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kingston73

macrumors 65816
Original poster
Dec 23, 2015
1,177
722
I have a general question about USB hubs. I just got my first macbook pro (2 usb C ports) and in looking online is seems that there are hubs with a single usb C plug connected via a wire and ones that have 2 usb C's that plug directly into the macbook. Is one type better than the other? I'm thinking in mainly in terms of durability, is one type more likely to break or otherwise stop working? I'll probably stick with name brands, (I'm thinking Anker or Belkin most likely). Any insight is appreciated, thank you.
 
@kingston73 I assume the ones that plug directly into the MacBook Pro cannot be used with a case. I use a one with a short cord and it can be annoying when I pick up and move the laptop because it easily becomes disconnected. However, I need to have the case on so that is my only option. When you think about it, having a big thing dangling off your MacBook Pro when you are moving it and only have a flash drive or SD card plugged into it can be annoying, and I'd imagine having one connecting directly with no cord would be better in this case (I've seen people use them). Another thing is that the hubs with one cord and two video outputs do not work to extend to two displays. They can mirror to two or extend to one. Only PCs can extend to two in one port as far as I know. My solution for this was to use the hub for power delivery and one monitor, then use a USB-C video adapter to have the second monitor using the other USB-C port. On the other hand, it appears that the ones with two USB C's will be able to have dual displays I suppose because they plug into two different ports. However, they might have a catch. For example, an Anker one I saw can have dual displays but cannot charge at the same time, thus preventing the use of clamshell mode. I would check ratings (assuming you are buying from Amazon) to check for the features you are specifically looking for. As for durability, I would also look at ratings but I'd imagine that Belkin or Anker would be generally high quality. Good luck!
 
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