Connecting Your Devices: A Guide to Apple's USB-C Adapters and More

Are you struggling to connect your devices to your new Mac? If so, this article is here to help you navigate the world of Apple's USB-C adapters and other connectivity options.

If you have a USB-A card reader, you can try using Apple's $19/£19 USB-C to USB Adapter or get a USB-C dock. However, if not, you'll need an adapter to access your SD card, such as the SanDisk Extreme PRO SD UHS-II USB-C Card Reader ($21 on Amazon or £21 on Amazon UK).

If you use a DSLR or other type of standalone camera, it may have a wireless file transfer option. To connect to an Ethernet network, you'll need an adapter like the Anker USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, available on Amazon for $23/£17.

While Wi-Fi is likely your primary connection method, using an Ethernet connection has its advantages. Apple provides a support document detailing the differences between the two adapters. The older version (model number A1621) supports HDMI 1.4, while the new model (A2119) released in August 2019 supports HDMI 2.0.

When shopping for adapters, be sure to check the model number. You may get the newer version at an Apple store. Be aware that the older adapter only supports up to 4K resolution at 60Hz, while the new one can handle up to 8K at 60Hz.

For an 8K display, you'll need an HDMI 2.1 cable with support for 48Gbps bandwidth, such as the Belkin Ultra HD HDMI 2.1 Cable ($28/£42 on Amazon). Apple also offers the USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter, a $69/£75 device that provides a USB-A port and a USB-C port for charging only.

The M2 Pro/Max 14- and 16-inch MacBook Pro has an HDMI 2.1 port and can run a 4K display at 240Hz or up to an 8K display at 60Hz. However, the port only supports HDMI 2.0, so the maximum resolution and refresh rate it can handle is 4K at 60Hz.

You can use a regular HDMI cable like the Amazon Basic HDMI Cable ($17/£12 on Amazon) and plug it in. If you have the 14- or 16-inch M1 Pro/Max MacBook Pro or Mac Studio, they feature a full-sized HDMI 2.0 port.

By following these tips and guidelines, you'll be able to connect your devices with ease and enjoy seamless communication between your Mac and other devices.

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