Connectivity over USB is usually labelled with two parameters – the type and the specification/standard. The type, marked by alphabets (A, B and C), denotes the shape of the connector while the numerical part indicated by 3.0, 3.1, etc., conveys the speed you can expect from the connection. Faster USB standards like 3.1 are further subdivided by speed into generations, denoted by a Gen 1/Gen 2 suffix. While USB 3.1 Gen 1 can handle 5Gbps, USB 3.1 Gen 2 and onwards can achieve higher speeds of 10Gbps, 20Gbps and more – so you need to make sure that the one you pick meets your needs. Additionally, some USB 3.1 cables also support the power delivery standard and can provide up to 100W of power to compatible devices. Such cables also use an e-marker chip for safe power delivery through a handshake between the power source and the device that identifies the correct power level. While it is not mandatory for a USB 3.1 port to be Type-C (or vice versa), the greater adoption of Type-C connectivity has often seen the two go hand in hand for most modern devices. To make the most of USB 3.1 connectivity over Type-C between two compatible gadgets, you need to have the right cable to connect them. Here are some Type-C to Type-C USB 3.1 cables available on Amazon that offer a great mix of useful features and impressive specifications.
With a data transfer speed of up to 5Gbps, the AmazonBasics cable can speed up your regular file transfers. The cord can support a power output of up to 5V-3A so it is also suitable for charging through compatible adapters and ports. It is three feet long, so it can be easily used between two devices on your desk. While it is compliant with USB 3.1 Gen 1, it is also backwards compatible with USB 3.0 and 2.0 ports. The all-black design gives the cable a sleek appearance.
The Honeywell cable has a cotton-braided jacket design that keeps it from getting entangled when you store it. Its braided texture also adds to the aesthetic appeal of the cord. With nickel-plated connectors, this cable offers enhanced corrosion and wear resistance for high durability. The cord is also capable of delivering up to 100W of power with compatible chargers. With a length of four feet, this cable expands your range of connectivity. With a data transfer speed of 5Gbps, wait times for file transfers are greatly reduced between two devices with USB 3.1 Type-C ports.
With 22 AWG High Gauge Tinned Copper Wire inside, the AMX cable enables up to 100W of power delivery on compatible devices. The design also uses tinned copper foil and multiple layers of sheathing to minimise any interference during data transfers. Between laptops, tablets and more with the supported ports, the AMX cable can deliver up to 10Gbps of data transfer speeds. To ensure high durability, the design uses Abrasion Proof Nylon Fibre. With an E-marker chip for additional protection, the AMX cable ensures the safety of connected devices.
Supporting a speed of up to 20Gbps, the iEDS cable can deliver blazing-fast data transfers for your files. The construction uses metal shielding built with laser welding to provide superior protection against signal interference during data transfers. This also enhances the durability of the wire for long-lasting usage. With an E-marker chip, the iEDS cable can safely deliver up to 100W of power for supported devices. A length of two metres, or 6.5 feet, allows this cord to connect laptops, tablets and more placed significantly apart.