If you have any recent Mac laptop, you’ll know they’re not well equipped for dealing with USB-A devices. And, though USB-C is the future, there are still plenty of those around. Kensington’s $129.99 SD2000P USB-C 5Gbps Single 4K Nano Dock w/110W Adapter can help if this is an issue with you.
It’s a compact dock for USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 laptops that provides two USB 3.1 Gen 1 (think USB-A) ports, one USB-C 3.1 port, a Gigabit Ethernet port, output options for HDMI or Display Port for an external monitor/TV/projector, and up to 60W of power delivery. If you have cross platform needs, the SD2000P also works with Windows and Chrome operating systems, as well as macOS 10.13 or higher.
The adapter lets you transfer data, video, and audio even while providing that aforementioned 60W of power delivery via the included, plug-n-play USB-C cable for a simple plug and play experience — at least for supported USB-C devices with a PD (Power Delivery) function. The SD2000P’s setup also provides users with a quick connect/disconnect since there’s no need to connect the laptop’s power adapter at the desk.
You can use the adapter to connect your Mac to a single external monitor, TV, or project via HDMI (4K@30Hz) or DP++ (4K@30Hz), though the host device has to support Alt mode over USB-C
The two USB-A ports provide up to 5Gbps speed with charging up to 5V/1.5A per port. The USB-C 3.1 port provides up to 5Gbps) with power delivery for an external device (5V/3A). USB charging is supported at 5V/1.5A per port when a laptop is connected, and at 5V/2.4A per port when it’s not.
The SD2000P also has a cable lock for security. The bottom of the adapter has a soft feel that helps keep it from sliding all over a desktop or other surface. Also conveniently, it can be mounted to the back of any 75mm or 100mm VESA compatible external display. However, you’ll have to spring an extra $13 for the K33959WW mounting plate.
You should also note that, though the SP2000P, is not much bigger than an Apple TV, it’s power brick is much heftier than I would have suspected. Perhaps that’s necessary with its power delivery, but it does diminish from the adapter’s portability.
The only other complaint I have about the SP2000P is that a SD card slot would have been a nice addition. But, overall, the adapter/dock can help alleviate some of the connectivity limitations of most Mac laptops.
Apple World Today Rating (out of 5 stars): ★★★★
