USB-C cables buying guide
Two USB-C cables can look identical and behave completely differently, so it pays to read what the cable actually supports.
- Charging power is separate from data speed: look for a stated wattage (60 W, 100 W, 240 W) if you charge laptops.
- Data speed matters for drives and video: USB 2.0 tops out at 480 Mbps, while 10 or 20 Gbps cables are far quicker for large files.
- Video output over USB-C needs a cable rated for it; a charging-only cable will not drive a monitor.
- Length trades against quality: past about 2 m, cheap cables lose speed and charging power.
- A braided jacket and reinforced ends help, but the connector is where cables fail, so warranty terms matter.
Common mistake: Using an unbranded 60 W cable with a 100 W charger and wondering why the laptop charges slowly.