Become a MacRumors Supporter for $50/year with no ads, ability to filter front page stories, and private forums.

gadgetgirl85

macrumors 68040
Original poster
Mar 24, 2006
3,801
366
Hi I'm just wondering whether the USB C-USB adapter from Apple is the cheapest/only way to connect USB devices to your MBP? Also will this adapter work with my iPhone?
 
No, the Apple adapter works reliably but is priced high. Many third-party alternatives in the $5 range work just fine.

You have two main types: an actual hard adapter or a flex-cable dongle. For heavier flash drives, I highly recommend the flex cable to avoid putting excessive strain on the USB port (I would also recommend shying away from any hubs that are physically attached to the side of the MBP.) Both the hard adapter and flex cable would work fine to connect your iPhone to the MBP.

Alternatively, you can also purchase new cables that go directly from USB-C to the connector you need (such as USB-C-->Micro B, USB-C-->Lightning, USB-C-->USB-B, etc.)
 
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
I just replaced all of my USB cables with USB-C to the appropriate type of connection (micro-USB, etc) cables, no dongles, same number of cables, same amount of space needed and the cost wasn't much more than the dongle.
 
Register on MacRumors! This sidebar will go away, and you'll see fewer ads.