If you have an Apple product, then you need a lightning adapter. Whether you’re looking to quickly charge your iPhone, transfer data onto your MacBook, or do both with an iPad, a lightning adapter can help you do all that and more. And unlike most things associated with Apple, there isn’t a big price tag attached to lightning adapters and you don’t have to line up for hours to purchase the latest edition.
Lightning adapters are used to connect Apple products, including iPhones, MacBooks, and iPads, to a wide range of gadgets, including other Apple products, as well as external monitors, TV screens, cameras, memory drives, USB sticks, and PCs, including laptops and desktops.
Lightning adapters offer many benefits to Apple users. With laptops, including MacBooks, providing fewer ports than ever, having a lightning adapter makes it possible to connect a MacBook, as well as an iPad and iPhone to an HDMI cable, which is ideal when using an external computer monitor or connecting to a TV screen. A lightning port also gives Apple users more USB ports, which allows for data transfer from multiple gadgets at once, including the use of an external keyboard, mouse and monitor.
We also like using lightning adapters in office settings, whether it’s a presentation at work or for school. By using a lightning adapter, Apple users can upload their presentations quickly and seamlessly, thanks to the fast transfer rates and HDMI ports.
If you’re an avid traveler or someone who is always on the go, lightning adapters are a lightweight and compact charger for your Apple products, which still allows users to access their gadgets while they’re being charged.
We’ve picked three of our favorite lightning adapters that all include unique benefits, but one thing they have in common is the ability to help any Apple user. Check them out below!
1. Mooshyla USB C Hub 4K USB HDMI Adapter
Charge multiple items at once with the Mooshyla USB C Hub 4K USB HDMI Adapter, which includes three USB 3.0 ports, which have an impressive data transfer rate of 5 GB.
Pros: The Mooshyla is ideal for anyone looking to charge or transfer data between a variety of gadgets at the same time. The USB C Hub has three USB 3.0 ports and is backward compatible with USB 2.0 devices as well. The unit has a 4K USB HDMI adapter, which transfers video with a clear resolution of HD 30Hz or Full HD 60Hz to a TV screen or computer monitor. Ideal for photographers, the Mooshyla has ports for Micro and SD memory cards, giving shutterbugs the ability to download their images while charging their camera and cell phone at the same time. We like that the Mooshyla doesn’t require any software and is compatible with Macs and PCs.
Cons: A few customers complained that the ports were loose and their plugs didn’t fit snugly into the adapter.
Image courtesy of Amazon
2. AmazonBasics USB 3.1 Type-C HDMI Multiport Adapter
The AmazonBasics USB 3.1 Type-C HDMI Multiport Adapter features three commonly used ports, including HDMI, USB 3.0, and a Type-C port.
Pros: Perfect for anyone with a laptop that is limited on ports, the AmazonBasics can charge devices and also transfer data with a speed of up to 5.4 GBs, faster than the Mooshyla (the AmazonBasics may slow with external devices). Like the Mooshyla, the AmazonBasics has a USB 3.0 port and is backward compatible with a USB 2.0 port. Not only cant the AmazonBasics charge small units like phones, but it can also charge compatible devices, with 60W of power strong enough to charge a Macbook or PC laptop. The HMDI port provides a 4K resolution of 3840 x 2160 at 30 Hz, which makes this a great adapter for anyone who wants to connect their laptop to an external monitor or TV screen.
Cons: The Type C port does not allow for out charging. Like many lightning adapters, customers note that the AmazonBasics does not charge laptops and phones as quickly as the gadget’s actual charger.
Image courtesy of Amazon
3. JZJ Lightning to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter Charger for iPhone
The JZJ Lightning to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter Charger for iPhone allows users to listen to music while charging their phone 1.5 times faster than traditional iPhone chargers.
Pros: The JZJ has a 100 percent copper core that provides a stable and high-speed charge that is 1.5 times faster than a traditional iPhone charger. Compatible with X/XS/XS MAX/XR/8/8Plus/ 7/7 Plus, as well as iPhone 3.5mm original headphones, the JZJ supports all iOS systems, including upgraded systems. The compact lightning adapter is small and durable with an oxidized outer shell that is wear-resistant, perfect for throwing in the car, a purse, a backpack or a suitcase to use while on the go.
Cons: The JZJ is not as versatile as the first two lightning adapters.
Image courtesy of Amazon