Need hub for new iMac with lots of ports (i.e., 4 usb ports, at least 2 usb-c and lightning)

[medicinejar]

Hi everyone

I just got a new iMac (hurray - my old was more than 12 years old!). I am going to need to buy a hub as I still have a good amount of old technology and want to connect any USB-C devices without reaching around to the back

I think I want one that will connect to my Thunderbolt port (but open to any recommendations)

In terms of connecting ports. I think I need:

1) at least 4 perhaps 5 traditional USB ports (I have 4 hard drives I want to continue to use and at least 1 spare)
2) probably 2-3 USB-C ports since it will the new standard moving forward
3) a lightning port (not absolutely necessary but would be helpful)
4) anything else people think I might need?

I have looked but I have yet to see one with what I have listed above and the previous threads on hubs did not appear to get into the number of ports I am looking for (let me know if I missed one please).

Any recommendations? Any suggestions on what I am getting wrong (in terms of my needs).

Thanks in advance for any help and suggestions.

 

[Isaac Long]

Hi, Friend

Would you consider this one: https://www.amazon.com/Qwiizlab-Adapter-Docking-Station-Readers/dp/B09PHC8K8N

 

[HDFan]

Getting a hub or dock which works with your devices is hit or miss. Here's a post about things to consider when choosing one. Best to use only top tier vendors.

1. They have well known names that frequently appear in main page MacRumors articles as they release products. Satechi, OWC, Anker are a few. Usually offer a number of Mac products. Check the pictures of the product - does it appear to be high quality?

2. Once you find one of their products search the forums to check other people's experiences with that manufacturer. I purchased an OWC dock and had constant disconnects so eventually had to toss it. Have a couple of their disk enclosures and have never had a problem, other than the SoftRaid software which they charge you at every OS update. Results can vary by product. Support responded although they gave me answers that I didn't like. Had to pay for the SoftRaid 5-6 upgrade even though I had just purchased it a few weeks before. They are responsive but not accommodating.

I have/had 8 satechi dual plug switches, 2 USB (only) docks and a 4 port charger. I had some issues with the switches disconnecting. Called support and they replaced all 8 switches! One of the USB hubs failed. Suspected the power supply. Called support and they said that since it was discontinued they no longer have parts. Did find a replacement power supply but turned out the hub was defective. After heavy use for almost 10 years can't complain. Excellent support.

3. Check Amazon reviews and see if you can get an idea as to how good their products and support are.

There are many forum articles discussing dock failures. Finding a dock that supports your devices isn't an easy task since docks tend to be one of the most unreliable peripherals.

 

[Arctic Moose]

In terms of connecting ports. I think I need:

1) at least 4 perhaps 5 traditional USB ports (I have 4 hard drives I want to continue to use and at least 1 spare)
2) probably 2-3 USB-C ports since it will the new standard moving forward
3) a lightning port (not absolutely necessary but would be helpful)
4) anything else people think I might need?

I have looked but I have yet to see one with what I have listed above and the previous threads on hubs did not appear to get into the number of ports I am looking for (let me know if I missed one please).

Any recommendations? Any suggestions on what I am getting wrong (in terms of my needs).

Perhaps it is overkill, but if you're connecting it to one of your Thunderbolt ports, you may as well have a Thunderbolt dock.

The two downsides are price and that it has an external power supply.

I have used the TS3+ and it has been rock solid. Buying now, I'd get the TS4:

Thunderbolt 4 Dock | TS4 | CalDigit – CalDigit

www.caldigit.com

The only disadvantage of the TS4 compared to the TS3+ is that digital (optical) audio out has been removed.

Also, you'll never find a dock with a Lightning port, as the connector is only ever used at the peripheral end (phone, mouse, keyboard, trackpad, AirPods case, etc) and the other end of the cable is always USB-A or USB-C.

 

[SparkyCanada]

Perhaps it is overkill, but if you're connecting it to one of your Thunderbolt ports, you may as well have a Thunderbolt dock.

The two downsides are price and that it has an external power supply.

I have used the TS3+ and it has been rock solid. Buying now, I'd get the TS4:

Thunderbolt 4 Dock | TS4 | CalDigit – CalDigit

www.caldigit.com

The only disadvantage of the TS4 compared to the TS3+ is that digital (optical) audio out has been removed.

Also, you'll never find a dock with a Lightning port, as the connector is only ever used at the peripheral end (phone, mouse, keyboard, trackpad, AirPods case, etc) and the other end of the cable is always USB-A or USB-C.

Hi Arctic Moose.

I see you recommended the TS4.

Have you compared it to the OWC?

OWC 11-Port Thunderbolt Dock for M1 and Intel Macs and Thunderbolt 4 (USB 4) PCs

Add three Thunderbolt ports, 4 USB ports, along with Ethernet, audio, and card reader functionality to your Thunderbolt-equipped Mac or Thunderbolt 4 PC.

ca.macsales.com

I’m trying to decide between these 2 hubs for my Mac Mini M2.

Thanks

Sparky

 

[Arctic Moose]

Have you compared it to the OWC?

I have not, but I’ve never heard anything bad about OWC.

Either one will likely be fine, choose the one that has the look and the combination of ports that you prefer.

 

[SparkyCanada]

I have not, but I’ve never heard anything bad about OWC.

Either one will likely be fine, choose the one that has the look and the combination of ports that you prefer.

Yeah - they both seem quite solid...

Thanks,

Sparky

 

[ger19]

I’ve been looking at this one:

USB C Hub for iMac 24 inch 2021/2023, Minisopuru USB Hub Adapter Support M.2 NVMe SSD, iMac USB Hub for iMac M1/M3, iMac Accessories with USB C 10Gbps, USB A 3.2, SD/TF, M.2 SSD(Not Included), Silver.

iMac M3 imac 2023 imac usb hub iMac accessories imac 24 imac 24 inch 2021 imac 24 inch 2023 imac adapter imac 24 inch imac usb adapter imac hub imac 24 inch 2021 accessories USB hub imac usb c hub imac usb c hub multiport adapter usb c hub for iMac

www.amazon.com

I like that you can put an M.2 SSD inside it. Plus it can color match your mac if it’s blue, green, yellow or silver.

 

[CoastalOR]

I got the CalDigit T4 Element Hub to expand the ports for my silicon iMac.

CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 Element Hub - 4X USB4 Ports, USB 3.2 Gen2 10Gb/s, Single 8K or Dual 4K Displays, 60W Charging, 0.8m Cable

The CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 Element Hub is the first of its kind, offering 4x the performance of traditional USB-C hubs, whilst harnessing the power of Thunderbolt 4 in order to create a device without compromises.

www.amazon.com

 

[herbert7265]

@SparkyCanada

After getting my new MBP I was also looking for a Hub / Dock and finally went for the CD TS4. All I can say today is that it just works, and that´s what counts for me.

Most likely also nothing wrong with the OWC product, their products are also great. I use since years external HDDs and enclosures from them and never have had any problems.

Herbert

 

[medicinejar]

Thanks everyone for your thoughtful suggestions and comments. I ended up getting two Anker hubs. Several of the above interested me but the price point (at least in Canada) was not something I could justify. All the best.