Not all USBs are created equal. If you've ever stood in front of a drawer full of cables, wondering which one was the right one, you know the problem. In this article, we explain the most important USB types — so you know what you need for your next purchase.
USB-A The classic rectangular connector that almost everyone knows. It's found on computers, chargers, and hubs and has been the standard for decades. USB-A comes in three speeds: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/s), USB 3.0 (5 Gbit/s, recognizable by the blue port), and USB 3.1 (10 Gbit/s).
USB-C The new standard — oval, symmetrical, and it doesn't matter which way you plug it in. USB-C can simultaneously transfer data, charge devices, and drive a display. Depending on the cable and port, speeds from 480 Mbit/s to 40 Gbit/s (USB4) are possible, and charging power from 18 W to 240 W.
Micro-USB This small trapezoidal connector was long the standard for Android smartphones and accessories. It is rarely built into new devices today, but many older devices such as power banks, speakers, or cameras still use it.
Mini-USB Even older than Micro-USB — today almost exclusively found on older cameras, GPS devices, and hard drives. If you have such a device, you probably need a USB-A to Mini-USB cable.
Lightning Apple's proprietary connector, used in iPhones and iPads from 2012 to 2023. Since the iPhone 15, Apple has switched to USB-C. Older Apple devices still require Lightning cables — preferably MFi-certified ones, to avoid problems with iOS updates.
Thunderbolt Thunderbolt looks like USB-C but is more powerful. Thunderbolt 4 transfers data at 40 Gbit/s, charges at up to 100 W, and can simultaneously drive two 4K displays. Thunderbolt ports are marked with a small lightning bolt symbol.
Which cable do you need? Not sure what connector your device has — or what specifications your cable needs? Our Cable Configurator helps you find the right cable in seconds.