Buying a USB cable wasn’t always as complicated as it is today, but the advent of USB-C, USB 3.0, and USB4 paved the way for a jumble of standards that leaves most users confused about the right cable to choose.
If you are in the market for a new USB cable, you will know there are many different variables to consider. So, we will look at the most important variables one by one as closely as we can to help you choose a USB cable that suits your needs and preferences.
1. Cable Type and Connector
The first and most important factor to consider when selecting a USB cable isthe cable type and connector. USB cables come in various shapes and sizes, such as USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, and micro USB.
Due to its status as the latest and the greatest, you typically cannot go wrong with a USB-C cable, as most modern laptops and smartphones have at least one USB-C port.USB-C has several unique featuresthat help it stand out from other USB connectors. USB-A and USB-B ports are still in use but becoming less popular with time.
2. USB Version
USB technology has evolved from the very first generation in the late 90s to the most recent version, released in August 2019. Today, the prevailing generations are USB 2.0, USB 3.0 (with its sub-releases) and USB4.
The numbered generations do not describe the connector type designated by the letters A, B, and C. The USB version determines data transfer rates, charging speeds (in some cases), support for alternate modes, and even connector type (as of USB4). As a given, newer versions of USB always offer faster data transfer speeds and improved overall performance.
Color codes and logos are usually used to distinguish between USB generations and different features in USB devices. For example, a USB Type-A port can be color-coded blue or have the initials SS next to it to indicate a 3.0 or SuperSpeed Port. USB 3.0 and USB4 ports are typically colored blue to differentiate them from older ports.
The confusion associated with USB devices from the 3rd Generation upwards is further compounded by the USB Implementers Forum’s insistence on changing the naming scheme every few years.
With the newest naming scheme, the former “SuperSpeed” and “SuperSpeed + transfer speed” branding has been deprecated in favor of a new system that uses the syntax “USB XGbps,” where X is the speed of transfer in Gb/s, as well as the Power Delivery rating.
3. Data Transfer Speed
Closely related to the last factor, the data transfer speed of the USB cable is another thing you need to consider when buying a USB cable, especially if you frequently transfer large files between devices.
Data transfer speed is determined primarily by the USB version. The USB4 standard is the fastest USB version as of the time of writing and boasts theoretical transfer rates as high as 120 Gbps. You may not need that much throughput, but a USB 3.x cable should be the minimum to aim for if you buy a USB cable.
4. USB Power Delivery and Alternate Modes
USB Power Deliveryis a standard that lets USB-C cables carry enough wattage to power-demanding devices such as hard drives, laptops, and fast-charge mobile phones. USB Power Delivery is one of many alternate modes featured in the USB-C protocol and can deliver up to 240W of power.
All USB-C cables offer Power Delivery functionality, but not all of them can supply up to 240W. You can identify those that do by checking the spec sheet or the logo on the connector.
Alternate Modes such as DisplayPort,HDMI Alt Mode, Mobile High-Definition Link (MHL), and Thunderbolt are present in full-featured USB cables. These features may or may not be critical to your use case, but they are worth having if you can pay the increased price to get them.
5. Cable Length
All USB cables have a length limit, that is, a certain predetermined length, after which the USB signals begin to deteriorate. This maximum cable length differs between USB generations. USB 1.0 has a length limit of 9 feet, USB 2.0 tops out at 16 feet, and USB 3 and its revisions have a practical length limit within the range of six to nine feet. Technically, a cable can go past the stated lengths, but it would significantly affect its usability.
If you need a longer USB cable, buying an active USB cable is the easiest option. These active cables usually have electronic circuits that enhance the data signals sent through them, extending them past the maximum recommended length.
6. Price & Affordability
With USB cables, as with anything else, you generally get what you pay for. For this reason, it becomes essential to strike a balance between affordability and quality. A flimsy, generic USB cable will be much cheaper than one from a well-known brand. That is not to say that no-name brands are incapable of making good cables, but it is not the norm.
Also, recent USB connector types and standards tend to cost more than older ones because they incorporate faster and more powerful technology. For example, you can expect to spend anything from $25-$30 on a full-featured USB-C cable, while a USB 3.0 Type-A cable usually costs less than $10.
7. Build Quality
The durability of a USB cable becomes more important with frequency of use. For instance, a charging cable has to be more durable than one used for transferring data occasionally.
USB receptacles are usually rated for a maximum number of insertion and removal cycles, and USB-C receptacles are quite durable at 10,000 total cycles. However, this number only applies to the receptacle, not the USB cable.
Although there is no standard for testing the durability of USB cables, some manufacturers perform bend tests on their cables and release “bend ratings,” that is, the number of bends the cable can endure before it ceases to function.
You should also keep an eye out for features such as reinforced connectors, thick conductors (<25 AWG), and braided nylon shielding, as they usually make for a more durable cable.
8. Certification and Reviews/Ratings
The USB-IF has a program for testing USB cables to verify that they meet quality standards and support the features they claim to. USB-IF-certified cables must include the descriptive bandwidth and power rating logos mentioned earlier.
A good number of the USB cables you will find will not be certified, though, so keep that in mind. Uncertified cables are usually less expensive, but they can be a gamble.
Whether buying a certified or uncertified cable, you should take the time to read reviews from other customers. Actual, written experiences of previous buyers may tell you more about a cable’s performance and durability than the spec sheet will.
Take Your Time When Buying a USB Cable
Hopefully, now that you’re armed with our list of things to go over before you spring for a new USB cable, you are in a better position to choose the right cable for you and your devices. It is best to keep in mind that the confusion with USB never really goes away, it only gets better with time.
