Many new smartphones require USB cables, as do various accessories. Our roundup of the best and most versatile cables on the market will make your choice easy.
USB-C is the port of the future. We’re seeing more and more devices changing to the new standard, and it’s now almost impossible to find an Android phone above $300 that’s still using the outdated Micro USB charging cable. And while the Apple iPhone continues to use the Lightning cable, there are rumors every year claiming Apple is considering swapping its phones to the standard — there’s even an E.U. proposal that may ensure it happens. Heck, the top-tier iPads and MacBooks use USB-C ports, so some would argue the change is inevitable. But why are so many phones making the switch to the new USB-C charging cable?
Simply put, it allows for faster charging and data transfer speeds, and, most importantly, you can insert the cable either way up. That’s right, no more awkwardly rotating the cable to jiggle it into your phone’s port. Best of all, it can be used for phones, tablets, power banks, and even laptops — so all you’ll need is a single cable (as long as you’re not using an iPhone, that is). But not every USB-C cable is created equal, and you want something durable and dependable if you’re going to rely on it for multiple devices. This list of the best USB-C cables has options sure to meet your needs for length, power output, and reliability.
Amazon Basics USB-C to Lightning Cable
Quick charge: Yes
Length: 1 to 6 feet
Warranty: Lifetime
Apple started releasing iPhones with USB-C connections because USB-C charges devices incredibly quickly. Unfortunately, iPhones still don’t contain USB-C ports, but you can always take advantage of the connection as long as you have this USB-C Lightning Cable to connect them to an adapter. It includes a certified Apple MFi chip so that you know it’s authentic and safe, and it has a nylon braid exterior for extra protection that traditional cables can’t offer. The cable provides up to 480Mbps data speeds and up to 18-watt charging.
Anker Powerline USB-C to USB 3.0 Cable
Quick charge: Limited to 2.4A
Length: 3 feet
Warranty: Lifetime warranty
You can use this cable to connect a new device with a USB-C port to a charger or computer with a standard USB port. This is a durable cable that you can rely on, with a double-braided nylon exterior and an aramid fiber core. The connectors also have reinforced necks to reduce damage from bending, and this cable won’t tangle or get knotted. It syncs data at up to 5Gbps and can hit the maximum charging speeds for most smartphones. It comes with a neat carry pouch that has a Velcro strap to help you keep any excess cable out of the way. There’s a 6-foot version as well.
Anker also offers an excellent
USB-C to USB-C 2.0 Powerline II cable
for $16, which supports fast charging a wide range of devices.
Apple USB-C Cable
Quick charge: Yes
Length: 3.3 feet and 6.6 feet
Warranty: 12 months
Manufactured by the tech giant itself, the Apple USB-C charging cable is ideal for those looking to sync data or simply charge a MacBook or iPad. The cable features Apple’s iconic clean, white design, with sturdy rubberized material to reduce internal damage. It delivers fast charging up to a 96W with a compatible power brick, which means it pumps out enough power to recharge a MacBook Pro. While it’s available in a shorter 3.
