USB-C
USB Type-C
Invented in
2014
Invented by
The USB Implementers Forum
Availability
Ubiquitous
The reversible oval connector that finally unified data, power and video into one small plug. Now standard across phones, laptops and accessories, and legally mandated as the common charger across the EU.
Technical specifications
Introduced2014
SignalData + power + video
Powerup to 240 W (USB-PD)
Speedsup to 80 Gb/s (USB4 v2)
Found on
a laptopa desktop PCa monitora smartphonea tableta cameraa games consolean external drivea mixer / interfacean Arduino / Raspberry Pi
Recommended brands
01Anker
02UGREEN
03Belkin
Where to buy
Europe-focused retailer searches. Some links are affiliate links and may earn a commission.
Common adapters and cables
USB-C to HDMI adapter
Needs a USB-C port with DisplayPort Alt Mode (most laptops, many phones).
Fun fact
It is fully reversible, fixing the USB-A "wrong way up" problem, and a single USB-C cable can carry up to 240 W of power and 8K video.
Tips & tricks
Not all USB-C cables are equal, check the wattage and data-speed rating before you buy.
Philosophy
The connector that ended the drawer of chargers. One port, one cable, one direction, the quiet promise USB always made, finally kept.
Applications
DataPowerVideo / SAT
