The new M2 Cube adds extra ports to the MacBook Pro charger
Apple provides a powerful charger with every new MacBook Pro. This new add-on lets you charge phones and tablets alongside your laptop.
- What is the difference between USB-C and USB PD? USB PD is a power delivery standard, rated up to 100W. USB-C is a universal standard that works with USB PD, USB 3.1 and DisplayPort.
- What are the best MacBook accessories? Check out our collection for some inspiration!
- Can you add extra ports to a MacBook Pro charger? Yes, you can. The Monitormate M2 Cube lets you charge four devices simultaneously from one MacBook charger.
When you’re traveling light, technology can make up a significant proportion of your kit. It’s not just your devices that take up space — it’s the accessories, too. Every device needs a power supply, for instance.
In comparison with the power bricks supplied by many manufacturers, Apple chargers are fairly slim. The USB-C version supplied with the current MacBook Pro is also very powerful. It seems a shame that you can only charge one device from this capable power supply.
The Monitormate M2 Cube changes that. This neat add-on gives your Apple charger three new ports, meaning you can power your laptop, your phone, and your tablet from one wall socket.
What is an Apple charger expansion?
Just as a USB hub brings more ports to your laptop, an Apple charger expansion adds more ports to your power adapter.
The M2 Cube is a small block that fits onto the end of your MacBook power brick. It provides one USB PD port, one QC3.0 port, and two regular USB charging ports for older devices.
[tweet_box]Apple provides a powerful charger with every new MacBook Pro. This new add-on lets you charge phones and tablets alongside your laptop.[/tweet_box]
The expansion has no noticeable effect on performance, and it even has its own Apple-style cable winder.
Instant upgrade
Apple styling
When you buy an Apple product, you get more than a device. Everything crafted in Cupertino seems to be a work of art.
Beautiful design
While some accessories detract from this design aesthetic, the M2 Cube actually complements your Apple charger. The expansion has a sleek white shell that blends seamlessly with the power brick. Just like Apple chargers of old, it also has flip-out cable winder hooks.
Plug in and play
Weighing in at just 59 grams, it’s perfect for regular travelers and digital nomads.
Those extra ports
So, what exactly can you do with those extra ports?
Multiple options
The USB PD (Power Delivery) port works with your MacBook and a variety of other devices. It offers the maximum possible charging speed on all USB devices (including USB 2.0 and USB 3.0).
Fast charging for many devices
The QC3.0 port offers another kind of fast charging. Developed by Qualcomm, this standard works with many current smartphones.
Perfect for digital nomads
And then, there are the regular USB charging ports. These are useful if you need to charge older devices that are not compatible with fast charging standards.
“Expand and maximize the charging ability of MacBook Pro’s USB-C charger. Convert from 1 USB-C port to 4 charging ports. Designed exclusively for your MacBook Pro’s USB-C power adapter (61W/87W)” — Monitormate on Amazon
The best parts
This tiny device replaces a bag full of separate chargers. If you own a MacBook, this thing is a must-have accessory.
Future designs
Why did they have to make the cable winder hooks gray? That’s the only blemish on this otherwise perfect Apple accessory.
Availability
– Order now: via Amazon.com
– Price: $39 USD
