Most smartphone manufacturers have transitioned their newer phones from micro-USB to USB-C (otherwise known as Type C). The change is for the good. The newer USB-C cables are faster and more convenient. But what about all those old micro-USB cables you have purchased over the years? Should you throw them away?
Accessory manufacturers have rushed USB-C cables to the market. They tend to be expensive and aren’t really necessary for smartphones. Adapters work just fine with your existing micro-USB cables.
These adapters have a USB-C connector on one end and a micro USB port on the other side. Simply connect the adapter to your USB-C device and then connect the micro USB cable to it. No driver is required. These adapters will allow you to charge your phone and sync data.
All these adapters use the USB 2.0 standard so regardless of what the marketing hype tells you – you’re limited to 480Mbps file transfer speed.
What Features to Look For
- 56k resistor. A 56k resistor will protect your device from high current while charging. Off spec cables and wall chargers can fry your smartphone. Protect your investment.
- Premium design. Look for deep-draw extruded USB-C connectors made from a single piece of metal (no seam). Folded and stamped connectors are more easily broken.
- Branding. Does the adapter carry a manufacturers/seller’s logo? Generic, unbranded adapters have flooded the market in recent months. A logo (brand) means the manufacturers/seller’s reputation is at risk if the adapter is of poor quality. We recommend: Anker, Aukey, CreatePros, and Unitek.
- Multi-Pack. Buy more than one. You have more than one micro-USB cable, right? And, these adapters are small and easy to misplace.
