Introduced in 2018, the Apple Mac mini is a compact and powerful desktop computer. It features a variety of ports, including Thunderbolt 3 ports. Thunderbolt 3 is a high-speed interface that can be used to connect a variety of devices, including external storage drives, displays, and eGPUs.
However, some devices only have USB-C ports. If you want to connect these devices to your Mac mini, you will need a Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C adapter.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C adapters available and help you choose the right one for your needs.
Types of Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapters
There are two main types of Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C adapters:
- Passive adapters: These adapters simply connect the Thunderbolt 3 port on your Mac mini to the USB-C port on your device. They do not require any additional power or software.
- Active adapters: These adapters contain a Thunderbolt 3 controller chip that actively converts the Thunderbolt 3 signal to USB-C. They require additional power and may require software drivers to be installed.
Passive adapters are generally less expensive than active adapters. However, they are not as powerful and may not be able to support all Thunderbolt 3 devices. Active adapters are more expensive, but they are more powerful and can support all Thunderbolt 3 devices.
Choosing the Right Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter
When choosing a Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C adapter, you need to consider the following factors:
- The type of device you want to connect: Some devices, such as external storage drives, only require a passive adapter. Other devices, such as eGPUs, require an active adapter.
- The speed you need: Thunderbolt 3 supports speeds of up to 40 Gbps. However, some adapters may not be able to support the full speed of Thunderbolt 3.
- The power you need: Active adapters require additional power. If you are connecting a device that requires a lot of power, you will need an adapter that provides enough power.
- The price: Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C adapters range in price from $20 to $100. The price of an adapter will vary depending on the type of adapter, the speed, the power, and the brand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C?
A: Thunderbolt 3 is a high-speed interface that can be used to connect a variety of devices, including external storage drives, displays, and eGPUs. USB-C is a newer interface that is also used to connect a variety of devices. However, USB-C is not as fast as Thunderbolt 3.
Q: Do I need a Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C adapter?
A: You only need a Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C adapter if you want to connect a device that only has a USB-C port to your Mac mini.
Q: Which Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C adapter should I buy?
A: The best Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C adapter for you will depend on the type of device you want to connect, the speed you need, the power you need, and the price you are willing to pay.
Conclusion
Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C adapters are a great way to connect devices that only have USB-C ports to your Mac mini. When choosing an adapter, be sure to consider the type of device you want to connect, the speed you need, the power you need, and the price you are willing to pay.
Table of Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapters
| Adapter | Type | Speed | Power | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter | Passive | 40 Gbps | No | $19.99 |
| Belkin Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter | Active | 40 Gbps | Yes | $29.99 |
| StarTech Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter | Active | 40 Gbps | Yes | $39.99 |
| CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter | Active | 40 Gbps | Yes | $49.99 |
| OWC Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter | Active | 40 Gbps | Yes | $79.99 |
References
- Apple Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter
- Belkin Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter
- StarTech Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter
- CalDigit Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter
- OWC Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter
USB-C to Thunderbolt 3 Cables for Macintosh
Connect your Thunderbolt 3-equipped Macintosh to USB-C devices with these high-performance cables. These cables support data transfer speeds up to 40 Gbps, power delivery up to 100W, and video output up to 5K or 4K at 60Hz. They are reversible and feature sturdy construction for reliable connectivity. Note that not all Thunderbolt 3 devices are compatible with these cables, and some may require additional adapters or software.
USB-C to Thunderbolt 3 Adapter with Power Delivery for Apple Mac mini
This adapter enables Mac mini users to connect Thunderbolt 3 devices and charge the device simultaneously. It features:
- Thunderbolt 3 Connectivity: Provides up to 40Gbps data transfer speeds for external storage drives, displays, and more.
- Power Delivery: Supports up to 87W of power delivery to charge the Mac mini while connected to a Thunderbolt 3 or USB-C charger.
- Compact & Portable: Its small size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and use on the go.
- Wide Compatibility: Compatible with all Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C devices, including external storage, displays, graphics cards, and docking stations.
Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter for 2018 Apple Mac mini
The Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C adapter connects a 2018 Apple Mac mini to a Thunderbolt 3 device. It allows for data transfer and power delivery, with a maximum data transfer rate of 40 Gbps and up to 100W of power. The adapter is compact and easy to use, simply plugging into the Thunderbolt 3 port on the Mac mini. It supports USB-C devices such as external drives, displays, and Thunderbolt 3 cables.
USB-C to Thunderbolt 3 Adapter with Ethernet for Macintosh
This adapter connects a USB-C computer to Thunderbolt 3 devices, such as external drives, displays, and audio interfaces. It also includes an Ethernet port for connecting to a wired network, providing a reliable and fast internet connection. The adapter is bus-powered, so it does not require an external power supply. It is compatible with Apple Macintosh computers with USB-C ports, including the MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and iMac. The adapter also supports DisplayPort over Thunderbolt 3, allowing for connecting to external displays with up to 4K resolution and 60Hz refresh rate.
Thunderbolt 3 to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter for Apple Mac mini
This adapter allows you to connect your Mac mini to a wired Ethernet network using the Thunderbolt 3 port. It provides a Gigabit Ethernet connection, which supports data transfer speeds of up to 1000 Mbps. The adapter is compatible with all Thunderbolt 3-equipped Mac mini models and requires no drivers or software to install.
Thunderbolt 3 to USB-C Adapter with DisplayPort for Macintosh
- Connects Thunderbolt 3 MacBook to displays with DisplayPort
- Supports DisplayPort monitors with resolutions up to 5K@60Hz
- USB-C pass-through for charging and data transfer
- Aluminium construction for durability
USB-C to Thunderbolt 3 Adapter with HDMI for Apple Mac mini
Connect your Apple Mac mini to peripherals with this versatile adapter. It features:
- USB-C to Thunderbolt 3: Enables high-speed data transfer and video output.
- HDMI Port: Supports 4K resolution @ 60Hz, providing crystal-clear video.
- Plug-and-Play Design: No drivers or software required for easy setup.
- Compact and Durable: Its portable and rugged design makes it ideal for travel and use.
- Compatible with Apple Mac mini: Designed specifically to complement the Mac mini’s sleek aesthetic.
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