If you’re one of those people fortunate enough to own one of Apple’s new 2021 MacBook Pros, then this brand-new adapter from Satechi is the perfect travel companion as it can turn your laptop into a more connectable computer using the two USB-C ports on the side of the new MacBook Pros that run Apple’s M-series processors.
The Satechi USB-C Pro Hub Mini is not much bigger than a family pack of chewing gum. It features two USB-C connectors and it slots into the left side of compatible Mac laptops (See below in Tech Specs for which models are suitable) and occupies both Mac’s Thunderbolt/USB-C ports. There’s a pass-thru providing USB-4 and Thunderbolt data signals. The adapter can handle up to a 96W charger. The USB-C ports can drive an external monitor at 6K resolution.
In addition to the USB-4 and Thunderbolt ports, there are also a couple of regular USB-A ports which are rated at Gen 3.1 and share up to 5Gbps of speed. These ports can’t be used for charging and they won’t power a CD/DVD drive. Next, there’s an Ethernet Gigabit port for connecting the laptop to a corporate network, plus a pass-thru audio port for a 3.5mm combo jack.
Using the adapter is simple. Just slide out the stowed 3.5mm audio jack plug and then line the whole thing up with two USB connectors on the left side of the MacBook Pro. It takes just a couple of seconds and once contact is made, a blue light on the adapter will light up to show everything is ok.
Once in place, the Satechi USB-C Pro Hub Mini looks great. Satechi has shaved off the corners to give the adapter a less brutal look. Those softened corners are a great idea as some adapters with harsh, square corners can hurt if your hand hits them.
In use, all the ports on the adapter work at the same speed as a MacBook’s native ports. I love the two USB-A ports for attaching peripherals. The best bit about this tiny wonder is that it feels so solid despite weighing hardly anything at all. The construction is tough enough to ensure it will withstand life on the road. And while it doesn’t offer quite as many connections as its larger sibling – Satechi USB-C Pro Hub Max – the Mini version has most of the connections you need and it’s ideal for anyone who wants to travel light.
Verdict: If you own one of the MacBook models that are compatible with this sweet little hub, then I’d strongly recommend getting one. If you need an HDMI output, then look at the Satechi USB-C Pro Hub Max. It’s only slightly larger than the Mini but it has conventional HDMI video output as well as slots for SD and microSD cards. For anyone traveling with a MacBook who needs a few more connectivity options, the Satechi USB-C Pro Hub Mini is a great buy. Better still, it will match the color of your MacBook perfectly.
Pricing & Availability: The Satechi USB-C Pro Hub Mini is available from Satechi.net and Amazon for $69.99 / £69.99 / €74.99.
Tech Specs:
- Compatible devices: 2021 MacBook Pro 14-inch, 16-inch (M1 Pro & Max), 2020/2019/2018/2017 MacBook Pro, 2021 MacBook Air M1, 2020/2018 MacBook Air
- Connector type: Dual USB-C with headphone jack (adjustable)
- Dimensions: 101 x 38 x 12mm
- Weight: 55g
- Connectivity: 1 x USB 4 - up to 96W charging, up to 6K 60Hz display output, up to 40 Gbps data transfer, 2 x USB-A 3.0 data ports up to 5 Gbps (non-charging or for CD drives), 1 x Gigabit Ethernet port, 1 x USB-C data port - up to 5 Gbps, 1 x Audio jack port.
- Finishes: Space Grey or Silver
