USB cables for charging – the ultimate guide

There are many different types of USB cables today, and it's not always easy to know which one to choose. In this guide, we'll list the most common types of USB charging cables today. We'll also look at what products these cables are typically used for and how they give you the best and most efficient charging.

USB-C to USB-C (USB-PD) Charging Cables

USB-C to USB-C is the newest and fastest type of USB cable for charging and data transfer. The cables are based on the reversible USB-C connector. This cable allows you to charge a device faster than other types of USB cables.

Along with the USB-C connector, there is also a new charging protocol called 'USB Power Delivery' (USB-PD). With this, several voltage intervals (3.3V-20V) and up to 100W of power can be offered via USB-C. So newer phones, tablets, and laptops with USB-PD support can be charged from the same cable/connector and potentially faster and better than with all other types of USB cables.

For the same reason, USB-C cables also come in different variations with different ratings from 20-100W. So be sure to use a USB-C cable that at least matches the capacity that your USB-C charger can deliver and the connected equipment can draw - to achieve the optimal charging effect.

The Chill Innovation USB-C to USB-C cables are perfect for fast charging laptops, tablets, phones, and other types of devices based on the USB-C connector. They are also suitable for transferring data between two devices (unless otherwise stated).

The USB-C connector will be the new EU standard from ultimo 2024 and Apple will gradually phase out the Lightning connector in favor of USB-C (ex. iPhone 15)

USB-A to USB-C Charging Cables

USB-A to USB-C is a cable that allows you to connect equipment that has a USB-C plug on one end and the classic USB-A plug on the other end (typically USB chargers). This cable is typically used with laptops, tablets, phones, and other types of devices with USB-C plugs from e.g. a USB charger with a USB-A connection.

The Chill USB-A to USB-C cables come in different lengths and with different output power ratings (typically between 15-100W), so you can also use the different fast charging protocols that different smartphone brands have. It is also suitable for transferring data between two devices (unless otherwise noted).

Originally, the USB-A port was designed for max 5V/2.4A, but many newer USB chargers with USB-A ports can today also deliver higher power (Watt/amp) and multi-volt (3.3-20V) through this port. So the USB-A plug is still used by many smartphone brands and their different fast charging standards. Therefore, one must be aware that the USB-A to USB-C cable, device and charger used all supports this higher power standard if necessary (Apple does not support higher charging standards via USB-A than 3A)

The standard USB-A to USB-C cables are typically color-coded with a white plug (<3A), a purple (<5A) or orange (<7A) plug as an indication of the specified charge protocol and max output. Regular USB-C cables are typically 3A rated and with white plugg, unless otherwise indicated.

USB-A to Apple Lightning Charging Cables

USB-A to Lightning cables allow you to charge Apple devices based on the Apple Lightning plug, from a USB charger based on the classic USB-A plug. Lightning cables are exclusively used by Apple products, such as iPhones, iPads, and other Apple devices.

The Chill USB-A to Lightning cables deliver a maximum possible output power of about 20 watts. They are typically also suitable for data transfer.

From ultimo 2024, the USB-C plug will be the new common EU standard, so Apple will gradually phase out the Lightning plug in favor of the USB-C plug.

USB-C to Apple Lightning (USB-PD) charging cables

USB-C to Lightning is the fastest type of USB cable for charging and data transfer for Apple products equipped with Lightning connectors and USD-PD support (from iPhone 8 to 14).

The cables are based on the reversible USB-C plug. This cable allows you to charge Apple devices faster than the regular USB-A to Ligning cables, provided it is used with a USB charger that also supports USB-PD (USD Power Delivery).

USB-A to Micro-B (Micro-USB) Charging Cables

USB-A to Micro-B (typically called a Micro-USB cable) is a widespread cable for smaller and older products. It allows you to charge a device that has a Micro-B port from a USB charger that has a USB-A connection. The Micro-B connector is not reversible and a bit more fragile than the newer USB-C connectors, but is still used for many smaller low-power products such as digital cameras, headsets, e-cigarettes, etc. that run on 5V.

The USB-A to Micro-B cables from Chill have a maximum output power of 5V/1-2.4A (5-12W), which is the highest this standard supports. Micro-USB cables can also be suitable for data transfer, but many only work for charging.

USB cables in TPE Rubber and Braided Textile

There are many different types of USB cables, and it can be difficult to know which one to choose. With the wide range of USB charging cables from Chill Innovation, you should always be able to find the correct type of cable for your needs.

You can choose from several lengths (25cm to 200cm) and materials (braided / sleeved textile cables and TPE rubber cables) and typically in black and white variations. All cables can deliver different max output power, so be aware to choose a cable that is strong enough for the device and USB charger you will use it with.

The short USB cables of 25-30cm are very popular for multi-port USB chargers / USB Charging Stations and for portable USB Powerbanks.

If you are looking for a fast and reliable USB charging cable, then check here in the shop or contact us for guidance.