Posted on 30 August 2022
This comparison is certified 100% impartial and follows our selection process.
Rampow USB-C
This USB-C is very simple and affordable. It has a braided outer cover, which ensures a long service life. It is suitable for those who want a classic cable.
This 2m cable can charge a device and transfer data at 5Gbps when connected to USB 3.0 ports. We found that its nylon coating wasn’t the most flexible, but it proved to be tough enough in use. It doesn’t have any anti-corrosion connectors, but in our test we found the inner shielding to be more than enough (aluminium foil and metal braiding). Note that this model comes with a lifetime warranty from the manufacturer. It is an excellent value for money for people searching for a model without accessory features. However, please note that the maximum charging power is limited to 15 W according to the advertised values (5V/3A max).
USB-C cables are a new standard that appeared in the summer of 2014 and are the successor to micro-USB cables.
We have chosen cables between 90cm and 1m.
We have only chosen models that can both charge and transfer data.
A shielded or coated USB-C will better resist intertwining with other cables.
Amazon Basics USB-C to USB-C 3.1
AmazonBasics also offers a more balanced USB cable for very fast charging and data transfer. It also manages to convince and offers an attractive price/performance ratio.
The USB-C to USB-C 3.1 cable from AmazonBasics is a thick PVC coated solution. This material guarantees an attractive lifespan but has a negative impact on its flexibility and thickness. When we cut the cable, we discovered that this extra thickness also allows it to incorporate a fairly complete shielding (metal braid and aluminium foil). On the performance side, it complies with the USB 3.1 Gen 1 standard allowing transfers at a maximum of 5 Gbps. The load tolerates up to 100W. Unfortunately, it is not as fast as its direct competitor.
Cable Matters
This USB-C cable, which at first glance looks rather classic, conceals some very interesting features in terms of charging and data transfer.
The USB-C to USB-C from Cable Matters is the ideal solution for anyone looking for high performance at an attractive price. As such, it supports the USB 3.1 Gen2 standard which allows transfers at up to 10Gbps and a maximum load of 100W. In our test, we analysed the shielding, which is quite effective at reducing interference (metal braiding + aluminium foil). However, when we compared it with other braided solutions, the outer sheath seemed a little less durable.
Amazon Basics USB-C to USB-A 3.1 Gen 2
Designed for data transfer, this braided cable is a practical solution if fast charging is not important to you. It is also quite flexible in its use.
The USB-C to USB-A cable from AmazonBasics is a solution primarily dedicated to data transfer. As such, it supports the USB 3.1 Gen 2 standard, which allows transfers at a maximum of 10 Gbps. The charging speed is limited to 15W. The braided nylon cover on the outside of the device was quite durable and more flexible than the other solutions we tested. Nevertheless, it remains more sensitive to interference than its closest contender because of its less complete shielding (only a metal braid is present).
Our selection
| Our choice, Best budget | Best mid-range | Best high-end | Budget alternative |
|---|---|---|---|
| | | | |
| Rampow USB-C | Amazon Basics USB-C to USB-C 3.1 | Cable Matters | Amazon Basics USB-C to USB-A 3.1 Gen 2 |
| This USB-C is very simple and affordable. It has a braided outer cover, which ensures a long service life. It is suitable for those who want a classic cable. | AmazonBasics also offers a more balanced USB cable for very fast charging and data transfer. It also manages to convince and offers an attractive price/performance ratio. | This USB-C cable, which at first glance looks rather classic, conceals some very interesting features in terms of charging and data transfer. | Designed for data transfer, this braided cable is a practical solution if fast charging is not important to you. It is also quite flexible in its use. |
| See the price on Amazon | See the price on Amazon | £ 9.99 on Amazon | £ 6.79 on Amazon |
Honorable mentions
There are currently no products available on the European market that we consider to have the necessary qualities to be included in our main selection. We will be sure to provide you with interesting alternatives as soon as we become aware of them.
Selectos compares and tests hundreds of products to help you buy better. We sometimes receive a commission when you buy through our links, which helps fund our work. Learn moreWhy trust us ?
How to choose a USB-C cable?
USB-C cables correspond to a standard that appeared in the summer of 2014 and are the successor to micro-USB cables. They can withstand no less than 10,000 connection and disconnection cycles.
Here we focus on USB-C cables that can be connected to a USB socket. We have also chosen cables between 90 cm and 1 m, but please note that most models are available in several sizes.
To help you make the right choice and find a USB-C cable that suits your needs, there are a few key criteria to consider:
- The transfer capability: some USB cables, often white, are only suitable for charging devices. We have made sure to choose only models that can both charge and transfer data by connecting them to a computer.
- The protection: this is an important criterion depending on where you want to install your cables. Shielding is recommended if your cable is intermingled with others, or if they are subject to strong electromagnetic interference. In normal use, it is not necessary.
- The shape: some micro-USB cables have extensions that allow you to change the tips and charge a variety of devices. These are generally more expensive, but are very practical, especially when you are on the move. Others are angled (folded). Their advantage is that they are more durable, as the connectors do not bend under the weight of the wire. However, make sure that they fit properly into your devices.
How did we test?
To test the USB-C cables, we first unpacked the various products and carried out a simple handling test. This allowed us to analyse the flexibility but also the durability of the materials.
We then transferred large files and charged a Chromebook to test the performance of the different USB-C cables. Unfortunately, we were unable to test the maximum power of 100 W due to a lack of suitable equipment. The last step was to test the different shielding layers. To do this, we had to cut each cable to check the inside.
Other USB-C tested
Baseus USB C to USB C (£9.99 upon publication): flattering but unattractive materials. This product, at first glance, looks like an attractive solution. Indeed, we were surprised to find that the ends have a metallic coating and its braided cover is quite flexible. However, the shielding seemed a bit light and the transfer speed is limited to 480 Mbps (USB 2.0)… Disappointing features compared to the competition.
Anker Powerline III Flow (£17.99 upon publication): a USB-C – Lightning cable designed for charging. The Anker Powerline III is one of the most recommended cables on the market. The Flow version specialises in fast charging and allows a maximum of 100W. It is also designed to prevent tangling. However, we would have preferred it to be faster (USB 2.0 only) given its price. Also, it is not easy to get hold of.
Translated by Ramsés El Hajje
