This category covers USB cables and adapters for laptops and other devices: USB-A, USB-C and micro-USB cables, converters between different connectors, and adapters for video, networking and data transfer.
Our range includes over 300 products, with items from DELOCK, DELL, SHARKOON and MICROSOFT among them.
How to choose a USB cable or adapter
Connector type. Start by checking which connectors your laptop and the device you want to connect actually have: USB-A, USB-C, micro-USB or something else. If your laptop has only USB-C ports, older accessories will most likely need an adapter to USB-A, HDMI or RJ45.
USB standard and speed. USB 2.0 transfers up to 480 Mbit/s, USB 3.2 Gen 1 up to 5 Gbit/s and USB4 up to 40 Gbit/s. A mouse or printer works fine on USB 2.0, but an external SSD or large files call for at least USB 3.x. The connection runs only as fast as its slowest part: the cable, the adapter or the port itself.
Video output. If the adapter is meant for a monitor or projector, the USB-C port on your laptop must support video output (DisplayPort Alt Mode or Thunderbolt). Not every USB-C port does, so check the laptop specification first. Also look at the maximum resolution and refresh rate the adapter supports, for example 4K at 60 Hz.
Charging and power. Charging a laptop over USB-C normally works only if the cable can carry the required power, often 60-100 W. A thin cable made for data or a phone may charge a laptop very slowly or not at all.
Length. For use next to a laptop, a cable of 0.5-2 m is usually enough. On longer passive USB 3.x cables the signal weakens, so for greater distances an active cable is the safer option.
Brands we carry
- DELOCK: known for a large variety of interface cables, adapters and converters, and the brand with the most products in this category.
- DELL, HP INC, LENOVO, MICROSOFT: laptop makers whose own-brand adapters are a common choice for buyers who want an accessory that is certain to suit a laptop from the same manufacturer.
- STARTECH, I-TEC: specialise in connectivity accessories such as adapters, hubs and docking stations for working with several devices at once.
- DIGITUS: known for cables and network connectivity solutions for offices.
- SHARKOON: a German maker of PC components and peripherals.
Also in our range: GOODCONNECTIONS, INLINE and S-IMPULS.
Frequently asked questions about USB cables and adapters
What is the difference between USB-C and USB 3.2?
USB-C is a connector shape, while USB 3.2 is a data transfer standard. A USB-C port can also run at slower USB 2.0 speeds, and USB 3.2 is sometimes found with the classic USB-A connector. Speed is therefore decided by the standard, not by the shape of the plug.
Can any USB-C cable charge a laptop?
No, not every one can. The cable has to handle the power your laptop needs, which is often 60-100 W. Choose a cable whose description states a suitable power rating, and use a charger with enough output.
Why does my monitor not work with a USB-C adapter?
The most common reason is that the laptop's USB-C port does not support video output. Check whether the port is marked as supporting DisplayPort or Thunderbolt. It is also possible that the adapter or cable does not support the resolution you have selected.
What length of USB cable should I choose?
For use with a laptop, a cable of 0.5-2 m is usually enough. Longer passive USB 3.x cables can lose speed or cause connection errors. When you need several metres, choose an active cable.
