What is the best USB-C hub for the Apple Silicon iMac models?

For earlier "Tapered Edge" iMac models, EveryMac.com has long been a big fan of USB hubs that attach to the bottom of the iMac display and make it straightforward to access ports from the front of the iMac. Similarly designed hubs now are available for the Apple Silicon iMac, as well.

Identification Help (Skip)

At the moment, available USB-C hubs for the colorful Apple Silicon iMac models only support USB 3 speed via USB-C connector (rather than a faster USB 4 or Thunderbolt 3/4 standard), so differentiation is only important in terms of differentiating them from earlier iMac models, but it may make a difference in the future. Accordingly, specific identification info can be worthwhile.

Model Numbers commonly are shared by multiple Macs, but so far, they actually have been unique for the Apple Silicon iMac models and perhaps this trend will continue.

Nevertheless, historically, other identifiers are more likely to be a bit more future proof. In software, the Model Identifier is sufficiently unique for just about all purposes. Externally, the EMC Number is best as it is less likely to be shared by future models using the same case type, although like the Model Number, it is inconveniently located on the underside of the stand for the M1 models (or buried in software for the M3 or M4 models).

To locate the model identifier in software, select "About This Mac" under the Apple Menu on your computer, click the "More Info..." button, and finally click the "System Report" button.

These identifiers for the Apple Silicon iMac models are as follows:

24" iMac	Subfamily	Model	EMC	Model ID
"M1" 8 CPU/7 GPU	M1 2021	A2439	3664	iMac21,2
"M1" 8 CPU/8 GPU	M1 2021	A2438	3663	iMac21,1
"M3" 8 CPU/8 GPU	M3 2023	A2874	8207	Mac15,4
"M3" 8 CPU/10 GPU	M3 2023	A2873	8206	Mac15,5
"M4" 8 CPU/8 GPU	M4 2024	A3247	8531	Mac16,2
"M4" 10 CPU/10 GPU	M4 2024	A3137	8532	Mac16,3

More details about specific identifiers are provided in EveryMac.com's extensive Mac Identification section.

Best Colorful 24" Apple Silicon iMac USB-C Hub

Just about any USB-C hub will work with the colorful Apple Silicon iMac models, but if you want to be able to easily use ports without having to reach under and around to the back of the iMac and free up desk space, as well, the Satechi USB-C Clamp Hub will be welcomed particularly. It is the best option.

Photo Credit: Satechi (USB-C Clamp Hub - Front)

Photo Credit: Satechi (USB-C Clamp Hub - Rear)

Available in silver and matching light blue options -- but not other colors -- the Satechi USB-C Clamp Hub provides one USB-C port (up to 5 Gbps), three USB-A ports (USB 3.0) ports, and SD and microSD card reader slots in a sleek design.

It is hoped that this USB-C hub will make your iMac not only more capable but also a bit more convenient, too.