What is iPhone 15 USB-C? Knowing The Difference Between Type C cable & USB-C cable?

The iPhone 15 is finally here, and it comes with a major change: the Lightning port is gone, and it has been replaced by a USB-C port. This means that you can use the same cable to charge your iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and other devices that support USB-C. But what is USB-C, and how is it different from type C cable? Here is a complete guide to help you understand the new standard and its benefits.

What is USB-C?

USB-C is a type of connector that can deliver power, data, and video signals through a single cable. It has a reversible design, so you don't have to worry about plugging it in the wrong way. It also supports faster charging and data transfer speeds than previous USB standards.


USB-C is not a new technology, but it has become more popular in recent years as more devices adopt it. For example, most Android phones, laptops, tablets, monitors, headphones, and external hard drives use USB-C ports. Apple has also been using USB-C ports on its MacBooks and iPads since 2015.


However, the iPhone was the last Apple device to stick with the proprietary Lightning port, which was introduced in 2012. Apple has finally decided to switch to USB-C on the iPhone 15, following an EU regulation that requires all smartphones to have a common charging port by 2024. (source)


What is the difference between type C cable and USB-C cable?

Type C cable and USB-C cable are often used interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same thing. Type C refers to the shape of the connector, while USB-C refers to the functionality of the cable.


Type C is a generic term that describes any connector that has a rounded rectangular or oval shape with 24 pins on the inside. It can be used for different types of cables, such as HDMI, DisplayPort, Thunderbolt, or USB.


USB-C is a specific type of cable that uses the type C connector and follows the USB standard. It can carry power, data, and video signals over a single cable. It also supports various versions of USB, such as USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, USB 3.2, and USB4.


Therefore, not all type C cables are USB-C cables, but all USB-C cables are type C cables.

Must Have Type C Accessories For Your iPhone 15

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What are the benefits of using USB-C on the iPhone 15?

There are many advantages of using USB-C on the iPhone 15, such as:


  • Compatibility: You can use the same cable to charge your iPhone and other devices that support USB-C, such as your iPad, MacBook, Android phone, laptop, tablet, monitor, headphone, or external hard drive. You don't need to carry multiple cables or adapters anymore.

  • Convenience: You can plug in your USB-C cable in any direction, without worrying about which side is up or down. You can also connect your iPhone to a USB-C monitor and use it as a docking station. You can transfer data, display video, and charge your phone with one cable.

  • Performance: You can enjoy faster charging and data transfer speeds with USB-C than with Lightning. For example, you can charge your iPhone 15 from 0% to 50% in just 15 minutes with a compatible charger. You can also transfer photos and videos from your iPhone to your laptop at up to 10 Gbps with a USB 3.1 Gen 2 or USB 3.2 cable.

What are the drawbacks of using USB-C on the iPhone 15?

There are also some disadvantages of using USB-C on the iPhone 15, such as:

  • Cost: You may need to buy new cables or accessories that are compatible with USB-C if you have been using Lightning for a long time. For example, you may need to replace your car charger, wall charger, power bank, wireless earbuds, or speaker that use Lightning ports.
  • Confusion: Not all USB-C cables are created equal. Some may support different versions of USB or different protocols such as Thunderbolt or DisplayPort. Some may have different power ratings or data transfer speeds. Some may be certified by official organizations such as USB-IF or MFi (Made for iPhone), while others may be cheap or counterfeit products that may damage your devices. You need to check the specifications and reviews of the cables before buying them.
  • Availability: While USB-C is becoming more common in the market, it is still not as widespread as Lightning or MicroUSB. You may have difficulty finding a compatible charger or cable if you forget to bring yours or lose it while traveling.

How to choose the best USB-C cable for your iPhone 15?

To choose the best USB-C cable for your iPhone 15, you need to consider the following factors:

  • Length: The length of the cable depends on your personal preference and usage scenario. You may want a shorter cable for portability or a longer cable for flexibility. However, keep in mind that longer cables may have lower power delivery or data transfer speeds than shorter cables.
  • Quality: The quality of the cable affects its durability and performance. You should look for cables that are made of sturdy materials, such as braided nylon or metal, and have reinforced connectors and strain relief. You should also look for cables that are certified by USB-IF or MFi, which means they have passed rigorous testing and comply with the USB or Apple standards.
  • Compatibility: The compatibility of the cable depends on the devices and functions that you want to use it with. You should look for cables that support the highest version of USB that your devices support, such as USB 3.1 Gen 2 or USB 3.2 for faster data transfer speeds, or USB4 for Thunderbolt 3 or DisplayPort support. You should also look for cables that support the highest power delivery that your devices support, such as 20V 5A or 100W for faster charging speeds.

Conclusions

If you are looking for a high-quality USB-C to USB-C cable that can charge your iPhone 15 fast and transfer data smoothly, we recommend the Type-C to Type-C Cable Braided White. This cable is durable, flexible, and tangle-free. It supports up to 60W power delivery and up to 480 Mbps data transfer speed.If you need a car charger that can charge your iPhone 15 and another device at the same time, we suggest the Dual USB Car Charger. This charger has two USB ports: one USB-A port and one USB-C port. It can deliver up to 18W of power to each port and supports fast charging protocols such as QC 3.0 and PD 3.0. It also has a smart chip that can detect the optimal charging speed for your device and prevent overheating, overcharging, and short-circuiting. And if you want a versatile cable that can work with different types of devices, we recommend the 2 Meter 3-in-1 Cable Braided Black.

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