USB-A to USB-C Cables: Which One Should You Buy?

USB cables are essential for connecting and powering the devices we use daily. As the newer USB-C standard becomes more common, many users need to connect older USB-A devices to newer USB-C devices. This guide will provide you with the information you need to choose the right USB-A to USB-C cable for your specific requirements along with some recommendations.

Why Would You Need a USB-A to USB-C Cable?

USB-A to USB-C cables serve as essential bridges during the current technological transition period. Here are the primary scenarios where these cables are necessary:

• Connecting newer devices to older devices and infrastructure: Many people have newer devices with USB-C ports but still have chargers, power banks, computers, or car USB ports with USB-A.
• Workplace compatibility: Many offices have existing USB-A infrastructure that needs to connect with newer USB-C devices.
• Charging flexibility: USB-A ports are still more common in public spaces, making these cables essential for charging modern devices.
• Cost-effective transition: These cables allow a gradual transition to USB-C, avoiding the need to replace all USB-A chargers and accessories.
• Data transfer: These cables enable direct connections between newer and older computers.

Understanding USB Connectors

USB-A: The traditional connector

The USB-A connector is rectangular in shape and has been the standard for decades. It’s found on most desktop computers, laptops, and older chargers. This connector can only be inserted in one orientation, which leads to the fumbling when connecting devices that we’re all familiar with.

USB-A ports are available in several versions, including USB 2.0 (often black or white), USB 3.0 (typically blue), and USB 3.1 (sometimes teal), each supporting different data transfer speeds.

USB-C: The new standard

USB-C is a smaller, oval-shaped connector that can be inserted in either orientation, eliminating the frustration of trying to plug it in correctly. This connector is increasingly common on modern smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other devices.

The USB-C standard supports faster data transfer speeds and higher power delivery capabilities than its predecessors. Many regions, including the European Union, are mandating USB-C as the universal charging standard for portable electronics.

Directionality of USB-A to USB-C Cables

USB-A to USB-C cables are designed with inherent directionality in terms of their physical connections, but their functionality depends on the specific use case and device capabilities.

Functional Directionality

For power delivery, USB-A to USB-C cables generally follow this pattern:

• Power typically flows from the USB-A side (the host/charger) to the USB-C device
• This aligns with the traditional USB model where the USB-A port is usually the power source

However, the actual power and data flow depends on the capabilities of the connected devices:

• Standard charging: In most cases, power flows from the USB-A source to charge the USB-C device
• Data transfer: Data can flow bidirectionally between devices, allowing file transfers in both directions
• Device roles: Computers with USB-C ports can connect to older peripherals with USB-A ports using these cables, with data flowing in either direction based on the devices’ roles

USB On-The-Go (OTG) Considerations

When connecting a USB-C smartphone to a USB-A peripheral (like a flash drive or keyboard) using an adapter or specialized cable:

• The USB-C device typically acts as the host (providing power and control)
• The USB-A peripheral functions as the accessory
• This requires the USB-C device to support USB OTG functionality

Important Limitations

• USB-A to USB-C cables cannot support the full range of USB-C features like alternate modes for video output
• Power Delivery (PD) capabilities are limited by the USB-A port specifications, which typically provide less power than USB-C PD ports
• The maximum charging speed will be determined by the lowest-rated component in the chain (cable, port, or device)

What To Consider When Buying a USB-A to USB-C Cable

Device Compatibility

Before purchasing a USB-A to USB-C cable, it’s important to verify the specific requirements of the devices you’ll be connecting:

• Charging requirements: Some devices like laptops or tablets may require cables that support higher power delivery standards to charge efficiently.
• Data transfer needs: If you plan to transfer data between devices, ensure the cable supports the appropriate USB standard (2.0, 3.0, etc.) that matches your devices’ capabilities.
• Smartphone compatibility: Some smartphones may have specific fast charging protocols (like Qualcomm Quick Charge or Samsung Adaptive Fast Charging) that require compatible cables.
• Older device limitations: Be aware that some older USB-A ports may not deliver sufficient power for newer USB-C devices, particularly for fast charging.

Charging Power Capabilities

Cables vary in their power delivery capabilities:

• Basic cables: Support up to 2.5W (5V/0.5A)
• Standard cables: Support up to 7.5W (5V/1.5A)
• Fast charging cables: Support 15W to 60W (depending on specifications)
• High-power cables: Support 60W to 240W for laptops and power-hungry devices

A cable with insufficient power capacity may charge your device slowly or not at all. On the other hand, a high-power cable will work with lower-power devices but should not exceed the device’s charging capabilities.

Data Transfer Speeds

As we’ve mentioned in our previous article, USB-A and USB-C refer to the connectors. The cables have different USB standards that support varying data transfer rates:

• USB 2.0: 480 Mbps
• USB 3.0/3.1 Gen 1: 5 Gbps
• USB 3.1 Gen 2: 10 Gbps
• USB 3.2 Gen 2×2: 20 Gbps

For simple charging or connecting basic peripherals, a USB 2.0 cable is enough. For external storage devices or transferring large files, USB 3.0 or higher is recommended.

Cable Length Options

Another consideration is cable length. Cable length is not just about aesthetics. It also affects convenience and performance:

• Short cables (0.5-3 feet): Ideal for portable use, reducing clutter
• Medium cables (3-6 feet): Suitable for desk setups
• Long cables (6+ feet): Useful when power outlets or devices are far apart

With very long cables, you may run into the problem of signal degradation, particularly with higher data transfer speeds. For USB 3.0 and higher, we’d recommend cable under 6 feet long.

Durability and Construction Quality

The physical construction of the cable significantly impacts its lifespan and it’s something that’s often overlooked:

• Strain relief at connector ends prevents internal wire damage
• Braided nylon coverings provide better protection than basic plastic
• Reinforced connectors resist damage from repeated insertions
• Quality internal wiring ensures consistent performance over time

While it may be tempting to get a cheaper cable without braiding or quality internal wiring, investing in a well-constructed cable often proves economical in the long term by reducing replacement frequency.

Certifications and Standards

When considering which USB-A to USB Type-C cable to buy, check whether they have the relevant certifications:

• USB-IF certification ensures compliance with official USB standards
• Power Delivery (PD) certification for fast charging capabilities
• CE, RoHS, and FCC certifications indicate adherence to safety standards

If your cable has these certifications, then you can rest a little easier, knowing that the cable performs as advertised and operates safely with your devices.

Additional Features

Some cables offer supplementary features that you might like. These include:

• Right-angle connectors for tight spaces
• LED indicators showing charging status
• Magnetic attachments for easier connection
• Special coatings for tangle resistance

Common Use Cases

Charging modern devices with older chargers/computers

A primary use for USB-A to USB-C cables is connecting newer devices to existing USB-A chargers, power banks, or computer ports. This allows continued use of existing USB-A chargers while using USB-C devices.

Data transfer between devices

These cables enable file transfers between USB-C devices and computers with USB-A ports. The appropriate cable speed rating becomes particularly important for transferring large files or backing up data.

Charging in vehicles

Most vehicles with USB ports feature the USB-A standard. A USB-A to USB Type-C cable allows charging modern devices during travel without requiring a separate car adapter.

Adapting to different environments

These cables provide flexibility when moving between environments with different available ports, such as home, office, or public spaces, reducing the need to carry multiple chargers.

Understanding Technical Specifications

When reading the specifications of the USB-A to USB-C cable, two technical specifications to pay attention to are the USB version and the power delivery standard.

USB versions explained

The USB version affects the data transfer speed. For modern devices, we recommend getting at least a USB 3.0 cable to speed up data transfers.

• USB 2.0: The older standard supporting 480 Mbps
• USB 3.0: Later renamed USB 3.1 Gen 1, supporting 5 Gbps
• USB 3.1 Gen 2: Supports 10 Gbps
• USB 3.2 Gen 2×2: Supports 20 Gbps

The cable packaging should specify which standard the cable supports, although marketing terms can sometimes make it less obvious than it should be.

Power delivery standards

USB Power Delivery (PD) is a specification allowing increased power output:

• Standard USB: 5V, up to 1.5A (7.5W)
• USB PD 2.0: Up to 100W (20V, 5A)
• USB PD 3.0: Up to 100W with more voltage options
• USB PD 3.1: Up to 240W for power-hungry devices

A cable supporting USB PD can negotiate the optimal voltage and current for connected devices, enabling faster charging when supported by both the device and power source.

What the numbers and symbols on packaging mean

The technical information on cable packaging can be confusing so here’s a quick guide on how to read some of the other details on the box:

• A lightning bolt symbol typically indicates fast charging support
• Numbers like “5Gbps” refer to maximum data transfer speeds
• “PD” indicates Power Delivery support
• Wattage ratings (e.g., “60W”) show maximum power handling capacity

These markings help you to quickly identify what the cable offers.

Common Problems and Solutions

When using your USB-A to USB Type-C cable, these are some common issues that you might face.

Slow charging issues

If experiencing slow charging:

• Verify the cable supports adequate power delivery for your device
• Check that your power source can deliver sufficient wattage
• Examine cables for physical damage that might affect performance
• Try a different cable to isolate the problem

Data transfer limitations

When data transfer seems slow:

• Confirm your cable supports the necessary USB standard (3.0+ for faster transfers)
• Check for proper connection at both ends
• Verify that both devices support the faster standard
• Remember that the slowest component in the chain determines overall speed

Compatibility challenges

Not all USB-C implementations are identical:

• Some devices require specific protocols for full functionality
• Certain features (video output, audio, etc.) may need specialized cables
• Consult device documentation for specific cable requirements
• Look for cables specifically tested with your device model

Recommended Brands and Price Ranges

Now, let’s take a look at some recommended USB cable brands and cables. USB-A to USB-C cables can be segmented into budget options and mid-range/premium options. Previously, there was a difference in price between mid-range and premium options but that has narrowed over the years.

Budget options

Several manufacturers offer reliable budget cables in the $5-10 range:

• The AmazonBasics USB-A to USB-C cable is a USB 2.0 cable that provide fast charging functionality. It has been certified to work with the iPhone 15 / 16, iPad, Samsung Galaxy etc.
• Anker’s basic USB-A to USB type-C cable is another USB 2.0 cable that supports data transfer speeds of up to 480 Mbps and fast charging up to 15W. The cable is braided and built to withstand over 10,000 bends according to testing in the laboratory.
• The Monoprice USB-A to USB-C cable is a USB 3.1 Gen 2 cable that allows for data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps and power delivery of 3A.

These cables generally work well for basic charging and occasional data transfer.

Mid-range / Premium quality cables

In the $10-20 range, quality and features improve:

• The Anker PowerLine USB-A to USB-C cable series offers enhanced durability. Not only is it braided but there is copper and aluminium shielding to reduce interference. The cable uses the USB 3.0 standard which allows for data transfer speeds of up to 5 Gbps and supports up to 15W charging.
• Apple’s official USB to USB-C adapter, while not exactly a cable, ensures compatibility with Apple devices. You can use it for data transfer and charging.
• Belkin’s USB-A to USB-C cable uses USB 2.0 which provides for transfer speeds of up to 480 Mbps. It is USB-IF certified and supports fast charging. The braided cable has also been tested to survive over 30,000 bends.

These cables typically provide better construction and more reliable performance.

Assessing which cable to buy

When deciding which USB-A to USB-C cable to buy, you need to consider what you’re using the cable for and how often you will be using it. If you’re using it for data transfer, then you would want a USB 3.0 cable at the very least, to speed things up. The same applies if you’re using them in a professional setting where reliability is critical.

Next, if you’re going to be using the cable frequently, a more durable option would be preferred. Something that doesn’t spoil or fray after using it after a year or two. The price difference between a cheap cable and a slightly more durable option is less than $10. So, factoring in replacement costs, it makes a lot more sense to go for the more durable option unless you’re buying a whole bunch of them.