Article: How can I tell which USB-C cable to purchase?

StarTech.com offers a wide range of USB-C cables to meet various needs, from USB 2.0 cables used for charging smartphones to the latest USB 4 and Thunderbolt 5 cables that support speeds up to 80Gbps and power delivery up to 240W.

When selecting the right USB-C cable, there are several features to consider to ensure it meets your specific requirements:

  1. Data Transfer Speed: Depending on your needs, you might require a cable that supports higher data transfer speeds. USB 2.0 cables are suitable for basic tasks like charging and data transfer at 480Mbps, while USB 3.0 and 3.1 Gen 2 cables offer faster speeds up to 10Gbps. For the highest performance, USB 4 and Thunderbolt 5 cables can reach speeds up to 80Gbps.

  2. Power Delivery/Charging: If you need a cable for charging, check the power delivery capabilities. Some cables support 60W, 100W, or even up to 240W with the latest standards. This is crucial for charging larger devices like laptops.

  3. Video Support: For those who need video support, look for cables that can deliver full video. This feature is often highlighted under the “Deliver full video” heading in the product overview.

  4. Cable Length: The length of the cable can affect its performance and convenience. Choose a length that suits your setup without compromising on speed or power delivery.

  5. Connector Type: Determine whether you need a USB-C to C or USB-A to C cable based on the devices you are connecting. USB-C to C cables are typically used for newer devices, while USB-A to C cables are compatible with older USB ports.

To help you decide, here is a short comparison chart of different USB-C cables we offer:

Cable Type Data Transfer Speed Power Delivery Video Support
USB 2.0 480Mbps Up to 60W No
USB 3.0 5Gbps Up to 100W No
USB 3.1 Gen 2 10Gbps Up to 100W Yes
USB 4 40Gbps Up to 240W Yes
Thunderbolt 5 80Gbps Up to 240W Yes

To explore our full range of options and find the cable that best suits your needs, visit our USB-C Cables category.