It also allowed iPhones, iPads, and iPods to connect to a MacBook for charging and data transfer or management. It supports a large number of computer accessories including flash drives, external hard drives, external CD/DVD players, and more.
![mac laptop locks mac laptop locks](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2371/5211/products/pro_jplug_loop_02_1024x1024.png)
USB 3 ports are in a USB-A shape-the traditional USB shape you’re probably familiar with. But the port also supports external hard drives and other storage devices with faster speeds than USB, FireWire, and Thunderbolt 1 ports. With the same shape as the Mini DisplayPort, and supporting Mini DisplayPort video output, Thunderbolt 2 took the form factor a lot further by supporting 4K video streaming and writing 4K video to a disk while the video streamed.įor these reasons, Thunderbolt 2 is best known for connecting external monitors and cameras to a MacBook.
Mac laptop locks Bluetooth#
You may not need this port if you prefer Bluetooth headphones, but for those who still enjoy cords, or noise-canceling features, it’s nice to see this port stick around.Ģ012 to 2016 MacBook Air (this Mac doesn't have a HDMI) It also connects built-in microphones on headphones and earbuds as well. The only other port on these MacBook models is the 3.5mm jack, allowing for headphones to be used with a Mac. But at least with those and the right cords, you can use basically anything with these Macs! 3.5mm headphone jack To access the many uses of the Thunderbolt 3 port, you will likely need several kinds of adapters or even specialized Thunderbolt 3 hubs. With the USB-C shape allowing for cords to be inserted in any orientation, Thunderbolt 3 ports are incredibly versatile in what can be plugged into them, and how they can be plugged in.
![mac laptop locks mac laptop locks](https://c1.neweggimages.com/ProductImage/34-962-009-01.jpg)
SD cards can also be supported with adapters to fit them into the ports. So you can plug an external hard drive into a Thunderbolt 3 port one day, and then put an HDMI cord into the same port the next. It also allows for a Mac to be charged via Thunderbolt 3 ports. Thunderbolt's USB-C shape allows for “Alternate Modes” for the port that can support HDMI, MHL, Ethernet, and DisplayPort connections, on top of general USB ones. Thunderbolt 3 ports are so fast you can plug in virtually anything and have it work with your Mac. You'll find these ports on the following MacBook models: