When buying a new MacBook , it can always take some getting used to. One of the parts of the device that may not be immediately apparent is the many ports. Below you can read more about the different ports of your MacBook and how to use them.
USB
The USB port can be used for two things in broad terms. First, you can connect two devices to each other via a USB cable, such as a camera and a laptop. By using this cable, you can easily transfer your photos from your camera to your MacBook, for example.
Another way to use the port is via a USB stick. This is a separate stick where you can put files. By inserting the stick into the USB port, you can easily move or copy files from your MacBook to your USB stick.
Thunderbolt
The Thunderbolt is a port developed by Apple, in collaboration with Intel. The first and second versions of this cable use DisplayPort technology and Mini DisplayPort cables, while the third version uses USB-C , the latest USB connection. Thunderbolt 3 is therefore often confused with a USB-C port, but a USB-C does not always support the Thunderbolt 3. Apart from this, the main difference is that the Thunderbolt 3 has a faster operation than a USB-C port. However, they do have the same round port shape.
The Thunderport can be used to connect another device to your MacBook and transfer files, for example.
HDMI
HDMI is the abbreviation for High Definition Multimedia Interface. You can use an HDMI cable to transfer video and audio signals to another device. For example, you could use this to connect your MacBook to your TV to watch a movie with good image and audio quality, or use another laptop as a second screen while working.
SD
An SD card slot is a fairly small port on your MacBook. This port allows you to use an SD, SDHC, SDXC, MMC or UHS-II card, although the SD card itself is by far the most well-known. This 'Secure Digital' card is a memory card that is also often used with other devices such as cameras and (old) mobile phones.
Adapter
An adapter is a plug that is used as a transition between different electrical circuits. There are all kinds of adapters for different types of cables and ports. For example, there are adapters that provide a connection between a USB and a USB-C connection, a USB and an HDMI connection and much more. So if you are still missing a certain port on your MacBook or if something is missing that prevents you from connecting another device to your laptop, an adapter can provide the solution.
