USB-A vs. USB-C: Speed, Compatibility & Charging Power Comparison

It is common to find devices that utilize different connectors to maximize charging efficiency and increase the speed of data transfer. While most users are familiar with the USB-A connector, the USB-C connector has seen a meteoric rise in applications since it was introduced in 2014. Here is everything you need to know about the comparison of USB-A vs. USB-C.

USB-A

The USB-A, created in 1996, is the traditional connector and port that most people think of when they hear USB. The connector is a one-way rectangular design that has been used for decades for power delivery and data transfer. Here are some of the basic pros and cons of the USB-A port and connector:

Pros

· The Most Common Option: USB-A is the most common USB type and can be found on almost every computer and laptop. It is also common to find USB-A charging ports built-in to public outlets and power supplies.

· Reliability: The USB-A chord has been around for the better part of three decades. It has proven to be a reliable connector that has proven the test of time.

· Backward Compatibility: Although there have been different versions and updates released for the USB-A over the years, all new models are backward compatible. This means that a device that features a USB-A 3.0 can still connect to a 25-year-old device using USB-A 1.0.

Cons

· One-Way Design: A USB-A only fits into its port one way. Flipping the connector back and forth until it fits can be frustrating.  

· Speed Limitations: When compared to the newer model, USB-A has significant speed limitations that reduce its effectiveness when it comes to charging larger devices.

· Space: A USB-A port takes up the most space compared to other options. While the port is reliable and common, the size of the port limits the space available on smaller devices.

USB-C

Developed and introduced in 2014, the USB-C connector was designed to be a more efficient and easier-to-use version of the USB-A. The new model is a much smaller design that erases all of the problems of the old one-way design of the USB-A. The USB-C allows for a much higher power output and faster data transfer speeds. This newer model supports charging and data transfer at the same time. Here are some of the pros and cons of the USB-C connector:

Pros

· Reversible Design: The USB-C features a convenient two-way design that works either way you plug it in. 

· Speed: There is no denying that a major advantage of the USB-C is the speed. USB-C is twice as fast when it comes to transferring data and can provide ten times the amount of power when compared to a USB-A connector.

· More Versatile: The USB-C is a far more versatile connector. Not only is it powerful enough to charge bigger devices, but it can also support data transfer and charging at the same time. This is a huge upgrade to efficiency when compared to USB-A connectors.

Cons

· Lack of Compatibility: Much like with all new technology, the USB-C port has just started being added to newer devices. This means that a USB-C connector may not be compatible with older devices and a device with only USB-C ports won’t be able to utilize older tech.

· Cost – A USB-C connector is slightly more costly than a USB-A. That is only because the technology is newer and not as widely produced as USB-A.

Which one is Faster?

A faster port can help save you time and make it easier to take your devices on the go. When deciding on which USB option is the fastest, we looked at data transfer speed as well as how quickly your device is charged.

When comparing the data transfer speed of a USB-A and a USB-C, the choice is clear. A USB-C is significantly faster than the older counterpart. USB-C can deliver a much higher amount of data in a much shorter time. On average, a USB-C can transfer twice as much data as a USB-A in the same amount of time. The average USB-C can transfer at speeds upwards of 10 gigabytes per second while the average USB-A model tops out at 5 gigabytes per second.

Which One is More Compatible?

Compatibility is key when it comes to choosing a USB type. Compatibility is determined by how many devices use each option. Even if the newer model is more efficient, it is rendered useless if it is not compatible with all of your devices.

While there is sure to be a change in the near future, at this time it is clear which option is the most compatible. USB-A Can be found on many more devices including computers, charging components, and data storage solutions. While many new devices are taking advantage of the more powerful USB-C, USB-A Is by far the most popular. A USB-C might be future-proof, but USB-A allows you to continue to use devices that have been made since 1996.

Which One Has More Charging Power?

While USB ports and connectors can be used for transferring data from one place to another, they're most commonly used for charging applications. Understanding which USB type allows for a more efficient charge can help you make the right choice for your needs.

When it comes to the charging capabilities of USB-A and USB-C, It's not even close. A USB-C charger it's so much more powerful that a comparison isn't really fair. On average, a USB-A charger can output just over 7 watts at maximum. The average USB-C charger It's over 10 times more powerful. It can support upwards of 100 watts of power output. Not only does that make a USB-C charger option more efficient at charging your phone, but it also means that it can charge larger devices like laptop computers, tablets, and power banks.

With Pisen, You Don’t Have To Choose

Whether you prefer the compatibility of USB-A or the speed and power of USB-C, Pisen has charging solutions for you. Our catalog of industry-leading portable power banks and chargers has something for everyone. Many of our products like the PISEN Power Cube 22.5W Digital Display 10500mAh Power Bank, feature both USB-A and  USB-C ports so you’ll never have to sacrifice compatibility for power.

Related reading:USB-C Fast Charging in 2025: Everything You Need to Know and Why