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Overview
USB Type-C, or USB-C, is a standard connection type for mobile and portable devices. It provides a single reversible connector that can carry audio, video, and other data. It can also both provide and receive power. While the connector is standardized, specifications and features supported by cables are not. This article will give you some information about the different types of cables and chargers that are available.
Beware of Counterfeit Cables and Chargers
It's usually not necessary to buy an official cable or charger from your device's manufacturer. It is, however, vital that you purchase a charger from a reputable manufacturer and/or seller. Counterfeit or no-name electronics generally offer substandard performance and can be hazardous. We recommend looking at review sites with transparent testing processes for guidance. Examples:
Several device manufacturers also have accessory certification programs:
Apple - MFi
The image included above depicts badges associated with Apple's accessory certification program, which is called MFi. To use these badges legitimately, accessory manufacturers must work with Apple to meet set performance standards.
Google - Works With Chromebook
Microsoft - Designed for Surface
Cables
There are three main features which may supported by USB-C cables: data, power, and video.
Data
GravityCore, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Included above is a chart of data transfer rates, marketing names, and logos for different different generations of the USB standard. Most cables will support at least the USB 2.0 maximum data transfer rate of 480 Mb/s. If you need a high speed data transfer rate, you can look for a certified USB4, USB 20Gbps, USB 40Gbps, or USB 80Gbps cable, or a certified Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, or Thunderbolt 5 cable.
Power
There is not a single, universally-adopted standard for device charging. Many device manufacturers adopt the USB Power Delivery (PD) standard, but it's always best to consult your device's owner's manual or the device manufacturer's support site if purchasing a USB-C cable for charging purposes. See the Chargers section for more information.
Video
Most USB-C cables do not support video. If you need a USB-C cable for use with video, it's best to look for a certified Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, or Thunderbolt 5 cable to ensure compatibility.
Chargers
While many devices are compatible with USB-C charging, not every USB-C charger will work with every device. For example, a smartphone requires a different amount of power than a laptop does. In these scenarios, it will take abnormally long for your device to charge, or your device may not be able to charge while turned on.
If you need to buy a replacement charger for your laptop, smartphone, or tablet, it's a best to consult the owner's manual or the device manufacturer's support site to find out which fast charging standard your device uses, as well as how much power your device expects to receive from a charger . This would be communicated in watts (W) or volts (V) and amps (A) (usually represented as V ⎓ A). Volts and amps can be converted to watts by multiplying them together (W=VxA).
If purchasing a separate USB-C cable and charger, it is important to make sure that both support the wattage that your device expects.
Related Information
On-Campus Resources
Counterfeiting Awareness
Cables and Chargers
Apple
Chromebook
Surface
USB-IF
Thunderbolt