Anker PowerLine+ USB C 3.0 cable
Apple USB-C Charge Cable
Cable Matters USB-C Cable
Well, the march of the USB-C type cable is most definitely on, with more and more mainstream tech moving over to the super slim connector to charge and sync their gadgets and devices. While not yet totally universal, the future is now with us, so we’ve taken a look at the best USB-C cables currently out there.
So, what is the gen on the USB-C? Well, thanks to its nifty reversible connector, you’ll no longer experience the hit and miss of trying to plug in your cable the wrong way around. Plus, your device could also benefit from a serious boost in data transfer speed and fast charging time. And, while more and more big names are moving over to be totally USB-C, you can still bridge the gap between compatible and non-compatible devices with USB-C to USB-A cables.
To help get you connected with the future of USB, we’ve put together our top 10 USB-C type cables to add to your collection. Welcome to the revolution.
The Best USB C Cable
1Anker PowerLine+ USB C 3.0 Cable
From ANKER, one of the leading USB charger brands comes a speed demon of a USB-C connector that races to the top of our best USB cables list. With a transfer rate of up to 5Gbps (that’s an impressive five seconds to transfer an HD movie or 1,000 songs), the Powerline+ also claims to last longer than most USB cables thanks to its double-layered nylon exterior.
You get a lot engineering tech for the money with the Powerline+ and as a quality USB-C to USB-A connector, it effectively bridges the gap between USB-C devices and standard ports. It’s also compatible with the new MacBook and MacBook Pro as well as the ChromeBook Pixel, bringing with it the option for high-speed charging wherever you go.
Offers SuperSpeed transfer of 5 Gbps
Double-braided nylon exterior boosts durability
Reinforced with aramid fiber for tensile strength
5,000+ cable bend lifetime span
Comes with a lifetime warranty
- BrandAnker
- ModelAK-A81690A1
- Weight2.24 ounces
2Apple USB-C Charge Cable
For the Apple Mac devotes amongst you, here’s a safe and fast USB-C cable for charging and syncing for your MacBook or MacBook Pro that shouts quality and Apple styling while delivering all the connectivity you need.
At a more than plentiful 6.5ft, Apple USB-C Charge Cable cable has been designed specifically to synch your MacBook or MacBook Pro device or, with an added USB-C power adaptor, speed charge from a wall outlet. The device fit is seamless, and the sturdy cable built to minimize unnecessary curling or kinks as well as prevent any long-term weakening of its internal wires. This USB-C cable also supports up to 5 Amp and can also be used to synchronize USB 3.1 type C Apple smartphones.
Quickly and easily connect and synch your MacBook
6.5ft total cable length
Sturdy cable design to prevent kinking
Requires separate adaptor to charge devices
Iconic Apple product styling and quality
- BrandApple
- ModelMLL82AM/A
- Weight6.5ft
3Snowkids USB C Cable
Billed as ‘reliable, rugged and luxurious’ there’s no doubting this USB-C to USB-A cable is a neat looking thing (although we’re not too sure any USB-C cable can be described as lux), and at super-sized 6.6ft per cable, this two-pack set at less than $10 is also damn good value too.
Sleek in design, the Snowkids USB C Cable has a good rate charging and synching spec, making it a USB type C cable more than capable of stepping up to repeated everyday use. Nylon-double braided, with a slim cable that has been bend tested to over 6,000 times, this USB-C cable also comes with a neat leather strap to keep it organized.
Built-in 56kΩ-Charging Safety
Supports fast charging up to speeds of 5Gbps
Double-braided nylon cord with leather fastening
6.6ft long cable in a two pack
Comes with a handy lifetime warranty.
- BrandSnowkids
- ModelFBA_TBC-2M-30-Black2
- Weight4 ounces
4Belkin Type C Charge Cable
US device connectivity specialists Belkin have been leading in their field since the 1980s and have a reputation for quality, performance, and value. Their USB-C to USB Type A Charge Cable is the solid workhorse of our best USB-C cable list and the Belkin pedigree doesn’t let it down.
At just over four feet, the cable length is enough for everyday use and comes with what Belkin describe as superior USB-C to USB-A cable construction. This translates to a precision welded metal shield designed to protect the PCB and E marker, minimizing ‘radiated emission levels’ and adding to the overall cable strength. Tough credentials for a sleek cable that works with a good range of USB-C compatible devices, including MacBook, Chromebook pixel, Samsung Galaxy S8, Google pixel, Nintendo switch and the LG G5.
Supports up to 3 amps of power output
Transfer speeds of up to 480 Mbps
USB-IF Certification
Welded metal shield to protect PCB and E Marker
Available in five colors
- BrandBelkin
- ModelE9M924bt04-BLK
- Weight1.28 ounces
5Google Pixel/XL/C Quick Fast Charger
Ok, we’ve featured an Apple-specific USB-C type, so it would be remiss of us to leave out this quality cable from Google, this time designed to not only be compatible with the Chromebook Pixel but also a host of other brands too, including Nexus 5X, Nokia N1 tablet, Nintendo Switch, Samsung Galaxy S8/S8+ and the MacBook 12 inch as well as standard USB-A devices. This is certainly a well-connected USB-C to USB-A cable when it comes to compatibility!
At a decent cable length of just under 6ft, this neat and clean USB-C cable can offer 480 Mbps data transfer speed, depending on the capabilities of the device and supports up to 3 Amps. Google Pixel/XL/C Quick Fast Charger is a quality USB-C charging cable that’s versatile across your range of devices. Love this product? Check out our review of the best portable power banks for our top picks.
Compatible with Google Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel C Tab
Works with a range of other USB-C and USB-C to USB-A devices
Power output up to 3 Amps
Up to 480 Mbps data transfer speed
Total cable length of 5.9 feet
- BrandGoogle
- ModelC Quick Wall
- Weight1.6 ounces
6CableCreation USB-C to USB-C Charging Cable
One of the longest USB-C cables in our review, the CableCreation USB-C to USB-C is great for those stretch situations in the car or in the office, for vertical gamers or for leisurely sofa sessions on your phone or tablet when the last thing you need is cable-tangle.
With this USB-C to USB-C charging cable, you get a nice sturdy product that can up its game to an adequate 480Mbps for a good range of devices, including the Apple MacBook(Pro), Nintendo Switch, Galaxy S9/S9+ and the Pixel XL 2.
Extra-long cable provides extra reach
Output power up to 20V,3 Amp for a quick charge
Supports data transfer speed up to 480Mbps
Braided nylon outer to protect against tangles
Comes with a lifetime warranty
- BrandCableCreation
- ModelCC0149
- Weight1.76 ounces
7BrexLink USB Certified Type C Cable
This is one tough cookie of a USB-C to USB-A cable from NYC-based company BrexLink that has been designed with an ultra-durable nylon braid cable and seamlessly molded joints to resist kinks and keep it tangle-free. Plus, there’s a nice snap-lock tie on each cable to keep them super neat.
The two cables in a pack really do come in handy and they are not skimping on length either, with each cable coming in at over 6ft. The BrexLink USB Type C cable supports high speed charging up to 3A and data transfer to a maximum of 480Mbps, so an all-around good performer, although the details highlight that it’s not compatible with iPhone. Never mind, you can’t have it all, but this USB-C to USB-A charger does work with a good range of other devices, including the Google Pixel 2, Samsung Galaxy S9 and the Nintendo Switch. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best external hard drives.
USB certified fast data Synch and charging
Ultra-durable nylon braided jacket
Cable bend lifespan of 6,000+
23AWG wire core in the premium aluminum housing
Extended 24-month warranty
- BrandBrexLink
- ModelFBA_B-003
- Weight0.16 ounces
8UGREEN USB C Cable 3.1
China-based connectivity specialists UGreen have put together a well-priced USB-C to USB-C cable that’s ideal to have as a back-up at home, in the office or as your ‘on the road’ spare.
At 3ft, the cable is just long enough to make it work for a range of synching and charging setups between two USB-C enabled devices although the size does make it a great travel option. However, to charge your USB-C device from the wall you will need an adaptor.
High speed synching up to 5Gbps
Transfer 10x faster than a standard USB 2.0 type C cable
Nylon braided cable with aluminum casing
Works with a wide range of USB-C compatible devices
Molded strain points for prolonged bend life
- BrandUGREEN
- Model50477
- Weight1.44 ounces
9Cable Matters USB-C Cable
Don’t let the five bucks average price tag for this neat little USB-C charging cable put you off – this well-engineered USB-C to USB-A cable is so much more than a simple ‘that’ll do’ buy. With a lifetime warranty and its molded, sturdy construction, you get a lot for your money, meaning we are happy to award it our Best Value badge.
Ok, the cable is on the shorter side compared to others in this review, but for all-around use, its 3.3ft will keep you happily connected. It also comes in 6ft and 13ft lengths for a few dollars more if length really matters.
Low profile USB-C cable simplifies the connection
Foil & braid shielding for a reliable signal
Data Transfer Rate: 480 Mbps
Connectors with molded strain relief for durability
56k Ohm resistor prevents charging damage
- BrandCable Matters
- Model201001-BLK-1m
- Weight0.32 ounces
10Covery Braided USB C to USB A Charger
The Covery is a great choice for your backup USB-C to USB-A cable, and with four cables of differing lengths in the $10-ish pack, you can afford to have one for every occasion.
This is a product that’s been designed to make your connective life on the go that little bit easier, whether it’s in the car, the office, on your commute or in front of the TV. And for this price, it won’t break the bank.
Nylon-braided cable with a 10,000+ bend lifespan
Water and pull resistant cord
Compatible with most new USB-C type devices
Maximum data transfer speed of 480Mbps
Four pack comes in a range of cable lengths
- BrandCovery
- ModelTUSBCY-4
- Weight4.8 ounces
USB-C Cable Buying Guide & FAQ
How We Chose Our Selection of USB-C Cables
With the USB-C to USB-C cable not quite able to claim the universal tag just yet, there’s some behind the scenes spec and plug-in options to consider if your gadget is not totally USB-C. To make sure we bring you a range of solutions for your connectivity ambitions, we thought long and hard about the following when coming up with our best USB-C shortlist:
Quality – You’ll be plugging your new USB-C cable into your precious tech, so quality and value rather than generic and cheap as chips is the way to go on this one.
Brand - this was an essential part of whittling ourBest USB-Cables list down to the final top 10. Not only are you getting a reputation to endorse your new USB-C or USB-C to USB-A cable but also peace of mind about performance.
Reviews – the proof is in the pudding, as they say, so we took on board a range of users’ first-hand experiences to ensure the products on our top 10 USB-C type cable list were all up to the job and could connect to the most popular devices.
Price – if the price tag seems too good to be true when it comes to tech and electrics, it probably is. Value for money when it comes to what you pay for a USB-C type cable also comes in performance, quality, and durability as well as the price tag so that the final bill really does add up.
Types of USB C Cables
The type of USB C Cable you choose to use is dependent on your type of tech and whether it’s already compatible with the USB C type connector, whether you need an adaptor or whether you need to link to an old-style port. The main two types of UBC-C cables widely used are:
USB-C to USB-C cable
A USB-C to USB-C cable offers rapid charging or synching between two USB-C compatible devices, for example, to plug an LG Nexus smartphone into your new MacBook or to connect with a USB-C brick or adapter.
USB-C to USB-A Cable
If you need to connect your USB-C compatible device or smartphone to a computer that still has the standard type USB-A port, then this hybrid cable which has the C-plug on one end and the A-plug on the other is the ideal solution.
USB-C Cable FAQ
Q: What is a USB-C Cable?
A: USB stands for ‘Universal Serial Bus’ and the concept was originally developed back in the 90s as a way of sending data, charging electronic goods and connecting items such as your mouse and PC. Tech-wise, it was a total gamechanger and USB technology has continued to evolve at a fast pace ever since, getting faster and more powerful as it shrinks in size.
The USB-C cable – aka USB 3.1 type C - is the latest charging cable on the block and has been billed to eventually become the main man when it comes to charging, transferring and connecting all your devices. This nifty charging powerhouse first appeared back in 2014 and has since knocked standard charging cables out of the park when it comes to speed, power, and size.
What sets the USB-C apart is its tiny physical connector – a third of the size of the standard USB-A plug – which is totally reversible as it is the same at both cable ends. Its symmetrical shape also means the faff of trying to flip the connector as you fumble to find the right orientation is a thing of the past.
But it is not only in size does the USB-C charging cable wipe the floor with the bigger USB guys. For such a small dude, the USB-C type cable can support significantly faster charging and data transfer compared to other USB cables. Compared to the average 640Mbits per second for the USB 3.0, the USB 3.1 type C has seen the data rate jacked up to as much as 7.2 Gbits per second, depending on the device being connected. This increase in power available with USB Type-C cable means you can also use it to charge higher-powered devices such as laptops.
In short, with more and more tech having a USB-C port as standard, the USB-C is the cable guy for our ever-decreasing in size yet increasing in power and spec, super thin gadgets and devices.
Q: Will my battery charge faster with USB-C cable?
A: Despite its diminutive size, the USB-C type cable is capable of supporting faster charging times as long as your device or charger is compatible. All USB cables work within a defined charging standard, rather impressively known as the USB Power Delivery specification – or USB-PD.
The standard USB 2.0 port pushes 2.5W but the USB 3.1 type C can take advantage of the 100W maximum output of the Power Delivery system when it needs to. This means the USB-C type cable can work to its optimum as well as the device’s safety limits, whether it is charging a smartphone or a large, powerful laptop. However, USB Type-C cables and ports may be used for USB 3.1, but, depending on the host controller and devices, may only be compatible with USB 2.0 or USB 3.0, bringing the speed down.
Q: Is USB-C the same as micro USB?
A: In short, no…although there are similarities and the USB-C cable has transpired to be the micro USB’s more than worthy successor. The micro USB is just as its name suggests, neat in size and has certainly served the tech world well. But now the USB-C cable has picked up the micro baton and totally run with it.
The USB type C cable is actually slightly larger in size to the micro, but its oblong reversible shape and double ended connector make it easier to use, even for the most fumble-fingered amongst us. USB-C cables can also take advantage of the 3.0 and 3.1 data transfer speeds and faster-charging options.
With a bold step, the USB-C charging cable has totally leaped over the design limitations of the micro USB and is fast becoming the ‘one size fits all’ cable connector for all your tech devices.
Q: Are USB Type C chargers universal?
A: Well it seems the USB-C will eventually go that way although not all cables currently support the same functionality. Standard USB A, B, mini and micro connectors are still out there, and it all depends on your gadget, model and manufacturer as to what port your device currently has. Today you can buy USB-C to USB-C double ended cables for your totally USB-C compatible devices, or to connect or data transfer a standard port device, you can use a USB-C to USB-A cable. USB-C is also backward compatible with USB 2.0 and 3.0 devices, but you’ll need to buy an adapter as the plug on USB Type-C cable is different than the plugs on 2.0 and 3.0 cables.
Sources:
- USB-C- Wikipedia
- Charging via USB-C for laptops: Here’s what you need to know- Digital Trends
