USB-C is the fashionable connection commonplace shared by most new units as we speak. It is available in a number of totally different codecs—USB-C, USB4 and Thunderbolt—however all of them have the identical reversible connector on the finish and are interchangeable and backwards suitable. All of Apple’s new units now use USB-C or Thunderbolt for charging and knowledge transfers.
We’ve tried and examined the perfect USB-C and Thunderbolt cables right here. If you wish to leap straight to our suggestions click on the one which meets your necessities:
You could find cheaper on-line however we advocate cables solely from trusted manufacturers, corresponding to Anker, Cable Issues, CalDigit, Plugable, Belkin and Ugreen. When charging your valuable units, you wish to make certain that you aren’t placing them liable to overheating and probably inflicting a fireplace in your house.
Apple’s previous Lightning connector was additionally reversible—the place it doesn’t matter which facet of the connector faces up or down as you plug it in—so no massive change there, however USB-C is rather more than only a symmetrical design. It could switch knowledge a lot quicker—pushing Lightning’s 0.48Gbps to as much as 120Gbps.
Apple’s iPhone 15, 16 and 17 have a USB-C port, changing the previous trusty however proprietary Lightning cable that has been part of iPhones and older iPads since 2012. Apple provides a USB-C charging cable within the field, however if you need a single cable for quick charging and knowledge transfers—or only a spare charging cable—we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites that can assist you get the perfect one.
Some are quick, some are super-powerful, some are each, a number of are retractable, and a few are simply enjoyable. Sure… enjoyable!
We go into extra element about all the pieces you could learn about USB-C cables after the chart of finest cables, however for now you could know in regards to the cable of your desires:
- Which velocity (measured in watts) your units require: an iPhone wants a minimum of 20W to fast-charge, an iPad 30W, a MacBook Air a minimum of 45W, a MacBook Professional 100W and the 16-inch Professional 140W.
- Do you want it to switch knowledge in addition to provide energy? Most charging cables are restricted to a slightly gradual 480Mbps knowledge charge. If you would like correct bandwidth in addition to charging energy search for a minimum of 5Gbps or as a lot as 40Gbps.
- How lengthy ought to or not it’s: if the charger is inside arms attain of your gadget a brief cable may suffice the place an extended cable will simply be an inconvenience, however if you wish to cost your iPhone, Pad or MacBook whereas sat on the couch an extended cable will make all of the distinction.
We’ve provided the cable knowledge to those questions in our critiques under.
The distinction between USB-A, Lightning and USB-C
Foundry
Word that the cables reviewed listed here are USB-C to USB-C (or backwards-compatible Thunderbolt to Thunderbolt). Previous iPhone chargers had the non-reversible rectangular USB-A connector to connect with the charger and a Lightning connector that went into the iPhone. Don’t follow USB-A at one finish because the previous commonplace is restricted in knowledge switch velocity to 10Gbps and restricted in charging velocity to only a slightly pathetic 15W.
Foundry
Utilizing a USB-C charger will allow quick charging even for iPhones with a Lightning port. You may nonetheless cost an Apple gadget with a USB-A charger however not on the quickest velocity. From the iPhone 15 onwards it’s USB-C into the charger and USB-C into the iPhone. See our roundup of the perfect USB-C chargers for iPhone.
We’ve got much more suggestions that present you the quickest methods to cost an iPhone.
Finest USB-C cables for iPhone and iPad
iPhones have included both a USB-C to Lightning cable (USB-C-to-Lightning) and even older USB-A to Lightning (USB-A-to-USB-C) for years, and elsewhere we’ve got rounded up the finest Lightning cables we’ve seen for iPhones older than the iPhone 15. USB-A is the bigger, non-reversible connector. USB-C is required for iPhone quick charging.
From the iPhone 15 onwards additionally with the AirPods Professional 2, you’ll want a cable with USB-C on each ends (USB-C-to-USB-C) to cost an iPhone or iPad except you cost wirelessly—try the finest MagSafe wi-fi iPhone chargers.
All iPads on sale as we speak function a USB-C connector. However even the tenth Gen iPad’s USB-C remains to be restricted to a 480Mbps knowledge velocity. The iPad mini has a USB-C port that helps 5Gbps; the iPad Air 10Gbps; and the iPad Professional has a USB4/Thunderbolt port that may zip knowledge alongside at 40Gbps. Verify your iPad’s knowledge switch charge earlier than selecting a brand new cable.
For charging solely, any of the USB-C cables reviewed under will likely be tremendous as 20W ought to be sufficient to cost even an iPad. However if you’re connecting to different units or syncing by way of cable, we advocate cables that assist quicker knowledge transfers. A 10Gbps USB-C cable, such because the Cable Issues twine under, is a wonderful choice in the event you don’t wish to spend a bundle on Thunderbolt.
1. Apple 60W USB-C Cost Cable (1m)
Execs
- Made by Apple
- 60W Energy Supply
- Strong woven design
Value When Reviewed:
£19
- Charging: 60W
- Cable size: 3.3ft (1m)
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Colours: White
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15-17, charging iPad, charging MacBook Air
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air, charging or syncing MacBook Professional
If you would like each iPhone accent you personal to be made by Apple, go along with Apple’s personal USB-C Cost Cable as a spare USB-C iPhone charging cable—at 60W it’s {powerful} sufficient to cost even a MacBook Air. At $19 / £19 it’s a tremendous, if comparatively costly, answer.
Not like Apple’s slightly feeble plastic USB-C to Lightning cables, this 3.3ft (1m) charging cable has a sturdy woven design which means it’s far much less more likely to fray or break with frequent winding and tugging. Apple additionally sells a $29 2m USB-C Cost Cable that’s now additionally woven—it’s rated at as much as 240W, overkill for an iPhone however top-end charging for any Apple USB-C gadget.
Its USB 2.0 data-transfer velocity is tremendous gradual in comparison with 5Gbps or quicker USB-C cables nevertheless it’s the identical as Lightning. That doesn’t make a distinction when charging your iPhone however if you’re syncing an iPad or Mac by way of cable, switch speeds will likely be irritating. Because the iPhone 15/16/17 Professional fashions boast 10Gbps knowledge switch, this cable’s low bandwidth is a little bit of a disappointment in the event you use the cable for syncing.
It’s out there in solely white. For those who fancy a shade that matches your new iPhone or your comfortable furnishings, you could learn on for one of many third-party USB-C cables that we advocate.
2. Anker 310 USB-C to USB-C Cable – Finest price range USB-C charging cable for iPhone and iPad
Execs
- Twin pack
- 60W Energy Supply
- Strong braided design
- Size choices
Value When Reviewed:
£11.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£10.99
- Charging: 60W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Monitor assist: No
- Cable size: 3ft (0.9m) or 6ft (1.8m)
- Colours: Black, Grey, Pink
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15 and 16, charging iPad, charging MacBook Air
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air, charging or syncing MacBook Professional
This 60W USB-C charging cable is obtainable three colours, which will be helpful if you could distinguish between cables—or know who in your family “borrowed” your charging cable… Out there in two lengths (3ft or 6ft) the Anker 310 is high-quality, with a tricky braided development that’s tremendous reasonably priced—particularly on this twin pack.
Its data-transfer velocity is gradual (480Mbps) however, for charging an iPhone or small MacBook, it’s simply what you want at a worth that considerably undercuts Apple. And, as you’ll learn later on this function, it’s completely good for charging iPads and mid-sized MacBooks, too.
3. Native Union Belt Cable Duo USB-C to Lightning Cable – Finest hybrid cost cable for iPhone & iPad
Execs
- Costs USB-C and Lightning units
- 60W Energy Supply
- Strong braided design
- Colour choices
Value When Reviewed:
£44.95
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£34.99
£44.95
- Charging: 60W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Monitor assist: No
- Cable size: 5ft (1.5m)
- Colours: Cosmos, Kraft, Slate Inexperienced, Zebra
- Finest for: Charging all iPhones, charging all iPads, charging MacBook Air
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air, charging or syncing MacBook Professional
This 60W USB-C charging cable is a good alternative for individuals who personal a pre-15 USB-C iPhone or a later telephone however nonetheless have Apple units with a Lightning charging port—suppose older AirPods or pre-USB-C iPad. It has USB-C on one finish to plug into your charger however on the different there’s a set alternative between USB-C and Lightning. You may’t cost two units on the similar time however you gained’t have to have two cables close to you always in the event you nonetheless personal some Lightning units
It’s out there in three distinctive colours and patterns, which also needs to make it simpler to tell apart in your crowded cable drawer, and it’s braided for sturdiness.
4. Cable Issues 10Gbps USB-C to USB-C Cable – Finest cost and knowledge cable for iPhone and iPad
Execs
- 100W Energy Supply
- 4K monitor assist
- 10Gbps knowledge switch
- Out there in Black and White
Value When Reviewed:
£15.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
- Charging: 100W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 10Gbps
- Monitor assist: 4K
- Cable size: 3.3ft (1m) and 6ft (1.8m)
- Colours: Black or White
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging and syncing iPad, charging MacBook Air and 14-inch MacBook Professional
- Not for: Syncing MacBooks, charging 16-inch MacBook Professional
Apple has elevated wired knowledge switch bandwidth to 10Gbps on the iPhone 15/16.17 Professional and Professional Max—20x quicker than the USB-C of the plain iPhone 15/16’s 480Mbps (0.48Gbps). If you wish to benefit from this considerably elevated wired bandwidth, you’ll want a cable like this one from Cable Issues that additionally helps 10Gbps, because the USB-C cable that Apple consists of with all of the iPhones is basically for charging solely and rated at 480Mbps.
It could additionally cost at as much as 100W—greater than sufficient for an iPhone but additionally sufficient for even the 14-inch MacBook Professional. It’s tremendous for a 16-inch Professional however fast-charging that laptop computer requires a 240W cable.
MacBook and iPad Professional homeowners could favor a Thunderbolt cable with 40Gbps knowledge switch.
5. Anker 515 USB-C to USB-C Cable (USB4) – Finest cost and knowledge cable for iPad Professional
Execs
- 240W Energy Supply
- 40Gbps knowledge switch
- 6K monitor assist for iPad Professional
- 8K monitor assist for Mac
Value When Reviewed:
£17.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£17.99
- Charging: 240W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 40Gbps
- Monitor assist: 6K (iPad Professional) 8K (Mac)
- Cable size: 3.3ft (1m)
- Colours: Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging and syncing iPad, charging MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
For final iPad Professional knowledge switch bandwidth, select a Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 cable. This USB4 can be utilized with the iPhone 15/16/17 and any MacBook—even the mighty 16-inch MacBook Professional—as its 240W/40Gbps specs are broadly Thunderbolt 3 suitable. Anker notes that it’s not a totally Thunderbolt 4 cable so in the event you want that, preserve studying.
This Anker 515 USB4 cable is overpowered from a charging viewpoint however due to this fact gives some Apple pill and laptop computer future-proofing. Keep in mind, you gained’t hurt your iPad or Mac utilizing a premium higher-wattage cable.
The place it wins is its 40Gbps knowledge bandwidth, the utmost you’ll get from any USB-C cable, and able to connecting an iPad Professional to a 6K USB-C show at 60Hz. By way of a Mac, it may assist an 8K show.
6. Anker 333 USB-C Cable (10ft) – Finest lengthy USB-C cable for iPhone and iPad
Execs
- Lengthy cable
- 100W Energy Supply
- Strong braided design
- Colour choices
Value When Reviewed:
£11.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£10.99
- Charging: 100W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Monitor assist: No
- Cable size: 10ft (3m)
- Colours: Black, Pink, Silver
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging iPad, charging MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air or MacBook Professional
Generally you simply want a really lengthy charging cable. Possibly your wall socket is on the opposite facet of the couch or desk—and even in one other room—and also you want your iPhone handy for calls and messaging. This 10-foot (3m) USB-C cable ought to be lengthy sufficient for you.
Generally you want a extra colourful charging cable. Okay, you don’t actually need a extra colourful charging cable nevertheless it’s good to have the choice. If you would like much more shade variations, however at a shorter cable size, preserve studying…
Out there in black, pink or silver, this USB-C cable can cost at a quick 100W—greater than sufficient for an iPhone or iPad and many for a MacBook.
7. CableCreation Quick USB-C to USB-C Cable – Finest quick USB-C cable for iPhone and iPad
Execs
- Quick cable
- 60W Energy Supply
- Strong braided design
Value When Reviewed:
£9.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£9.99
- Charging: 60W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Monitor assist: No
- Cable size: 0.8ft, 9.6in (0.24m, 24cm)
- Colours: Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15 and 16, charging iPad, charging MacBook Air
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air, charging or syncing MacBook Professional
There are occasions whenever you don’t desire a lengthy cable snaking throughout your desk or tabletop. All you want is a brief cable to cost your gadget. Whereas we’ve got seen shorter than this 9.6-inch USB-C to USB-C cable, some that we’ve examined have been flaky at charging so we favor to go along with a model that we belief.
It’s too quick to tangle however lengthy sufficient to dangle from a wall charger.
8. Cable Issues Retractable USB-C 2.0 Charging Cable – Finest retractable quick 60W USB-C cable
Execs
- Retractable
- 60W Energy Supply
- Tangle free
- Two pack
Cons
- Gradual data-transfer velocity
- Quick
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£12.99
- Charging: 60W
- Cable size: 4 inches (0.1m) to three.5ft (1m)
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Colours: Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15 and 16, charging iPad, charging MacBook Air
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air, charging or syncing MacBook Professional
A protracted trailing cable is nearly excusable if hidden behind a desk however is wholly inappropriate in a purse or stuffed in your pocket. Most of us discover it useful to maintain a tangle-free charging cable in a automotive, briefcase or backpack. This cable takes up just a few inches of area when totally retracted. You pull the cable from each ends to increase it to 5 set lengths: 1ft, 1.5ft, 2.2ft, 3ft and three.5ft.
Knowledge switch is gradual however at 60W it would cost even a mid-sized laptop computer if related to an appropriate wall charger.
It’s not braided by feels sturdy and will likely be protected in its winding shell. Look out for the two-pack for further worth.
Baseus
The Baseus Free2Pull Mini, pictured above, is another 60W retractable USB-C cable. It’s not a two-pack just like the Cable Issues set however is obtainable in 4 colours: black, blue, purple and white. Pull the cable from each ends to increase it to 5 set lengths: 1.1ft, 1.9ft, 2.7ft, 3ft and three.3ft.
9. Ugreen Nexode Retractable USB-C Cable 100W – Finest retractable quick 100W USB-C cable
Execs
- Retractable
- 100W Energy Supply
- Tangle free
Cons
- Gradual data-transfer velocity
- Quick
Value When Reviewed:
£16.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£16.99
- Charging: 100W
- Cable size: 1ft (0.3m) to 3ft (0.9m)
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Colours: Grey
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging iPad, charging MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air or MacBook Professional
Ugreen gives one other tangle-free retractable USB-C cable that could be a compact, carry-in-your-pocket cable that, as quickly as you maintain it, declares itself vital. Who doesn’t get aggravated by a drawer stuffed with unfastened snaking cables? Pull the cable from each ends to increase it to 4 set lengths: 1ft, 1.8ft, 2.5ft and 3ft—a contact shorter than Cable Issues.
It beats its rival by supporting 100W of charging energy—sufficient for even the most important MacBook, whereas the Cable Issues cable maxes out at 60W. Knowledge velocity, as with the Cable Issues various, is a gradual however usable 480Mbps USB 2.0. It should switch knowledge however its important operate is charging.
Once more, Baseus has an analogous size 100W retractable cable that’s out there in a extra thrilling vary of colours: Black, White, Blue and Purple.
10. Baseus 100W 6.6ft Retractable USB-C Cable – Finest retractable lengthy 100W USB-C cable
Execs
- Retractable
- 100W Energy Supply
- Lengthy
- Tangle free
Finest Costs Right this moment:
- Charging: 100W
- Cable size: 1.9ft (0.6m) to six.6ft (2m)
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Colours: Black, White, Purple, Blue
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging iPad, charging MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air or MacBook Professional
For those who want an extended cable however nonetheless need it in neat transportable/storable form, this cable takes up hardly any area when totally retracted. You pull the cable from each ends to increase it to seven set lengths: 1.9ft, 3.1ft, 4.1ft, 4.9ft, 5.7ft, 6.2ft and 6.6ft.
It could cost at 100W so will energy up any MacBook when related to the precise USB-C charger, and it is available in 4 colours only for the enjoyable of it.
11. Wave Bio-Based mostly Charging USB-C to USB-C Cable – Finest eco-friendly USB-C cable
Execs
- Eco pleasant
- 60W Energy Supply
Value When Reviewed:
From £9
Finest Costs Right this moment:
- Charging: 60W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Monitor assist: No
- Cable size: 3.3ft (1m) or 6.6ft (2m)
- Colours: Speckled recycled white
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging iPad, charging MacBook Air
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air, charging or syncing MacBook Professional
The outside of this sustainable USB-C to USB-C cable is constructed utilizing plant-based supplies, thus lowering a reliance on petroleum-based plastics like thermoplastic elastomer (TPE).
The packaging is recyclable (the bio-based cables are secured by a recyclable paper sleeve) and even the transport is carbon impartial, offsetting the CO2 produced.
Transport outdoors the UK is an additional US$6.30 or €6, however in the event you worth the planet that’s not rather a lot to pay.
12. Nomad Common Cable for Apple Watch – Finest single MacBook/iPad/Watch/AirPods cable
Execs
- Costs (practically) all the pieces Apple
- Premium high quality lengthy cable
Cons
- Gradual data-transfer velocity
- Takes up second port area on MacBook
Value When Reviewed:
£69
Finest Costs Right this moment:
- Charging: 100W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Monitor assist: No
- Cable size: 5ft (1.5m)
- Colours: Black, White
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging and syncing iPad, charging MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
- Not for: Syncing MacBooks, charging 16-inch MacBook Professional
This particular USB-C cable cannot solely cost a MacBook Professional at 100W however with a wi-fi Watch/AirPods charging puck on one finish it will possibly on the similar time energy up your Apple Watch or AirPods case. Word that when related to a MacBook the wi-fi pad will get in the way in which of the adjoining Thunderbolt port. For those who can stay with out one whereas charging, this needn’t matter however in the event you all the time use each port in your MacBook it may very well be a proble.
We like this rather a lot as we all the time go away our Watch chargeing cable in one other room when exhausting at work on the Mac.
Learn our full
Nomad Common Cable for Apple Watch overview
13. Anker 643 USB-C to USB-C Cable – Finest USB-C cable shade vary
Execs
- Colour choices
- Robust however versatile silicone
- 240W Energy Supply
Value When Reviewed:
£17.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£16.99
- Charging: 240W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Monitor assist: No
- Cable size: 3ft (0.9m) or 6ft (1.8m)
- Colours: Misty Blue, Daffodil Yellow, Lilac Purple, Coral Pink, Lavender Gray, Mint Inexperienced, Cloud White, and Midnight Black
- Finest for: Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging iPad, charging MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air, charging or syncing MacBook Professional
If you would like a contact of persona along with your tech package, Anker’s alternative of eight largely pastel colours provides you extra choices than the monochrome alternate options. Apple delights in providing its iPhones in varied shades however religiously sticks to white for its charging cables. The colour alternative will depend on charging velocity and cable size plus the place on the planet you might be primarily based. Anker additionally sells a 100W model in the identical vary of daring colours in case the 240W variations are unavailable and in the identical 3ft or 6ft lengths.
Anker claims that its 643 cable—with silicone protecting a triple-layered system of copper wires—has a tensile power of 220 lbs (100kg) and may face up to as many as 25,000 bends. We haven’t examined this as it might harm our wrists, nevertheless it actually feels robust sufficient to resist extra on a regular basis rigors.
It helps 240W charging so is as {powerful} as any cable can get, though it’s not a data-transfer winner.
14. Casetify PowerThru USB-C to USB-C Cable – Prettiest USB-C cable
Execs
- Colour choices
- Strong braided design with rounded head
- 60W Energy Supply
Value When Reviewed:
£41
Finest Costs Right this moment:
- Charging: 60W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Monitor assist: No
- Cable size: 3.3ft (1m) or 6.6ft (2m)
- Colours: Cotton Sweet, Mild Mint, Lavender, Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging iPad, charging MacBook Air
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air, charging or syncing MacBook Professional
This high quality USB-C cable, out there in two lengths, is from the folks at Casetify who create such enjoyable telephone instances. They’ve carried over a number of the enjoyable into the uninteresting world of cables with 4 shade choices. The Cotton Sweet USB-C cable is an actual magnificence, graduating from a cyan blue to a cute pink. Even the black model is properly speckled.
You’ll pay greater than common however you’re going to get a premium braided cable that may convey pleasure all the pieces you join it to your gadget.
Finest USB-C and Thunderbolt cables for Mac
Solely the unique 12-inch MacBook used commonplace USB-C. Macs because the 2016 MacBook Professional have a lot quicker Thunderbolt ports: both Thunderbolt 3, 4 or 5. Plain M1/M2 Macs (not Professional or Max) are listed as Thunderbolt/USB4 however will be considered the identical as Thunderbolt 4 besides for his or her one-screen limitation. Apple’s newest M4 Macs function Thunderbolt 5, which has a possible knowledge switch charge of 80Gbps (120Gbps for video) and 240W charging energy.
In case you are shopping for as we speak, we advocate you go for a Thunderbolt 4 or 5 cable, that are probably the most succesful requirements and totally backward suitable with Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C. However they’re expensive, and if speedy knowledge switch is just not a precedence otherwise you require the cable for charging solely, a slower USB-C cable will suffice for quick charging. Normal “passive” Thunderbolt cables are additionally normally shorter as the information loses velocity over longer distances. To get round this requires an “lively” Thunderbolt cable that features refined engineering to push the sign alongside at the perfect velocity.
MacBooks require cables and chargers that assist the USB Energy Supply (PD) commonplace. PD 3.0 helps as much as 100W. PD 3.1 goes as much as 240W.
Verify the utmost charging wattage supported by the cable. Smaller MacBooks require a minimum of 45W, mid-sized 60W, and bigger 100W. The 16-inch MacBook Professional will be fast-charged at 140W.
1. Anker 310 USB-C to USB-C Cable – Finest price range 60W PD USB-C charging cable
Execs
- 60W Energy Supply
- Twin pack
- Strong braided design
- Size choices
Cons
- Not appropriate for monitor connection
- Gradual data-transfer velocity
Value When Reviewed:
£11.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£10.99
- Charging: 60W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 480Mbps
- Monitor assist: No
- Cable size: 3ft (0.9m) or 6ft (1.8m)
- Colours: Black, Pink, Grey
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15 and 16, charging iPad, charging MacBook Air
- Not for: Syncing iPad, syncing MacBook Air, charging or syncing MacBook Professional
Simply as we beneficial the Anker 310 USB-C cable for iPhones and iPad charging, it’s exhausting to go flawed with this to cost small and mid-sized MacBooks, too. Purchase the dual pack and use one for whichever Apple gadget that takes your fancy.
Appropriate for all MacBook Air fashions and the 13-inch MacBook Professional, this 60W USB-C cable is ready to provide the cost you could preserve these MacBooks powered up.
Its data-transfer velocity is fairly feeble however as a charging-only cable, that is all you actually need. It’s not appropriate for connecting a Mac to a USB-C monitor—that may require a minimum of a 5Gbps cable.
Its braided design makes it robust—Anker claims it may be bent and unbent over 10,000 occasions. On this twin-pack, the Anker 310 USB-C cable is a really reasonably priced choice.
Execs
- 240W Energy Supply
- 20Gbps knowledge
- 8K monitor assist
- Lengthy cable
Value When Reviewed:
£12.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£12.99
- Charging: 100W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 20Gbps
- Monitor assist: 4K
- Cable size: 3ft (0.9m) or 6ft (1.8m)
- Colours: Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging and syncing iPad, charging MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
- Not for: Syncing MacBooks at very quickest speeds
This jack-of-all-trades high-quality USB-C cable can cost at as much as 240W, switch knowledge at 20Gbps, and join a Mac to a 8K monitor.
It’s a premium construct, however its thicker gauge wires make it difficult to roll up as simply or compactly as different cables.
It appears churlish to downplay this cable’s spectacular 20Gbps bandwidth however in the event you want the quickest knowledge switch, look to a Thunderbolt 4 or higher but Thunderbolt 5 cable.
One other 6ft reasonably priced 240W cable is the $24.99 EcoFlow RAPID Professional USB-C to USB-C Cable, which is all you want in the event you aren’t utilizing the cable for knowledge switch. It’s exhausting to get higher than the worth on this 240W 20Gbps Cable Issues cable, although, and it’s a powerhouse on bandwidth in addition to charging velocity.
3. CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 Cable (0.8m) – Finest quick 100W PD Thunderbolt 4 cable
Execs
- 100W Energy Supply
- 40Gbps knowledge switch
- 8K monitor assist
Value When Reviewed:
£29.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£26.99
- Charging: 100W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 40Gbps
- Monitor assist: 8K
- Cable size: 2.6ft (0.8m)
- Colours: Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15 and 16, charging and syncing iPad, charging and syncing MacBook Air and 14-inch MacBook Professional
- Not for: Charging 16-inch MacBook Professional
As an authorized Thunderbolt 4 cable, this ensures 100W charging and super-fast 40Gbps knowledge switch speeds.
For those who simply wish to cost your MacBook, it’s most likely overkill but when you could use it to connect with a docking station or different gadget, we advocate you double-up on charging energy and knowledge velocity.
CalDigit sells an lively 2m model of this cable for $99.99. It’s a lot costlier due to the circuitry required to get 40Gbps over an extended distance. Belkin sells an equal 2m Thunderbolt 4 cable at a extra reasonably priced worth, see overview under.
Backward suitable with Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C, you possibly can’t go flawed with a Thunderbolt 4 cable except you want Thunderbolt 5’s 80-120Gbps and 240W strengths. If that’s the case, preserve studying.
4. Belkin Thunderbolt 4 Cable (2M, 6.6ft) – Finest lengthy 100W PD Lively Thunderbolt 4 cable
Execs
- 100W Energy Supply
- 40Gbps knowledge switch
- 8K monitor assist
- Lengthy
Value When Reviewed:
£84.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£72.53
- Charging: 100W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 40Gbps
- Monitor assist: 8K
- Cable size: 6.6ft (2m)
- Colours: Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging and syncing iPad, charging and syncing MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
- Not for: Charging 16-inch MacBook Professional
This licensed “lively” Thunderbolt 4 cable helps 100W charging and super-fast 40Gbps knowledge switch speeds over a higher cable size than regular “passive” Thunderbolt cables. The lively half allows the longer cable however considerably will increase the price.
You will get longer from Apple, see its 3m lively TB4 cable under, however the price will get even increased!
5. Apple Thunderbolt 4 Professional Cable (3m) – Longest 100W PD Lively Thunderbolt 4 cable
Execs
- 100W Energy Supply
- 40Gbps knowledge switch
- 8K monitor assist
- Strong braided design
- Very lengthy
Value When Reviewed:
£159
Finest Costs Right this moment:
- Charging: 100W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 40Gbps
- Monitor assist: 8K
- Cable size: 10ft (3m)
- Colours: Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging and syncing iPad, charging and syncing MacBook Air and 14-inch MacBook Professional
- Not for: Charging 16-inch MacBook Professional
It’s actually costly, however this lively Apple Thunderbolt 4 cable is so long as you will get whereas sustaining 100W charging energy and 40Gbps data-transfer velocity.
It’s braided for power and backward suitable with different Kind-C connectors and ports.
6. Satechi Thunderbolt 4 Professional Cable (1m) – Finest 240W PD Thunderbolt 4 cable
Execs
- 240W Energy Supply
- 40Gbps knowledge switch
- 8K monitor assist
- Strong braided design
Value When Reviewed:
£39.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£39.99
- Charging: 240W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 40Gbps
- Monitor assist: 8K
- Cable size: 3.3ft (1m)
- Colours: Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging and syncing iPad, charging and syncing MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
To attach your 16-inch MacBook to a Thunderbolt 4 docking station, you want each prime knowledge bandwidth and as a lot charging energy as a cable can assist—so that you want a cable that helps each 240W and 40Gbps knowledge switch.
240W, 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 cable doesn’t but are available in any factor longer than a meter (3.3ft). Each energy and knowledge velocity are decreased because the cable will get longer. Lively Thunderbolt cables assist by pushing the information additional however for now have the twin advantages of supercharging and quick knowledge switch means you’ll have to preserve your Mac shut by.
7. Apple Thunderbolt 5 Professional Cable (1 m) – Finest Thunderbolt 5 cable
Execs
- 240W Energy Supply
- 80/120Gbps knowledge switch
- 8K monitor assist
- Strong braided design
Value When Reviewed:
£69
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£58.65
£69
- Charging: 240W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 120Gbps
- Monitor assist: 8K
- Cable size: 3.3ft (1m)
- Colours: Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging and syncing iPad, charging and syncing MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
Apple’s M4 Macs now boast a Thunderbolt 5 port, which may switch knowledge at as much as 80Gbps (120Gbps for video utilizing Bandwidth Enhance that creates a unidirectional however fatter pipe)—twice as quick as Thunderbolt 4. Whereas there aren’t many precise Thunderbolt 5 units on the market to connect with at that velocity, Apple is correct on the entrance of the know-how race as common. Thunderbolt 5 is backwards suitable with Thunderbolt 4, 3 and USB-C so this Thunderbolt 5 cable will work with any USB-C-type gadget.
All Thunderbolt 5 cables assist as much as 240W charging. Some Thunderbolt 4 cables do the identical however most max out at 100W.
8. Anker Thunderbolt 5 Cable – Finest price range Thunderbolt 5 cable
Execs
- 240W Energy Supply
- 80/120Gbps knowledge switch
- 8K monitor assist
- Strong braided design
Value When Reviewed:
£39.99
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£39.99
- Charging: 240W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 120Gbps
- Monitor assist: 8K
- Cable size: 1.7ft (0.5m) and three.3ft (1m)
- Colours: Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging and syncing iPad, charging and syncing MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
Wanting remarkably like Apple’s Thunderbolt 5 cable however priced considerably decrease, the Anker Thunderbolt 5 cable is a sensible alternative as the brand new top-end MacBook comes with three such ports however not one TB5 cable.
This cable is obtainable in two lengths however only one shade. Who would be the first producer courageous sufficient to place out a colourful Thunderbolt cable?
Additionally value checking on pricing are Thunderbolt 5 cables from iVanky, Silkland and Cable Issues.
9. Plugable TBT4-240W-80CMR – Finest right-angled Thunderbolt 4 cable
Execs
- 240W Energy Supply
- 40Gbps knowledge switch
- 8K monitor assist
- Proper angled
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£34.99
- Charging: 240W
- Knowledge switch velocity: 40Gbps
- Monitor assist: 8K
- Cable size: 2.6ft (0.8m)
- Colours: Black
- Finest for: Charging iPhone 15/16/17, charging and syncing iPad, charging and syncing MacBook Air and MacBook Professional
Generally a cable performs exhausting to slot in tight areas, and solely a cunningly right-angled connector head will do the job. If that’s the case, then that is probably the most {powerful} and quickest right-angled Thunderbolt 4 cable that cash should purchase.
It should work at as much as 240W, and as a Thunderbolt 4 cable in fact gives 40Gbps data-transfer speeds. As talked about above, Apple calls for you utilize its personal MagSafe energy cable if you wish to make the most of PD 3.1 at 140W for its 16-inch MacBook Professional.
Execs
- Fast Identification markers
- As much as 240W Energy Supply
- As much as 40Gbps knowledge switch
- As much as 8K monitor assist
Value When Reviewed:
From £20
Finest Costs Right this moment:
£17.83
- Charging: 240W
- Knowledge switch velocity: From 480Mbps to 40Gbps
- Monitor assist: As much as 8K
- Cable size: 3ft (0.9m), 6ft (1.8m), 10ft (3m), 13ft (4m)
- Colours: Black
IT professionals are sometimes coping with tens and even 1000’s of thriller cables, and attempting to determine that are charging cables, that are knowledge switch solely, and which work with what video decision is nigh on inconceivable except the cables are labelled. Startech.com’s newest vary of cables—USB-C, USB4, HDMi and DisplayPort— all function Fast Identification markers printed instantly onto the cables for at-a-glance asset administration.
For those who solely personal a number of cables this may not be so vital—when you have an entire workplace flooring of them, it’s important.
Know your cables
Not all USB-C cables provide the identical capabilities, so we clarify every issue you could contemplate. Worry not, for fundamental iPhone charging most USB-C cables will likely be tremendous. However some are finer than others. Macs use Thunderbolt cables which have the identical Kind-C connector as USB-C so look the identical however have quicker knowledge switch and charging velocity choices. You should use a Thunderbolt cable to cost USB-C units, too.
Apple ships a USB-C Cost Cable with the most recent iPhones however Mac customers want to purchase a Thunderbolt cable to connect with a docking station or quick storage gadget. Having a spare cable or two hanging round the home or workplace is all the time advisable—and there are higher, cheaper, and extra colourful USB-C and Thunderbolt cables than simply these bought by Apple.
We’ve centered on USB-C charging cables as most individuals want them simply to connect to a USB-C charger, however cables provide each charging and knowledge transfers, though at totally different capabilities, relying in your necessities.
Charging: All USB-C cables can carry a minimal of 60W (3A x 20V). Some assist 100W (5A x 20V) charging, and a few new Thunderbolt cables can cost at as much as 240W. 60W is greater than you want for a telephone and is ideal for the MacBook Air and 13-inch MacBook Professional. Go for a minimum of a 100W cable for the 14-inch MacBook Professional. Whereas 100W is ok for a 16-inch MacBook Professional, that mannequin will be charged at as much as 140W, though Apple restricts fast-charging for that mannequin to its personal $49/£49 USB-C to MagSafe 3 Cable, which is included with all MacBooks.
Apple says that the iPhone 15 and 16 will be fast-charged from zero to 50% in half-hour utilizing a minimum of a 20W USB-C energy adapter, which is similar velocity the iPhone 14 bought by way of Lightning. Checks have proven that newer iPhones can attain charging speeds of as much as 30W so we predict a 20W charger isn’t going to supply iPhone charging as quick as you will get. Take a look at our critiques of the finest iPhone chargers.
Size: A protracted cable will be messy when your gadget is near the charger, however a brief one may go away your iPhone dangling out of attain. You could want totally different lengths of USB-C cable for every of your charging areas. In terms of transferring knowledge, select a cable that’s as quick as you want because the longer the cable, the higher the chance of sign degradation—spend money on a Thunderbolt 4 cable for 2m data-strength confidence.
Knowledge switch velocity: iPhones with Lightning ports are restricted to a gradual USB 2.0 knowledge switch charge of simply 480Mbps (480 megabits per second). Evaluate that to your Mac, whose Thunderbolt connection can attain as much as 40Gbps on Thunderbolt 4 and 120Gbps on Thunderbolt 5. Knowledge switch velocity doesn’t matter if all you might be doing is charging a tool however it’s critical when connecting your Apple gadget to storage drives, docking stations, or screens.
Whereas the entry-level iPad can be restricted to 480Mbps, the iPad Professional, like a MacBook, helps Thunderbolt’s 40Gbps most. The iPhone 15/16 and 15/16 Plus options USB-C that’s restricted to 480Mbps like with Lightning, however the iPhone 15/16 Professional and Professional Max’s USB-C can sync at 10Gbps—helpful for backing up video or photographs to a pc.
Word that the USB-C cable Apple provides with the iPhone 15/16 households is a “Cost” cable and restricted to 480Mbps for syncing. For those who use the Professional or Professional Max mannequin with a cable for knowledge switch, you’ll do higher with a 10Gbps or increased bandwidth cable.
FAQ
Which USB-C cable do I want to connect with a USB-C monitor
DisplayPort Alternate Mode is a function out there to USB-C and Thunderbolt that handles video as if the USB-C cable was a DisplayPort cable. USB-C screens can due to this fact join on to your laptop computer or by way of a USB-C hub or USB-C or Thunderbolt dock.
Nevertheless, not each USB-C cable helps video switch so you could select the precise sort of cable.
In case your exterior show helps a direct USB-C connection, search for a cable that has a minimum of a data-transfer charge of 5Gbps for 4K at 60Hz or 10Gbps for 6K. For 8K we advocate you utilize a minimum of a 40Gbps Thunderbolt 4 or USB4 cable or 80/120Gbps Thunderbolt 5 cable. The upper the bandwidth, the much less threat of sign degradation.
Think about cable size, too. Whereas compression applied sciences ought to kick in, the longer your cable, the extra the sign can degrade so go for as quick a cable as you require when connecting out of your MacBook or dock to a USB-C monitor. A completely featured C-to-C cable that’s 1 meter or shorter will work simply tremendous for 95% of what folks want. The Cable Issues 10Gbps/100W 1m USB-C Cable is a beneficial answer.
For those who want an extended cable, a 2m Thunderbolt 4 cable, such because the Cable Issues 2m Thunderbolt 4 cable. See the critiques above for extra choices.
Some USB-C screens can present between 65W to 90W of passthrough energy again to the laptop computer, so guarantee your USB-C cable helps a minimum of 100W if you wish to use your USB-C monitor to energy your laptop computer.
Can you exchange a Lightning cable to USB-C?
Apple has launched a Lightning–to–USB-C adapter—confusingly named the Apple USB-C to Lightning Adapter ($29 at Apple’s U.S. retailer or £29 at Apple’s UK retailer) so you possibly can convert an previous Lightning cable right into a USB-C cable in your new iPhone 15, however, as you may count on from Apple, it’s far more costly than simply shopping for one of many new and superior USB-C cables we’ve reviewed above.
What’s the distinction between Lively and Passive Thunderbolt cables?
An “lively” Thunderbolt cable accommodates built-in digital chips that enhance and repeat the information sign, permitting it to keep up secure, error-free full-speed (40Gbps) indicators over longer distances in comparison with shorter “passive” cables that lack these chips.