USB-C and Lightning cables have both been released in recent years, aiming to replace existing cables for charging smartphones and tablets. and these two types of connectors you’ll find on many mobile devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Both have their pros and cons, But when it comes to which of these two is better, it’s easy to choose which one you like best. If you’re looking for the top five reasons why USB-C is better than Lightning, here they are!
What Is USB-C?
USB-C is the newest standard for USB ports. It’s a small, rectangular port that can be found on laptops, phones, and other devices. USB-C is not only faster than the older USB standards, but it’s also more versatile. For example, you can use a USB-C port to charge your phone, transfer data, or connect to an external display.
You can’t do any of those things with a Lightning Port. USB-C has made charging easy and safe. All you need to do is plug your USB-C cable into your device and attach the end of the cable to a power source like a laptop or power bank. The cable will provide enough electricity to power up most devices when connected to a power source that offers at least 5V/3A (10W).
What is type USB-C?
USB-C (also known as USB Type-C) is a type of USB connector that is capable of supporting many different types of devices and protocols. It is notable for its small, reversible design, which allows it to be inserted into a device in either orientation.
It also supports faster data transfer speeds and higher power delivery than previous versions of USB. USB-C is becoming more common on laptops, smartphones, and other devices, and can be used for charging, data transfer, and video output.
In addition to its small, reversible design and faster data transfer speeds, USB-C has several other features that make it a versatile connector. One of the most notable is its ability to support power delivery of up to 100 watts, which allows it to be used to charge larger devices like laptops.
It also supports the ability to send and receive video over the same cable, which is known as “Alt Mode.” This allows USB-C to be used to connect devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops to external displays.
USB-C can also be used to connect to other devices like external hard drives and cameras, as well as Ethernet and audio devices. Overall, USB-C is a highly versatile and powerful connector that is becoming increasingly common on a wide range of devices.
How does USB-C work?
USB-C works by utilizing a 24-pin connector that supports multiple protocols and data transfer speeds. The connector itself is symmetrical, which means it can be inserted into a device in either orientation. This is made possible by the use of a double-sided receptacle and a double-sided plug.
When a USB-C cable is connected to a device, it establishes a communication link using the USB Data Lane (D+ and D- pins) and the Configuration Channel (CC) pins. The CC pins are used to determine the power and data capabilities of the connected device and to negotiate the best possible connection.
Once the link is established, data can be transferred between devices at speeds of up to 10 Gbps for SuperSpeed USB, or up to 480Mbps for Hi-Speed USB. USB-C also supports USB Power Delivery (USB-PD), which enables power to be delivered to devices at up to 100W. This allows USB-C to be used to charge larger devices like laptops.
Additionally, USB-C supports Alternate Mode, which allows non-USB protocols to be transmitted over the USB-C cable. This means that USB-C can be used for video, audio, Ethernet, and other protocols.
In summary, a USB-C connector uses a combination of data lanes, configuration channels, and power delivery to establish a communication link between devices, allowing data transfer, charging, and even video transmission.
Types of USB-C
There are several different types of USB-C connectors and cables, each with its own specific capabilities and uses. Some of the most common include:
USB-C to USB-C:
This is a cable with a USB-C connector on both ends. It can be used to connect two devices that both have USB-C ports, such as a laptop and a hard drive.
USB-C to USB-A:
This is a cable with a USB-C connector on one end and a USB-A connector on the other. It can be used to connect a device with a USB-C port to a device with a USB-A port, such as a smartphone to a computer.
USB-C to HDMI:
This is a cable or adapter that has a USB-C connector on one end and an HDMI connector on the other. It can be used to connect a device with a USB-C port, such as a laptop, to a display with an HDMI input, such as a TV or monitor.
USB-C to Ethernet:
This is a cable or adapter that has a USB-C connector on one end and an Ethernet connector on the other. It can be used to connect a device with a USB-C port, such as a laptop, to a wired Ethernet network.
USB-C to DisplayPort:
This is a cable or adapter that has a USB-C connector on one end and a DisplayPort connector on the other. It can be used to connect a device with a USB-C port, such as a laptop, to a display with a DisplayPort input.
USB-C to Audio:
This is a cable or adapter that has a USB-C connector on one end and a 3.5mm audio connector on the other. It can be used to connect a device with a USB-C port, such as a smartphone, to a set of headphones or speakers.
These are just a few examples of the many different types of USB-C connectors and cables that are available. As more devices adopt the USB-C standard, it is likely that even more types of cables and adapters will become available.
Use of USB-C?
USB-C has a wide range of uses due to its versatility and high-speed capabilities. Some of the most common uses of USB-C like.
USB-C support Charging:
USB-C supports power delivery of up to 100 watts, which allows it to be used to charge larger devices like laptops. Many smartphones, tablets, and other devices now use USB-C for charging as well.
USB-C support Data transfer:
USB-C supports data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps, which makes it much faster than previous versions of USB. This makes it ideal for transferring large files such as photos and videos between devices.
USB-C support Video output:
USB-C supports Alternate Mode, which allows non-USB protocols to be transmitted over the USB-C cable. This means that USB-C can be used for video output, allowing devices to connect to external displays such as monitors and TVs.
USB-C support Audio output:
USB-C can also be used for audio output, allowing devices to connect to external speakers and headphones.
USB-C support Ethernet:
USB-C to Ethernet adapter can be used to connect a device with a USB-C port to a wired Ethernet network
USB-C support External storage:
USB-C can be used to connect external storage devices such as hard drives and solid state drives to devices.
USB-C support Docking stations:
USB-C can be used to connect devices to docking stations, which provide additional ports and functionality such as Ethernet, HDMI, and USB-A.
USB-C supports Virtual reality:
USB-C can be used to connect virtual reality (VR) headsets to devices such as laptops and smartphones.
USB-C support External graphics card:
USB-C can be used to connect an external graphics card (eGPU) to a device, which can be used to improve the device’s graphics performance.
USB-C support Power bank:
USB-C can be used to charge portable power banks and other battery packs, which can then be used to charge devices when a power outlet is not available.
USB-C support Portable monitors:
USB-C can be used to connect portable monitors to devices, allowing them to be used as external displays.
USB-C support Game controllers:
Some game controllers are equipped with a USB-C port, allowing them to be connected to devices for gaming.
USB-C support hubs:
USB-C hubs are devices that contain multiple USB-C and other ports, allowing users to connect multiple devices to a single USB-C port.
USB-C support Smart home devices:
Many smart home devices, such as smart plugs and thermostats, use USB-C for power and communication.
USB-C support Security cameras:
Some security cameras can use USB-C for power and data transfer, which can help to reduce the number of cables needed to connect them to a device.
As the technology develops, it is expected that USB-C will be used in more and more devices and applications. The USB-C standard is also being used in new protocols such as Thunderbolt, which can provide even higher data transfer speeds and more capabilities.
Difference between USB C Vs. thunderbolt based on quality
USB-C and Thunderbolt are similar in many ways, as they both use the USB-C connector and can be used for data transfer, charging, and video output. However, Thunderbolt technology offers several advantages over USB-C in terms of quality and performance.
Data transfer speed:
Thunderbolt offers significantly faster data transfer speeds than USB-C. Thunderbolt 3, the latest version of the technology, supports data transfer speeds of up to 40 Gbps, while USB-C supports data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps.
Video output:
Thunderbolt also supports a wider range of video output options than USB-C. Thunderbolt 3 supports DisplayPort 1.4, which allows for 8K video output and HDR. USB-C supports DisplayPort 1.2, which supports 4K video output.
Multiple protocols:
Thunderbolt also supports multiple protocols over a single cable, including DisplayPort, HDMI, and VGA, as well as USB-C, Ethernet, and Audio. This allows for more versatile use of a single cable.
Daisy-chaining:
Thunderbolt allows for daisy-chaining of multiple devices, allowing multiple devices to be connected to a single Thunderbolt port, which helps to minimize the number of ports needed on a device.
Power delivery:
USB-C supports power delivery of up to 100 watts while Thunderbolt can support up to 100 watts, but it also supports charging while the data transfer takes place, which is known as “Dual Role Power”
Another important difference between USB-C and Thunderbolt is the level of security and encryption. Thunderbolt has built-in security features that help to protect against unauthorized access to data.
It includes a feature called “Security Level” that allows users to select the level of security they need. The highest level of security uses a password to encrypt data, while the lowest level allows for unencrypted data transfer.
Additionally, Thunderbolt also supports hardware-based authentication, which helps to ensure that only authorized devices can connect to a Thunderbolt-enabled device. This is particularly useful in professional and enterprise environments where data security is a high priority.
Another important aspect to consider is compatibility. USB-C is a more widely adopted standard than Thunderbolt, which means that more devices are likely to have USB-C ports. Thunderbolt is primarily used on Apple devices and high-end PCs, and it may be difficult to find Thunderbolt-compatible devices, especially for older computers.
Note:✍ In summary, Thunderbolt offers a higher quality and more versatile solution than USB-C, with faster data transfer speeds, more advanced video output options, the ability to support multiple protocols, daisy-chaining of devices, built-in security features, and hardware-based authentication. However, it is also worth noting that Thunderbolt is generally more expensive than USB-C, not all devices support it and it might be less compatible than USB-C.History of USB-C
USB-C, also known as USB Type-C, was first developed by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) in 2014 as a replacement for the older USB-A and USB-B connectors. The goal of the new connector was to create a more versatile, user-friendly, and future-proof connector that could be used for a wide range of devices and applications.
The USB-C connector is notable for its small, reversible design, which allows it to be inserted into a device in either orientation. It also supports faster data transfer speeds and higher power delivery than previous versions of USB. The USB-C standard also includes support for Alternate Mode, which allows non-USB protocols such as HDMI, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt to be transmitted over the USB-C cable.
The first devices with USB-C ports began appearing in 2015, with the release of the new MacBook, which featured a single USB-C port for charging, data transfer, and video output.
Since then, USB-C has been increasingly adopted by other device manufacturers, and it is now becoming a common feature on laptops, smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
In August 2017, the USB-IF announced the USB 3.2 specification which includes the USB-C connector and its capabilities. It includes the SuperSpeed USB 10Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 2) and SuperSpeed USB 20Gbps (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2) which defines the data transfer rate.
Overall, USB-C has become a widely adopted standard for connecting devices and peripherals, and it is expected to continue to be used in an increasing number of devices and applications in the future.
Advantages of USB-C
USB-C has several advantages over previous versions of USB and other connectors. Some of the most notable advantages like.
eversible design:
The USB-C connector is symmetrical, which means it can be inserted into a device in either orientation. This eliminates the need to fumble around trying to insert the connector correctly, making it more user-friendly.
Faster data transfer speeds:
USB-C supports data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps, which is significantly faster than previous versions of USB. This makes it ideal for transferring large files such as photos and videos between devices.
Higher power delivery:
USB-C supports power delivery of up to 100 watts, which allows it to be used to charge larger devices like laptops. This eliminates the need for separate charging cables for many devices.
Alternate Mode:
USB-C supports Alternate Mode, which allows non-USB protocols such as HDMI, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt to be transmitted over the USB-C cable. This allows for more versatile use of a single cable.
Compatibility:
USB-C is becoming a widely adopted standard, which means that more devices are likely to have USB-C ports. This makes it more convenient for users as they don’t have to carry multiple cables for different devices.
Durability:
USB-C connectors have a higher insertion-removal cycle than USB-A and USB-B connectors, which means it’s less prone to wear and tear, making them more durable.
Smaller size:
USB-C is significantly smaller in size compared to previous versions of USB. This allows devices to have smaller ports, which can make them more portable and easier to carry.
Universal Charging Solution (UCS):
USB-C can be used as a universal charging solution, which means that devices can be charged with a single cable, regardless of the device’s brand, model, or operating system.
Improved power management:
USB-C allows for improved power management, as it can supply power and charge to connected devices, even when the host device is turned off or in sleep mode.
Scalability:
USB-C can be used to connect a wide range of devices, from smartphones and tablets to laptops, desktops, and even monitors, TVs, and other displays.
Multiple device support:
USB-C supports multiple devices to be connected to a single port, by using a USB-C hub or dock.
Cost-effective:
USB-C is a cost-effective solution as it eliminates the need for multiple cables and adapters, which can save money in the long run.
Disadvantages of USB-C
While USB-C has many advantages over previous versions of USB and other connectors, it also has some disadvantages. Some of the most notable disadvantages include:
Compatibility issues: While USB-C is becoming a widely adopted standard, it is not yet fully adopted by all devices. This means that some devices may not have USB-C ports or may require an adapter to connect to devices with USB-C ports.
Lack of standardization: There is a lack of standardization among USB-C devices and cables, which can lead to compatibility issues and confusion among users. Some cables may not work with certain devices, or may not support all of the features of the USB-C standard.
Power delivery problems: While USB-C supports power delivery of up to 100 watts, not all devices support this feature. This can lead to problems when trying to charge certain devices or can result in slower charging times.
Confusion with USB 3.1: USB-C and USB 3.1 are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. USB-C is a connector, while USB 3.1 is a standard for data transfer speeds. This can lead to confusion among users and can make it difficult to determine the capabilities of a device or cable.
Lack of audio support: While USB-C supports Alternate Mode, it doesn’t have built-in audio support. This means that users will need to use an adapter or a specialized cable to connect audio devices.
Cable confusion: With USB-C cables, users may not be able to determine the capabilities of the cable by just looking at it. This can be a problem if a user needs a cable that supports certain features, such as power delivery or video output.
Limited availability of devices: While USB-C is becoming more widely adopted, it is still not available on all devices. This means that users may need to use an adapter or a specialized cable to connect certain devices.
Limited legacy support: USB-C does not support legacy devices, which means that users may need to use an adapter or a specialized cable to connect older devices.
Risk of damage to the port: If the user is not careful, USB-C ports can be damaged, which can be costly to repair or replace.
It’s worth noting that some of the disadvantages can be overcome with the use of adapters and specialized cables, but it can still be inconvenient for some users. Additionally, as technology continues to evolve and becomes more widely adopted, it is expected that many of these disadvantages will be addressed and resolved.
Final word
In conclusion, USB-C is a versatile and powerful connector that offers many advantages over previous versions of USB and other connectors. Its reversible design, faster data transfer speeds, higher power delivery, Alternate Mode, compatibility, and durability make it suitable for a wide range of devices and applications.
Its small size, universal charging solution, improved power management, scalability, multiple device support, and cost-effectiveness make it an ideal choice for many devices and peripherals.
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However, it also has some disadvantages such as compatibility issues, lack of standardization, power delivery problems, confusion with USB 3.1, lack of audio support, expensive cables, cable confusion, limited availability of devices, limited legacy support, and risk of damage to the port.
As technology continues to evolve and becomes more widely adopted, it is expected that many of these disadvantages will be addressed and resolved. Additionally, USB-C is a cost-effective solution in the long run, and it’s a future-proof connector that can be used for many years to come