The Difference Between Type C and USB 3.1

Type C is a plug; USB 3.0 is a protocol.

The Type C Connector

We’ve all seen the UBS Type-A, the original USB. Type B, is a square port that is used in printers. Micro B is used in many small devices. Type-C is the new plug I the market. It is small and compact. This connection is used in place of type A and type B ports. This connection can run on many protocols and older specs like USB 2.0. It measures 8.4mm by 2.6mm. This means that it requires only a little space on the circuit board. It can, therefore, be used also on Smart Phones. It is reversible making it easy to plug upside down. This port is not compatible with any other port but it does not need to be, Type C was designed to be the one cable for everything. Small enough for your phone but powerful enough to power your laptop.

All those extra pins open the connector up to hosting almost every type of connection you would ever need, the spec can;

• Transfer files and connect devices just like a regular USB.
• Charge high power devices even laptops.
• Stream video like HDMI.
• Stream audio.
• Do all of the above at the same time.
• Can be converted back to regular USB with either an adapter or Type A to Type C connector.

Type C is something you should look out for in your next device as it is expected to replace the older USB plugs and eventually all you will need are Type C connections.

USB 3.1

Unlike Type C that is a physical connector, this is a protocol that supports 5 gig bits per second. It is faster than USB 2.0 and can be amazingly fast if used with external SSD enclosures or pen drives.

Both go hand in hand

The USB 3.1,3 and 2 specification is supported in the Type C system and ensures all your old devices will be operational in the future.

It will be a while for these two specs to become dominant, but looking at everything that has been released already this year, it wont be long until the one cable for all idea is fully embraced.

We are right on the edge of the race and have a great range of Type C cables and devices, visit our fast charging cables and chargers section for the latest deals.