What Are the KEY Benefits of USB Type-C Port?

Did you replace your 5-year-old Android phone with the latest Samsung flagship model? Then you probably noticed that the charger, particularly the cable looks very much different from the old charging cable that came with older smartphones.us

If it’s your first time to encounter that “particular” cable, then what you’re looking at is the USB Type-C connector. This is a connector that delivers power and data to and from various devices.

These devices can be smartphones, laptops, and other gadgets. One of the main USB-C features, USB-C advantages comes in its shape. It features a symmetrical plug that eliminates the annoyances that come with the older USB ports. However, that is only the tip of the iceberg. What other advantages does the USB-C have over other USB cables? We invite you to continue reading below as we explore the USB-C.

 

5 KEY Benefits of USB Type-C Connector

1. That New Connector Shape

First, let us start with the shape of the USB-C connector. As we mentioned earlier, the USB Type-C comes with a symmetrically-shaped plug. This oval-shaped plug comes with many benefits.

For starters, it is reversible. This means you can plug the connector into your device without flipping it around, which means you don’t have to worry about finding the right orientation to plug the connector, especially during pressure-packed situations.

Moreover, the USB-C puts your Android device charger somewhat on the same level as Apple’s lightning plug. Like the Lightning or Apple Mac MagSafe charger, the USB-C doesn’t come with an up or down orientation. All you need to do is to line it up against the port and plug it in.

Related article: The Pros and Cons of Apple MagSafe Charger

2. The Data Transfer Rates

Many myths and misconceptions surround the USB-C, but we can’t deny the fact that it performs well in terms of data transfers. USB-C boasts of higher data transfer speeds compared to its USB predecessors.

The new standard among USBs is USB4. It transfers data with a bandwidth of 40Gbps. Some USB-C from reputable manufacturers can transfer up to 20Gbps. This, however, is not the case across all USB Type-Cs that you will find in the market.

The technology beneath some USB-Cs can be USB 2 or USB 3.0. The latter registers 5Gbps in terms of transfer rate. Thus, you need to check if the USB-C that you’re buying supports USB 3.1.

USB 3.2 Gen 2 can bridge the gap between the different techs, though. Unlike the previous iterations, it can support up to 20Gbps when it comes to transferring speeds. This can be an acceptable option if more of your devices are only compatible with these cords.

3. Fast Charging

Another key feature that attracts many users to the USB-C is the Power Delivery Charging (PD Charging). It is a technology that enables super-fast charging for some devices.

These devices include some Android and Apple smartphones. The technology also comes with certain Google devices. For comparison purposes, USB 2.0 can charge your tablet or smartphone with 2.5 watts of power.

Meanwhile, the USB-C PD can deliver up to 100 watts of power. Not only is this six times more than what the USB 3.1 can give, but it is also enough to power your laptop.

Furthermore, USB-C to USB-C Cable is bi-directional. This means the cable allows your device to send and receive power depending on your preference. Interestingly, the USB-C also allows transferring power to another device while in the middle of transmitting data within the connection.

A perfect example of this feature is the new MacBook. The laptop comes with a USB-C port that also doubles as its charging port. Since you can use a single USB-C cable to charge your laptop and transfer data, there’s no need to use different sets of cables for various USB-C applications.

4. Future-proof

Since the USB-C is one of the latest iterations of the USB cable family, it made it a point to help users future-proof their connections. For starters, the USB-C port adopts USB 3.1 and USB 3.2. As a result, it comes with the same data transfer rates and higher bandwidths as the USB 3.1 and 3.2. However, it’s still not as good as fast as a Thunderbolt cable, though. 

Moreover, the USB-C is smaller and thinner compared to its predecessors. With the structure of modern-day laptops becoming smaller and thinner, the USB-C adapts to the physical dimensions and requirements of these new devices.

5. The Universal Connector

With the USB-C features, USB-C advantages of this USB cable, it is likely en route to becoming a universal connector. Though the USB-C is facing many challenges, private individuals and companies are considering the USB-C interface as the standard for the future.

Computer and gadget manufacturers are incorporating USB-C ports in most of their newer flagship offerings. If you use a desktop computer, you can use a USB-C cable and connect it to an external monitor.

And alongside this connection, you can transfer data from your notebook to an external drive that you also connected to the monitor. With a single cable, you can multi-task and accomplish more and maximize your time.

Key Limitations of USB-C Cables

Like any other technological item, the USB Type-C cable is not perfect. It does come with limitations that users should be aware of.

The main issue is that the USB-C isn’t compatible with other interfaces, such as, USB-A, Lightning port, which means that you won’t have any access to other ports when using this connector.

Related article: USB-C vs Lightning: What’s the Difference?

What’s great is that you can use the USB-C Hub to fix any incompatibility issues that the USB-C faces. There are different adapters that allow you to fit USB-C to different ports for different control options. You’ll be able to link different gadgets together this way.

Furthermore, some quarters noted the fragile design of the USB-C. Take note that the USB-C cable comes with a hollow plug. Moreover, it features a socket tab that is quite delicate.

Hence, you need to be extra careful when plugging and removing the USB Type-C cable from your devices. Jiggling the head of your USB connector is a habit that will get this done. So, avoid wiggling the connector, especially when trying to remove something connected to it.

Choosing the Right USB-C Cable

When choosing a USB-C cable, the most important thing to consider is your purpose for buying. Here are a few things for you to consider when getting yourself a USB-C Cable.

Device Compatibility

If you’re using a new MacBook, your computer comes with a USB-C charging cable. When replacing the cable, make sure to pick one that matches the requirements of your MacBook.

The 12-inch MacBook’s cable can accommodate up to a maximum of 61 watts. If you’re using the 13-inch or 15-inch MacBook, you can go for a USB-C cable that can send power of up to 87 watts.

If you plan to connect your USB 2.0 and 3.0 devices, you can pretty much go for any USB-C cable. That’s if you also have a USB-C to USB port adapter. The good thing about these adapters is that they can issue up to 5Gbps.

Thunderbolt Options

One of your best options is the Thunderbolt 3 USB-C. This cable supports up to 40Gbps of data transmission. It also works on 5K high-resolution video outputs.

The newer variant, the Thunderbolt 4, has 40Gbps as it’s standard. It also has USB4 integration, making it a better option for future-proof setups. Cables utilizing Thunderbolt also have even faster-charging capabilities, giving up to 100W when charging devices.

Get Yourself a USB-C and Enjoy USB-C Features Today

Now that you know what the USB-C is all about, you can start making the jump as you update some of your devices. Enjoy the USB-C features and optimize your setup with this state of the art cable today!

Are you looking for the right USB-C cable to use for your devices? Check out our selection and get one that suits your needs today! Explore the options we offer and find the appropriate cable for your devices.