Cables & Adapters

If you are an iPhone or iPad user who wants to sync to your new Apple MacBook via a Lightning cable, you will first need to acquire an expensive dongle that converts from the MacBook's USB-C connector to the older USB standard plug. This may also leave you with no way to power your laptop with your iPhone’s cable occupying the port, since the MacBook has but a single USB-C port that also doubles as a power supply port. Fortunately, the power specialists at FINsix have created a power adapter that can deliver both USB-C capable power while also adding a standard USB plug inline to the power cord. It also comes in a package far smaller than Apple's USB-C charger and dongle combined.

I finally broke down and bought a new MacBook Pro with USB-C ports, which meant it was time to get an adapter so I could plug in my legacy equipment. Some vendors offer USB-C to USB-2 or USB-3 adapters, or USB-C to HDMI adapters, but I prefer the USB-C Multiport Adapter ($79.95) from Moshi. This way, I can plug in one USB-C cable and instantly connect to my HDMI monitor (up to 4K) and my seven-port USB hub (for keyboard, mouse, hard drive, and more) while also connecting to USB-C for power.

It might seem counterintuitive, but you should consider adding something to your travel kit that stops certain device functions. Specifically, the Databloc ($17.95) that Eyebloc sent me to try. The concept of the device is simple: it's a USB adapter that you add to the USB cable you normally travel with. The other end of the cable is either USB-A or USB-C depending on what you order. So what does this do, other than add an inch to your cable and convert a USB-A to USB-C if needed? It removes the data transfer functionality. Put simply, it's like a firewall that you don't even have to think about.

Like a lot of iPhone users, I use a MacBook at home and also at work. And I have large-screen monitors in both places. So I'm constantly juggling USB-C adapters that can accommodate multiple HDMI ports. Usually that means two different adapters, which is a hassle to plug in, and often the computer doesn't recognize which is the left or right screen and I waste time adjusting my display settings. So I'm always on the lookout for a better docking solution. I tried the J5 model, but it uses a software trick based on AirPlay to leverage the second screen and that disables unlocking via Apple Watch. It's a pain and I gave up on it.

Ever since Apple dropped the HDMI port from the MacBook Pro, I've had to carry an adapter around, and leave some at home and work. Not only is it expensive, it's also a hassle. Moshi has an answer. The company sent me a USB-C to HDMI Adapter ($44.95) to try. This adapter is small, about the size of a box of matches, and it plugs in directly to your device's USB-C port, essentially becoming an extension of your MacBook, iPad Pro, or other USB-C device. It makes it easier for the adapter to come with you and your device, so you don't need to leave adapters in multiple places. Or if you do need to bring it separately, it's compact and easy to carry.

It's hard to believe that after all these years, someone could reinvent a USB cable and leave me impressed. But that's exactly what Lander did with its Neve Lightning Cable ($29.99). Lander paid a lot of attention to the pet peeves of most users. The cable is remarkably thin and while I've seen flat cables before and I've seen fabric braided cables before, I've never seen one cable that is both flat and covered with braided fabric. The result is a tangle-free, comfortable cable with an attractive design. It's one of the best lightning cables out there. 

After awhile, the Apple lightning cable is bound to fray. Finding the best durable lightning cable for charging your iPhone is a must. Apple switched to lightning cables with the iPhone 5, which means iPhone 6 and iPhone 7 users will be searching for a strong lightning charging cable too. You can get another one from Apple or put that money towards a third-party lightning cable that will be more likely to last a lot longer. We’ll cover the best, most durable lightning cables, the best short lightning cable, and multiple other categories. If you need a new charging cable, this is the roundup for you.

It's hard to earn a five star review from me, especially for something as mundane as a charging hub. But the Nomad USB Charging Hub (starting at $39.95) does the job of a hub, and hides the cables inside to prevent accidental disconnection and look good at the same time. Speaking of cables, Nomad has some of the most rugged cables you can buy, so when you're on the go, you can take Nomad quality with you.

Sometimes you need just a little more power, but carrying around a heavy 10,000 mAh power pack is overkill. For those times, the IonGo 5K Duo Portable Battery ($74.95) from Moshi might be the perfect companion. Moshi sent me a review unit and it is compact and comfortable to the touch and stylish, thanks to the hand-stitched vegan leather exterior and aluminum accents, common with many of Moshi's accessories.