Tested! The best USB-C cables for charging and data transfers
…How PCWorld tests USB-C cables We purchased retail USB-C cables for this roundup. We physically measured and weighed each cable and examined each connector. A proper USB-C cable…
There are a number of different types of USB-C to USB-C cables including: USB 2.0, USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB 3.1 Gen 2, and Thunderbolt 4.The main difference between all of these is their data transfer rates and their charge rates. Basic charge cables give you very slow data transfer speeds and typically only up to 60 watts. For a phone, tablet, and even most small laptops such as a Dell XPS 13 or MacBook Pro 13 that's fine. As you move up to larger laptops such as a Dell XPS 15 or MacBook Pro 16, 60 watts will limit how fast you can charge. The other key differentiator is speed. USB 2.0 is a ploddin
Tested! The best USB-C cables for charging and data transfersUSB-C cables today are used for transferring data, running monitors, and charging everything on the planet from $5 LED trinkets to $2,000 laptops and even power tools now. It is basically the most common type of cable for electronics today and thanks to its universal and open design it has rapidly replaced all other competitors including Apple's Lightning as well as older USB cables. It's appeal is the reversible nature so you no longer have to look for alignment. With its ability to handle 240 watts now, USB-C to USB-C cables will likely begin replacing other proprietary cables as well.
Tested! The best USB-C cables for charging and data transfersThe right answer depends on what you want to plug the device and cable into. If you are charging your Galaxy S26 Ultra or iPhone 17 with a charger using a USB-A port, then obviously, you’ll want to buy a USB-A to -C cable.If you’re wondering what the capabilities are between a USB-A to -C versus a USB-C to -C cable, that largely depends on the cable.In pure capabilities, a USB-C to -C can potentially charge up to 240 watts and transfer data at up to 40Gbps (and higher eventually with USB4). These are all things even the best USB-A to -C cable can only dream about.The thing is, while a “full-fe
Tested! The best USB-C cables for charging and data transfersThe short answer is no. USB-C is the standard that defines the physical “oval” reversible USB-C plug and connector and nothing more. It doesn’t refer to the underlying transfer protocols such as how fast data is transferred. A USB-C connector can be a very slow 480Mbps “USB 2.0” or it can be the fastest 40Gbps USB4 or Thunderbolt 4.USB PD, or USB Power Delivery, refers to the advanced charging capabilities over a USB-C a connector and cable. The newest USB Power Delivery 3.1 spec allows for charging up to an impressive 240 watts.
Tested! The best USB-C cables for charging and data transfers…How PCWorld tests USB-C cables We purchased retail USB-C cables for this roundup. We physically measured and weighed each cable and examined each connector. A proper USB-C cable…
…Best USB-C cables: Get quality charging and data transfers We bought a bunch of USB-C cables and put them through the rigors of daily life to find the best ones…
…In addition to PCWorld, his work can be found on Wired, Digital Trends, Reviewed, Lifewire, and other technology publications. How to choose the best USB-C monitor Many features desirable in a…
…You’ll also find an older USB 2.0 USB-A port for a mouse, and a 10Gbps USB-A port next to it for a keyboard or webcam. The dock even…
…This dock is a slightly older model -- old in the sense that it supports gobs of USB-A legacy ports, while more and more devices are moving to USB-C instead. This…
…Thunderbolt 5 docks believe in a world where USB-C/Thunderbolt displays exist, and typically include USB-C (Thunderbolt 5) outputs instead. If your display lacks the appropriate USB-C port, that…
…It also offers six USB-A ports, a pop-out USB hub with quick-access USB-C and USB-A ports, and KVM switch functionality for seamless switching between two connected PCs…
…It also offers six USB-A ports, a pop-out USB hub with quick-access USB-C and USB-A ports, and KVM switch functionality for seamless switching between two connected PCs…
…Why you should trust PCWorld for monitor reviews and buying advice: PCWorld prides itself on its decades of PC hardware experience and expertise. We’ve been covering PCs since 1983, and we…
…Other goodies inside this screen include plenty of ports, including USB-C with 65 watts of charging. That makes it a great companion to laptops, though the biggest and most powerful gaming…