USB C Cables and Adapters

Choosing a USB C cable

USB C is the small, reversible plug used on most new laptops, phones and tablets, but the cables are not all the same. Check three things: how much power it carries (60W covers phones, tablets and most small laptops, while larger laptops need a 100W or 240W cable), how fast it moves data (480Mbps for charging cables, 10Gbps for fast drives, 40Gbps for USB4 docks), and whether it carries video.

Connecting a screen

To connect a laptop to a TV or monitor, the USB C port must support video output, often shown by a DisplayPort or Thunderbolt symbol next to the port. Choose the cable for the screen's input: HDMI for TVs and most monitors, DisplayPort for high refresh rate monitors, and DVI or VGA for older screens and projectors.

Need to connect an older cable or USB stick to a USB C device? Our guide to USB C adapters, Micro USB and OTG explains which way round each adapter works and what it does to charging speed.

USB4, Thunderbolt 3, 4 or 5? Our guide to USB4 and Thunderbolt cables explains the speeds, the logos, why 40Gbps cables are short and which power rating you need.