One of the common complaints about the iMac is that you have to reach behind the display to get to the connectivity ports. Satechi has launched a handy solution in the Aluminum Type-C Clamp Hub. Designed exclusively for the new 2017 iMac Pro, iMac Retina 4K and 27-inch 5K models, the hub attaches to the all-in-one display and offers front-facing ports.
The Aluminum Type-C Clamp Hub provides a data-only USB-C port, three USB 3.0 ports (with up to 5Gb/s), and a Micro/SD card reader, all through a single USB-C connection. It’s fairly easy to set up (no tools are necessary), and no software is required.
Just plug the Aluminum Type-C Clamp Hub into one of the iMac’s Thunderbolt 3 ports and use the adjustable knob to fasten the hub to the bottom of your desktop computer; it fits into the monitor’s grills. It’s a pretty tight fit, and I was worried that the bottom iMac bezel would be scratched, but that didn’t happen.
According to the folks at Satechi, the iMac’s airflow and speakers will only be “minimally affected.” I’ve noticed no effect on my iMac 5K’s audio, but I am a bit concerned about the long-term effects of a partially blocked airflow.
Still, the versatile hub frees up valuable desk space, and its sleek, brushed aluminum finish complements Apple accessories. The Aluminum Type-C Clamp Hub Pro is available now for preorder and shipping the first week of January 2018 in silver or space gray for $49.99 at Satechi.net and Amazon.com.
Apple World Today Rating (out of 5 stars): ★★★★
