The port doesn’t have many uses beyond that. Using an Ethernet cable in this port, instead of Wi-Fi, can make the internet run faster on your MacBook. The Gigabit Ethernet port allows a MacBook to connect directly to a router, modem, or wall jack to access the internet. But SD cards that are typical in digital photo and film cameras pop right in and can be accessed on a MacBook the second they’re plugged in.

The SDXC card slot lets a MacBook read and write on SD cards.Ī converter or adapter would need to be used for inserting miniSD cards into here. But despite this, and the speed issue, it was a major port on most MacBooks and Apple computers for a long time! SDXC Card Slot With USB-A ports, the direction of cable insertion can’t be messed with-a cable must go in perfectly for the port to work. It can power some small microphones and USB accessories as well.ĭespite speed advantages over USB 2 and USB ports, the USB 3 port is not fast enough for connecting monitors or high-quality webcams. It also allowed iPhones, iPads, and iPods to connect to a MacBook for charging and data transfer or management. It supports a large number of computer accessories including flash drives, external hard drives, external CD/DVD players, and more.

If you're using a MacBook with USB-C ports, you'll need a USB-C VGA Multiport Adapter for VGA displays or a USB-C Digital AV Multiport Adapter for HDMI displays.USB 3 ports are in a USB-A shape-the traditional USB shape you’re probably familiar with.

These include a MiniDisplay-to-DVI, and MiniDisplay-to-VGA adapters, as well as HDMI-to-DVI adapters.

If the monitor you are using does not have an HDMI or Mini DisplayPort, you can purchase an adapter from Apple or another electronics retailer.

You can also purchase a Mini DisplayPort adapter to connect an HDMI cable directly to a Mini DisplayPort.

Mini DisplayPort cables have a Mini DisplayPort plug on one end, and an HDMI port on the other end of the cable.

If need be, measure the distance between the devices.

Make sure you get a cable that is long enough to connect your MacBook and your monitor.

You may need to buy a USB-C display cable if your monitor didn't come with one. Once you have determined what type of video out your MacBook uses, you'll need to purchase either an HDMI cable or Mini DisplayPort cable, depending on the port on your MacBook.

Hdmi connector for macbook air