Charging Cables

How to choose the right charging cable

The cable is often the weak link in fast charging. A good charger with the wrong cable will charge slowly, so match the cable to your device, your charger and how you use it.

Pick the right connectors

• USB-C to USB-C: for newer Android phones, iPhone 15 and later, iPads and laptops, used with a USB-C charger.
• USB-C to Lightning: for fast charging older iPhones with a 20W USB-C charger.
• USB-A to USB-C or Lightning: for older chargers, car ports and laptops with USB-A.
• Micro-USB: for older phones, speakers and some power banks.

Watts and amps

A standard USB-C cable carries up to 3A, which means up to 60W. Cables rated 5A with an E-marker chip can carry 100W, and newer cables with USB PD 3.1 go up to 240W. Phones only need a 60W cable, but laptops need a 100W or 240W cable to charge at full speed.

iPhone cables and MFi

MFi stands for Made for iPhone. It means the cable uses an Apple-approved chip, so you are less likely to see the "accessory not supported" message after an iOS update.

Data speed

Most charging cables move data at USB 2.0 speed (480Mbps), which is fine for phone sync. To copy large files to an SSD or connect a monitor, choose a 10Gbps cable or a USB4 cable. The USB-IF sets these speed and power standards.

Length and build

1m is ideal for a desk or bag. 2m or 3m helps when the socket is far from the bed or sofa. Braided and silicone cables last longer if you bend them every day, and 90 degree plugs are easier to hold while gaming or charging in the car.

Which one is right for you?

• For iPhone fast charging: the UGREEN US171 MFi USB-C to Lightning cable.
• For Android phones on a budget: the hoco X59 60W Type-C to Type-C 2m cable.
• For laptops and MacBooks: the UGREEN 240W USB-C cable with E-marker chip.
• For charging from bed: the UGREEN 3m USB-A to USB-C cable.
• For one cable that fits old and new phones: the hoco X102 3-in-1 charging cable.

Prices start from about Rs 1,000. Pair your cable with the right adapter from our fast chargers, or browse our adapters and hubs. Read the USB-C and Lightning cable guide for more detail, and see the full hoco cable range.