Nathan K. has conducted extensive tests of several common chargers in his "Charger Shootout" article to make sure you can take full advantage of USB-C PD charging on your laptop or tablet.
USB-C PD can detect the type of connected device and adjust output power accordingly, so devices receive sufficient energy without overheating or damaging circuitry.
USB-C is an emerging port standard designed to combine data transfer and power delivery for an enhanced experience. Featuring a reversible connector that connects with devices of all sizes, USB-C has quickly become more widespread as manufacturers support it and more people adopt its use. But not all USB-C ports are created equal - some can be used exclusively for transmitting data while others serve multiple purposes from connecting displays/laptops to charging batteries.
USB-C offers many advantages over its older predecessors, including its reversible plug that makes connecting devices effortless, bidirectional power capability for charging devices simultaneously, faster data rates than older USB standards, and reversible plug that makes portable electronics convenient.
The new connector is sleek and compact, making it easier for manufacturers to create thinner and lighter devices. It even supports DisplayPort output - an invaluable asset for business laptops! Furthermore, this more versatile connection can replace Apple Desktop Bus (ADB), FireWire parallel PS/2 SCSI ports on Mac computers.
USB-C is an increasingly versatile port on mobile devices and laptops; however, it has yet to replace 3.5mm headphone jacks on phones or replace Thunderbolt as the fastest connection method for external hard drives or monitors - be sure to read your device's specifications for confirmation that it supports it!
USB Type C is a reversible connector, making it easier than ever before to connect devices such as laptops and tablets. Compared to older USB connections which only work when inserted with specific orientation, its reversibility makes transferring files between computers faster than ever - an especially valuable asset when used for laptops and tablets.
USB-C is designed with both high-speed data transfer protocol and flexible power delivery in mind, unlike its counterparts micro and mini USB which only feature four or five contacts each for charging or other signal transfers. Furthermore, its 24 pins support different signals and it can deliver up to 100W of power - plenty to charge most phones and two-in-one convertible tablets simultaneously.
These cables feature both USB-A and USB-B connectors to provide access to USB-C devices connected via MicroUSB connections on older devices or accessories, or mobile phones equipped with USB-C ports but that only support USB-A or B connections for charging purposes. They're perfect for connecting modern equipment that uses a Micro-USB interface with older accessories or systems using Micro-USB, or simply connecting USB-C mobile phones directly to chargers that support only these two standard forms of connection.
Another cable combines a USB-C connector with a DisplayPort connector on one end, making it possible to easily connect USB-C devices to monitors or projectors that support DisplayPort input, monitors or projectors that support it as well as connecting one USB-C port on a computer to wired Ethernet networks - thus providing data transfer, video output and charging your device simultaneously.
If you want to take full advantage of USB-C, it's essential that your charger and cable support power delivery (PD). PD technology enables chargers to negotiate power levels with devices in an efficient manner while also protecting from overheating or battery damage, providing an overall safer charging solution.
A PD-enabled charger features a reversible USB Type C connector that can be inserted either way for easier connection of cables and less risk from improper positioning. Furthermore, these chargers support data transfer and video output as well as charging your smartphone or tablet up to three times faster than traditional chargers.
Make sure your wall outlet or portable battery supports Power Delivery (PD). A PD-enabled outlet can provide up to 100 watts of power - more than enough for most mobile devices as well as providing additional juice for laptops, tablets and eGPU graphics stations.
When purchasing a USB-C charger, make sure that its technical data demonstrates support for Power Delivery (PD). This should be listed in its product specifications. Furthermore, find one with multiple USB-C ports as they may make charging multiple devices faster. In addition, opt for one that features built-in protection against overheating and overload.
There is an array of USB-C products on the market, from cables and chargers. Some are tailored specifically for certain devices such as smartphones or tablets; others provide data transfer in addition to charging capabilities - making them even more versatile than traditional plugs in terms of convenience on your desk!
The USB-C connector is backward compatible with older rectangular Type A plugs, and there are adapters that convert them to USB-C for use with devices that utilize this type. While they shouldn't cause damage to your device, always read and follow any technical specifications before choosing an adapter.
USB-C is designed to offer more flexible transmission protocol known as USB Power Delivery (USB PD). This connector takes up minimal space, enabling devices to become thinner and lighter while charging at higher wattages than previous USB ports. Furthermore, one cable can transmit power and data simultaneously to multiple devices at the same time.
The USB Power Delivery standard specifies voltage levels and currents through power profiles, based on which it can negotiate optimal charging power dynamically depending on both power supply unit and device. While each power-delivering Type-C connection, device or cable should provide similar charging capacities, it is still important to study their technical data, particularly their e-marker to assess this capacity accurately.
