Recent laptops often have only one or two USB-C ports. To connect a monitor, USB flash drive, SD card or network cable, you need an adapter or hub. Here is how to choose the right one depending on what you want to connect, and the technical point to check before buying.
The first thing to check: does your USB-C port support video output?
All USB-C ports look alike, but they do not all have the same functions. To display an image on a TV or monitor, the port must support video output (DisplayPort Alt Mode) or be a Thunderbolt port.
- A small D (DisplayPort) or lightning bolt (Thunderbolt) symbol next to the port is a good sign.
- Recent MacBooks and most recent laptops have USB-C ports with video output.
- As for smartphones, iPhones with a USB-C port and most Samsung Galaxy S phones can display an image on a screen. Many entry-level smartphones cannot.
If your USB-C port is only used for charging and data, an HDMI adapter will not display anything: in this case, use a USB-A port with the appropriate adapter (see below).
Connecting a monitor or TV
- One monitor: the compact, plug-and-play 4K USB-C to HDMI adapter.
- A DisplayPort monitor: the USB-C to DisplayPort adapter.
- Two monitors: the USB-C to 2 HDMI 4K hub. It allows you to extend the desktop across two screens on Windows. On Mac, this type of hub generally displays the same image on both screens.
- An old VGA projector: connect via HDMI and then use the HDMI to VGA adapter, or choose the 8-in-1 dock below which has a VGA output.
The 4K resolution of these adapters operates at 30 Hz: perfect for office work, movies and presentations, less suitable for fast-paced gaming.
Adding USB ports
- USB-C to 4 USB 3.0 ports hub: USB flash drives, mouse, keyboard, hard drive.
- USB-C to 3 USB 3.0 + 1 USB-C hub.
- USB-C 7-port USB 3.0 hub for a complete desktop setup.
For a power-hungry external hard drive, preferably connect it directly to the computer or to a powered hub.
The all-in-one: multiport hubs
If you want to connect everything with a single accessory, a multiport hub is the most convenient:
- 3-in-1 USB-C adapter: 4K HDMI + USB 3.0 + USB-C.
- 5-in-1 USB-C adapter: 4K HDMI, 2 USB 3.0, SD and microSD card reader. Ideal for photographers.
- 8-in-1 USB-C dock: 4K HDMI, VGA, RJ45 Ethernet, USB 3.0, SD… to turn a laptop into a desktop workstation.
Wired internet (Ethernet)
Is Wi-Fi unreliable during a video conference or a large download? A network cable is more stable:
Reading memory cards
The USB-C to SD, microSD and 3 USB adapter retrieves photos from a camera, drone or video camera in a few seconds.
Special cases
- Computer without USB-C: the USB 3.0 to HDMI adapter works on a standard USB-A port on Windows after installing a driver.
- Older MacBook with Mini DisplayPort: Mini DisplayPort to HDMI or the 3-in-1 HDMI, VGA and DVI version.
- Microsoft Surface: the USB-C to Surface Connect adapter allows you to charge a Surface with a USB-C charger.
- Wired headset: USB-C to 3.5 mm jack adapter.
In summary
First check if your USB-C port supports video output, then choose according to what you want to connect: a simple adapter for a single use, or a multiport hub to do it all. Discover the full range in the USB-C Adapter collection and our Top Computer Adapters selection, in stock in Switzerland and shipped by La Poste.