[Daneel_]

...via dongle, at US$29 each, thank you very much. Want to connect an external screen at the same time? Too bad.

I'll take built in ethernet and two display connectors on my lenovo instead. Want to add another network port? Well, there's USB3 gigabit, or simply USB-C. If you need native PCIe adaptors, then Dell XPS range comes with Thunderbolt 3 via USB-C.

Sorry, I have to agree with the parent that the port war is growing tiring. Unless there's a plethora of USB-C ports on the laptop we still need our connectors.

[realityking]

Are you thinking of MacBooks? Because the grandparent talked about the Mac Pro who has two normal RJ45 ports: http://www.apple.com/mac-pro/specs/

[Daneel_]

...yes. Yes I am. Egg on face.

The point still stands though, it's such a shame seeing the minimisation of ports on all systems these days. I can understand using standard ports (usb-c) for peripherals, but essentials such as Ethernet, display and several USB ports (whichever format) should remain built in.

[shoyer]

There's a simpler reason for the lack of an Ethernet port. Compare the size of an Ethernet port to a USB port on the Mac Pro and then look at the side of your MacBook Pro. The Ethernet port would not even fit.

[SyneRyder]

I bought a 2012 MacBook Pro (which Apple still sells in stores) instead of a 2015 model partly because it still has an Ethernet port. Apple could definitely make laptops with Ethernet, they're just choosing not to in their desire for ever thinner machines.

I also feel the keyboard and trackpad quality has deteriorated on the thinner devices. I much prefer the snap of the click on the 2012 MacBook Pro trackpad to the Force Touch simulated click.

[Daneel_]

I've seen expandable Ethernet ports on several ultrabooks - Toshibas in particular. They spring closed when not in use and the bottom half expands when you need to plug in a cable. Apple could manage it tastefully, I'm sure.

[exabrial]

There were expresscards in 90s that had Ethernet Jack's. The cable was inserted vertically.

[Daneel_]

*Edit - parent has also clarified that he has egg on face too. He meant a MacBook Pro as well.

[marknutter]

Good news! You don't have to buy the MacBook!