How to Choose the Right USB-C to USB-C Cable

By Joybuy, your tech expert

A cable that charges at a snail's pace, frays after a few months, or that your device refuses to recognise: it's an all-too-familiar scenario. Faced with a jungle of options, finding the right USB-C to USB-C cable can quickly become a headache. This guide is designed to break down the essential criteria for you, helping you make an informed choice that's perfectly suited to your needs and devices, whether you own an iPhone 15, a Samsung S24, or a MacBook.

How to Choose the Right USB-C Cable?

Before diving into our top picks, here are the key points to keep in mind to ensure you make the right decision.

1. Charging Power: The Crucial Factor

When it comes to charging speed, not all USB-C cables are created equal. The power they can deliver, expressed in watts (W), is the most critical element.

• For smartphones and tablets: A 60W USB-C cable is sufficient in most cases for effective fast charging. It is compatible with the majority of recent chargers and devices.
• For laptops: More power-hungry machines, like those using a MacBook USB-C charger or other high-performance laptops, require more power. A 100W Power Delivery cable is therefore essential to unlock their full charging potential.

Remember to check the maximum power supported by your device and charger to choose a cable that won't bottleneck their performance. It's the Power Delivery (PD) technology that orchestrates this smart, fast charging; make sure your future cable is fully compatible.

2. Length and Durability: A Matter of Convenience and Longevity

The length and sturdiness of the cable directly impact your daily user experience.

• Length: A short cable (under 1?m) is ideal for a power bank or in the car. A 2m USB-C cable or longer offers maximum flexibility at home or in the office, allowing you to use your device comfortably even when it's plugged in far away.
• Durability: A braided USB-C cable made of nylon or aramid offers far better resistance to twists and daily wear. Manufacturers often state the number of bends the cable can withstand, which is an excellent indicator of its robustness. USB-IF certification is also a guarantee of quality and safety in design.

3. Data Transfer Speed: More Than Just a Detail

If you regularly transfer large files (4K videos, full backups, etc.), data transfer speed becomes an essential criterion.

• USB 2.0 (480 Mbps): This is the most common speed, especially on entry-level cables or those optimised for charging. It's more than enough for syncing music or photos from time to time.
• USB 3.1/3.2 (5 to 20 Gbps) or Thunderbolt (up to 40 Gbps): These standards are indispensable for transferring multi-gigabyte files in seconds or for connecting a high-resolution external display.

For usage primarily focused on charging, a USB 2.0 standard cable will do the job perfectly.

Our Top USB-C Cable Picks

Here is a selection of USB-C cables that meet different needs, from daily charging to powering the most demanding devices.

Belkin BoostCharge Braided USB-C to USB-C Cable 2m

Why it stands out: This cable checks all the boxes: generous length, versatile power, and a robust design. It's the ultimate all-rounder for everyday use.

Advantages:

• Power: Supports fast charging up to 60?W, compatible with many smartphones, tablets, and laptops.
• Length: Its 2-metre length offers excellent flexibility.
• Durability: Braided nylon jacket designed to withstand over 30,000 bends.
• Certification: USB-IF certified for guaranteed compatibility and safety.

Who is it for? For anyone looking for a reliable and long primary cable for home or the office, capable of charging almost all their devices.

UGREEN USB 2.0 Type C 100W Cable 2m

Why it stands out: Its ability to deliver up to 100?W of power makes it a must-have for users of laptops and other power-hungry devices.

Advantages:

• Maximum Power: Supports Power Delivery up to 100?W, ideal for laptops (MacBook Pro, Dell XPS, etc.).
• Fast Charging: Compatible with PD 3.0 and QC 4.0 protocols for optimised charging.
• Length: A convenient 2-metre length.
• Transfer Speed: Data transfer up to 480 Mbps (USB 2.0).

Who is it for? For owners of USB-C laptops who want to ensure they get the maximum charging power.

Samsung USB-C to USB-C Cable 1.8m

Why it stands out: The official option from Samsung, which guarantees optimal compatibility and reliability for the brand's devices, all with a convenient length.

Advantages:

• Compatibility: Designed for perfect synergy with Samsung devices, like the Samsung S24.
• Power: Supports fast charging up to 25?W, which is sufficient for the brand's smartphones and tablets.
• Length: A generous 1.8-metre length.
• Certification: USB-IF certified, ensuring safety and compliance with standards.

Who is it for? For users of a Samsung smartphone or tablet who prioritise the peace of mind that comes with an official accessory.

Belkin BoostCharge Braided USB-C to USB-C Cable 15cm

Why it stands out: Its ultra-compact size makes it the perfect companion for those on the go, whether for a power bank or a minimalist desk setup.

Advantages:

• Portability: Its 15?cm length is perfect for preventing tangled messes in a bag or on a desk.
• Power: Delivers up to 60?W of power, enabling fast charging for many devices, including the iPhone 15.
• Durability: Robust braided jacket, designed for exceptional longevity.
• Certification: USB-IF certified for reliable and safe charging.

Who is it for? For frequent travellers and those always on the move who need a short, sturdy cable for their power bank, car, or laptop bag.

Looking for something else?

The USB-C connector has established itself as the new standard, but many devices still use other ports. If you need a cable with a different connector, like the classic USB-A, we have what you need.

? Discover our selection of USB Type-A Cables

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between a 60W and 100W USB-C cable? The main difference is the maximum power they can transmit. A 60W cable is sufficient for most smartphones, tablets, and some ultrabooks. A 100W cable, however, is necessary to charge more powerful laptops that require such power at full speed. Using a 100W cable on a 60W device poses no problem, but the reverse will bottleneck the charging speed.

2. Are all USB-C cables compatible with fast charging? No. To benefit from fast charging, the cable must be designed to handle high power levels (generally 20W and above) and be compatible with protocols like Power Delivery (PD). A budget-friendly Type-C cable will often be limited to slow charging and low-speed data transfers.

3. Is a braided USB-C cable really more durable? Generally, yes. The braided sheath (often made of nylon) provides much better mechanical protection against bending, friction, and fraying than a standard plastic jacket. It's an excellent investment for a cable that will be frequently handled or transported.