USB extension cables

USB extension cables are for anyone who needs to reach a computer port from further away. Our range has over 600 models, from short USB A extenders to USB-C, Micro-USB B and USB B versions. They suit keyboards, mice, webcams and external drives. You will find products from Delock, InLine, LINDY, StarTech.com and other manufacturers.

How to choose a USB extension cable

USB version and speed. Our range includes USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/s), USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbit/s) and USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbit/s) cables, and a few models support USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 or USB4. USB 2.0 is enough for a keyboard and mouse, but an external SSD or video camera calls for at least USB 3.2 Gen 1. The slowest part of the chain sets the speed, so the extension should never be slower than the device.

Connector type and gender. Most extension cables have a plug on one end and a socket on the other, and the majority use USB A. USB-C, Micro-USB B, Mini-USB B and USB B variants are also available. A few models have an angled plug, which helps when the port sits against a wall or a piece of furniture and a straight cable would bend sharply.

Length and active cables. The USB 2.0 specification allows about 5 m without extra electronics, while at USB 3.x speeds the signal stays stable over a shorter distance, usually around 3 m. Longer runs need an active extension cable with a signal booster. Buy only as much length as you actually need.

Power and shielding. A long, thin cable loses some voltage, so an external drive without its own power supply works better with a shorter cable. Shielded cables are less sensitive to electrical interference, which matters when the cable runs alongside mains leads.

Brands in our range

• Delock: a German manufacturer known for computer cables, adapters and interface accessories, and the brand with the most models in this category.
• LINDY: known for office and professional cabling and for long-distance USB solutions.
• StarTech.com: a Canadian company aimed at IT professionals, offering connectivity products and adapters.
• Digitus: a brand of ASSMANN Electronic, known for network and cabling equipment.
• Wentronic: the company behind the Goobay brand of household and office cables.

Also in our range: InLine, S-CONN Maximum Connectivity, EFB-Elektronik, LogiLink, Good Connections, Exertis Connect and ROLINE.

Frequently asked questions about USB extension cables

How long can a USB extension cable be?

A passive USB 2.0 cable can reach about 5 m, while a USB 3.x cable usually works reliably up to roughly 3 m. For longer distances you need an active extension cable with a signal booster. Chaining several extensions together increases the distance and the risk of dropouts.

Does an extension cable slow down data transfer?

A well-chosen extension barely reduces speed. What matters is that its USB version matches your device: a USB 2.0 cable limits the connection to 480 Mbit/s even if the drive supports 5 Gbit/s. An overly long or unshielded cable can cause connection drops.

Can I connect an external drive or camera through an extension cable?

Yes, as long as the cable is fast enough and not too long. For a drive or camera choose at least a USB 3.2 Gen 1 cable and keep it as short as practical. Drives without their own power supply may not get enough current over a long cable.

What is the difference between USB A and USB-C extension cables?

The difference is the connector shape and which devices it fits. A USB A plug goes in one way only, while USB-C is reversible. Speed depends on the cable's USB version rather than the connector, so a USB-C extension may be USB 2.0 or considerably faster.