I purchased an M4 Mac mini a few months back and have come to realize that I need more USB ports. Here is a list items I need to connect:
Samsung Laser Printer (rebranded Brother model) - non-wifi USB A
LaCie 2Big Dock Thunderbolt 3
32" 4k display - HDMI
Satechi Headphone stand/dock - USB A
M-Audio speakers
Apple SuperDrive - USB A
I am currently using a Satechi USB C multi port for my USB A needs, but I would like to cut down on the clutter on my desk. Only device not working is the SuperDrive (probably to no one’s surprise). Apparently CalDigit offers a dock that will support a SuperDrive. Don’t want to spend that kind of money right now.
The real issue is that the single Thunderbolt port on the mini is used by the dock/hub and I would lose the speed the LaCie offers by downgrading to USB 3.1 instead of Thunderbolt 3.
I really like the look of a dock that would sit under the Mac mini. The ability to add an SSD for extra storage would be nice but not a deal breaker. I don’t need an extra Display port or HDMI slot. Has anyone come across a dock/hub that might fit my needs?
I can’t speak to your exact configuration needs, but I’ve been happy with the UGREEN Mac Mini M4 dock. It came down to this or the Satechi model for me, and this UGREEN one had USB-C ports (in addition to USB-A) among others, which was a priority for me. Worked right out of the box without issue.
Probably not something you will consider, but the Apple Studio Monitor has one Thunderbolt and 3 USB-C ports on the back.
I use it with my Mac Studio to add more ports and that has allowed me to not buy a full-blown CalDigit or OWC dock.
I trust the ports on the Studio Monitor to work flawlessly, which is something I can’t say about other brands of USB-C/USB-A hubs.
I have also been happy with the Satechi USB-C 4-port adapters.
I just upgraded to the newer one that has a PD (power delivery) port. Makes it perfect for use on my iPad Pro that only has one USB-C port so now I can charge the iPad while gaining additional USB-C ports too.
So it was pointed out to me yesterday, by a fellow former Genius, that the M4 Mac mini has 3 Thunderbolt ports on the rear.
Oops!
Guess my seeing a single Thunderbolt icon led me to an incorrect assumption. I mistakingly thought the M4 Mac mini Pro was the only model with multiple Thunderbolt ports. So the hunt for what I really need may have been made a bit easier. I will start looking for a dock/hub without front ports anew.
For those of you who didn’t point out my error… Thank You and may the New Year bring you much Joy and Happiness!
