USB-A vs USB-C: Everything You Need to Know

In technology, USB (Universal Serial Bus) has been one of those things that have become a part of human life. A standard port where a smartphone, a tablet, or even a laptop can be plugged is found. However, many people are curious about the difference that USB-C has from USB-A since USB-C is actually on the scene right now. In this article, we take the USB-A vs. USB-C debate a little further and highlight the darker differences between these two types of USB ports.   

What is USB?

Universal Serial Bus is a standard in the interconnection of short-distance digital communication and connectivity within the electronics industry, which helps to interconnect devices and supply electrical power between personal computers and electronic devices. It was developed in the 1990s to standardize the connection of peripherals to personal computers. USB has changed over the years; its different versions offer variable speeds and capacities.

What is USB-A?

USB-A or Type-A, the rectangular port in the most basic of designs, has been around for more than a couple of decades. This is the most common USB port attached to computers, laptops, and other electronic devices. They are used for attachments such as keyboards, mice, and external hard drives.
USB-A ports have evolved over time, with different versions offering varying data transfer speeds:

USB 1.1: Up to 12 Mbps
USB 2.0: Up to 480 Mbps
USB 3.0: Up to 5 Gbps
USB 3.1 Gen 1: Up to 5 Gbps
USB 3.1 Gen 2: Up to 10 Gbps

Pros of USB-A:

Widely compatible with numerous devices and peripherals.
Affordable and readily available.
Suitable for most everyday data transfer needs.

Cons of USB-A:

Slower data transfer speeds compared to newer USB standards.
Not reversible, leading to occasional frustration when plugging in.
Limited power delivery capabilities.

What is USB-C?

The USB-C is the latest form of the USB standard. It has an oblong small connector, which is reversible in direction; hence, it can be connected in either way. USB-C has become a more widespread interface port on many newer devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets.

USB-C offers several advantages over its predecessor, USB-A:

Lightning Data Transfer: Being a part of the USB 3.1 specification and above, USB-C enjoys data speeds of up to 10 Gbps for USB 3.1 Gen 2 and even 20 Gbps in the case of USB 3.2 Gen 2x2.

Versatile: You can do many things with USB-C ports. You can use them to charge devices, transfer data, and link them to external displays. Further, they can handle high-wattage power, so you can even charge a laptop or any other power-hungry device.

Reversibility: USB-C connectors are designed to be reversible, so there is no need to hassle with inserting a USB cable in the proper orientation.

Backward Compatible: USB-C is compatible with older USB standards via an adapter or a cable that has dissimilar connectors at each end.

What are the downsides of USB-C?

Durability Issues. The small USB-C port is mostly a weak point, especially in smartphones and tablets, with most of them either loose or hosting a port with broken pins.

Costs more. USB-C cables and adapters currently cost more compared to older USB versions. This extra cost can add up.

Power limited to 100W. While USB-C can deliver power up to 100W, most of the ports and cables in the market can only give low power, say 15W.

Confusing standards. The USB-C connector isn't just one standard. It supports USB 3.1, USB 3.2, and Thunderbolt 3—all very confusing.

USB-A vs USB-C, what are differences?

Connector Shape: USB-A has a rectangular connector, while USB-C has a smaller, oval-shaped connector.

Reversibility: USB-C connectors are reversible, whereas USB-A connectors can only be inserted one way. Faster USB-C data transfer rates can be as quick as this, though, and the newest standards give it speeds of up to 10 Gbps, with the potential for 20 Gbps.

Power Output Capabilities: USB-C can deliver higher power outputs, so it can be used to charge a wide range of equipment, laptops included.

USB-C is used for a lot of things: connecting displays, data transfer, and charging. In turn, USB-A is used for data transfer and peripherals in many cases.

USB-A vs USB-C: How to Choose?

Check the compatibility of the device: Just check what kind of USB devices you are using; if any is left, the device will support. Nowadays, USB Type C is found on newer devices, while USB Type-A is.

Accessories: Take a look at the price and availability of any accessories that you might be looking for, from USB-A, USB-C cables, adapters, and hubs.

Speed Demands: Should you regularly need to move huge files or periodically need high speed in file transfers, then USB-C's higher speed may be better.

Power Charging Needs: If you carry some more significant devices to be charged, e.g., a laptop, the power delivery capabilities of USB-C are going to be pretty handy.

Shop the fantastic collection of chargers and USB hubs at UGREEN for the best in USB-C accessories. UGREEN offers many USB chargers, from fast chargers and multi-port options to expanding connectivity with its USB hubs.

What's Next for USB-C?

More Speeds. The upcoming USB-C specification versions will most likely further push increases in the maximum data rates to well over 40 Gbps. As devices continue to draw more power, USB-C power delivery could surpass the 100W level for adequate charging.

Smaller Connectors. We may see new USB-C designs that further reduce connector size for slimmer and smaller devices.

Physical Design Strengthens. Enhanced physical design, such as reinforced connectors and cables, can provide more excellent durability for USB-C. 

Universal Adoption. Sometime in the future, USB-C will likely replace USB-A and maybe others, featuring as a universal standard in phones, tablets, laptops, and numerous other electronic gadgets. 

New Applications. The versatility of USB-C can be the enabler for new and exciting applications in the future, and who knows what ones it might be—maybe even some that we would have never thought of.

Conclusion

In the USB-A vs. USB-C war, it becomes clear that the future of USB connectivity lies with USB-C. It comes as an enhancement over its predecessor, whereby data transfer is more quickly and easily achieved, it has a reversible design and enhanced capabilities. However, USB-A is still widely used and relevant for connecting older devices and peripherals.

Based on the compatibility with your device and your needs, you may want to choose USB accessories that make sure you do not feel any inconvenience by selecting quality accessories such as USB hubs from one of the best and established names, like UGREEN.