USB-C is a reversible cable standard designed for charging and transferring data between devices. Some USB-C cables can only support USB 2.0 speeds, whereas others support Power Delivery and USB 3.1 Gen 2.

There's no doubt that USB-C is the port of the future. USB-C offers the opportunity for fast charging (especially when combined with a USB-C charging adapter) and higher data transfer speeds. There's a vast range of cables, so it's essential to consider your needs carefully.

Here are the best USB-C cables for charging and data transfer.

Our Top Picks for the Best USB-C Cables in 2023

Cable Matters 40Gbps USB4 Cable
Cable Matters 40Gbps USB4 Cable
Best Overall

Plenty of power and top speeds

$20 $22 Save $2

The Cable Matters 40Gbps USB4 Cable is a top-tier USB-C cord with exceptional performance, boasting 240W charging capability and lightning-fast 40Gbps transfer speeds. It can handle everything from fast-charging demanding laptops like the 16-inch MacBook Pro to supporting external displays up to 8K.

Pros
  • Remarkable 240W fast charging
  • Can fast charge any USB-C laptop
  • Faster transfer speeds and display support
  • USB-IF Certified
Cons
  • Overkill for charging phones and tablets

The Cable Matters 40Gbps USB4 Cable is among the new wave of USB-C cables supporting the latest USB Power Delivery 3.1 Standard, allowing ultra-fast charging speeds of up to 240W. You can charge any laptop at full speed with this USB-C cable, including demanding laptops like the 16-inch MacBook Pro. It also works safely with low-wattage devices like phones and tablets, and it's even USB-IF certified for added peace of mind.

Even better, the Cable Matters 40Gbps USB4 Cable supports faster transfer speeds up to 40Gbps, which is perfect for professionals like photographers who need to transfer larger files quickly. It can transfer a 4K video in seconds, a significant upgrade from the USB 2.0 cables of the past. In addition, you can use Cable Matters' 40Gbps USB4 Cable to connect high-resolution monitors to your laptop.

Apple Thunderbolt 3
Apple Thunderbolt 3 Cable
Best Quality

Premium Thunderbolt 3 cable from a reputable brand

$39 $40 Save $1

The Apple Thunderbolt 3 Cable charges most phones, tablets, and laptops at full speed, supports lightning-fast data transfer speeds of up to 40Gbps and can connect external displays to your computer. In addition, it boasts the exceptional build quality that we've come to expect from Apple.

Pros
  • Fast speeds for transferring 4K video
  • Fast 100W (5A) charging
  • Genuine Apple product
  • HBR3 video output support
Cons
  • Expensive

The Apple Thunderbolt 3 cable is a USB-C lead that supports Thunderbolt 3, and it is backward compatible with USB 3.1 Gen 2 devices. It is 0.8m long, the optimal length for performance. This cable boasts data transfer speeds of up to 5,000MB/s when using a Thunderbolt 3-compatible device.

This means you can transfer high-resolution 4K videos incredibly fast, as well as other media and files. When used with a USB-C 3.1 port, the Apple Thunderbolt 3 can achieve transfer speeds of up to 1,250MB/s. The cable features 100W (5A) fast charging and can be daisy-chained with up to six Thunderbolt 3 devices.

JSAUX USB-C to USB-A charging cable
JSAUX USB-C to USB-A
Best Value

Two for the price of one

$9 $11 Save $2

The JSAUX USB-C to USB-A Cable is an inexpensive option for devices supporting Quick Charge 3.0 and Adaptive Fast Charge (AFC) protocols. With a woven fabric exterior, the cable is made to last and is long enough so you can freely use your device while it charges.

Pros
  • 3.1A fast charging
  • Braided nylon material for durability
  • Choice of colors
  • Two-pack
Cons
  • Fast charging only compatible with specific devices

The JSAUX USB-C to USB-A is an affordable cable with a stylish design that features nylon braiding for added durability. Each cable end is covered with a rubberized cable guard, which prevents damage from bending.

For data transfer, the JSAUX USB-C to USB-A boasts speeds of up to 60MB/s, allowing you to transfer media and other files from your devices.

While it doesn't boast 5A compatibility, the JSAUX USB-C to USB-A is still very capable of fast charging if your device supports it. The choice of colors and value for money makes this USB-C cable ideal for charging multiple devices and transferring data quickly.

Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Cable-1
Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Cable
Budget Thunderbolt 3

Full Thunderbolt 3 speeds at a fair price

$25 $35 Save $10

The Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Cable offers everything that the Apple Thunderbolt 3 Cable does but at a much more reasonable price. It supports the full 40Gbps Thunderbolt 3 speeds for quick transfers, display output, and 5A charging up to 100W, ideal for fast-charging phones, tablets, and laptops.

Pros
  • High-speed transfer rates and 5A charging up to 100W
  • Supports dual 4K video output
  • Backward compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 3.0
Cons
  • Doesn't support Qualcomm Quick Charge

The Plugable Thunderbolt 3 cable offers reliable all-around performance with compatible devices. When paired with a Thunderbolt 3 port, it boasts speeds of up to 625MB/s, which is ideal for 4K video.

You can quickly charge any of your devices and connect to older devices that use USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 as it is backward compatible. However, if you want to use the Plugable Thunderbolt 3 for fast charging, it doesn't support Qualcomm Quick Charge.

On the other hand, it does support up to 5A power chargers. While it doesn't feature any nylon braiding like other similar cables, it does maintain performance with its short 0.8m cable.

Ugreen 100W USB-C Cable on a desk
UGREEN 100W USB-C Cable
Best for Durability

Most Durable USB-C Cable

$9 $13 Save $4

The UGREEN 100W USB-C Cable is built from the ground up to last longer and withstand frequent plugging and unplugging. In addition, it offers maximum charging power for most laptops and the latest phones, like the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.

Pros
  • Can fast charge most modern phones, tablets, and laptops
  • Built-in e-marker for safe and optimized charging
  • Braided for durability
  • Color and size options
Cons
  • Slow USB 2.0 data transfer speeds
  • Does not support video output

The UGREEN 100W USB-C Cable is perfect if you want something more rugged and durable. Made with a combination of a 250D high-strength fiber core and nylon-braided cable jacket, the cable feels sturdy and is less likely to fray or wear quickly like regular cords. I've been using one on my desk for the past few months with zero issues, and it still feels sturdy and durable.

For charging, the UGREEN 100W USB-C Cable is rated to carry 100W. It supports Power Delivery 3.0, Qualcomm QC 3.0, and 5A fast charging, so it can offer a quick recharge to almost all devices. The 5A charging is essential if you want to take advantage of Samsung's 45W Super Fast Charging or power demanding laptops.

The only downside is the slower USB 2.0 transfer speeds, but even that is only a deal breaker if you frequently copy multiple gigabytes of data. Overall, the UGREEN 100W USB-C Cable is a solid cable for quick charging devices and packs a strong punch for longevity. You can choose from three colors and sizes (ranging up to 10 feet) to perfectly fit your setup.

Anker Powerline II USB-C to USB-C
Anker Powerline II USB-C to USB-C
Most Reliable

Peace of mind with lifetime warranty

The Anker Powerline II USB-C to USB-C Cable allows you to transfer files quickly at up to 10Gbps speeds and can carry 100W of charging power, which is enough to power just about any USB-C device on the market. The cable is USB-IF certified for safety and compatibility and is backed by a lifetime warranty.

Pros
  • High data transfer speeds
  • Delivers up to 100W (5A)
  • Durable
  • Hassle-free replacement
Cons
  • Devices that don't comply with PD protocol often won't charge

The Anker Powerline II USB-C to USB-C is a long-lasting cable that features USB 3.1 Gen 2 capability. This cable will work with most Type-C devices like the Apple MacBook, Chromebooks, the Nintendo Switch, and many more.

The Anker Powerline II USB-C to USB-C boasts up to 156MB/s data transfer speeds, which means you can copy across videos in a matter of seconds from your device.

You'll also be able to charge USB-C devices at up to 5A, so fast charging-compatible phones will be able to use the Anker Powerline II USB-C to USB-C.

AINOPE USB-C to USB-A charging
AINOPE USB-C to USB-A
Best for Gaming

Use your phone while it charges comfortably

$9 $11 Save $2

If you frequently use your phone while it charges, whether for gaming, watching movies, or simply browsing, then this one's for you. It features a right-angled design that keeps the rest of the cable out of the way, enabling you to use your phone more comfortably.

Pros
  • Widely compatible
  • Cable design allows comfortable usage while charging
  • Durable
Cons
  • Won't fit through thicker cases

The AINOPE USB-C to USB-A supports 3.1A fast charging when connected to a QC/AFC protocol rapid charger with a USB-A port. This cable is widely compatible with many devices, including the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra, LG ThinQ, Nintendo Switch, and more.

This cable has been designed with a 90-degree angle so you can comfortably continue to use your devices while on charge, which is especially useful for mobile gaming.

The AINOPE USB-C to USB-A is exceptionally durable, featuring nylon-braided cables. The cable boasts data transfer speeds of up to 60MB/s, ideal for transferring media and files to or from your devices.

QCEs USB-C to USB-C length
QCEs USB-C to USB-C
Most Convenient

10 feet of charging freedom

Available in sizes up to 10 feet, the QCEs USB-C to USB-C Cable is the longest USB-C cable we recommend for charging or syncing data between devices. It lets you place or use your devices anywhere in the room while charging, so you don't need to crouch at the outlet.

Pros
  • 5A fast charging up to 100W
  • High-speed data transfer
  • Durable
  • Available in different sizes up to 10 feet
  • Universal device compatibility
Cons
  • Doesn't fit all phone cases

The QCEs USB-C to USB-C automatically adjusts its current to be compatible with 5A fast chargers and other devices. It offers a generous length of 1.5m and is also compatible with Thunderbolt 3 ports for high-speed data transfer rates.

When connected to a Thunderbolt 3 port, the QCEs USB-C to USB-C can produce speeds of up to 2,500MB/s, allowing you to transfer data quickly, including 4K videos.

This cable is reinforced with metal and features nylon braiding to make it incredibly durable, even when repeatedly bent. The QCEs USB-C to USB-C is compatible with a wide variety of devices, including the iPad Pro, Samsung Note, MacBook, Nintendo Switch, and many more.

Finding the Right USB-C Cable for Your Device

Before selecting a USB-C cable for charging or syncing data between devices, it's important to consider your device's capabilities. If your device supports Power Delivery, a PD cable is the best choice. Some devices support other quick charge protocols, like Qualcomm's Quick Charge. In addition, cables with a braided cable jacket tend to last longer than regular cables.

Regarding data transfer, cables compatible with Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, and USB4 offer the fastest speeds, reaching up to 40Gbps. These cables are ideal for quickly moving or transferring large files. However, these cables typically come at a higher cost. If you only require occasional file transfers or need a cable primarily for charging purposes, opting for a regular USB-C cable can help you save money.

The Cable Matters 40Gbps USB4 Cable is an excellent choice for those looking for a cable that can do it all. Rated to carry 240W with 40Gbps transfer speeds, this cable offers top-speed charging to all devices that support USB-C charging as well as faster transfer speeds and display support up to 8K. The 2-pack JSAUX USB-C to USB-A Cable is a fantastic alternative if you're working within a tight budget. It offers both charging and data transfer capabilities at a much lower price.

Cable Matters 40Gbps USB4 Cable
Cable Matters 40Gbps USB4 Cable
Best Overall

Plenty of power and top speeds

$20 $22 Save $2

The Cable Matters 40Gbps USB4 Cable is a top-tier USB-C cord with exceptional performance, boasting 240W charging capability and lightning-fast 40Gbps transfer speeds. It can handle everything from fast-charging demanding laptops like the 16-inch MacBook Pro to supporting external displays up to 8K.

Pros
  • Remarkable 240W fast charging
  • Can fast charge any USB-C laptop
  • Faster transfer speeds and display support
  • USB-IF Certified
Cons
  • Overkill for charging phones and tablets