USB cables carry data and charge devices: this category covers connecting, extension and adapter cables for computers, external drives, printers and other peripherals. Our range includes Delock, Good Connections, Goobay, Inca and Lindy, with more than 15 models in total.
How to choose a USB cable
Connector types. Start by checking both ends of the cable: USB-A, USB-C, micro USB or USB-B. For a cable used inside a computer, the motherboard header matters as well. If the sockets do not match, you will need an extra adapter.
USB standard and speed. A USB 2.0 cable is enough for a mouse, keyboard or printer, but an external SSD or hard drive is better served by a USB 3.x cable, because USB 2.0 is limited to 480 Mbit/s. The real speed is always set by the slowest link: the cable, the device or the port on the computer.
Length. The longer the cable, the more the signal weakens. Passive USB 3.x cables stay stable only over a few metres, and longer distances call for active cables with a signal booster. Buy the length you actually need.
Charging and shielding. Thin cables can charge more slowly, and some cheap ones carry power but no data. A shielded cable is less sensitive to electromagnetic interference, which helps near power supplies and on a desk with many cables.
Operating conditions. For some cables in our range, the stated operating temperature is 0 to 40 °C, 5 to 40 °C or 0 to 50 °C. Storage temperatures can run from -20 to 70 °C or even -10 to 85 °C. This is worth checking if the cable will sit in a cold room or close to hot components.
Brands we carry
- Delock: known for a large selection of interface cables and adapters, including less common connector types.
- Lindy: a company of German origin whose cables are widely used for video and computer connections, as well as longer USB runs.
- Digitus: specialises in cabling and network equipment, so its USB cables often suit office and server-room setups.
- Verbatim: best known for storage media such as USB flash drives and discs, with cables complementing that line.
- LogiLink: makes a variety of affordable computer accessories, and USB cables are one of its main product groups.
Also in our range: Good Connections, Goobay, Inca, MediaRange, Manhattan and Graugear.
USB cable FAQ
What is the difference between USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 cables?
The main difference is data transfer speed. USB 2.0 tops out at 480 Mbit/s, while USB 3.0 and newer standards move data much faster. When copying large files to an external drive, a faster cable shortens the wait considerably.
Does a long USB cable work more slowly?
A long cable can become unstable or slower because the signal weakens along its length. This is most noticeable with USB 3.x cables longer than a few metres. For greater distances, an active cable with a signal booster is the better option.
Does every USB-C cable support both charging and video?
No, cables with the same connector can have very different capabilities. Some are made for charging and slow data only, while others support fast data transfer or a video signal. Check the cable description for the features you need.
How can I tell whether a cable carries data and not just power?
The description should state the USB standard and data speed, such as USB 2.0 or USB 3.2. If it mentions only charging, or gives no data information, the cable may be power-only. Do not use such a cable to connect an external drive.
