USB-C / USB Hub for Data Transfer and Charging - Solution for both MacBook 12 and iPad Pro?

corinthos

Golden Member
Mar 22, 2000
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So iPad Pro uses lightning connector and MacBook 12 uses USB-C connector. I want to buy a USB-C USB hub for both data transfer and charging. In fact, I'd like to buy one that also has HDMI and ethernet ports on it.
I'd like to be able to use the same hub for both MacBook 12 and iPad Pro. There exists Lightning to USB-C adapters, so I'm wondering if it'd be possible to use such an adapter to connect a USB-C hub to the iPad Pro?

I want to be able to transfer files to/from the iPAD and MacBook 12 using such a contraption, and also be able to charge an iPhone or Android phone. I also want to be able to output to HDMI display from iPad and MacBook 12, as well as be able to connect to the LAN or internet with a LAN port on the hub, when I can't use wireless for whatever reason.

Is what I want to do possible?

Thanks in advance.
 

TheStu

Moderator<br>Mobile Devices & Gadgets
Moderator
Sep 15, 2004
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No, you will not be able to get 1 adapter to rule them all. There exist Lightning to HDMI+Lightning (for power only) adapters, and Lightning to USB-A + Lightning (for power only) adapters. The USB-A port is limited to 500mA output so most jump drives won't work with that, they expect more power (apparently).
 

corinthos

Golden Member
Mar 22, 2000
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I ask because I see lightning to USB-C adapters for like $7-8 on Amazon.. if I plug one of those into the iPad Pro, why couldn't I use the same USB hub on both MacBook (USB-C) and iPad Pro (USB-C when using the adapter)? It's not like there aren't accessories for the iPad Pro that allow transfers to SD card, etc.
 

TheStu

Moderator<br>Mobile Devices & Gadgets
Moderator
Sep 15, 2004
12,089
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If you can secure a lightning (male) to USB-C (female) adapter/cable for $7-8 like you said, then there's no harm in trying since you'll probably want to buy a multi-port adapter for the MacBook anyway.