It’s been a busy time for Mac launches. Apple has released the first three M4 Macs: the MacBook Pro, Mac mini and iMac. If you ordered a new M4 model, or even if you’re sticking with your current hardware, these are the best accessories to upgrade your Mac experience.
Essentials for your desk and on the go
If you need a new monitor, my budget-friendly recommendation is the Samsung ViewFinity S8. It’s a 4K display with a variety of useful features built in, and comes in 27-inch and 32-inch sizes. Here’s my full hands-on.
For a bigger splurge, the Apple Studio Display currently costs ~$1,300a 16% discount on the normal price. The 5K Retina display is beautiful, but it comes at a higher cost.
If you use your MacBook Pro at a desk, I recommend doing this this Twelve South aluminum standwhich positions the screen higher for improved ergonomics. Twelf Zuid also makes a similar expansion card for iMacand if cost is not an issue, their HiRise Pro supports multiple different height levels and a sleek cover.
Finally, if you take your MacBook Pro with you on the go: this Tomtoc protective cover set is my recommended option.
Quickly charge your MacBook Pro or other device
Apple’s modern laptops support fast charging at up to 140W. This includes the new M4 MacBook Pro, plus previous 2021 MacBook Air and Pro models.
To maximize your fast loading speeds, this 140W USB-C brick it will work. Or if you want to save some money without sacrificing much speed, you can alternate grab this 100W USB-C brick from Anker for less than half the cost.
You also want to make sure your charging cable can support these high speeds. This 1.8 meter long Anker USB-C cable supports up to 240W and provides the extra range you’ll appreciate. There is even one 2-pack available for almost the same price, which is nice because USB-C now charges iPhones, iPads and even the new ones Magic keyboard and magic trackpad.
Thunderbolt and USB-C hubs and cables
Whichever new Mac you choose, you can expand the variety of port options available with a USB-C or Thunderbolt hub.
This Anker USB-C 8-in-1 hub offers ports for USB-C and USB-A, HDMI, Ethernet, SD card and more.
For the extra power and versatility of Thunderbolt, you can choose the extra punch and versatility of Thunderbolt this MOKiN Thunderbolt 4 dock which supports several hi-res monitors, plus SD and microSD, Ethernet, a headphone jack and much more.
M4 Macs introduce Thunderbolt 5 support for the first time. Apple sells its own cable option, but it costs money as much as $70. If you don’t want to spend that much on a single cable, you can do takeout this Cable Matters Thunderbolt 5 cable for less than half the price.
If Thunderbolt 4 is all you need, this 2-pack of Thunderbolt 4 cables from Maxonar offers great value at a low price. Finally, you can 2-pack USB-C cables here.
Ethernet connectivity for reliable and fast internet
The M4 Mac mini comes standard with Gigabit Ethernet, with an option to upgrade to 10Gb. Select M4 iMac models also have built-in Ethernet. Grab one of these braided, flat Ethernet cables from Orbram. They support ultra-high speeds and are available in different sizes.
What accessories are your M4 Mac essentials? Let us know in the comments.
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