Discovering USB-C: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding and Choosing the Right Connector

BenQ

2023/11/15

USB-C with universal and user-friendly feature, making it being included with almost every device available

In a technology forward world where nearly everyone relies on devices, USB ports have become essential. We all know what they look like, but do we really understand the ins and outs of these connectors? There are multiple iterations of USB ports, but the latest is USB-C and it’s become universal. It’s time to delve into the details of USB-C and break it all down.

Index

USB-C Overview

Data Transfer Speeds for USB-C

Power Delivery for USB-C

DisplayPort for USB-C

Full-Featured USB-C

Additional Purchasing Tips for USB-C Users

USB-C: The Universal Connector

The USB standard was first introduced in 1996, with USB-B and Micro USB connectors coming out later for different adaptability options on devices. However, they fell short of being truly universal because they required a specific orientation to plug in. USB-C changed this by introducing its symmetrical design, meaning it can be connected either way, making it universal and user-friendly. It has quickly replaced USB ports, being included with almost every device available, including all Apple devices now.

Simple distinctions in the physical appearance of USB-C, Micro USB, and Lightning

USB-C Versions and Specs

The USB-C connector may look the same, but it has distinguished versions with diverse capabilities. The different versions are USB 3.1, USB 3.2, and the latest, USB 4. These versions differ in data transfer speeds and power output. The newer versions, specifically USB 4, offer faster data transfers and more power, promising broader device compatibility.

Let's review the specifics of each USB-C version.

Data Transfer Speeds for USB-C

USB's goal has always been high-speed data transfer. USB-C has the fastest data transfer speed so far, with USB 4 supporting speeds of up to 40Gb/s. Here's a table to help you understand the data transfer speeds of each USB version:

Distinguishing USB-C (USB Type-C) versions that support DisplayPort Alternative Mode (DP Alt Mode) from the logo

Distinguishing USB-C (USB Type-C) versions that support data transfer only from the logo

Power Delivery for USB-C

USB ports don’t just transfer data, they also deliver power. With USB-C and Power Delivery (PD), you can send and receive power through a supported cable. This means fewer cables cluttering your space and more devices powered solely through USB-C. Products with PD support are marked with a lightning icon:

Distinguishing USB-C (USB Type-C) versions that support Power Delivery (PD) from the logo

DisplayPort for USB-C

USB-C can also transmit audio and video through DisplayPort Alternative Mode (DP Alt Mode). Devices with this feature let you connect to displays, projectors, and other devices for high-quality video. Look for the "D" or "DP" icon next to the USB logo to identify this feature:

Distinguishing USB-C (USB Type-C) versions that support DisplayPort Alternative Mode (DP Alt Mode) from the logo

Full-Featured USB-C

USB-C can do it all – from Thunderbolt 3 to 4. If you want a one-size-fits-all solution, look for these logos to identify products with comprehensive USB-C ports:

Distinguishing USB-C (USB Type-C) versions from the logo to find the full-featured USB-C

Additional Tips for USB-C Users

Understanding USB-C's potential is crucial, but there are a few more things to consider:

1. Cable Compatibility: Not all USB-C cables are created equal. Ensure you have the right cable to utilize all the benefits of USB-C. The wrong cable could hamper data speed transfer and other features.

2. Cable Quality: Low-quality cables can lead to unreliable connections and safety hazards. Stick to reputable brands with official certifications and warranties to avoid problems.

3. Physical Considerations: Factors such as cable length and ensuring a proper connection can impact your experience. Longer cables may result in signal loss.

When selecting USB-C cables online, here are the key factors to pay attention to:

1	Quality and Durability	Look for reputable brands and check if they offer warranties or guarantees. Quality and durability are often associated with well-known manufacturers.
1 2	Quality and Durability USB-C Standard Type	Look for reputable brands and check if they offer warranties or guarantees. Quality and durability are often associated with well-known manufacturers. Identify the USB-C standard type to understand the data transfer speed and functionality. USB 3.2 and USB 4 offer faster data transfer speeds and higher power output.
1 3	Quality and Durability Certification	Look for reputable brands and check if they offer warranties or guarantees. Quality and durability are often associated with well-known manufacturers. Check if the cable is USB IF Certified. The USB-IF cable certification ensures that the cable meets quality standards for reliable USB performance. Different cables are certified for various purposes
1 4	Quality and Durability Power Delivery (PD) Compatibility	Look for reputable brands and check if they offer warranties or guarantees. Quality and durability are often associated with well-known manufacturers. Check if the cable is marked as having PD functionality and its compatible PD capacity in watts.
1 5	Quality and Durability Video and Display	Look for reputable brands and check if they offer warranties or guarantees. Quality and durability are often associated with well-known manufacturers. If your video equipment supports Thunderbolt technology, ensure that the cable is compatible. Thunderbolt versions should be at least "3" or higher.
1 6	Quality and Durability Price vs. Value	Look for reputable brands and check if they offer warranties or guarantees. Quality and durability are often associated with well-known manufacturers. Be cautious of extremely cheap cables. If a deal seems too good to be true, it might indicate potential issues with specifications or quality. Remember, you get what you pay for in most cases.

In the era of USB-C, understanding the basics and choosing the right connector can make your tech life smoother and more efficient. Happy connecting!

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Discovering USB-C: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding and Choosing the Right Connector