Sure, you can just pop your MacBook into a backpack or other bag, and you will be prepared for most circumstances. The next item on the list is somewhat MacBook-centric, but I think it’s important for any laptop - a case, shell, or sleeve. Most micro-SD cards come with an SD to micro-SD adapter, making it simple to read the little cards as well. That hub is the OWC USB-C Travel Dock (as low as $32.99, see image above), which is USB-C / Thunderbolt 3 compatible and features two USB-A ports, a USB-C passthrough for charging, an HDMI 2.0 port supporting up to 4K resolution, and an SD reader. It works great with any USB-C Mac.įor example, instead of carrying around an HDMI adapter, USB-C to USB-A adapter, and SD/micro-SD card reader, I use one hub to perform all of the functions. OWC USB-C Travel Dock connected to a 2018 12.9-inch iPad Pro. 6 – USB Hubīy this point, you’re probably thinking that you’re going to have a pile of little adapters and cables, but fortunately, there’s one accessory that can replace a lot of individual items - a USB hub. USB-C Macs can use the IOGEAR 12-in-1 Pocket Card Reader/Writer ($19.95), and older USB-A-based Macs work well with the $7.99 Sabrent 2-Slot Card Reader. For other Macs, a USB-A or USB-C card reader can be plugged in to read the cards. The newer iMacs, iMac Pros, and older MacBooks all have built-in SDXC card readers, which makes life quite simple - you just plug the card into the existing reader. It’s a lot easier just to remove the SD or micro-SD card and use an SD card reader to move the media to the Mac.
Get one with the Nano-texture glass, and the Pro stand for only $6,998! 5 – An SD Card Readerĭo you do any photography or video work? SD and micro-SD cards are common in digital cameras, camcorders, action cameras, and drones, and rather than carry a variety of cables to connect your cameras to your Mac.
If money is no object and you want what’s considered to be the best Mac monitor, look no further than the Apple Pro Display XDR (see image above). The $7,000 monitor you always knew you needed... Image via Apple The pricing varies based on color accuracy, contrast, and other factors, so it’s useful to actually see what a monitor looks like before you buy one. Some low-cost 4K monitors from manufacturers you’ve probably never heard of can be had for as little as $200, while a top-of-the-line 27-inch LG 4K IPS LED Monitor using USB-C runs about $650. Pricing on external monitors is quite reasonable. I use one external screen for all of the constantly updating apps, such as Mail, while my built-in MacBook display is used for the work I’m focused on. Having a second screen is somewhat addicting. One thing I personally find very useful - especially with a MacBook Pro - is an external monitor. All of the controls for most uninterruptible power supplies are built into macOS and can be found under System Preferences > Energy Saver when the UPS is connected. In some cases, it’s possible to connect a UPS to your Mac with a USB cable in order to have the Mac automatically shut down during an outage. One popular brand that’s available at many office supply stores is APC, which also provides a useful online tool for sizing the battery in the UPS. If you don’t use a laptop and prefer the desktop machines like the iMac or iMac Pro, Mac Pro, or Mac mini, it’s a great idea to use an uninterruptible power supply (AKA UPS). They usually help condition the power going to your desktop Mac, have a built-in sealed lead-acid battery to help keep the Mac going for a while after power shuts down, and have multiple AC outlets.Ī UPS can be a lifesaver in storm situations, giving your Mac just enough power to ensure that all of your work-in-progress can be saved and apps shut down properly. One reason that I’ve decided to commit to using a laptop Mac from now on is that the battery inside it can keep my Mac working even when the power is out.
Be sure to have an HDMI cable like the NewerTech 3-foot HDMI cable ($4.99) on hand as well to bridge the gap between the adapter and the monitor or projector.
Many times when I’ve been on vacation, I’ve connected my MacBook to the TV in my hotel room or cruise ship stateroom to view my photos on the big screen.įor recent MacBooks with USB-C ports, the Tripp Lite USB-C to HDMI adapter ($57.99) is very useful and allows the MacBook to be charged while in use. Most high-definition TVs and many monitors use HDMI for input, and classrooms and meeting rooms have projectors that also use the standard for video connectivity. Particularly for those who have MacBooks, an HDMI adapter is an extremely useful accessory. Say yes, and you’re on your way to having a constant backup of your Mac. Just plug in an external drive, and Time Machine will ask if you want to use it for backups.