USB-A vs USB-C: What's the Difference?

USB-A is the rectangular connector you've plugged in for decades. USB-C is the smaller, reversible oval that's replacing it. The difference isn't just the shape; it's speed, power, and flexibility.

What USB-C adds

USB-C is reversible, so it plugs in either way. More importantly, it carries far more power and data than USB-A: up to 100W or more of power and transfer speeds of 40Gbps on the fastest cables, versus USB-A's lower limits.

One cable for everything

The real advantage of USB-C is that one connector charges your phone, laptop, and accessories alike. That's why laptops, phones, and even headphones have moved to USB-C, and why the older USB-A port is slowly disappearing.

What to know when buying

• USB-C is the connector; the speed and power depend on the cable's rating
• Not all USB-C cables are the same; check wattage and data speed
• USB-A ports still work fine for older devices and peripherals

For anything new, USB-C is the better bet. For legacy devices, keep a USB-A to USB-C adapter or cable around, but expect USB-A to keep fading from new hardware.