What is USB Type C?
A quick look at USB C outlets, ports and connectors…and what they can do for you.
June 17, 2019
In the ever-changing world of technology, USB chargers are no exception. Smaller and more powerful, USB C chargers are replacing USB Type-A chargers for smartphones, tablets and laptops.
Change can be hard. And for those of us who have been plugging in our smartphones, tablets, digital cameras, Bluetooth speakers, etc. with the standard USB connectors for years, the latest smaller USB charging cables can seem like an unwanted curveball. Does this just mean needing more cords, and multiple adapters, to power all our various devices? Thankfully, it means better performance and convenience.
Why Choose a USB Type C Charger?
Most USB Type-C ports are designed to work with a significantly faster standard — the USB 3.1 Gen 2 protocol — than most of the Type-A options. This standard boosts the speed for both data delivery and charging. Added to this, many USB C devices also support Thunderbolt 3, which is a monstrously fast data-transfer technology from Intel, as well as USB Power Delivery (USB PD), which increases power potential drastically for faster charging and efficient powering of much larger devices.
While making the most of these fast features requires use of the right accessories, as discussed in an earlier post, it's important to know that USB Type-C isn’t just newer, it can truly be better.
USB C Chargers are Reversable
This may seem too simple to matter that much, but since many people feel like they can never plug a Type-A USB in the right way on the first try, it’s bound to save a lot of time and frustration. Also, the connector itself is smaller. When you consider the value placed on mobility these days, it's important for devices to do a lot without getting heavy. Smaller but powerful connection ports are one of the ways engineers can ensure lighter laptops, smaller phones, and find more space for additional tech features.
Type-C USB Chargers are More Versatile than Type-A
What this tells us is that this is where technological development is currently headed. By understanding it and equipping yourself to best use it now, you are getting ahead of the curve. As options exist for Type-A to Type-C adapters, as well as dual outlets that include ports of both kinds, you can set yourself up now to future-proof your technology for many years to come.
Learn more about USB Type-C chargers by downloading the guide to our top five reasons why you should care about Type-C chargers, and browse Ultra-Fast USB Outlets designed to make charging USB Type-C devices a breeze!
