How to choose a cable for charging a smartphone

2024 Author: Malcolm Clapton | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:44

Pay attention to these things to keep the accessory working well and for a long time.

Almost every smartphone owner has to deal with the replacement of the charging cable. There are many options here: from expensive original accessories to cheap cords of dubious production. Whichever one you choose, there are several points to consider when purchasing.

Determine the type of cord

An obvious but necessary step. There are several types of charging cables for smartphones. The most common is a wire with a microUSB connector. However, some modern phones use USB Type-C. This plug differs from the previous one in that it can be inserted into the connector either side. The iPhone cords use Lightning. By the way, when buying such a cable, you need to look for the MFi inscription on the packaging - it says that the product is certified by Apple.

MicroUSB connector

USB Type-C connector

Lightning connector

Where to get it

• MicroUSB cable, 235 rubles →
• USB Type-C cable, from 174 rubles →
• Lightning cable, from 142 rubles →

Check the amperage that the cord is capable of carrying

The original cords are designed for the amperage supplied by the charger. When purchasing a cheaper accessory, be sure to check how much current this cable is capable of carrying. If, for example, the charger gives out 2 A, and the cord can only transmit 0, 6–0, 7 A, then the charging time of the smartphone will increase significantly, and in some cases the gadget may not charge at all. Sometimes, due to such cords, the smartphone battery breaks down.

The strength of the current that the cable conducts can be indicated on the packaging of the accessory or given in the product description in the online store.

Decide on the shape

There are mainly three types of charging cords: round, flat and twisted. The first type is the most common. It is characterized by its durability and long service life. The second one is well suited for travel, as it is less tangled and when folded takes up almost no space. The third is designed for charging in cars: such a cable will not get tangled underfoot.

Round cable

Flat cable

Twisted cable

Where to get it

• Round microUSB cable, 165 rubles →
• Flat cable USB Type-C, from 214 rubles →
• Twisted microUSB cable, 74 rubles →

Select braid material

The braiding of the cord can be made of plastic, fabric, metal, silicone, leather. The most short-lived are plastic-braided cords. The most durable and reliable ones are with metal ones, but they are expensive. Fabric-braided cords are less prone to damage and are therefore well suited to be carried with you at all times.

Metal braid

Cloth braid

Plastic braid

Where to get it

• USB Type-C cable in plastic sheath, 210 rubles →
• MicroUSB cable in a fabric braid, 165 rubles →
• 3-in-1 cable (microUSB, Type-C and Lightning) in a metal sheath, 337 rubles →

Check build quality

On a good cable, there should be no kinks, protruding plastic, crooked contacts of different sizes. The plug should not dangle or look flimsy. The most vulnerable place for breaks is the connection of the cable and the plug, therefore the most durable cords with a dense, rigid plastic corrugation in this place.