3 USB-C ports behave differently (Macbook Pro 2021 M1 16in)

NicolasRemy wrote:

Hi everyone,

I am the happy owner of a MBP 2021 M1 16inch, with 3 Thunderbolt4/USB-C ports.

I have noticed these 3 ports don't behave the same, is this normal? (they seem to be all the same, according to this article: MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2021) - Technical Specifications - Apple Support )

More details on what's going on:

-all 3 ports are able power my Nikon Z9 camera (using the USB-C power input when filming myself for extended durations).

-however, only 1 of the ports (right side of the Mac, next to the HDMI port) supports receiving a 1080/30p video input from my Z9 camera (via the Elgato Cam Link interface).

From a filming setup point of view, I'd prefer running both cables form the left side, which is where the 2 other USB-C/Thunderbolt 4 ports are.

It's not the first time I am noticing a USB-C device doesn't function well on one of the ports.

So are the 3 USB-C ports all meant to work the same, or does my Mac have an issue?

Thanks in advance!

Nicolas

I would do what works.

To be proactive you can file a bug report /submit your Apple Feedback here: Product Feedback - Apple

for software—

A SafeBoot Use safe mode on your Mac - Apple Support will sort many anomalies

for hardware, take it in—

In or out of warranty you can get a free over the counter 'Apple Service Diagnostics' test /assessment

Make an appointment for a "hardware issue"

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

Outside the USA

Contact Apple for support and service - Apple Support

I know on the Intel USB-C Apple laptops that there was a reported difference between the left & right side USB-C ports even though I'm not aware of any documentation to that effect. I do know that some ports are paired to a bus which may share resources between the ports. So it may be that when you connect two devices to the same side they will be competing for resources. Otherwise I cannot say. I have not heard of anything regarding the M-series Macs in this regard.