- 9.40/10 1. Premium pick: Apple Thunderbolt 3
- 9.20/10 2. Editors choice: AINOPE USB-C to USB-A
- 9.40/10 3. Best value: Google USB-C to USB-A
- 9.40/10 4. JSAUX USB-C to USB-A
- 9.40/10 5. Syncwire USB-C to USB-A
- 9.60/10 6. Anker Powerline II USB-C to USB-C
- 9.40/10 7. Plugable Thunderbolt 3
- 9.40/10 8. QCEs USB-C to USB-C
USB-C is a reversible cable standard designed for charging and transferring data between devices. Some USB-C cables can only support USB 2.0 speeds, whereas others support Power Delivery and USB 3.1 Gen 2.
There's no doubt that USB-C is the port of the future. USB-C offers the opportunity for fast charging and higher data transfer speeds. There's a vast range of cables, so it's essential to consider your needs carefully.
Here are the best USB-C cables for charging and data transfer.
The Apple Thunderbolt 3 cable is a USB-C lead that supports USB 3.1 Gen 2 data transfer. It is 0.8m long, the optimal length for performance. This cable boasts data transfer speeds of up to 5,000MB/s when using a Thunderbolt 3-compatible device.
This means you can transfer high-resolution 4K videos incredibly fast, as well as other media and files. When used with a USB-C 3.1 port, the Apple Thunderbolt 3 can achieve transfer speeds of up to 1,250MB/s.
The cable features 100W (5A) fast charging and can be daisy-chained with up to six Thunderbolt 3 devices.
- Data transfer speeds up to 1,250MB/s with USB 3.1 Gen 2
- Daisy chain up to six Thunderbolt 3 devices
- 100W (5A) charging
- Brand: Apple
- Cable Type: Type-C
- Length: 0.8m
- Data Transfer Rate: 5,000MB/s
- Fast speeds for transferring 4K video
- Genuine Apple product
- HBR3 video output support
- Expensive
The AINOPE USB-C to USB-A supports 3.1A fast charging when connected to a QC/AFC protocol rapid charger with a USB-A port. This cable is widely compatible with many devices, including the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra, LG ThinQ, Nintendo Switch, and more.
This cable has been designed with a 90-degree angle so you can comfortably continue to use your devices while on charge, which is especially useful for mobile gaming.
The AINOPE USB-C to USB-A is exceptionally durable, featuring nylon-braided cables. The cable boasts data transfer speeds of up to 60MB/s, ideal for transferring media and files to or from your devices.
- Right angle cable
- Anti-break design
- Double-braided nylon
- Brand: AINOPE
- Cable Type: Type-C
- Length: 2m
- Data Transfer Rate: 60MB/s
- Widely compatible
- Cable designs allows comfortable usage while charging
- Durable
- Won't fit through thicker cases
The Google USB-C to USB-A is a simple, no-frills charging cable compatible with devices that feature a USB-A connection. This charging cable outputs at 3A, ideal if your device is fast charge-compatible.
The Google USB-C to USB-A is a durable cable with reinforced rubbery plugs so you can take it with you in your bag, in the car, or use it across multiple devices at home.
This cable offers USB 2.0 data sync speeds, so you can expect data transfer rates of up to 60MB/s. This means you can easily connect your device to a laptop, desktop, or storage device to transfer data like photos, videos, and other files.
- White cable
- Light and portable
- Official Google product
- Brand: Google
- Cable Type: Type-C
- Length: 1m
- Data Transfer Rate: 60MB/s
- Reinforced rubbery plugs
- Durable
- Multi-purpose
- Not particularly fast for data transfer
The JSAUX USB-C to USB-A is an affordable cable with a stylish design that features nylon braiding for added durability. Each cable end is covered with a rubberized cable guard, which prevents damage from bending.
For data transfer, the JSAUX USB-C to USB-A boasts speeds of up to 60MB/s, allowing you to transfer media and other files from your devices.
While it doesn't boast 5A compatibility, the JSAUX USB-C to USB-A is still very capable of fast charging if your device supports it. The choice of colors and value for money makes this USB-C cable ideal for charging multiple devices and transferring data quickly.
- Braided nylon material
- Rubberized cable guard
- Compatible with 18W USB-A chargers
- Brand: JSAUX
- Cable Type: Type-C
- Length: 2m
- Data Transfer Rate: 60MB/s
- Choice of colors
- Two-pack
- 3A fast charging
- Fast charging only compatible with specific devices
The Syncwire USB-C to USB-A is available in two colors and offers a USB 3.0 standard connection. This means it features fast-charging up to 3A for compatible devices.
The cable can transfer data with speeds of up to 60MB/s and comes with a choice of cable length. The durability of the cable is increased with aluminum housing, and nylon braiding prevents annoying tangles.
Whether you're looking to charge your phone, console controllers, or other devices, the Syncwire USB-C to USB-A can handle a lot of force and high speeds.
- 10,000+ bend lifespan
- Can withstand 8kg exterior force
- Universal compatibility
- Brand: Syncwire
- Cable Type: Type-C
- Length: 1.8m
- Data Transfer Rate: 60MB/s
- Choice of two colors
- Solid and durable
- Good value for money
- Fingerprints left on casing
The Anker Powerline II USB-C to USB-C is a long-lasting cable that features USB 3.1 Gen 2 capability. This cable will work with most Type-C devices like the Apple MacBook, Chromebooks, the Nintendo Switch, and many more.
The Anker Powerline II USB-C to USB-C boasts up to 156MB/s data transfer speeds, which means you can copy across videos in a matter of seconds from your device.
You'll also be able to charge USB-C devices at up to 5A, so fast charging-compatible phones will be able to use the Anker Powerline II USB-C to USB-C.
- Delivers up to 100W (5A)
- Lifetime warranty
- 12,000+ bend lifespan
- Brand: Anker
- Cable Type: Type-C
- Length: 0.9m
- Data Transfer Rate: 156MB/s
- High data transfer speeds
- Durable
- Hassle-free replacement
- Devices that don't comply with PD protocol often won't charge
The Plugable Thunderbolt 3 cable offers reliable all-around performance with compatible devices. When paired with a Thunderbolt 3 port, it boasts speeds of up to 625MB/s, which is ideal for 4K video.
You can quickly charge any of your devices and connect to older devices that use USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 as it is backward compatible. However, if you want to use the Plugable Thunderbolt 3 for fast charging, it doesn't support Qualcomm Quick Charge.
On the other hand, it does support up to 5A power chargers. While it doesn't feature any nylon braiding like other similar cables, it does maintain performance with its short 0.8m cable.
- 5A charging
- Can be used for USB-C devices like phones, tablets, and accessories
- 625MB/s data transfer for USB-C 3.1 Gen 2 devices
- Brand: Plugable
- Cable Type: Type-C
- Length: 0.8m
- Data Transfer Rate: 625MB/s
- High-speed transfer rates
- Supports dual 4K video output
- Backwards compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 3.0
- Doesn't support Qualcomm Quick Charge
The QCEs USB-C to USB-C automatically adjusts its current to be compatible with 5A fast-chargers and other devices. It offers a generous length of 1.5m and is also compatible with Thunderbolt 3 ports for high-speed data transfer rates.
When connected to a Thunderbolt 3 port, the QCEs USB-C to USB-C can produce speeds of up to 2,500MB/s, allowing you to transfer data quickly, including 4K videos.
This cable is reinforced with metal and features nylon braiding to make it incredibly durable, even when repeatedly bent. The QCEs USB-C to USB-C is compatible with a wide variety of devices, including the iPad Pro, Samsung Note, MacBook, Nintendo Switch, and many more.
- Fast charging up to 5A
- Compatible with Thunderbolt 3
- Nylon braiding for extra durability
- Brand: QCEs
- Cable Type: Type-C
- Length: 1.5m
- Data Transfer Rate: 2,500MB/s
- Durable
- High-speed data transfer
- Universal device compatibility
- Doesn't fit all phone cases
FAQ
Q: What Does a USB-C Cable Do?
A USB-C cable is the latest type of USB connector. They are designed to be easier to use because you can't plug them in the wrong way. They are more powerful in comparison to older USB types. USB-C can be used for quick charging and offer faster data transfer rates than other USB types.
Q: Are USB-C Cables All the Same?
Not all USB-C cables are the same. USB-C represents the shape and type of connector, but different USB-C cables support other protocols and data transfer speeds.
Q: Can You Repair a USB-C Cable?
USB-C cables are relatively affordable and, in many cases, provide high durability with the type of cables and connectors that manufacturers include. If your USB-C cable breaks, it's advised to replace it rather than repairing it due to the intricate detail involved in designing them.
