Best Hubs for the 12-inch MacBook

If you need more ports than the MacBook offers, add one of these hubs!

Apple's newest MacBook attempts to bridge the divide between larger, more cumbersome laptops and the iPad. In the process, Apple deemed it necessary to remove all ports other than the now-standard USB-C for charging, data transfer, and video output. If you're stuck with a lot of broken connections, you're going to need a hub.

Let's take a look at the best available hubs to get you back together.

HyperDrive 5-in-1 Hub

HyperDrive's hub is designed specifically for the 12-inch MacBook. It allows pass-through charging through the USB-C port while offering:

• Two USB 3.0 ports
• An SDXC port
• A micro SDXC port

The HyperDrive hub is designed to sit flush with the MacBook, using its USB-C male connector as a fastener. For this reason, you should be careful when using the hub as damage can occur if it is knocked around. Choose from silver, space gray, or gold to match (or not!) your new MacBook.

See at HyperShop

Minix Neo-C Hub

The self-proclaimed "most advanced USB-C hub" is an attractive option. There are two basic options to choose from: HDMI that offers up to 4K output or VGA that offers up to 1080p output. This is not the only decision to make. The Minix Neo-C Hub also comes in three colors (silver, space gray, and gold) to best match your new laptop.

Like most USB-C hubs, the Minix allows pass-through charging and offers:

• Two USB 3.0 ports
• A TF card reader
• An SD card reader
• A Gigabit Ethernet port

For those of you who still prefer a wired connection or who enjoy using a television in conjunction with our laptops, the Minix is a strong option.

See at Amazon

Satechi Type-C 3-in-1 Hub

The Satechi Type-C is a streamlined, compact hub that uses its male USB-C connector to attach to your MacBook. The Satechi allows pass-through charging and offers:

• Two USB 3.0 ports
• An SD card reader
• A micro SD card reader

The Satechi hub sits flush with your MacBook, so care should be taken that it is not knocked around—damage could occur! The hub is available in three colors: gunmetal, gold, and silver.

See at Amazon

Kugi 4 Port Hub

If all you require from your hub is extra USB ports, the Kugi is right for you. It offers four USB 3.0 ports but at the same time removes the ability for pass-through charging because of a lack of USB-C. If you're busy working from externals and your MacBook gives you the low battery warning, you might find yourself in a jam.

If you're conscious of your accessory's style, you might want to consider the fact that the Kugi comes only in black. The trade-off and potential saving grace? A much lower price.

See at Amazon

OWC USB-C Dock

The deluxe version of MacBook hubs, the OWC dock really does it all. Along with pass-through charging, the OWC dock offers 10 ports in total, including:

• Five USB 3.1 ports including two high-power charging ports and an extra USB-C port
• A Gigabit Ethernet port
• An SD card reader
• An HDMI port with 4K output
• Audio output port

Some might see 10 ports as overkill while others might see them as necessary. The OWC USB-C Dock comes in three colors: space gray, gold, and silver. The downside? For those on the go, transporting the OWC dock might be an issue, since other hubs fit right into your pocket. This dock is more suited for the top of a desk.

See at MacSales

Your favorites?

Have a favorite hub not mentioned here? Let us know in the comments section below!