undefined | Better HN

0 pointslxgr2y ago0 comments

I personally almost never use my 3.5mm audio port and would gladly take one more USB-C port instead of it, just like for the HDMI port on my MBP.

An USB-C to 3.5mm adapter with excellent quality costs about $10, and I can just keep it permanently plugged in to my headset for the very few times I do need it.

A USB-C hub costs much more and supplies less power to downstream devices than two dedicated USB-C ports would.

0 comments

3 comments · 1 top-level

tambourine_man2y ago· 2 in thread

Why not both? It’s not like there’s a limit to the number of ports a computer can have.

lxgrOP2y ago

Every port increases the wiring complexity on and size of the mainboard, as well as the bill of materials.

It's probably minuscule for something like 3.5mm audio (even though analog noise on the board might be a concern), and the computer already needs a DAC/ADC for its built-in speakers and microphone, but when in doubt, I'd rather take a port that I can convert to another using a cheap adapter than a fixed-purpose one I never use.

tambourine_man2y ago

Apple's laptops are decently priced. I’m sure they can afford a 3.5mm jack.

My guess is they’ll ditch it if/when they make a water proof laptop. No ports at all, induction charging only. Johny Ives's dream after retirement.

j / k navigate · click thread line to collapse