Interfaces on the front of the iMac would be incredibly convenient. But Apple doesn’t think so. But it would be super practical. Satchi has a hub for the iMac that manages to be reasonably practical without spoiling the look of the iMac.
Satechi iMac Front USB Hub
Pro
- practical
- fits well on the iMac
- nice optical appearance
Contra
- USB-A ports are very tight
Satechi Clamp Hub Pro is the name of the device. Translates as much as clamp-on hub, which should give a professional impression. And that’s what it does in the areas of optics and installation: The hub fits perfectly with the finish of the iMac. And there’s a clever solution for clinging: the hub has two pairs of plastic pliers that can be clamped with a rotating wheel. This is done in the lower vent of the iMac. Very cleverly done. Whenever you think Apple has a design that can’t be expanded, someone has a brilliant idea.
Once the hub is in place, it is bombproof. By the way, also the USB-A ports: you shouldn’t expect them to wear out at some point. Rather, they are on the too tight side for smaller USB sticks. There are also an SD- and Micro-SD card reader and a USB-C port. Besides the latter also a small LED. It shines neutral white and not too bright.
We had the Satechi Hub on an older iMac without USB-C port and therefore used the included adapter to USB-A. Nevertheless it was connected to the Mac with 5 Gbit/s without any problems. Even an iPhone was recognized and charged via the USB-C port. This should fulfill the main purpose of the hub: plug in a stick or device without having to crawl behind the Mac.
iMac Front Hub: Satechi
