Are first-party dongles worth it?

[AppleFan.]

Hi everyone,

I’m using a MacBook Air M1, and sometimes I need extra ports to connect some devices. My previous USB-C hub's HDMI port recently failed, and it’s made me a bit skeptical about third-party options. I’ve already had two hubs stop working—one a family member of mine used with his M1 Air, and another I purchased myself. Both hubs were from different brands (Sitecom and Linq) and were not cheap (around 70-80 euro's).

Reliability and longevity are most important for me. The most important ports for me are HDMI, USB-A, and an SD card reader. I’m currently considering the Satechi Type-C Slim Multi-Port Adapter but would love to hear from others about their experiences.

Are first-party dongles worth it for better reliability? Or do you have any recommendations for third-party hubs that are durable?

Thanks in advance for your suggestions!

 

[HobeSoundDarryl]

I haven't heard of either of those brands but I have heard of Satechi. Did you check reviews of the products before you purchased them? I find that if there are MANY reviews that are mostly positive, you're probably buying a product that will work well.

I also presume you took good care of them. Like any tech, how well we take care of tech tends to be a big influence on how long it lasts.

I wouldn't have any fear about buying non-Apple dongles but I would seek out solid reviews when narrowing in on a favorite. I've had much success with many hubs & dongles. In fact, I'm still using one that is basically ancient (maybe 20 years old) with no issues.

 

[turbineseaplane]

I have had great success with Belkin, Anker, Satechi, Ugreen, Orico, and a variety of others

Fear not

I personally would not go first party unless the price is pretty close

 

[macfacts]

why not buy a $10 one from amazon?

 

[tarsins]

I've always used Anker products, they're good quality and reliable. Currently using this on my MacBook Air M3.

 

[benwiggy]

I use hubs from Belkin, Anker and Ugreen, and not had any problems.

 

[turbineseaplane]

I've always used Anker products, they're good quality and reliable.

Only Anker stuff I've now stayed away from are charging bricks ... I think it's the iQ port stuff specifically

In hotel rooms, using those, I've had my iPhone and iPad screens cycling on/off all night long once fully charged

Very annoying and doesn't ever happen with Apple power bricks so I travel with the 35W dual USB-C one