Most Mac laptops, as well as Apple’s (kinda) laptop alternative, the iPad Pro, have a dearth of ports. You can expand that number with Satechi’s USB-C On-the-Go Multiport Adapter, which features nine ports with a plug-and-play design.
Its aluminum-finished body packs built-in USB-C PD charging (up to 100W), Gigabit Ethernet, a USB-C data port, two USB-A data ports, and micro/SD card reader slots. The adapter also features a 4K HDMI port (up to 60Hz) and a VGA port (up to 1080p 60Hz) that provide more display, projector, and presentation possibilities.
With the USB-C On-the-Go Multiport Adapter you can attach wired mice, keyboards, USB hard drives, and more. The adapter comes with two detachable cables. The short, travel-friendly cable tucks directly into the adapter for easy storage, while the longer, 3-foot cable is best for working at a desktop.
Of course, the problem with any such adapter is that it’s possible to damage it or the iPad/Mac to which it’s attached if the connected cable is suddenly yanked or pulled in the wrong direction.
If that’s a concern and you’re using an iPad Pro, you might consider Kanex’s US$99.95 6-in-1 Multiport USB-C Docking Station (read my review here) or HYPER’s $89.99 HyperDrive 6-in-1 USB-C Hub (see my review here). Both connect directly to the Apple device, so eliminate the “dangle danger.” However, neither of these devices have as many connectivity options as the Satechi product.
Satechi’s USB-C On-the-Go Multiport Adapter is available now on Satechi.net and Amazon.com for US$99.99.
Review overview
The Pros
- Nine ports in a sleek package
- works with iPads and Mac laptops
- Reasonably priced
The Cons
- The cable connection means “dangle danger”
summary
8.7If you don’t mind the inconvenience and tethering issues involved with connecting an external device to your Apple device via a cable, Satechi has included about as many ports as possible on the USB-C On-the-Go Multiport Adapter, which still offering a portable form factor.
