If you’re looking into buying one of Apple’s prime selection of computers or already have one, you might be surprised to know that you’re still not reaching the peak of what a computer can do. All that can change with the purchase of some simple accessories.
In this article we look at what goods you’ll need to really get the most from your Mac device, whether it’s professional work or throwing it in your bag for some on-the-move computing. Even these powerful computers have gaps in their functionality that need to be filled, so don’t be caught out. The MacBook Air is the device of the moment, and you can browse a huge range on sites like ebay.co.uk if you need inspiration on which one to plump for.
Here are some popular items you can use to accessorize your Mac.
External Optical Drive
Even with DVDs and CDs being pushed aside for ‘virtual’ content, some of us still want a way to play them, even if some of Apple’s laptops don’t come with drives. Apple’s own USB Superdrive is perfect for Mac owners, being small, sleek and easily powered with a single wire. There are alternatives out there too, and because they’re USB they’re only there when you need them, meaning that you’re not stuck with it when you just want to spend the night watching Netflix.
Case
If you plan on taking your computer out and about then a sturdy bag is essential. The classic laptop bag is always a practical choice, not only giving you space for the machine itself and its wires but plenty of room for other bits and piece you may need to take with you. If you’ve already got a good bag or backpack then don’t let your Mac be loose in there with things that may damage or scratch it: wrap it up with a laptop sleeve or skin to keep it protected. The Independent can show you some stylish ideas for sleeves – they’re much more than just a shield, they’re a fashion accessory.
External Storage
If there’s one piece of advice that’s always being thrown around in the computer world it’s that you should always back up your devices (let the BBC show you how). An external hard drive is the perfect way to do this, holding terabytes of space and giving you more than enough room to back up your Mac several times over. If you’re savvy enough to have already done this then a simple USB drive is always useful to ferry files from one computer to another, with huge amounts of storage coming in very small packages.
AV Connections
For those wanting to project their screen onto their TV or through a projector then you’re going to need the right cable: for its laptops Apple offers various wires that plug into their Thunderbolt ports. For TVs a Thunderbolt-to-HDMI will get the job done with simplicity, where if you’re looking at hooking up to monitors or projectors then a Thunderbolt-to-VGA will be your best bet. All it will take is one of these adaptors and the wire of your choice then you’re using your Mac on the big screen.