The Best USB-C Cables
Wired connections form the essential infrastructure of our technological lives. If you want to most efficiently charge your smartphone or transfer data between your computer and tablet, you're going to need a cable. And you can't just use any cable. You need the right cable. So, when it comes to USB-A to USB-C type cables, we've researched and compiled a list of some of the best options in order to help you make the connections you need.
What to Look For
We take our cables seriously, so we scoured the market for the best of the best. In our search, we used three main questions to guide us: Does it support fast charging and fast transfer speeds? Is it made out of durable materials that won’t fray or break? Is the price fair for the length and quality? Our favorite option came from Anker. Their two-pack of USB-C cables proved durable, fast, and modestly priced. But for those that want the absolute best bang for their buck, we recommend checking out Aioneus’ three-pack. Not only are they super affordable, but they have braided jackets to improve their working life. For more of our in-depth reviews, read on.
Anker USB-C Cable Two-Pack
A premium pair
Anker is an industry leader in charging technology, and their cables are no exception. This two-pack offers a pair of premium USB-A to USB-C cables that support charging up to 15W and data transfer speeds of up to 480Mbps, which is quite impressive. Each six-foot cable also supports high-speed charging for devices compatible with Qualcomm Quick Charge, such as the Samsung Galaxy S10 and Note 8. With quality construction and a tough nylon exterior, these cables are engineered to last. If you’re looking for a pair of premium cables from a recognized name, Anker has what you want.
Pros:
- The braided nylon exterior is super sturdy and durable, which helps ensure these cables can stand the test of time.
- We appreciate the range of color and size options Anker offers, especially because it makes it easy to stock up on quality products from a trusted brand.
Cons:
- We wish this cable had a ten-foot option.
Aioneus USB-C Cable Three-Pack
Great things come in threes
Appearance matters, and so Aioneus has put together a three-pack of USB-A to USB-C cables for those who want their cables to have some color. The six-foot cables come in easily distinguishable green, blue, and orange, making it easy to spot them on a cluttered desk. Their nylon weave is bend-resistant to help prevent tangling and wear and tear. If you want color and quality, and you appreciate the value of both, Aioneus’s cables are for you.
Pros:
- Color might seem like a superficial concern, but if you’ve ever had a coworker “accidentally” steal the nondescript black USB cable you lent them, you know it’s about more than just looks.
- We were impressed to learn that these cables feature connectors that can tolerate a maximum load of roughly 11 pounds, ensuring that they will remain rigid despite continuous use.
Cons:
- These colorful cables are only available in a six-foot length.
Anker PowerLine+ II USB-C Cable
Built for rough handling
For those who are rough on their cables, Anker has engineered a tough cable to endure such treatment. The latest addition to their PowerLine series, this PowerLine+ II USB-A to USB-C cable is made with two-shade braided nylon and a bulletproof fiber core. This six-foot cable is designed to be beaten, bent, and battered. It’s a cable designed to last. If you need durability in your charging and syncing cable, Anker’s made the one for you.
Pros:
- Anker states this cable has a lifespan of more than 30,000 bends — many times longer than that of other cables. We’re not sure if they’ll see that much action in our possession, but it’s good to know they have our back.
- Once you start using a cable with a dedicated carrying pouch like this one, you’ll wonder how you ever made it without one. No more winding up your wires and scouring your desk for a rubber band. Best of all, it’s designed to help adjust the cable length as you use it, so it’s an even more practical choice.
Cons:
- We’d love a longer-length option.
Aprilery Short USB-C Cable
A big thing in a small package
Not every cable needs to be super long, and this ultra-short USB-A to USB-C cable from Aprilery proves that sometimes shorter is better. Featuring a flat, flexible printed circuit (FPC) design that is durable, this cable is less than half a foot long. It can’t get tangled, contorted, or deformed, and it fits easily in a bag. But, in addition to saving space, its small size actually enables it to offer ultra-high transfer and quick charging speeds. It’s a genuine USB 3.1 Gen 1 cable with a transmission rate of up to 5 Gbps and up to 3A/60W fast charge. If you need a compact, premium quality cable, this is the one.
Pros:
- This cable might be small, but it’s got a really durable, thick feel to it. The distinctive flat design and blue-toned ends help ensure this petite powerhouse won’t get lost in the shuffle.
- Ultra-high-speed transfer and quick charging make this pint-sized pick a pretty big deal.
Cons:
- This cable is designed to be as portable as possible, so it doesn’t come in longer lengths.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between USB “version” and USB “type”?
If you’re confused by the distinction, you’re not alone. Not being clear on the specifics makes it much harder to find a cable that fits your needs, so we’ll give you the lowdown.
USB “version” refers to the specific technology standard and not the shape of a cable’s connector or a device’s USB port. The version directly affects data transfer and charging speeds without consideration of the apparent physical design of the cables or the devices bearing the technology. USB 3.0 is an example of a USB version.
USB type refers to the shape of a cable’s connector or a device’s USB port. It identifies and categorizes the physical design of the cables or devices bearing the USB technology. USB-A is an example of a USB type.
How do I figure out which USB cable I need?
In order to determine which USB cable you need, you should first examine your device’s USB port (if you don’t have the device’s specifications). The most common USB ports are USB-A, USB-B Micro, USB-C, and Apple Lightning. Most Android devices use the USB-B Micro port, whereas most of Apple’s devices use either USB-C or Apple Lightning ports.
Once you know which port your device has, you need to know what you want to connect your device to. USB cables are available in every combination of USB types. For example, the standard iPhone 12 USB cable is USB-C to Apple Lightning. This cable can only connect a device with the Apple Lightning port and a device with a USB-C port.
These two steps will help you learn and understand the USB types that you’re working with so that you can narrow down the USB version indicated by the type.
About the Author
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With the constantly shifting landscape in the world of technology, GameRevolution seeks to provide gamers and tech-enthusiasts with the information they need to select the right products for their needs. Since 1996, our experts have used their knowledge on all the latest gadgets – everything from headphones to standing desks – to help millions of people navigate specs and answer common questions.