that came included with your product.

When buying a different cable, as a general rule, the shorter and thicker the less problems and the longer the cable gets, the more likely the quality can affect the speed or functionality. Special care has to be taken when buying an adapter plug or a cable to convert one type of connector to another (e.g. USB-C to USB Type A). A bad adapter can cause the drive to lose connection and some adapters are not designed to handle the faster transfer rates of interfaces like USB 3.1 Gen 2 or Thunderbolt 3 for example.

Computer

There are simply too many different combinations and components to predict how exactly your computer will affect the transfer rate of the external storage device. Suffice to say that when testing the drive on different computers, results will vary. However, following are some poinst to consider.

Connectivity

Always connect the external drive to an on-board port. Front extensions and other ports not directly on the motherboard can affect the transfer rate.Connecting the device behind a hub or in a daisy chain can also affect the speed.

Source & Destination

If you are using a fast external drive (e.g. SSD) but the source or destination used for the file transfer is a slower drive (e.g. HDD), the faster drive won't be able to reach its potential.

Shared resources

Depending on the hardware design of the motherboard, resources might be shared with other components and if all of it is in use at the same time, it can affect the transfer rates of your external drive. For example, a computer with two Thunderbolt ports is likely using only one Thunderbolt controller and if you are using another Thunderbolt device on the second port at the same time, the bandwidth will be shared. The exception to this case is the Mac Pro (2013), which has multiple Thunderbolt controllers. Another example are the PCIe slots and the M.2 slots. Make sure to read the documentation of your motherboard, so that you can avoid reduced bandwidths for something like a Thunderbolt PCIe expansion card when a M.2 module is installed at the same time. In some rare cases, even something like enabling WiFi and Bluetooth on the latopop can affect the Thunderbolt interface.

Limited PCIe lanes

Powerful Usb Hub For Data Transfer For Macbook Pro

Some Thunderbolt 3 laptops are designed with only two PCIe lanes for the Thunderbolt interface. To reach the maximum of the Thunderbolt 3 interface at 40Gbps, four PCIe lanes are required, so having only two lanes will effectively cut the speed in half and you will only get 20Gbps. For laptops from Dell, check this page at www.dell.com. For laptops from Lenovo, have a look at this article on www.reddit.com. For other laptops, check your documentation, do a search on Google or contact the manufacturer for more information.

Powerful Usb Hub For Data Transfer For Mac Os

Benchmark Results

When testing the transfer rate of your external drive, there are several ways to do it. You could transfer some files and measure how long it takes to complete or you could use a benchmark tool to test the disk speed. Either way, the testing procedure can affect the results you are getting and it might be slower or faster than what you see on our website. If possible, try different settings and different tools to get a better idea of what your drive is capable of.

Test Environment

Last but not least, there are several other factors that can affect the transfer rate of your external drive. Following are some examples of what to look out for.