Accessory makers have kept their USB-C powder dry until CES and have announced a flurry of new devices. Here's a visual roundup of many of the notable USB-C devices seen this week. The spectrum ranges from simple cable adapters to hubs, displays and storage.
1. ASUS Portable 15.6-inch Monitor for use with MacBook
ASUS
Our Jim Tanous wrote, "The ASUS MB169C+ is a 15.6-inch 1920x1080 portable monitor that uses just a single USB Type-C cable for both data and power, making it ideal for road warriors who prefer the convenience of a second display." Price is expected to be less than US$300.
2. Griffin BreakSafe: MagSafe-Like Protection for MacBook's USB-C Port
Griffin
Our Jim Tanous wrote: "The just-announced Griffin BreakSafe is a six-foot USB Type-C to Type-C cable that features a unique magnetic connection on one end. Users just need to plug the magnetic side of the cable into their MacBook; the 12.8mm-long Type-C plug will insert firmly into MacBook's port while the rest of the cable will magentically attach to the other end." Expected to ship in April for $40.
3. Just Mobile AluCable, USB-C 3.1 to USB-A adapter
Just Mobile. Shown with optional USB-A to Lightning.
Just Mobile explains. "USB-C is a new, hot industry standard equipped in the 12-inch MacBook launched this April, and we believe in the near future it will be accepted by all majority of PC manufacturers and become the standard to replace all existing USB connectors. In order to connect a USB-C device to existing USB-A peripherals, we created the AluCableTM USB-C 3.1 to USB adapter to connect to a myriad of possibilities." Shipping now for US$19.95
4. LaCie Porsche Design USB-C Drives
LaCie
LaCie says: "The LaCie Porsche Design Drives offer the new USB-C connector for next-generation computers like the latest MacBook. This feature makes the drive incredibly easy to connect, since both ends of the cable are identical and the connector is reversible. Plus, they are compatible with standard USB 3.0 (Type-A) ports thanks to the included
"... By harnessing the power of USB 3.1, the LaCie Porsche Design Desktop Drive will charge a compatible laptop’s battery when the drive’s power supply is connected to the wall outlet. Via a single USB-C cable, users can power their notebook and access their drive at the same time." Mobile (1,2 and 4 TB) and Desktop (4, 5 and 8 TB) versions will be available in March.
5. SCOSCHE strikePORT USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapters
SCOSCHE
SCOSCHE says, "(Part #: CMPA and CMPA4K) are Type-C digital AV multiport adapters that connects MacBook’s with a Type-C port to an HDMI display, while simultaneously connecting to a Type-C charging cable. The adapter allows you to mirror your Macbook display to your HDMI-enabled TV or display in up to 1080p (CMPA) or 4K HD (CMPA4K) quality at USB 3.1 Superspeed data transfer rates up to 10 Gbps. The USB-C Hub can also be utilized to charge the new MacBook and connect additional devices, such as flash drives, cameras or USB cables to charge and sync smartphones or tablets." Availability is cited as "Spring 2016."
Incipio
Incipio says the Type- Dock "Provides new 12-inch MacBook additional ports to connect legacy peripherals Includes USB-A port to connect a flash drive or input device Supports USB Power Delivery (PD) for simultaneous use and charging HDMI port to support video and audio output Retractable cable for easy storage." Delivery expected in Q2 and priced at US$79.99
7. Belkin USB-C 4-Port Mini Hub
Belkin
Belkin says, "Connect your new USB-C laptop, to multiple USB devices with this comprehensive port expansion hub. Two USB-C ports connect new devices, while two USB-A ports allow easy connection for existing devices, such as a hard drive, mouse, keyboard or printer. Small and compact, with a tethered USB-C cable, the hub is an ultimately portable and comprehensive peripherals solution." Available now, priced at $49.99.
Satechi
Satech says, "Type-C USB is here – but that doesn’t mean you can’t use your old USB peripherals! Thanks to the Satechi Type-C USB Hub, you can easily convert a Type-C USB port to three USB 3.0 ports, an SD card slot, and a Micro SD card slot." Available now in silver, gold or space gray and priced at US$34.99.
8b. Satechi Improved Type-C Hub
Satechi notified us that they've just announced a new and improved version. It's been updated to included pass-through charging. The updated Type-C Hub, also available in all three MacBook colors, will be available in early January for an introductory price of $39.99.
Satechi
Hyper
Hyper says this 5-in-1 Hub "Turns a single USB Type-C port into 5 ports: 1) USB Type-C (supports charging & 4K video) 2) SDXC 3) micro SDXC and 4) two USB 3.0 ports. It's slim, compact and sits flush with the same thickness as the new 12-inch MacBook." Available in three MacBook matching colors: silver, space gray, gold. Available now for $49.99.
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Thanks to Adam Christianson (@Maccast) who helped compile this list.