Take the stress out of shopping for good tech. Here’s how to choose the right USB cable for your needs.

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Good news! In a bid to reduce e-waste and branded monopolies, EU legislation will make USB C charging cable the norm by the end of . Until then, most of our devices have different charging ports, and if we keep them for years (which is best for the planet), then we need charging cables that fit.

“Even though USB cables can look the same, there are so many options. They can differ wildly and it can become complicated quickly. We want to simplify things for everyone.” 

— Fabian Hühne, MD of Syllucid

After years of research and testing, our engineering experts walk you through the process so you can balance quality, budget and functionality.

10 things to look for when buying a new USB cable

1. Device compatibility
2. Charging power
3. Data transfer speed
4. Cable length
5. Durability
6. Guarantee
7. Price
8. Sustainability credentials
9. Certifications
10. Reviews

1. Device compatibility

It’s safe to use USB cables for many different brands, even when they aren’t part of their ‘branded ecosystem’ of cables. However, do make sure to choose a cable that is compatible with your devices. Essential for that are the connectors. Make sure to check your devices and charging socket first before you buy a cable.

The connector is the metal part that goes into the charging port. The most common types of connectors are Type-A, Type-B, Type-C, Micro-B, Mini-B and lightning (Apple). When in doubt, google which connector your device uses. 

USB charging cable types with different connectors including mini USB, micro USB, USB C and more. Source: Ifi Audio

A good option when you have multiple devices with different connectors is a modular cable so you only need one cable for your , laptop, e-reader, headphones and speakers.

Syllucid Charge: All-in-one

2. Charging power 

If you plan on using your USB cable to charge devices like your or laptop, make sure it has the ability to deliver enough power. Check the specifications of your devices to ensure the cable you choose has the necessary power delivery capabilities. 60W is ample for most devices. Modern cables often use Power Delivery (PD), a technology to allow for even faster charging up to 240W.

While it's important to make sure that your cable can deliver enough power to charge your device (a 30W cable will charge a laptop that needs 65W at a lower speed) - there is no need to worry about having a cable to that is too strong. A USB cable that can deliver 100W will also charge a that only requires 30W to be charged at top speed without any complications. 

Power

Supported devices

10W

Smartphones, hard drives, headphones, small accessories

18W

Smartphones, tables, larger accessories

36W

Future smartphones, notebooks, displays, hubs

60W

Laptops, larger notebooks, hubs, docking stations

100 - 240W

Larger laptops, workstations, external graphic cards

Charging cable power (W) needed for different devices. Source: Manhattan Products

Every manufacturer has developed their own charging protocol using USB charging cables. Those include:

• Qualcomm Quick Charge
• MediaTek Pump Express
• OPPO VOOC/Warp Charge (licensed to OnePlus as Dash Charge)
• Huawei SuperCharge
• Samsung Adaptive Fast Charging

Even if your cable does not support the custom charging protocols it will still charge the device, however potentially at a slightly lower speed.  

3. Data Transfer Speed

In most scenarios USB 2.0 is fast enough. USB cables come in different speeds. USB 3.0 cables are a distinctive blue colour. Say you’re a videographer creating 4K video and you need a fast transfer speed, make sure to choose a cable with a higher speed rating.  Most data cables like HDMI are currently being replaced with USB. 

USB Version

Speed Name  Speed 

USB 2.0

High Speed

180 Mbps

USB 3.0

SuperSpeed (SS)

5 Gbps

USB 3.1

SuperSpeed+

10 Gbps

USB 3.2

SuperSpeed+

20 Gbps

4. Cable Length

The length of the cable is an important consideration. Make sure to choose a cable that is long enough to meet your needs. 1.2m should be long enough for desk use and charging your at night. You might want to go for longer, or a charger with an extension cord if you know your power socket is far away. 

5. Durability

The longer our electronics work, the less harm they cause the planet. A good quality USB cable should be made of durable materials and have a sturdy construction. Look for cables made to last with design elements like braiding and bend protectors to ensure they can withstand frequent use. Another aspect of the cable to look out for is its thickness. A more hidden element of any cable is the conductive wire (usually copper) that is on the inside of your cable. How thick this wire is and how well protected it is, is important to determine how long it will last. As copper is very valuable, very cheap cables often use very thin wires to save costs. That also makes them break more easily. Be wary of cables that look very thin or are comparatively extremely cheap to avoid having to buy a new one in a short period of time. 

6. Guarantee

If you’re intending to invest in a long life item, it’s always worth looking out for brands that offer a guarantee or warranty. That way, you’re covered if anything goes wrong.

7. Price

USB cables can range in price. Determine your budget and choose a cable that offers the features and specifications you need at a price you can afford. Remember, if you buy cheap, you may buy twice! Cheap cables are made poorly and tend to break. If they have a single coat of plastic and no 'bend protectors', they're more likely to break. It's about a balance between quality and price. Note that the longer your electronics last, the better they are for the planet.

8. Sustainability credentials

Electronics impact climate change because they have a large carbon footprint and can cause environmental damage, such as deforestation from mining metals and e-waste. The supply chain can also be linked to slavery, child labour, gang crime, poor working conditions and minimal pay. 

Two in three of us consider ourselves as belief-driven buyers. Our buying decisions increasingly focus on sustainability, social impact, ethics and environmentalism. In which real ways is the brand you’re buying from reducing its impact on the climate and people making the products? 

Check for recycled metals, recycled plastic coating, carbon offsetting, and collaborations with environmental and social impact projects. They might be part of the Greentech Alliance, support Fairtrade Gold, Stannol or an environmental organisation like PUR Project in the region their materials come from.

9. Certifications

Trust badges are a good indicator of quality. For example, Qualcomm ensures fast charging. The recycling symbol is a good indicator, however it doesn’t mean the whole product is recycled. CE, RoHS, Reach, FCC and WEEE are all good certifications.

10. Reviews

Last but not least, do other people like the product? Take a look at the reviews and make sure people are positive about the cables.

Here's a positive review from one of our happy customers

In today's centralized world of technology, appropriate fit adaptors and connectors for your computer can guarantee higher performance of the computer and greatly improve its interconnectivity. 

Regardless of your goal, to improve device functionality or to connect to different types of peripherals, the selection of proper adapters and connectors is here essential. 

In this guide, you will be able to understand how to select the right options best for your computer to function optimally. 

Let’s examine the most popular types: USB, HDMI, and Ethernet adapters and connectors of audio-video and data communication. 

With these aspects in mind, you will be better positioned to make good decisions enhancing your computing experience. 

Now, let’s go deep into the process of selecting the most suitable adapters and connectors for your equipment.

What are adapters and connectors?

Adapters and connectors are hardware features that enable compatibility between two or more devices within computing systems. 

They join cables or devices with different port types, allowing seamless data transmission or power delivery. 

Some include HDMI, which is used for transmitting HD video and audio between devices, and USB, which allows data transfer and also supplies power to computers and peripherals.

Display port, which is used for transmitting high-resolution videos; Ethernet, which is a wired network. 

These connectors are essential for connecting various parts, such as monitors, keyboards, and networks, to computers. 

Similar to the adapter that joins two plugs together and makes different machines work together even though without it, the two were incompatible.

Why Does Choosing the Right Adapters and Connectors Matters?

Selecting the right adapters and connectors is important as they facilitate proper connectivity with varying other devices in the right manner. 

The wrong ones can lead to low signal quality, data loss, and even damage to the equipment involved. 

Good connections do not compromise the contact, as they ensure the continuity of power or data transfer. 

They also prevent compatibility problems that may occur from using incompatible devices. Furthermore, selecting the correct adapters also helps prolong the lifespan of your electronics because constant plugging and unplugging of stress ports and connections unnecessarily. 

Overall, selecting the right adapters and connectors makes this equipment efficient, financially profitable, and free of frustrations.

Types of Adapters and Connectors

1. Video Adapters and Connectors

HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, and DVI are examples of video connectors commonly used to connect the computer to the display. 

Parallel is old-fashioned, hence not the best for modern-fit ones, HDMI and display ports are the best for modern-fit ones since they support high-definition video and audio, with display ports being better fitted to support multiple monitors. 

Are you interested in learning more about Customized Computer Connectors and Cables? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

VGA is older and offers a lesser-quality analog video incompatible with modern displays or monitors. 

DVI is a middle ground that serves adequate purposes for video outputs but does not handle audio signals, which makes it suitable for older digital display solutions. 

Select HDMI or DisplayPort when using most modern devices, DVI for other digital monitors, and VGA only when nothing else is available.

2. Data and Power Connectors

USB connectors such as micro USB, USB-B, and USB-C are adopted for device charging and data transferring between smartphones, laptops, and peripherals. 

USB-A is the long, narrow rectangular connector, while USB-C is the newer, smaller, oval-shaped port with enhanced data transfer speed and charging capabilities. 

USB Type-C, called Thunderbolt when the connection is fast enough, allows multiple devices, such as monitors and storage drives, to be connected with a single cable. 

NEMA is applied to electrical outlets in the U. S., whereas IEC connectors are applied to power cords in computers, servers, etc. 

They make sure that each device gets the right voltage it requires in a safe manner.

3. Audio Adapters and Connectors

When selecting between various interfaces, consider a 3.5 mm jack, optical audio, and Bluetooth connectors, which gives a clue about how the different interfaces affect audio and compatibility.

Auxiliary 5mm jack offers a good-quality analog sound and is compatible with many devices but may interfere. 

Optical audio produces better-sounding digital signals that are particularly useful for home theater systems; however, it works with compatible ports and not any device. 

Bluetooth adapters enable portability and wireless connectivity as an auxiliary input but suffer from compressed audio quality. 

Therefore, your choice should best suit your devices' inter-connectivity depending on your sound needs.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Adapters and Connectors

1. Compatibility

When selecting adapters and connectors, one needs to make sure that they correspond to the ports on the computer so they are compatible. 

Be sure to know your computer’s compatibility to determine its ports: USB-C, HDMI, or Thunderbolt, and look for a match. 

It is also necessary to take into account that the connected device may require certain types of connectors or may be powered only at a certain level. 

If the adapter you use does not meet your device's standards, it may not function or could lead to damage. 

Finally, ensure the adapter will enable the functionalities required, such as data transfer speed or VGA output, for the best experience.

2. Quality and Durability

When selecting adapters and connectors, one should emphasize the connectors' quality and ability to hold up to their intended use. 

This is an advantage because high quality means that the products are less likely to fail and therefore avoiding cases where you have to repair or replace a faulty product. 

When searching for good adapters and connectors, choose those that are well-built, from known brands, and have good feedback from customers. 

It is also possible to check if the source was certified or meets certain Industry standards; this could also help determine its reliability. 

Purchasing long-lasting products entails that they will only require occasional replacement and, therefore, ensure an uninterrupted flow of your activities or work.

3. Future-Proofing

Adaptors and connectors are selected considering future-proofing, which means choosing the best options according to the trends in the future. 

Think about the capabilities and their changes, for instance, about the growing popularity of USB-C due to its universality or the transition to wireless options. 

Choose models with higher data transfer rates and compatibility with current and future devices for future-proofing. 

Secondly, consider using universal or multi-purpose adapters, which would be handy for making the change to the new standards without having to get new ones very often. 

This approach is efficient and cost effective especially since your setup will remain compatible with future developments.

4. Price vs. Performance

To some extent, the choices made when selecting adapters and connectors should be balanced with cost concerns. 

While choosing the most affordable solution, one should consider that many inexpensive devices negatively affect the connection quality and might even harm the devices used. 

This means that spending a lot does not always mean getting the better of what you want for your needs. 

The idea is to focus on products recognized by other buyers and meet your needs but do not include unnecessary features. 

This way, you are guaranteed to get a good connector or adapter without having to overpay or get a shoddy one that will eventually fail.

Popular Examples of Adapters and Connectors to Choose From

SF Cable is a top provider of high-quality adapters and connectors known for their reliability and performance. Below are some examples of the premium adapters and connectors they offer.

1. 1/4"/3.5mm/2.5mm/RCA Adapters

For your audio solution, SF Cable has a range of adapters, such as 1/4"/3.5mm/2.5mm/RCA Adapters. These adapters ensure devices with distinct audio ports, such as a 3. 

From the 3.5mm headphone jack to RCA for home theater systems, the 1/4” adapters are primarily designed for connecting devices used in professional audio equipment, and the 2. 5mm adapters are good for use in older or small selection devices. 

The options on SF Cable’s website allow you to easily select the appropriate adapter and avoid unnecessary connecting device complications.

2. Banana Plugs

A banana plug is an audio connector specifically used to connect speaker wires to a device such as a speaker or an amplifier. 

This kind is intended to click directly into binding posts and enable wire connection and disconnection without strain or risk of damaging them. 

Banana plugs are also one of the solutions proposed by SF Cable for a tidy and secure audio connection. 

These plugs are perfect for any wishing to upgrade the quality and functionality of audio connectivity.

3. D-Sub Connectors

D-Sub connectors, also known as DE15, DE10, or DB connectors, are electrical connectors used to establish connections between computers and other equipment. 

These connectors are available in various sizes and pin types for most peripherals, such as displays, printers, and other peripherals. 

For the buyer’s information, SF Cable extends its product line of D-Sub connectors to accommodate different demands today, including HD D-Sub connectors and conventional D-Sub connectors for older devices. 

The selection of D-Sub connectors will depend on your configuration's requirements, the connectors' capacity, and the type of signals required to be transmitted.

4. DVI/Displayport Adapters

At SF Cable, customers will find a wide range of DVI to DisplayPort adapters that ensure compatibility of devices with DVI ports and DisplayPort monitors. 

These adapters can be easily employed because they provide an interface that spans radically different display technologies but does not require new purchases. 

Using SF Cable means that the options available offer stable and clear videos, making it easy to upgrade your system. 

These are useful for anyone who plays games or needs an additional screen for work purposes, and they are quite easy to use.

Troubleshooting Common Issues For Adapters and Connectors For Your Computer

Here are some pointers for troubleshooting common issues with adapters and connectors for your computer:

1. Loose Connections: Check that all cables are properly connected; improper connections may lead to loose network connections.

2. Incorrect Port: Ensure that the adapter or connector is plugged into the right port in your computer.

3. Driver Issues: Check if the adapter is not recognized by the computer and then update or reinstall the device's drivers.

4. Compatibility: Ensure you have the correct version of the adapter that supports the operating system on the computer.

5. Power Supply: Check whether the adapter requires an external power supply; failing which, check if it is supplied with enough current or voltage.

6. Damaged Cables: Inspect cables for signs of wear; discard cables whose exterior is worn, frayed, or cut in any way.

7. Settings Configuration: Overriding computer settings, including the display settings or the network settings of the computer and other corresponding settings, would ensure that the adapter was used optimally as required.

8. Firmware Updates: At the firmware level, search for updates for the particular adapter or connector.

9. Interference: If connectivity is an issue, eliminate any possible interference causes, including other electronics.

10. Multiple Adapters: If many adapters are involved, try disconnecting all but one to narrow down the cause of the issue.

11. Adapter Overheating: If the adapter feels warm to the touch, it is advisable to let it cool, as overheating might lead to a malfunction.

12. Testing on Another Device: Try using the adapter with another device to check if the problem resides with the adapter or the computer.

13. Reset or Restart: You can try to solve it by turning your computer off and then on again or resetting the particular adapter.

14. Cable Length: If possible, employ short cables, as longer cables can be detrimental to signal quality and may cause problems.

15. Check for Blockages: Check to make sure there are no particles or mechanics inside the ports where the adapter plugs in.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to first determine the adapter or connector that best suits your needs, consider compatibility with your devices, and go for good-quality products that will provide the service you need without letdowns.

 This is important because you should always consider choosing options that can serve multiple purposes and be long-lasting to avoid getting a new one time and again. 

It is also useful to look at arguments and guarantees, as these provide a clue to the stability of the products and the quality of the service offered by their manufacturers. 

When considering your current setup, make sure your adapters and connectors are sufficient, or perhaps a better option is available. 

The problem with choosing the wrong adapters now is that it can only lead to frustration later on.

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