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EdwinSil
User level: Level 1 (8 points)

Finding a connector for Mac desktop with two USB ports

What kind of connector do I need to connect a thumb drive to my new Mac desktop with only two usb ports?

Posted on Oct 23, 2026 6:53 AM

3 replies

MartinR
User level: Level 7 (27,833 points)

Oct 23, 2026 7:22 AM in response to EdwinSil

The USB ports on all newer Macs are called "USB-C". Most thumb drives still use the older, larger "USB-A" connector. The solution is to use a USB-A to USB-C adapter.


While there are many cheap "plug adapters" on the market, I prefer these inexpensive, short 6" cable adapters because the connections are firmer and they put less torque pressure on the USB-C ports built into the Mac.

Rudegar
User level: Level 10 (187,102 points)

Oct 24, 2026 1:19 AM in response to EdwinSil

a connector is just a connector


find adaptors that suits your needs

Amazon.com : usb-c to usb-a

MartinR
User level: Level 7 (27,833 points)

Oct 23, 2026 7:29 AM in response to MartinR

In fact, for ongoing thumb drive use, I keep a 12" version of one of these cables permanently connected to the back of my iMac because:

  1. it's easier to connect the thumb drive to the cable than to reach behind the iMac all the time and
  2. any wear & tear is limited to the USB-A end of the cable not the USB-C port on the iMac


Originally posted at discussions.apple.com/thread/256381543