USB A vs USB C: The Differences & Benefits for Users

Exploring the dynamic realm of USB connectors, we discover two prevalent heavyweights battling for supremacy: USB vs USB-C, or as many people now prefer to call it as USB-A vs USB-C. Anker, as a leader in the industry, helps you quickly understand the key differences between these two technologies. Prepare for an enticing adventure as we go deep into what are the differences between USB-A and USB-C, journeying towards a higher understanding of the complex world these two connectors enthrall.

An Overview of USB-A and USB-C

Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a standard for connecting devices and transferring data or power between them. Since its introduction, several USB types have emerged to meet the demands of evolving technology. Two of the most prevalent and widely used USB types today are USB-A and USB-C. Let's take a closer look at each of them.

USB-A

Universal Serial Bus Type-A (USB-A), is one of the most renowned and widely utilized forms of USB connectors. Primarily, the USB-A connection is used on devices such as desktop computers, laptops, gaming consoles, and power outlets, delivering electrical power and transferring data.

USB-A is distinguished by its rectangular shape and compatibility with many kinds of devices, allowing for versatile applications. However, these connectors operate in a unidirectional manner, meaning they have a designated "up" side that needs to be appropriately oriented during insertion. Here is a picture of USB-A.

USB-C

On the other hand, USB Type-C (USB-C) is a newer and rapidly growing popular form of USB connection. Introduced as a universal connector, it is now found on many modern devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops.

USB-C connectors are smaller and rounded, with a reversible orientation, which means you can plug them in any way without worrying about the "right" side. Furthermore, they have a high power output, enabling faster charging times, and also support various protocols using 'alternate modes', which allows adaptability with outputs including HDMI, VGA, and Display Port, among others. Below is the picture of USB-C. 

Differences between USB-A and USB-C

What is the difference between USB A and USB C? Below are the key aspects:

Difference 1. Physical Design and Compatibility

USB-A, also known as "Type-A," is the classic, rectangular-shaped connector that most people are familiar with. The USB-A dimensions are approximately 12mm x 4.5mm, making it larger and less compact compared to newer connectors. USB-A ports are widely found in various devices such as computers, laptops, power banks, and other electronic gadgets.. However, USB-A connectors are not reversible and can only be inserted in one specific orientation.

On the other hand, USB-C (or "Type-C") features a smaller, oval-shaped design with dimensions of about 8.4mm x 2.6mm. One of its advantages is its reversible connector, which allows users to plug it in either orientation, making it more convenient and user-friendly. The Type-C interface is increasingly being adopted in laptops, smartphones, tablets, headsets, and other electronics. It’s also compatible with a wide range of devices, reducing the need for different cable types. For users with legacy devices or peripherals that still use USB-A connectors, a USB-C to USB-A adapter can be used to bridge the compatibility gap.

Difference 2. Data Transfer Speed

USB-A connectors can have different transfer speeds, depending on the version of the USB standard they adhere to USB 2.0, which is common in older devices, has a transfer speed of up to 480 Mbps. In contrast, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, and USB 3.2 Type-A ports offer higher speeds up to 5 Gbps, 10 Gbps, and 20 Gbps, respectively.

USB-C, when paired with the proper data cable, support the more modern USB 3.1 and USB 3.2 standards, offering transfer speeds up to 10 Gbps and 20 Gbps. Additionally, USB-C can support the Thunderbolt 3/4 standard, which boasts transfer speeds up to a staggering 40 Gbps. This faster data transfer capabilities are significantly beneficial for transferring large files or streaming high-resolution content. 

Difference 3. Power Delivery and Charging Capabilities

USB-A connectors generally offer a maximum power delivery of around 2.5 watts for USB 2.0 or up to 15 watts with USB 3.0 or USB 3.1. This power output is usually sufficient for charging smaller devices like smartphones and basic peripherals, but it's not ideal for fast charging or powering larger devices. For example, a USB Type A charger can charge a phone or small gadget, but it can't provide the rapid charging speeds or power needed by more demanding devices. 

USB-C cables, however, are designed to support much higher power output through a feature called USB Power Delivery (USB-PD). With USB-PD, USB-C can deliver up to 100 watts of power, making it capable of charging laptops, monitors, and other power-hungry devices. This increased power capacity enables USB-C chargers to charge larger devices more efficiently and faster than USB Type A chargers. 

A great example of this is the Anker Prime 100W GaN Wall Charger (3 Ports), a compact, high-speed charging station that can simultaneously power a mobile, tablet, and laptop. With two USB-C ports and one USB-A port, it offers fast and efficient 100W max charging, regardless of port combinations. It is impressively 43% smaller than a 96W MacBook charger, making it extremely portable. What's more? The advanced ActiveShield™ 2.0 safety technology ensures safe, reliable charging every time! 

Difference 4. Audio and Video Capabilities

While USB-A connections can support audio and video transmission, they generally require additional adapters or cables to connect to devices like monitors or TVs. USB-C, however, natively supports audio and video transmission through features like DisplayPort Alternate Mode. This means that USB-C can directly connect to devices like monitors or smart TVs without requiring additional adapters, offering a more streamlined and user-friendly solution. 

For example, with USB-C, you can connect a laptop to an external display, transfer files, and charge your device—all through the same port. This multi-functionality reduces cable clutter and simplifies device connectivity, making USB-C ideal for modern tech ecosystems. Additionally, with the higher data transfer speeds of USB-C, it can support higher-resolution displays and audio formats, such as 4K and 8K video or high-quality audio codecs. 

Conclusion

Wrapping up, the face-off between USB-A vs USB-C paints a robust, dynamic picture of technological evolution. With the undeniable trend marching towards USB-C, it's vital to equip ourselves with the nuances and benefits of this transformative technology. Both share the lineage of Universal Serial Bus (USB) but offer distinct features and performance, at the heart of a continuously evolving digital age. Neither should we cloak USB-A with obsoleteness, nor treat USB-C as a silver bullet. Rather, let's champion the journey from A to C, celebrating our progressive strides in technology and creating a more connected, efficient future!

FAQ

What is the difference between USB A and USB-C?

USB-A has a rectangular shape and is unidirectional, while USB-C is reversible and more compact, making it easier to connect. USB-A typically supports older standards like USB 2.0 or 3.0 with slower speeds, while USB-C supports faster data transfer protocols such as USB 3.1 or 3.2, offering faster delivery of data, power, and charging capabilities.

Can you plug a USB-C into a USB-A port?

No, USB-C and USB-A connectors are physically different, so they are not directly compatible. You would need an adapter or cable with USB-A on one end and USB-C on the other.

What is the difference between USB and USB-C socket?

USB refers to the general port standard, while USB-C is a specific type of USB connector. USB-C sockets are smaller, reversible, and support faster data transfer and power delivery than older USB ports like USB-A.

Does the iPhone use USB A or C?

The iPhone 15 series and later use USB-C for charging and data transfer. Prior to the iPhone 15, all iPhones used Apple's proprietary Lightning connector.