What type of connectors are suggested to connect USB-A to USB 3 and USB Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports? Please be specific. Thank you.
iMac 24″, macOS 12.0
Thunderbolt/USB4 ports use USB C connectors and will work with all versions of USB implementations, from USB4 down to USB 1.0.
To make the USB C connector compatible with cables that don’t have USB C on either end, use something like this https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MJ1M2AM/A/usb-c-to-usb-adapter
USB-A ports use the regular USB connector and will work USB 3.2 all the way down to USB 1.0.
Thunderbolt/USB4 ports use USB C connectors and will work with all versions of USB implementations, from USB4 down to USB 1.0.
To make the USB C connector compatible with cables that don’t have USB C on either end, use something like this https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MJ1M2AM/A/usb-c-to-usb-adapter
USB-A ports use the regular USB connector and will work USB 3.2 all the way down to USB 1.0.
From a recent MacBook Air with USB-C/Thunderbolt ports, I have found the Apple USB-C to USB Adapter good value. I also use an OWC USB-C Travel Dock to connect to Ethernet, Card Reader, HDMI Port, and two USB 3 ports. So far as I understand, the difference between USB A and USB 3 is a matter of speed rather than connectivity.
USB terms that end with letters are connectors. They have nothing to do speeds/implementations. USB-A, USB-C, and earlier, USB-B all refer to connectors.
USB terms that end with numbers refer to implementations that include things like speed, power etc. So, USB4 is faster than 3 which is faster than 2 etc.
In the case of USB4 and only USB4, the reference is to both implementation and connector. USB4 requires USB C connectors, otherwise it ain’t USB4.
All this clearly leaves room for confusion (to the sheer delight of marketing departments everywhere).
Thank you for your reply. I think I didn't clearly state my situation. I am phasing-out my 2010 iMac, which has a few USB-A ports with devices directly connected to those ports, via USB-A cables (large). My new iMac 24" has two USB 3 ports and two USB 4/Thunderbolt ports (small). Where can I find an adapter to connect the USB-A cables (large) to the USB 3 and USB 4 ports (small)? I have search for an adapter, but the best I can come up with is USB-C adapters. Or am I think wrong on this? I hope I didn't add to the confusion.
You need the Apple USB-C to USB adapter that hcsitas posted in his first reply.
Or a similar aftermarket USB-C to USB adapter. Just be aware that not all aftermarket adapters play well with some devices.
for example, the > https://www.target.com/p/philips-6-34-usb-c-to-usb-3-1-female-adapter-black/-/A-53245266 is an aftermarket adapter that I know works.
What type of connectors are suggested to connect USB-A to USB 3 and USB Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports? Please be specific. Thank you.
