In today’s digital age, apple devices have become an integral part of our daily lives. From iPhones to MacBooks, Apple products are renowned for their sleek designs, user-friendly interfaces, and seamless performance. However, one aspect of Apple devices that can be a bit frustrating is the need for dongles. Yes, you read that right – dongles! Those small, often-overlooked accessories that enable you to connect your device to other peripherals, projectors, or even just a plain old USB drive.
The question on everyone’s mind is: how much does an Apple dongle cost? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Apple dongles, exploring the different types, their prices, and what you can expect from each one.
The Need For Dongles: Understanding The Shift To USB-C
Before we dive into the cost of Apple dongles, it’s essential to understand why they’re necessary in the first place. With the introduction of the MacBook in 2015, Apple made a significant shift towards USB-C, a single port that can be used for both data transfer and charging. While this move was intended to simplify the design and make devices thinner and lighter, it also meant that users would need adapters or dongles to connect their devices to older peripherals or accessories.
Fast forward to today, and it’s clear that the shift to USB-C was a strategic move by Apple to create a more streamlined ecosystem. However, this shift has also led to a proliferation of dongles, which can be both confusing and frustrating for users.
Apple offers a range of dongles that cater to different needs and purposes. Here are some of the most common types of Apple dongles:
* USB-C to USB Adapter: This dongle allows you to connect your USB-C enabled device to a standard USB-A device, such as a USB flash drive or a printer.
* USB-C to HDMI Adapter: This dongle enables you to connect your device to an HDMI display or projector, making it ideal for presentations, gaming, or video streaming.
* USB-C to VGA Adapter: Similar to the HDMI adapter, this dongle allows you to connect your device to a VGA display or projector.
* Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter: This dongle enables you to connect your Thunderbolt 3 enabled device to a Thunderbolt 2 device, such as an older Mac or display.
In addition to these common types of dongles, Apple also offers a range of other adapters and converters, including:
* USB-C to Ethernet Adapter: This dongle enables you to connect your device to a wired Ethernet network.
* USB-C to SD Card Reader: This dongle allows you to read and write data from an SD card on your device.
* USB-C to 3.5 mm Audio Adapter: This dongle enables you to connect your device to a 3.5 mm audio jack, such as headphones or speakers.
The Cost Of Apple Dongles: A Breakdown
Now that we’ve covered the different types of Apple dongles, let’s dive into the cost. Apple dongles can range in price from under $10 to over $50, depending on the type and functionality. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
* USB-C to USB Adapter: $9 ( Apple Store)
* USB-C to HDMI Adapter: $49 (Apple Store)
* USB-C to VGA Adapter: $49 (Apple Store)
* Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter: $29 (Apple Store)
* USB-C to Ethernet Adapter: $29 (Apple Store)
* USB-C to SD Card Reader: $29 (Apple Store)
* USB-C to 3.5 mm Audio Adapter: $9 (Apple Store)
As you can see, the cost of an Apple dongle can vary significantly, depending on the type and functionality. However, it’s worth noting that these prices are subject to change and may vary depending on your location and the retailer.
While Apple’s official dongles can be pricey, there are alternative options available from third-party manufacturers. These dongles can offer similar functionality at a lower cost, making them an attractive option for users on a budget.
* Anker USB-C to USB 3.0 Adapter: $5.99 (Amazon)
* Aukey USB-C to HDMI Adapter: $14.99 (Amazon)
* Ugreen USB-C to VGA Adapter: $14.99 (Amazon)
Keep in mind that while these alternative dongles can be cheaper, they may not offer the same level of quality or compatibility as Apple’s official dongles.
Conclusion: The Dongle Dilemma
In conclusion, the cost of an Apple dongle can vary significantly, depending on the type and functionality. While Apple’s official dongles can be pricey, there are alternative options available from third-party manufacturers. When choosing a dongle, it’s essential to consider your needs and budget, as well as the level of quality and compatibility you require.
As the shift to USB-C continues, it’s clear that dongles will remain an essential part of the Apple ecosystem. Whether you’re a seasoned Apple user or new to the Apple family, understanding the different types of dongles and their costs can help you make informed purchasing decisions and ensure that you’re always connected and ready to go.
| Dongle Type | Apple Store Price | Alternative Price (Amazon) |
|---|---|---|
| USB-C to USB Adapter | $9 | $5.99 (Anker) |
| USB-C to HDMI Adapter | $49 | $14.99 (Aukey) |
| USB-C to VGA Adapter | $49 | $14.99 (Ugreen) |
| Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) to Thunderbolt 2 Adapter | $29 | N/A |
| USB-C to Ethernet Adapter | $29 | N/A |
| USB-C to SD Card Reader | $29 | N/A |
| USB-C to 3.5 mm Audio Adapter | $9 | N/A |
Note: Prices may vary depending on location and retailer.
What Is An Apple Dongle?
An Apple dongle is a small adapter that allows users to connect their Apple devices, such as MacBooks or iPads, to external devices like monitors, projectors, or USB drives. Dongles are necessary because Apple devices often have limited ports, and the company’s shift towards USB-C has made it difficult for users to connect to older devices or accessories.
Dongles come in different types, including USB-C to HDMI, USB-C to USB, and Thunderbolt 3 to Ethernet. They are small, portable, and easy to use, making them a convenient solution for Apple users who need to connect their devices to external peripherals.
How Much Does An Apple Dongle Cost?
The cost of an Apple dongle varies depending on the type and quality of the adapter. Official Apple dongles can range in price from $10 to $50 or more, while third-party alternatives can be significantly cheaper, with prices starting from around $5.
It’s worth noting that while third-party dongles may be cheaper, they may not offer the same level of quality or compatibility as official Apple adapters. Additionally, using a low-quality dongle can potentially damage your device or peripherals, so it’s important to do your research and choose a reputable brand.
Why Do I Need So Many Apple Dongles?
With the limited number of ports on Apple devices, users often find themselves needing multiple adapters to connect to different devices or accessories. For example, if you need to connect your MacBook to a projector, a monitor, and a USB drive, you may need three separate dongles.
The need for multiple dongles can be frustrating and expensive, especially if you’re using official Apple adapters. However, there are some third-party options that offer multi-port adapters, which can reduce the number of dongles you need to carry around.
Can I Use Third-party Apple Dongles?
Yes, you can use third-party Apple dongles as an alternative to official Apple adapters. These adapters are often cheaper and offer similar functionality to official Apple dongles. However, it’s important to choose a reputable brand and ensure that the adapter is compatible with your device and peripherals.
When shopping for third-party dongles, look for adapters that have good reviews and are specifically designed for Apple devices. Be wary of extremely cheap options, as they may not offer good quality or reliability.
Are Apple Dongles Worth The Cost?
Whether or not Apple dongles are worth the cost depends on your individual needs and circumstances. If you frequently need to connect your Apple device to external peripherals, a high-quality dongle can be a worthwhile investment.
On the other hand, if you only occasionally need to connect to an external device, a cheaper third-party adapter may be sufficient. It’s also worth considering the cost of not having a dongle, as this can lead to frustration and lost productivity.
Can I Use Apple Dongles With Old Devices?
Apple dongles are designed to work with newer Apple devices, such as MacBooks and iPads. However, if you’re still using an older Apple device with older ports, such as USB-A or HDMI, you may need a different type of adapter.
In some cases, you may be able to use an adapter to connect your old device to a newer peripheral, but this is not always possible. It’s best to check the compatibility of your device and peripherals before purchasing a dongle.
Will Apple Ever Get Rid Of Dongles?
It’s unlikely that Apple will completely get rid of dongles anytime soon. While the company has made efforts to reduce the number of ports on its devices, the need for adapters is still very much present.
In the future, we may see the development of new technologies that reduce the need for dongles, such as wireless connectivity options or more versatile ports. However, for now, dongles remain a necessary evil for Apple users who need to connect to external devices.