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How can I use USB-C ports for charging my iMac?

I had recently purchased iMac 3. It has got 4 USB C ports. 2 have power marking on it. Can you help me with its function and how to use them.




[Re-Titled by Moderator]

iMac 24″, macOS 14.5

Posted on Nov 19, 2024 7:38 AM

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3 replies

Nov 19, 2024 8:14 AM in response to 03-04-85

iMac (24-inch, 2023, Four ports) - Tech Specs - Apple Support


On the four-port version of the 24" M3 iMac, the two USB-C ports marked with a lightning bolt symbol are multi-purpose ports with support for

  • USB 3.1 Gen 2 (up to 10 Gb/s)
  • USB4 (up to 40 Gb/s)
  • DisplayPort
  • Thunderbolt 3 (up to 40 Gb/s) (hence the lightning bolt symbol)

They adapt to whatever is plugged into them. There is a limit of one external display, but you can use either port to connect it.


The two USB-C ports without the marking are single-purpose ports with support for

  • USB 3 (up to 10 Gb/s) – another way of saying USB 3.1 Gen 2

Nov 19, 2024 8:09 AM in response to 03-04-85

The two with lighting symbols are Thunderbolt 3/USB-C ports the other two are plain USB-C ports.

The Thunderbolt ports can be used for either Thunderbolt and/or USB devices.

The plain USB-C ports can only be used for USB devices.


You can plug your previous USB-A devices into any of the ports using USB-C to USB-A adapters.

for some examples:

USB-C to USB Adapter - Apple

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PDLQ555/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08Z768LCW/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?

https://www.target.com/p/philips-usb-c-to-3-0-usb-a-female-adapter/-/A-79804275


The iMac can not be charged, it must use the supplied power adapter cable.

How can I use USB-C ports for charging my iMac?

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