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USB-C® Explained

What is USB-C?

In 2014, to combat the issue of defunct cables filling landfills, the USB Implementers Forum, a group of the world's most recognized companies in the technology industry, came together to create a standard connector. As a result, USB-C®{{Footnote.N59135}} was developed and it has now become widely adopted. Here are some advantages of using USB-C.

Is USB-C Easier to Use?

Two DataTraveler Max USB-C drives, one plugged into the laptop and the other open next to it

Technology can be frustrating, but nothing is more frustrating than when you plug a USB into your laptop and it doesn’t fit. So, you flip it around only to realize the first way was correct… sound relatable?

USB-C eliminates these frustrations because it is a user-friendly connector that is symmetrical and reversible. Like Apple’s lightning connector, the USB-C can be plugged in both ways. Miles away from the original, large, square-shaped USB, the USB-C is a small, slim, stadium shape. It’s small enough to fit into increasingly slimmed-down mobile devices but has enough power to connect all your laptop peripherals.

Impressive USB-C Performance

Another reason why USB-C’s popularity is increasing is due to its impressive performance standards. It supports the latest USB 3.2 communication protocols and is faster and more powerful than most standard USBs. USB-C can provide up to 100W of power to devices and can transfer data at up to 20Gbps{{Footnote.N59667}}.

USB-C can deliver Ultra-HD 4K video resolution and carry audio too. This means that you can charge full-sized products and transfer data up to 20 times faster than USB 2.0{{Footnote.N59668}}, while enjoying an Ultra-HD 4K experience.

Is USB-C Universal?

USB-C is extremely universal as it has the same connector on both ends. This means you only need one cable to charge your phone, or to connect to your laptop or even your friend’s phone. This is much more convenient for all your devices, which is why most companies now are using USB-C in their latest products. Even Apple began replacing the Lightning port with a USB-C port in 2023.

USB-C is the Future of Flash Drives

With some of the biggest names in technology, such as Apple, HP, and Dell utilizing USB-C in their latest products, USB-C will likely be the new industry standard connector for transmitting both power and data through one single cable{{Footnote.N59672}}. 

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