Essential Gadgets for MacBook

The MacBook, known for its sleek design and powerful performance, is a premier choice for professionals and creatives alike. However, to unlock its full potential and protect your investment, there are several essential gadgets that you may consider. Each accessory serves a distinct purpose, enhancing the user experience, providing additional functionalities, or safeguarding the MacBook from potential damage.

Each MacBook gadget or accessory serves a specific purpose to enhance the user experience, provide convenience, or protect the device.

There are several essential gadgets and accessories that can enhance your experience with your MacBook. Here are some that you might find useful

External Hard Drive

In our digital age, data is everything. From important work files to precious photos and videos, losing data can be a disaster. This is where an external hard drive comes into play, offering a reliable solution for data backup. Beyond safeguarding your data, it also provides additional storage space, a boon if your MacBook’s internal storage is nearing capacity. This becomes particularly relevant for professionals dealing with large files, such as video editors or graphic designers.

Choosing the best external hard drive for your MacBook depends on your specific needs, such as storage capacity, speed, portability, and data protection. As of my knowledge here are top-rated option

Western Digital My Passport:

The Western Digital (WD) My Passport is a popular external hard drive known for its reliability and performance. As of my knowledge cutoff in April 2023, here’s some more information on the 5TB version:

Storage and Speed: The WD My Passport 5TB provides ample storage space for large amounts of data. It uses a USB 3.0 interface for data transfer, which offers decent speed (up to 5 Gbps). However, actual transfer rates will depend on your system configuration and other factors.

Compatibility: The WD My Passport comes pre-formatted for Windows systems, but it can be easily reformatted for use with Macs. This makes it compatible with almost all desktops and laptops.

Design: The WD My Passport has a sleek, compact design, which makes it easy to carry around. It comes in various colors, such as black, blue, and red.

Security: The hard drive includes password protection with hardware encryption, which is a useful feature for protecting sensitive data. It’s also equipped with WD’s backup software, which can be set to run automatically according to your schedule.

Warranty: Western Digital typically offers a 3-year limited warranty for the My Passport series, but you should check the specific terms and conditions at the time of purchase.

Remember that while external hard drives like the WD My Passport are excellent for extra storage and backups, they should not be the sole place you store important data. Always maintain multiple backups of crucial files for the best protection against data loss.

USB-C Hub

The latest MacBooks, in their quest for sleekness and simplicity, are fitted with limited USB-C ports. This can be restrictive when you need to connect multiple devices or ones with different interfaces. A USB-C hub acts as a bridge, expanding your MacBook’s connectivity by adding ports like HDMI, USB-A, SD card slots, and even Ethernet. This way, data transfer, device connection, and even extending your display to a larger screen become seamless tasks.

Choosing the best USB-C hub for your MacBook depends on your specific needs, such as the types of ports you require, the design, and the price. As of my knowledge cutoff in April 2023, here are highly-rated option:

Anker PowerExpand+ 7-in-1:

The Anker PowerExpand+ 7-in-1 USB-C hub is a versatile and compact accessory that can significantly expand your MacBook’s connectivity. Here are some of its key features as of my last update in September 2021:

Port Variety: The hub includes a wide range of ports:

• 1 HDMI port
• 1 USB-C data port
• 1 USB-C Power Delivery charging port
• 2 USB 3.0 ports
• 1 SD card slot
• 1 microSD card slot

HDMI Output: The HDMI port supports resolutions up to 4K at 30Hz, allowing you to connect an external display for an extended workspace or mirror your MacBook’s screen.

Data Transfer: The USB-C data port and USB 3.0 ports provide fast data transfer rates. The USB-C port supports data transfer rates up to 5Gbps, while the USB 3.0 ports support up to 5Gbps as well.

Power Delivery: The USB-C Power Delivery port allows you to charge your MacBook (or other compatible devices) while using the other ports. It supports pass-through charging up to 100W.

SD Card Slots: The SD and microSD card slots allow you to easily access files from memory cards, which can be particularly handy for photographers and videographers.

Design: The Anker PowerExpand+ 7-in-1 hub has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around. It’s also designed with a premium metal finish that blends well with Apple devices.

Please note that the actual performance of the hub can depend on the capabilities of your specific MacBook model and the devices you are connecting to the hub.

Wireless Mouse

While the MacBook’s trackpad is highly responsive, long hours of use can be tiring. A wireless mouse solves this issue, offering ergonomic comfort and precision. It becomes essential for tasks requiring detailed work or swift responses, such as graphic design, gaming, or extensive coding.

Choosing the best wireless mouse for your MacBook can depend on several factors, including comfort, precision, battery life, and whether you prefer a traditional mouse or a trackball design. As of my knowledge cutoff in April 2023, here are highly-rated option:

Apple Magic Mouse

The Apple Magic Mouse is a wireless multi-touch mouse developed and sold by Apple Inc.

Key Features:

1. Multi-Touch: The Magic Mouse has a multi-touch surface that allows you to perform various gestures, such as swiping between web pages, scrolling through documents, and more. This makes navigation quick and intuitive.
2. Design: The Magic Mouse has a sleek, button-less design. It’s made of white plastic and has a silver aluminum base. The Magic Mouse 2 is lighter and has fewer moving parts compared to the first version due to its built-in rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
3. Rechargeable Battery: Unlike the first Magic Mouse that required AA batteries, the Magic Mouse 2 has a built-in rechargeable battery. It can be charged using a Lightning to USB cable, which is the same cable used for charging iPhones.
4. Bluetooth Connectivity: The Magic Mouse connects wirelessly to your MacBook using Bluetooth. This means you don’t need to worry about cables or dongles.
5. Compatibility: The Magic Mouse is designed to work with Apple’s macOS. It integrates seamlessly with the system, offering a smooth and responsive user experience.
6. Optimized Foot Design: The optimized foot design of the Magic Mouse 2 gives it a smoother glide compared to the original Magic Mouse.

Note that while the Magic Mouse offers a unique user experience due to its multi-touch features, some users find its flat design less ergonomic for extended use compared to other traditional mice. Therefore, whether it’s the best mouse for you may depend on your personal preferences and how you plan to use it.

Keyboard Cover

The MacBook’s keyboard is one of its most used components, making it vulnerable to wear and potential damage from dust, debris, or accidental liquid spills. A keyboard cover is a protective shield, prolonging the keyboard’s lifespan and ensuring the smooth functioning of your MacBook.

Choosing the best keyboard cover for your MacBook depends on several factors, including compatibility with your MacBook model, durability, and how it affects the typing experience. As of my knowledge cutoff in April 2023, here are a highly-rated option:

MOSISO Keyboard Cover

MOSISO is a well-known brand that produces a wide range of accessories for MacBooks, including keyboard covers. Here are some key features of the MOSISO keyboard covers as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021:

Compatibility: MOSISO makes keyboard covers compatible with a range of MacBook models, including the MacBook Pro and MacBook Air. When buying, make sure you select the cover that matches your MacBook’s model and year.

Material and Design: MOSISO keyboard covers are made from a non-toxic, soft and durable silicone material that provides full protection for your MacBook keyboard against dust, spills, key wear and more. The silicone is flexible and easy to clean.

Thickness and Transparency: The covers are ultra-thin (0.3 mm) which ensures not only a perfect fit, but also that the cover does not affect the typing experience. The high transparency allows the MacBook’s backlighting to shine through.

Variety: MOSISO keyboard covers come in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to personalize your MacBook to your liking.

Installation and Cleaning: Installation is as simple as placing the cover over your keyboard. The silicone material is washable and easy to clean, making maintenance a breeze.

Remember, while keyboard covers can protect your MacBook from spills and dust, they might slightly alter the feel of the keys. Some users don’t mind this, while others prefer the feeling of typing directly on the MacBook’s keys. Always consider your personal preferences when choosing a keyboard cover.

Laptop Stand

Prolonged use of a laptop can lead to poor posture, potentially causing neck or back strain. A laptop stand addresses this issue by raising the MacBook to eye level, promoting better posture. In addition, it facilitates better air circulation around the device, aiding in cooling and enhancing the MacBook’s performance.

Selecting the best laptop stand for your MacBook depends on factors such as ergonomics, portability, design, and durability. As of my last update in April 2023, here are a highly-rated option

Rain Design mStand

The Rain Design mStand is a popular choice among MacBook users for its combination of aesthetics, ergonomics, and durability. Here are some of its key features as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021:

Design: The mStand is made from a single piece of aluminum that has a silver anodized finish, closely matching the aesthetic of MacBooks. The design is sleek and modern, and it provides a stable platform for your MacBook.

Ergonomics: The mStand raises your MacBook to eye level (about six inches), which can help reduce neck strain and improve your posture when you’re working at your desk. The stand also tilts your MacBook slightly forward, which can enhance the viewing angle when you’re using the laptop.

Cooling: The aluminum panel acts as a heat sink, helping to dissipate heat and keep your MacBook cool during use. This can potentially prolong the life of your laptop.

Cable Management: The mStand has a hole in the back that you can use to route your cables, helping to keep your desk area tidy.

Compatibility: The mStand is compatible with all sizes of MacBooks, and can also be used with other laptops.

One point to consider is that the mStand isn’t adjustable, so you can’t change the height or the angle of your laptop once it’s on the stand. If adjustability is important to you, you might want to consider other options. Otherwise, the mStand is a solid and stylish choice for a MacBook stand.

External Monitor

For tasks demanding larger screen real estate – such as video editing, graphic design, programming, or even multitasking across numerous apps – an external monitor is a boon. By extending your MacBook’s display, it boosts productivity and provides a more immersive viewing experience for entertainment.

Choosing the best external monitor for your MacBook depends on several factors including your primary usage (gaming, professional design work, general use), size preferences, resolution requirements, and budget. As of my knowledge cutoff in April 2023, here are a highly-rated option:

LG UltraFine Display

The LG UltraFine Display is a high-quality monitor known for its exceptional clarity and color accuracy. Developed in collaboration with Apple, it offers seamless integration with MacBooks. As of my last update in April 2023, it comes in two versions: a 4K model and a 5K model. Here are some of its key features:

4K Model:

1. Resolution: The 4K model has a 23.7-inch screen with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, providing sharp and detailed images.
2. Color Accuracy: It covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color space, making it an excellent choice for design work and photo or video editing.
3. Connectivity: This monitor has two Thunderbolt 3 ports and three USB-C ports. One Thunderbolt 3 port can be used for 4K video, audio, and data transmission, while also charging your MacBook with up to 85W of power.

5K Model:

1. Resolution: The 5K model has a 27-inch screen with a resolution of 5120 x 2880 pixels, offering even more detail and sharpness.
2. Color Accuracy: Like the 4K model, it also covers 99% of the DCI-P3 color space.
3. Connectivity: This model comes with one Thunderbolt 3 port and three USB-C ports. The Thunderbolt 3 port can deliver 5K video, audio, and data simultaneously as well as charging your MacBook Pro with up to 94W of power.
4. Built-in Camera and Speakers: The 5K model features a built-in camera and a high-quality speaker system, making it a more comprehensive solution for video conferencing.

Both models feature an adjustable stand for ergonomic comfort. However, they lack some features common in other high-end monitors, such as HDR support and an HDMI port. As always, you should choose a monitor based on your specific needs and usage scenarios.

Portable Charger

One of the MacBook’s strengths is its portability. However, this can be hindered if you’re constantly seeking an outlet to keep it charged. A portable charger eliminates this worry, providing a power source on the go. This becomes especially useful during travel, long commutes, or power outages.

Choosing the best portable charger (also known as power bank) for your MacBook depends on factors such as capacity, power output, port types, size, and weight. As of my last update in April 2023, here are a highly-rated option:

Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD

The Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD is a high-capacity power bank designed to charge a wide range of devices, including MacBooks. Here are some of its key features as of my last update in April 2023:

Large Capacity: As the name suggests, this power bank has a total capacity of 26,800mAh. This is enough to charge most MacBooks once or twice, depending on the specific model.

Power Delivery (PD): The “PD” in the name stands for Power Delivery, which is a specification for handling higher power and allows a range of devices to charge quickly over a USB connection. It offers up to 30W output, which can provide fast charging for compatible devices.

Included Wall Charger: The PowerCore+ 26800 PD comes with a 30W USB-C wall charger that can be used to charge the power bank itself or other PD-compatible devices. This is a nice addition, as not all power banks include a wall charger.

Multiple Ports: The PowerCore+ 26800 PD features two standard USB-A ports and one USB-C port, allowing you to charge multiple devices at the same time.

Safety Features: Anker’s MultiProtect safety system provides surge protection, short circuit prevention, and other advanced safety features to keep you and your devices safe.

While the Anker PowerCore+ 26800 PD is quite large and heavy compared to some other power banks, its high capacity and power output make it a great option for charging a MacBook, especially when you’re on the go and won’t have access to an outlet for an extended period.

Bluetooth Headphones

For an enhanced audio experience, Bluetooth headphones are a must-have. They deliver high-quality sound without the clutter of wires, making them ideal for video conferencing, enjoying media, or even immersing yourself in the intricacies of sound editing. Plus, they offer the convenience of wireless connectivity, allowing you to move freely without interrupting your audio experience.

Choosing the best Bluetooth headphones for your MacBook depends on several factors including audio quality, comfort, battery life, and price. As of my knowledge cutoff in April 2023, here are a highly-rated option

Sony WH-1000XM4

The Sony WH-1000XM4 is a highly regarded pair of Bluetooth headphones known for their exceptional sound quality, advanced noise cancellation, and comfort. Here are some key features of the WH-1000XM4 as of my knowledge cutoff in April 2023:

Sound Quality: The WH-1000XM4 headphones deliver high-quality audio with detailed sound reproduction and a wide frequency response range. They support Sony’s LDAC codec, which allows for high-resolution audio streaming over Bluetooth.

Active Noise Cancellation: The WH-1000XM4 features industry-leading noise cancellation technology, which helps block out external noise and provides a more immersive listening experience. The headphones use dual noise sensor technology and an advanced noise-canceling algorithm to adapt to your surroundings and optimize noise cancellation accordingly.

Comfort and Fit: The headphones are designed with comfort in mind. They have plush ear cushions and an adjustable headband for a secure and comfortable fit, even during extended listening sessions.

Battery Life: The WH-1000XM4 offers an impressive battery life of up to 30 hours on a single charge with noise cancellation enabled. This ensures that you can enjoy your music for extended periods without worrying about recharging.

Smart Features: These headphones come with smart features like touch controls for playback and volume adjustment, built-in voice assistants (such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa), and a Quick Attention mode that allows you to temporarily disable noise cancellation to hear your surroundings.

Adaptive Sound Control: The WH-1000XM4 utilizes Adaptive Sound Control, which automatically adjusts the sound settings based on your location and activity, providing a personalized listening experience.

Please note that the specific features and performance of the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones may be subject to change as newer models are released. It’s always recommended to check for the latest information and reviews before making a purchase.

Laptop Sleeve/Case

The MacBook, with its premium build, deserves utmost care. A laptop sleeve or case provides this protection, cushioning your MacBook against scratches, dents, and impacts. Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or simply storing your MacBook, a protective case safeguards your investment.

Choosing the best laptop sleeve or case for your MacBook depends on factors such as protection, durability, design, and functionality. As of my knowledge cutoff in April 2023, here are a highly-rated option

Incase ICON Sleeve

The Incase ICON Sleeve is a highly regarded laptop sleeve designed to provide excellent protection and style for your MacBook. Here are some key features of the Incase ICON Sleeve as of my knowledge cutoff in April 2023:

Protection: The ICON Sleeve features a durable, abrasion-resistant outer shell that provides protection against scratches, bumps, and minor impacts. It helps to keep your MacBook safe during everyday use or when you’re on the go.

Padded Interior: The interior of the sleeve is padded with a soft, faux-fur lining. This lining not only helps protect your MacBook from scratches but also provides a cushioned layer that absorbs impact and helps prevent damage.

Slim and Lightweight: The ICON Sleeve has a slim profile and lightweight construction, making it easy to carry and slide into other bags or backpacks without adding much bulk.

Zippered Accessory Pocket: The sleeve has a zippered accessory pocket on the front, allowing you to conveniently store small accessories such as cables, chargers, or a mouse. This helps keep your essential items organized and easily accessible.

Stylish Design: Incase is known for its sleek and modern design aesthetic, and the ICON Sleeve is no exception. It has a minimalist, understated design that complements the sleek look of your MacBook.

Compatibility: The ICON Sleeve is available in different sizes to fit various MacBook models, including MacBook Air and MacBook Pro. It’s important to select the correct size when purchasing to ensure a proper fit.

Overall, the Incase ICON Sleeve offers a combination of protection, style, and functionality, making it a popular choice for MacBook users seeking a reliable and fashionable sleeve for their devices.

Webcam Cover

In an era where digital privacy is paramount, a webcam cover serves as a simple yet effective tool to prevent unwanted intrusions. It ensures your webcam is only active when you want it to be use.

A webcam cover is a simple but effective accessory for maintaining privacy and security. While there are several options available, the best webcam cover for your MacBook depends on factors such as compatibility, ease of use, durability, and aesthetics. As of my knowledge cutoff in April 2023, here are a highly-rated option

Cimkiz Webcam Cover Slider

The Cimkiz Webcam Cover Slider is a popular and highly-rated option for covering the webcam on your MacBook. Here are some key features of the Cimkiz Webcam Cover Slider as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021:

Slim and Compact Design: The Cimkiz Webcam Cover Slider is designed to be ultra-thin, allowing your MacBook to close without any interference. It has a sleek and compact profile that seamlessly blends with the aesthetics of your MacBook.

Slider Mechanism: The cover features a sliding mechanism that allows you to easily open or close the cover whenever you need to use or protect your webcam. The sliding action is smooth and precise, providing easy control over your privacy.

Secure Attachment: The cover is designed to securely attach to your MacBook’s webcam. It uses a strong adhesive that ensures a firm grip, keeping the cover in place without any risk of falling off.

Privacy and Security: By covering your MacBook’s webcam, the Cimkiz Webcam Cover Slider helps protect your privacy and security. It prevents unauthorized access and ensures that your camera remains hidden when not in use.

Universal Compatibility: The Cimkiz Webcam Cover Slider is designed to be compatible with a wide range of devices, including MacBook models. It can be used with laptops, tablets, desktops, and other devices that have a webcam.

Durable Materials: The cover is made from high-quality materials that are durable and built to last. It is resistant to scratches and wear, ensuring long-term usage.

Please note that it’s always recommended to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation and removal of the webcam cover to avoid any potential damage to your MacBook’s surface.