USB-C ports are the most common physical connection on modern Windows laptops, but that doesn't mean the ports all perform at the same level.

USB-C is made up of several different standards, with the most recent being USB4. And in that case, USB4 also has a couple of performance tiers to contend with.

👉 Related: Thunderbolt 4 vs. Thunderbolt 3 vs. USB4 vs. USB 3

Despite reviewing and using many different laptops every month, I often get confused about the specific capabilities of a particular USB port. So, how does a regular user expect to avoid confusion?

Microsoft has recognized the issue and plans to fix it with a new initiative.

Microsoft is 'ending USB-C port confusion'

The USB-C naming schemes and standards remain a big problem for PC users in 2025.

According to a recent Microsoft Blog post written by Senior Product Manager Ugan S., 27% of Windows PCs with a USB4 port have received a dreaded limited functionality notification.

If you see this pop up when connecting a peripheral, it means your USB-C port lacks a certain feature to properly run the accessory. It usually occurs when connecting a display.

The problem boils down to USB-C's inequality. Many laptop makers slap a USB-C port or two onto a PC without divulging much more information beyond its numbered standard, and even then, it's difficult to tell its true capabilities.

Microsoft shares a theoretical scenario that is undoubtedly quite common around the world:

So, how does Microsoft plan to fix the problem? The solution arrives with an updated Windows 11 Hardware Compatibility Program (WHCP).

Going forward, laptops that ship with Windows 11 24H2 on board will have WHCP certification. According to Microsoft, certification comes with "two firm promises of USB-C on Windows 11."

• USB data, charging, and display support will work on ALL USB-C ports. No more confusion when using older USB peripherals. They'll "just work."
• USB4 ports with 40Gbps performance will be fully compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and USB4 peripherals. Any USB4 or TB3 peripheral will "work every time on every port."

These promises come with several minimum capabilities for each USB-C version. The Microsoft blog post has a neat little table that lays them out.

The enforcement of these minimums through the WHCP qualification system leads to several conclusions.

Most importantly, you'll be able to trust that your USB devices will work without issue, thanks to Microsoft's new requirement of USB-IF certified silicon inside the laptop.

Every USB-C port on a certified PC now requires USB Power Delivery capabilities so that there's no inconsistency with what can charge and what cannot.

Next up is external display support; DisplayPort Alt Mode is now required for all USB-C ports. Ports are required to be VESA certified, so you can expect to plug in a screen without issue.

And finally, a Microsoft driver stack requirement ensures that your PC is always getting the latest USB driver updates to keep everything running smoothly.

What about USB4's 40Gbps and 80Gbps standards?

USB4 is the latest version that uses the physical USB-C connector, and to add further confusion, it comes in a couple of performance tiers.

There are 40Gbps and 80Gbps bandwidth options that PC makers can use, and until recently, they weren't exactly advertised separately. That was an issue due to their massive gap in capabilities.

While the USB-IF has added some extra guidelines for naming USB4 performance tiers separately, Microsoft is taking things a step further.

USB4 40Gbps connections in new Windows laptops will now require full compatibility with USB4 and Thunderbolt 3 accessories. If your laptop is advertised as having a USB port with 40Gbps performance, you can expect it to be able to sustain that speed.

Beyond that, WHCP certification covers 80Gbps USB4 ports, requiring them to offer 80Gbps transfer speeds in both directions, as well as an asymmetric 120Gbps / 40Gbps mode made especially for high-res external display.

That puts it in line with Thunderbolt 5, which is Intel's branded and licensed take on USB4 v2.

The new WHCP certification for USB-C connectivity will only be found on new laptops that ship with Windows 11 version 24H2. It will be enforced with its Hardware Lab Kit, which pulls in user feedback and telemetry, automated test cases, and validation led by OEMs.

It's expected that this program will receive updates with every major Windows 11 release.

Plugable has a new laptop docking station available to buy now, and it's setting a new industry standard in terms of display support.

The UD-7400PD, as the dock is named, was actually announced at CES 2025. I initially missed it in the chaos of new tech products, but it's certainly worth a look now that it's on the market.

The big news? It can handle up to four external 4K displays at 60Hz each and an 8K display simultaneously (or five 4K@60Hz displays), besting the usual maximum quad-display setup available in even the best Thunderbolt docking stations today.

What's even more impressive is that the dock only requires a host connection via USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2). Thunderbolt, while compatible, isn't required. The same goes for USB4.

I honestly didn't know this was even a possibility, and indeed it wasn't until Synaptics created a new DL-7400 chipset for docking stations (set to be highlighted at Computex 2025, according to Plugable's press release).

The combination of the new DL-7400 chipset and USB-C DisplayLink tech is what makes it all possible.

The dock relies on three USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2) ports with DisplayLink and two HDMI 2.1 ports for external displays, but that's far from the only connectivity on the dock.

It also features a single USB-C 3.2 port on the front with 30W of power delivery and 10Gbps bandwidth, two USB-A ports each with 10Gbps bandwidth, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

Topping things off is a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port and the host USB-C connection (which thankfully doesn't have a fixed cable).

The dock is compatible with Windows 10/11 laptops with USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2), Thunderbolt 4/5, or USB4. It's also compatible with macOS 11+.

Plugable's new UD-7400PD isn't just a great dock for display support

Laptop docking stations aren't always the most exciting subject, but this represents a major step forward in docking capabilities. I'm not just talking about the impressive external display support.

Plugable's UD-7400PD pushes past the usual maximum host laptop charging power of around 90-99W, allowing for up to 140W of power to make it back to the host.

That opens up charging for more power-hungry laptops, including those with entry-level discrete GPUs.

Because the UD-7400PD is made for regular consumers and professionals, it includes some enterprise features.

Most notable is the new DockTag, Plugable's proprietary solution for IT departments.

According to Plugable, it's "designed to lessen the load on the IT department by displaying real-time dock status and asset details through a dynamic splash screen and QR code, enabling improved remote support and user self-diagnosis."

Plugable is one of the leading names when it comes to laptop docking stations, competing directly with other big names like CalDigit and Kensington.

Needless to say, I'm very excited to test out the UD-7400PD's capabilities first-hand to see if they measure up to what's being advertised.

If you'd like to forego reviews and check it out yourself, you can pick it up now for $279.95 at Amazon. A 20% coupon is currently available on the product page, knocking the price down to $223.96.

Considering many of the high-end laptop docks I rate the highest climb well beyond $300, Plugable's pricing seems very reasonable.

Cyber Monday is a great time to buy a modern laptop for a lot less money, but you might quickly discover that it's lacking in one crucial area. The trend of making laptops as thin as possible has had dire consequences for port selection, with a lot of our favorite laptops shipping with only a couple of USB-C ports.

Luckily, the solution to the port drought in modern laptops — one of my biggest complaints — isn't expensive. UGREEN makes some of the best USB-C hubs on the market, and its Revodok Pro 7-in-1 option is now 30% off at Amazon for Cyber Monday. That brings the price down to $25.89, making it a great stocking stuffer in the process.

UGREEN's compact and durable hub includes a USB-C port with 100W of passthrough charging power to keep your laptop's battery topped up, with another two USB-C ports for 10Gbps transfers. There are also two USB-A (10Gbps) ports for older accessories that haven't jumped to USB-C.

Most impressive are the dual HDMI ports that can each handle up to a 4K display at 60Hz, solving your external display connection issues in the process. This hub is highly rated everywhere, and it's never been cheaper than right now.

🔥The hottest Cyber Monday deals🔥

• 💻HP EliteBook 14 (Ryzen 7 PRO) | $589 at HP (Save $2,333!)
• 🎮ASUS ROG Ally (Z1) | $349.99 at Best Buy (Save $150!)
• 🖥️Geekom AR12 Lite Mini PC (Intel N100) | $169 at Amazon (Save $30!)
• 🕹️Xbox Game Pass Ultimate (3-months) | $27.99 at CDKeys (Save $12!)
• 🎮Lenovo Legion Go (Z1 Extreme) | $484.99 at Amazon (Save $215!)
• 💻Surface Pro 11 w/ keyboard (X Plus) | $899.99 at Best Buy (Save $450!)

💽More last-minute Cyber Monday deals💾

• Best Buy: Save up to 50% with Cyber Monday savings
• Walmart: Hurry for huge Cyber Monday savings
• Target: Score new and online-only deals
• Dell: Lowest PC prices of the year during Cyber Monday
• HP: Save up to 75% on selected doorbusters
• Lenovo: Save up to 68% on select doorbusters
• Newegg: Cyber Monday 2024 — It's our time to shine
• Razer: Loot like a legend with Cyber Weekend specials
• Samsung: Holiday deals on laptops, TVs, phones, and more are live
• Amazon: Cyber Monday deals on practically everything

The move to USB-C simplified the shape of cables needed to charge laptops, smartphones, and tablets, but shopping for a charger is still too complicated. I feel like I'm in an endless battle to fill my home with charging cables that can top up my wife and I's laptops, smartphones, and other gadgets. If you're in a similar spot, you need to check out the Cyber Monday deal on the Anker Prime Charger.

A $60 discount brings the Anker Prime Charger down to $109.99. That is admittedly rather expensive, but the Anker Prime Charger has 250W of total power output, can charge a device with 140W of power from a single port, and uses AI for optimal charging efficiency.

🔥The hottest Black Friday deals🔥

• 💽Zotac RTX 4080 SUPER AMP GPU | $989.99 at Newegg
• 💻Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 Copilot+ PC | $849.99 at Best Buy
• 💽MSI Ventus 2X E1 OC RTX 4070 GPU | $469.99 at Newegg
• 🎮Razer Wolverine V3 Pro controller | $199 at Amazon
• 💽 AMD Ryzen 5 7600X CPU | $194.99 at Newegg (with free 1TB SSD)
• 🕹️Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck | $299.99 at Amazon
• 💻Microsoft Surface Pro 11 Copilot+ PC | $866 at Amazon

A ton of power

The U in USB-C stands for "universal" but shopping for USB-C chargers and cables can be quite complicated. Picking USB-C chargers is a far cry from delivering a universal experience. Different charging standards, proprietary charging tech, and other specs mean that you may plug a cable into your phone, laptop, or tablet only to find out hours later that your device did not charge at all. In other cases, your device would have charged slower than expected.

The Anker Prime Charger cuts through (most of) this confusion with 250W of total power, 140W of output from a single port, and 100W or power output in three other ports. You can charge multiple devices through the charger, topping them up quickly. Many of the best Windows laptops, MacBooks, Samsung smartphones, and phones from other companies should all play nicely with the Anker Prime Charger.

Many laptops charge quickly with 100W of power or less. Heck, some laptops won't even take advantage of more power than 100W if you make it available. But there are laptops that require more than 100W of power output, such as workstations. Unfortunately, power requirements and USB-C charging support vary from device to device. You'll have to check your device's instruction manual or online listing to see how much power it takes to charge.

The listing of the Anker Prime Charger states that it can get a "16-inch MacBook Pro to 50% in just 25 minutes." Other devices that can take advantage of high power output should see quick top up times as well. As mentioned above, some devices will not take full advantage of the power output of the Anker Prime Charger. The device's listing states, "Surface Laptop Studio 2, Dell XPS 15 (9500/9510), Dell Alienware X14, and Dell Mobile Precision 5570 cannot be charged at full speed."

Honestly, I don't think it's Anker's fault that some devices won't charge at full speed through the Prime Charger. The USB-C ecosystem is a bit of a mess. The bottom line here is that the Anker Prime Charger has impressive specs, unique features, and high power output. Just double-check the specs of your gadgets before picking a charger.

More than powerful

The Anker Prime Charger would be impressive solely based on its power output and number of ports, but it also has some unique features worth highlighting. The charger has a display that shows how much power each port is using. You can customize that screen to show different information, such as the time and date.

A smart knob on the side of the charger lets you swap between different modes. The Anker Prime Charger has an AI mode for optimal charging, port priority mode, dual laptop mode, and lower current mode. You can also control the Anker Prime Charger through a smartphone app.

🍁More great Black Friday deals🦃

• Best Buy: Big savings on video games, accessories, and more
• Walmart: Early savings on practically everything
• Target: Live deals on a huge range of products
• Dell: Top deals on laptops, gaming PCs, accessories, and more
• HP: Save big on laptops, desktops, accessories, and more
• Lenovo: Doorbuster deals on all Lenovo PCs, monitors, accessories, and more
• Newegg: Save on PC gaming accessories, components, and more
• Razer: Take advantage of free shipping for a limited time
• Samsung: Holiday deals on laptops, TVs, phones, and more are live
• Amazon: Constantly rotating sales on everything you can imagine

"Did you unplug my phone" is a question asked too often in my home. Somehow, my wife and I have synced up when it comes to needing specific USB-C chargers around the house. I suppose that's not too surprising since so many electronic devices charge through USB-C these days, but it sure is frustrating. That's why this Black Friday and Cyber Monday I was assigned to "get a bunch of USB-C plugs and cables." Luckily, Best Buy made it easy to fill your home with USB-C charging by slashing $60 off the Insignia - 140W Dual Port USB-C Compact Wall Charger Kit.

🔥The hottest Black Friday deals🔥

• 💽Zotac RTX 4080 SUPER AMP GPU | $989.99 at Newegg
• 💻Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 Copilot+ PC | $849.99 at Best Buy
• 💽MSI Ventus 2X E1 OC RTX 4070 GPU | $469.99 at Newegg
• 🎮Razer Wolverine V3 Pro controller | $199 at Amazon
• 💽 AMD Ryzen 5 7600X CPU | $194.99 at Newegg (with free 1TB SSD)
• 🕹️Turtle Beach VelocityOne Flightdeck | $299.99 at Amazon
• 💻Microsoft Surface Pro 11 Copilot+ PC | $866 at Amazon

Can I charge my laptop and phone with USB-C?

The short answer to this question is yes. The Insignia - 140W Dual Port USB-C Compact Wall Charger Kit should charge your phone or your laptop as long as the devices have USB-C ports that support charging. That being said, your exact experience will depend on the device that you need to charge.

Some companies use proprietary technology for fast charging, which means third-party chargers often don't deliver the same charging speeds as the power brick and cable you get with your phone. The Insignia - 140W Dual Port USB-C Compact Wall Charger Kit should still charge your phone or laptop, it just may not be as fast as the charger and cable your device shipped with.

The maximum total output of the Insignia - 140W Dual Port USB-C Compact Wall Charger Kit is, as the name suggests, 140W. Individual ports max out at 100W when using both ports. That means you can charge one device at 100W and another at 45W at the same time. Some phones max out at 45W charging, so you won't feel the limits when charging those devices. There are also some laptops that can use more than 100W of power to charge, so this charger isn't ideal for them either. There are chargers out there that support 100W charging through multiple ports at once or more than 100W from a single port but they tend to be quite expensive.

My wife and I have several devices that use USB-C for charging, including two smartphones, two laptops, and even our toothbrushes. Full disclosure, I didn't actually purchase the Insignia charger that's on sale through Best Buy. I live in the UK, which has different plugs than the US. We also don't have Best Buy here. Instead, a similar deal from Amazon UK caught my eye. Whether you live in the UK and grab that charger or live in the US and pick up the discounted Insignia charger, the result will be the same. With that charger, you'll be able to top up your devices and fighting over charging cables should die down.

🍁More great Black Friday deals🦃

• Best Buy: Big savings on video games, accessories, and more
• Walmart: Early savings on practically everything
• Target: Live deals on a huge range of products
• Dell: Top deals on laptops, gaming PCs, accessories, and more
• HP: Save big on laptops, desktops, accessories, and more
• Lenovo: Doorbuster deals on all Lenovo PCs, monitors, accessories, and more
• Newegg: Save on PC gaming accessories, components, and more
• Razer: Take advantage of free shipping for a limited time
• Samsung: Holiday deals on laptops, TVs, phones, and more are live
• Amazon: Constantly rotating sales on everything you can imagine

What you need to know

• VESA just announced the DisplayPort 2.1 specification this week.
• DisplayPort 2.1 improves connectivity and allows longer cables without reduced performance.
• The specification also adds new bandwidth management features.
• All products that support DisplayPort 2.0 will also work with DisplayPort 2.1.

The Video Electronics Standards Association, more commonly known as VESA, announced the DisplayPort 2.1 specification this week. DisplayPort 2.1 aligns better with the USB-C specification and USB4 PHY than its predecessor and has new bandwidth management features. It also enables connectivity through longer cables. Specifically, DP40 cables can extend beyond two meters, and DP80 cables can be over one meter.

The good news is that you don't need to rush out and replace all of your DisplayPort 2.0 devices to take advantage of the new specification. VESA worked with companies to make sure that all products that support DisplayPort 2.0 also support DisplayPort 2.1.

"Whether GPUs, docking station chips, monitor scalar chips, PHY repeater chips such as re-timers, or DP40/DP80 cables (including both passive and active, and using full-size DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort or USB Type-C connectors) – have already been certified to the stricter DisplayPort 2.1 spec," explained VESA.

Supporting a wide range of cables was a priority with the new standard. "Achieving a robust, end-to-end user visual experience remains the utmost priority for VESA's DisplayPort specification, whether across a native DisplayPort cable, via DisplayPort Alt Mode (DisplayPort over the USB Type-C connector), or tunneled through the USB4 link," said the association's press release.

DisplayPort 2.1 aligns more with the USB Type-C specification as well as USB4 PHY. As a result of this, cables meeting the specification will work better alongside data traffic through USB4 connections.

The improved efficiency of DisplayPort 2.1 works in conjunction with VESA's visually lossless Display Stream Compression codec, which can reduce transport bandwidth by as much as 67%. It also works with VESA's Panel Replay capability, which can "reduce DisplayPort tunneling packet transport bandwidth in excess of 99 percent."

In layman's terms, DisplayPort 2.1 will help video look better. It supports higher bit rates and should deliver good visual quality, including HDR content. The improved video quality will work through DisplayPort 2.1 even when a cable is also used for other tasks, such as transferring data and power.

Investing in one of the best USB-C monitors will set you up nicely for the future with both display quality and connectivity. These monitors generally have a modern design aesthetic, high-quality panel, and compatibility with laptops and desktop PCs. We've rounded up a bunch of the best USB-C monitors for a variety of uses, including gaming, mobile computing, creative tasks, and ultrawide setups.

The Razer Raptor 27 is designed to handle gaming and design work equally well. It's sort of a jack-of-all-trades monitor with a 27-inch anti-glare IPS panel, 2560x1440 (QHD) resolution, 144Hz or 165Hz refresh rate, HDR 400 certification, and about 420 nits of peak brightness. The 1ms response time means it can keep up with competitive games, plus there's NVIDIA G-Sync and AMD FreeSync compatibility.

The unique design sees cable management at the forefront, with dedicated channels along the back stand. The monitor tilts for easy access, but you do have to use proprietary cables. Ports include HDMI 2.0b, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C PD (with DP 1.4), and two USB-A 3.2. Color accuracy hits 100% sRGB, 90% AdobeRGB, and 96% DCI-P3, making this monitor just as comfortable handling photography or design as it is with gaming.

If you need a monitor with USB-C connectivity that can also handle just about anything you throw its way, the Razer Raptor 27 is a top choice. You can get it with a standard 144Hz refresh rate, or you can bump things up to 165Hz for even faster performance. This will tack on some money, but rest assured the more affordable version is still an excellent choice.

Monoprice has long been all about offering affordable PC accessories, and its move into the monitor market is a welcome one. The Monoprice Dark Matter 27 is a great option if you're looking to keep spending to a minimum while still getting a quality display. Monoprice used Sharp's IGZO panels for this version with 180Hz refresh rate, which delivers an attractive mix of AMOLED contrast and natural IPS appearance.

In our testing, the Dark Matter 27 hit 100% sRGB, 97% AdobeRGB, and 93% DCI-P3 color reproduction, all excellent results for a monitor at this price. The 180Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time mean it can be used for competitive gaming, though there is no official G-Sync or FreeSync certification. The display has DisplayPort 1.4a, three HDMI 2.0b, and USB-C for connectivity.

The display loses some marks due to its lack of height adjustment and fairly plain look, but that's not going to matter to a lot of people. If you want a high-performance display without paying a high price, this is a great way to go. Check out our collection of the best gaming monitors for more options on this front.

The ASUS ZenScreen GO is a portable 15.6-inch 1920x1080 (FHD) IPS display that you can hook up to your laptop over a single USB-C cable. It also has a built-in battery for four hours of use where it won't drain your laptop's power. That on its own makes this worth packing along with your notebook.

The display works best with a USB-C cable, though it does also offer Micro HDMI connectivity. It weighs in at only about 860g, meaning you can easily tuck it under an arm along with your laptop. And the last neat trick to know about is the hole on the bottom right. You can pop even just a pen in there as a handy stand if you don't have the case.

Ultrawide monitors are gaining traction thanks to their ability to deliver multiple screens' worth of display area with a single product. As it stands now, there are a few ultrawide screens sitting at the top of the pile.

The LG 38WN95C-W is one of our picks for best ultrawide monitor thanks to a deep feature set, 38-inch 3840x1600 resolution, modern look with thin bezel and ergonomic stand, VESA DisplayHDR 600, and generous connectivity including USB-C and Thunderbolt 3.

The monitor's 21:9 aspect ratio is perfect for productivity work, but it can also easily handle gaming thanks to a 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. It comes equipped with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and it's NVIDIA G-Sync compatible, meaning it works great with just about any PC.

Color reproduction hit 100% sRGB, 88% AdobeRGB, and 95% DCI-P3 in our testing, and it hit about 545 nits brightness at peak. The anti-reflective coating helps cut down on glare immensely. If you aren't looking to go full 4K with your ultrawide, LG's behemoth is an expensive but worthwhile investment.

Buying a 4K monitor with USB-C connectivity doesn't have to be super expensive. Enter the INNOCN 27C1U with an affordable price tag. It's best cut out for life in an office, but it can handle more specialized work like photography or design thanks to its 99.8% sRGB, 93.7% AdobeRGB, and 94.7% DCI-P3 color reproduction after calibration. It has a 60Hz refresh rate and 4ms response time to boot, meaning it could handle some gaming after hours.

The overall design is fairly simple (ideal for an office) but the stand offers tilt, swivel, height, and rotation adjustments for easier ergonomics. It can also be mounted thanks to VESA 100mm x 100mm compatibility. Connect with two HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, three USB-A 3.0, 3.5mm audio, or USB-C complete with 65W of power delivery back to a host (great for use with a laptop).

The BenQ SW271C PhotoVue monitor is the successor to the SW271, bringing some extra features to the table for those serious about photography. It's a 27-inch display with 4K resolution, IPS panel, and anti-glare finish. Color is excellent, with 100% sRGB, 100% AdobeRGB, and 95% DCI-P3 factory calibration as tested. The 8-bit + FRC color emulates full 10-bit color, and there's a 16-bit 3D LUT essential for color-sensitive work. The screen offers HDR10 support, and it has a 60Hz refresh rate.

The chunky bezel isn't particularly modern looking, but the ergonomic stand makes it easy to get the look you want. There are tons of ports, including USB-C with PD and DP Alt-mode, two HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-B, two USB-A 3.1, 3.5mm audio jack, and an SD card reader. It's also compatible with 100mm x 100mm VESA mounting if you'd like to get it up off your desk.

Check out the BenQ SW271 for a similar display with USB-C connectivity, albeit costing considerably less. And be sure to have a look at our collection of the best monitors for photo editing and design for more options.

MSI wowed us with its Optix MPG321UR-QD monitor. This display comes with a brilliant 32-inch 4K IPS screen powered by quantum dot LEDs. Though it's designed for gaming with its fast 1ms response time, 144Hz refresh rate, and G-Sync and FreeSync support, the Optix can also be used for creative work with its more demure design, DisplayHDR support, and factory-calibrated panel that achieves 99% of the wide Adobe sRGB color space. And with 4K 120Hz support, this panel is also a champ for console gamers looking to connect their latest Xbox or PlayStation models. 

This USB-C monitor helps you reduce cable clutter between the monitor and your laptop, with the panel itself getting power from an external brick. There's a USB hub on-board to help connect peripherals. 

The panel can get plenty bright, reaching in excess of 600 nits when HDR is enabled, and a strong contrast ratio makes this screen stand out. Integrated VESA support can also help free up desk space, as you can mount this screen on the wall or a swing-arm stand. 

Bottom line

Why should you bother with a USB-C monitor at all? The answer may not be obvious right now, but as time passes, we get closer and closer to the standard being ubiquitous. USB-C can solve multiple problems simultaneously, including video, data, and power.

The obvious ones are Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4, which not only handle superfast data but also video output at high resolution and refresh rate. These high-end standards utilize the USB-C connector. If you're buying a new, higher-end Intel-based laptop, nowadays you're almost guaranteed to have Thunderbolt.

But USB-C without Thunderbolt is still capable of handling video output, data transfer, and even charging. There are already monitors mentioned here that can charge a USB-C laptop while it's in use down the same cable that sends the video output. It's neat, it's effective, and it is the future. USB-C has been around for a few years now, but gradually it is being accepted as the new standard. As more and more laptops and desktop PCs embrace it, having a monitor with the feature will become extremely convenient.

Any of the displays listed here can be used with USB-C for a hassle-free connection. But if we're picking just one, we can't help but recommend the Razer Raptor 27. It's our pick for the overall best computer monitor thanks to its QHD resolution, accurate color reproduction, high refresh rate, and unique build with cable management baked right in. It's a mix of gaming, design, and pro features that should appeal to many people.

If the price tag for the 165Hz model is a bit too much to swallow, consider saving some money on the 144Hz model. It's still packing the same excellent feature set, and you might not even notice the lack of those extra frames.

Adding a USB hub to your home office is a great way to expand your workspace by giving you the ability to plug in extra devices via additional USB ports. You can also use USB hubs to transfer data from one device to another quickly. That's why we recommend the Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Ultra Slim. Not only is this hub small and compact, but it comes with four additional ports to accommodate devices like a keyboard or mouse.

Best Overall: Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Ultra Slim

The Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Ultra Slim data hub is an excellent choice for anyone looking to transform their workspace into a fully compatible workstation. This hub offers four ports, which gives you the ability to add devices such as a mouse, gaming controller, or keyboard to your computer or console. It is compatible with Windows and Mac devices.

You don't need a lot of space to transform your office with this USB 3.0 hub since it's small and compact. It also comes prepared for use with a built-in cable that's reinforced to ensure that it doesn't become damaged quickly. Plug it into those hard-to-reach outlets without worrying about the cord breaking due to an awkward bend.

When it comes to transferring and syncing data, this Anker USB hub can transfer at speeds up to 5Gbps. This means that it can transfer an HD movie in only a matter of seconds. This USB 3.0 hub also can charge small devices; however, it will not charge devices that require over 5V/900mAh of power. It will sync data for all compatible devices, though, regardless of the amount of power they need.

Best Value: Sabrent 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub

The Sabrent 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub features a sleek and compact design and is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux devices. Although this hub does not charge devices, it syncs devices at an impressive transfer speed of 5Gbps, making it great for use in your home office.

When you're ready to use the Sabrent 4-Port USB 3.0 Hub, setup is straightforward. Simply plug it in and start using it immediately. Once you've finished using this USB hub, you can remove it without disconnecting first as it is hot-swappable. This is wonderfully convenient when looking to transfer data quickly and on the go.

Each port has its own power switch. This gives you the ability to turn a device's syncing capabilities off or on without needing to unplug it. This hub also comes equipped with LED lights to remind you which ports are powered on visually. Ensure that you do not exceed a combined current of 5V/900mAh while using this USB hub as it will crash or freeze.

This Sabrent hub is reverse compatible, which means that it works with USB 2.0 and 1.1 connections even though it is a USB 3.0 hub. However, transfer rates differ for each. The USB 2.0 transfers at a rate of 480 Mbps, while the USB 1.1 transfer at a rate of 12Mbps.

Best Premium: StarTech.com USB-C Dock (MST30C2DPPD)

This StarTech.com USB hub comes prepared for all types of work, featuring ports for Ethernet, headsets, and microphones. Easily connect up to four devices through the included ports. One of these is a fast-charge port and can power up your devices at a rapid pace. It can charge devices that require up to 60W of power while simultaneously syncing data. This is great for getting work done quickly and efficiently.

This USB hub comes prepared with a 3.3-foot USB-C cable, which allows you to place your device anywhere as you can reach most outlets in any work area. Feel free to bring this hub along with you to the library or coffee shop without worrying about finding a seat directly beside an outlet.

The StarTech.com USB-C Dock can easily connect dual monitors with absolutely no setup from you. However, you do need admin rights on your computer for setup to initiate automatically. Once access is granted, this four-port hub can transform your laptop or desktop into a functional dual workstation.

Best Versatile: Byroras USB-C Hub

The Byroras USB-C Hub is a seven-in-one device that features a USB-C to HDMI 4K adapter, three USB 3.0 ports, and an SD/TF card reader. This is an excellent hub for anyone who is looking to perform multiple actions with only one device. Its compact size and sleek design also make it portable and great for travel.

This device is brilliant for movie lovers, or individuals who frequently perform presentations in their workplace as you can use the included USB-C to HDMI adapter to mirror what is on your screen and stream it to another monitor or projector in HD 1080p quality. Sharing your screen with your peers has never been easier.

Not only is this hub excellent for sharing screens, but it also offers rapid transfer rates. You can quickly transfer files from one device to another at speeds of up to 5Gbps. To take it a step further, the built-in SD/TF card reader can read data in only a few seconds. You won't have to worry about wasting time waiting for your data transfers to process.

This Byroras USB-C Hub is built sturdy and reliable, while remaining sleek and slender. It features an aluminium casing that manages heat dissipation. It also comes prepared with stable output temperature protection, anti-short protection, and anti-over protection.

Although this hub offers a ton of great benefits, it is not a widely common brand and so getting ahold of customer service if problems arise can be challenging at times.

Best Accomodating: Anker 10-Port 60W Data USB 3.0 Hub

The Anker 10-Port 60W Data USB 3.0 Hub is a wonderfully durable hub that can accommodate ten different devices. Three of these ports are equipped with PowerIQ, which is exclusive to Anker products. This means that these three ports offer a quick and powerful charge of up to 2.1 amps per port. This hub also provides fast transfer speeds of 5Gbps.

If you're pressed for space, then this device may be just what you're looking for. The design of this hub is the length of a standard pen case, with the shape of a sleek and shiny brick. You can charge multiple devices and transfer data simultaneously without taking up a whole bunch of space on your desktop.

This Anker 10-port hub is compatible with Windows versions going back to XP, XP, Mac OS X 10.6 to 10.9, along with Linux 2.6.14 or above. It is a great addition to have in your home office as you can easily connect your Mac laptop to your printer.

Bottom line

If you're looking to expand your workspace, then a USB 3.0 hub may be the right choice for you. Not only do these hubs give you the ability to connect multiple devices and sync data at exceptional transfer rates, but most of them also allow you to charge your devices simultaneously as well. What better way to combine productivity with efficiency to set yourself up for success?

When it comes to excellent USB hubs, we recommend the Anker 4-Port USB 3.0 Ultra Slim because this hub is small and compact, making it great for carrying around with you on the go. It also can connect and accommodate additional devices such as a keyboard, headset, or mouse. This gives you the ability to turn a small workspace into a productive and fully functional work station.

What you need to know

• An Intel executive may have accidentally leaked details about Thunderbolt 5.
• Thunderbolt 5 appears to hit speeds of 80 Gbps, which is double the speed offered by Thunderbolt 4.
• A now-deleted image was briefly shared on an Intel executive's Twitter account with details about the technology.

An Intel executive may have just accidentally shared details about Thunderbolt 5 on Twitter. Gregory Bryant, executive vice president and general manager of Intel's Client Computing Group, shared photos of his visit to Intel's research and development facilities in Israel over the weekend. The tweet originally included four images, one of which listed details that are likely related to Thunderbolt 5. It now only includes three images.

The now-deleted image features a poster discussing "80G PHY Technology." As explained by AnandTech, this indicates that Intel is making a physical layer (PHY) for 80 Gbps connections. For context, the best Thunderbolt 4 hubs and docking stations only reach speeds of 40 Gbps.

The second row of the image says that 80G PHY technology is "targeted to support the existing USB-C ecosystem."

The next line discussed PAM-3 modulation technology. Anandtech breaks down the differences between PAM-3, PAM-4, and NRZ tech. The main takeaway is that the PAM-3 tech mentioned on the poster allows devices to have high bandwidth with fewer limitations than some alternatives.

While the poster doesn't confirm details about Thunderbolt 5, the fact that Bryant removed the image so quickly likely means that Intel has some big plans in the works for USB-C connections.

What you need to know

• USB-C cables could support up to 240W charging at some point in the future.
• The USB Implementers Forum outlines the new spec, known as Extended Power Range.
• Powerful laptops can draw more power than the current USB-C spec, making them need proprietary chargers.

While many modern laptops have USB-C ports that support charging, more powerful laptops like the Surface Book 3 and the best gaming laptops need proprietary chargers. These powerful laptops draw more power than the current USB-C standard supports, making proprietary hardware necessary. That could all change soon, thanks to a new specification from the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF).

The 2.1 update from the USB-IF pushes the power spec of USB-C up to 240W (via Tom's Hardware). It could be years before we see any cables and devices that support that much power, but when it does arrive, it could allow more powerful laptops to rely on universal cables rather than proprietary chargers.

Cables with the higher wattage will be designated as Extended Power Range cables. They will have to meet additional requirements that allow them to support higher voltage. The specification states:

Even in cases where powerful laptops support USB-C charging, they can draw more power than they can take in through USB-C. For example, the Surface Book 3 comes with a 127W charger to meet power demands. In contrast, the Surface Book 2 has a 102W charger, which can drain even while plugged in.

Specifications like this often take years to implement, but it will be nice to be able to use USB-C cables for powerful laptops.

What you need to know

• OWC announced a new Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C cable.
• The cable supports Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB 4, USB 3.2, USB 3.1, USB Power, and more.
• It's available for order for $28 from MacSales.

OWC announced a new Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C cable that's designed to be "universal for everything making it the only cable you will ever need." The 0.8 m (2.62') cable has USB-C on both sides and is certified for Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB 4, USB 3.2, USB 3.1, USB Power, and more. It can connect to USB-C displays with up to 8K HDR resolution, and it supports power delivery of up to 100W and data transfer speeds up to 40Gb/s. You can order it now from MacSales for $28.

The USB-C port was supposed to clear up confusion. It's a port that works both ways, so you can't plug something in upside down. It also appears on all sorts of devices. Many modern laptops, smartphones, accessories, and headphones have USB-C ports. The issue is that not all USB-C ports are the same. Some support quick charging; others don't. Some can be used for an external GPU; others can't. OWC aims to clear things up with a single cable that can do it all.

OWC says regarding the cable:

OWC might be recognized by many for its cables for Macs, but the Thunderbolt 4 / USB-C cable also works on PCs. It's not the only cable on the market with these specs, but it should cover just about any device you can throw at it now that has a USB-C port.

If you've ever wanted to watch a mobile video on your TV, it might be simpler and more affordable than you might initially think. The Choetech USB-C to HDMI Cable can be plugged directly into smartphones, tablets, or computers that feature a USB-C port. With the other end plugged into the HDMI port of your TV, you'll be able to mirror content from USB-C devices to your TV to watch anything you want on the big screen. While Choetech's USB-C to HDMI cable regularly sells just under $20 on average, you can pick one up today for just $4.23 when you clip the coupon on its product page and then use promo code 50LJKEI1 during checkout.

Choetech's USB-C to HDMI cable is suitable to stream 4K video from one device to the next with a 60hz refresh rate. It works with USB Type C and Thunderbolt 3 ports including those found on MacBook and Chromebook laptops and select USB-C smartphones. You won't be able to use it with just any phone, though it is compatible with many of the recent Samsung Galaxy devices as well as Huawei Mate phones. The cable is corrosion-resistant and has a durable braided outer layer for added protection and flexibility. Plus, it has a 90-degree connector on the USB-C end which helps to keep the cord out of your way while you're using the device.

Amazon offers free shipping on orders totaling $25 or more, though you can also score free shipping with an Amazon Prime membership. If you've never been a member before, you can start a free 30-day trial to snag free two-day shipping with no order minimum. You'll also gain access to all of Prime's perks such as the Prime Video streaming service and Prime Gaming. There's even a new page full of exclusive members-only discounts which every member should keep an eye on.

As computers continue to be designed with fewer ports as technology advances, having a USB hub handy to enhance your connectivity options is always a smart idea. With one like MECO's 9-in-1 USB Type-C Hub, you can transform a single USB-C port on your computer and get way more functionality of it. Using promo code T77J2WOH at Amazon will even bring its price down to $23.99 currently and save you $16 off its regular price there. This is the lowest we've seen this 9-port option go, though that code won't last forever.

The deal given is no longer valid and we do not have a better one. However, we have found some similar deals

Meco 7-in-1 adapter USB-C hub

$16.42 $29.99 Save $14 1558411200

Meco 7-in-1 adapter USB-C hub

$1.01 $35.99 Save $35 1558411200

Meco 7-in-1 adapter USB-C hub

$1.21 $36.99 Save $36 1558411200

MECO Wireless Battery-Powered 1080p Camera

$49.59 $79.99 Save $30 1565791363

Place this camera anywhere indoors or outside. Use it to survey your property, communicate to visitors, and more.

After plugging this hub into your computer's USB-C port, you'll gain access to its three USB 3.0 ports and its HDMI output that offers support for both 4K UHD and 1080p HD video. The hub is also equipped with SD and microSD card readers, along with a USB-C data port and USB-C charging port with Power Delivery that allows you to quickly power up your computer while the hub is plugged in. On top of all that, you get an RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet port for hooking up to a wired network. That's pretty much every common port and connector type you could need these days, all in one easy-to-carry hub. No software installation is required for its use either and it works with both PC and Mac computers, as well as iPad Pro, Chromebook, and even many Android devices with USB-C ports.

So far, 25 customers have left reviews for this hub at Amazon resulting in a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars. If this 9-in-1 option is too much hub for your needs, check out this 5-in-1 option on sale for just $6. Alternatively, take a look at our list of the best USB-C hubs for Chromebook and the best USB-C hubs for MacBook for some other choice picks.

USB-C and the ASUS ZenBook Duo

As stated above, the USB-C slot on the ASUS ZenBook Duo is not configured for charging purposes. This means that you won't be able to use it to replenish the laptop's battery. For that, you're going to need to use the device's dedicated barrel plug charger. However, the USB-C port will be useful for transferring data to and from the device. The port doesn't support Thunderbolt 3, but even standard USB-C nevertheless offers relatively quick data transfer speeds of 10Gbps, which is double the rate of USB-A.

Why you should get an ASUS ZenBook Duo

The ASUS ZenBook Duo is a great device that offers competent power and value for productivity. With its unique dual displays (one "regular" screen, one smaller touch-enabled one under the keyboard), you can run and view two programs and/or tabs simultaneously, giving you the freedom to essentially operate a "double monitor" setup with the device. The NVIDIA MX250 GPU, Intel 10th Gen i7-10510U processor, and 16GB of RAM that the laptop is equipped with can handle any work task you throw at it outside of intensive media editing; you can even enjoy some light gaming with these specs. It's also important to note that the Intel 10th Gen CPU gives the ASUS ZenBook Duo full compatibility with Wi-Fi 6, which is the latest standard that increases connection speed and stability.

From a physical perspective, the device is lovely as well. It weighs in at just 3.3 pounds (1.5 kg), so it's easy to carry around, and the laptop is just under an inch too so that it won't take up too much space in a bag. It's also worth highlighting that it has skinny bezels around both of the displays that make the viewing experience more enjoyable. Lastly, the dual USB-A 3.1 ports and single aforementioned USB-C 3.1 port offer a vast amount of options for connecting various peripherals.

Make sure you're charging your electronics and laptop as efficiently as possible with the Choetech 60W USB-C Wall Charger. Featuring Power Delivery 3.0, it's designed to offer an optimal charge based on what's plugged in to keep your devices safe from overcharging, over-voltage, and more. While normally sold for up to $33, you can pick one up today for as low as $11.67 at Amazon when you clip the on-page coupon and then use promo code KFD272NY during checkout. That low price also takes into account an automatic discount that's exclusively available for Prime members, though the non-Prime price of $12.79 isn't bad either.

The deal given is no longer valid and we do not have a better one. However, we have found some similar deals

Choetech 100W USB-C Cable

$4.94 $15.97 Save $11 1598956445

Reach faster charging speeds with this 6-foot USB-C cable which supports up to 100W. Being Thunderbolt 3-compatible, it also features 10Gbps data transfers, 4K video, and more. Clip the on-page coupon and enter the below code for the full savings.

Choetech Wireless Charging Bundle (2-pack)

$14.54 $22.99 Save $8 1598637871

Choetech is offering an extra $5 off a two-pack of its popular wireless chargers right now. You'll score a 10W wireless charging stand and a wireless charging pad. Just clip the on-page coupon to score the additional savings.

Choetech USB-C to HDMI Cable

$4.23 $18.70 Save $14 1598291045

This HDMI cable by Choetech was designed to be more versatile than traditional models. It has a USB-C connector on one end so you can plug it into your phone or USB-C computer without needing an adapter. Use the coupon to save.

Choetech 5-in-1 USB-C Hub

$6.98 $19.99 Save $13 1595862850

Choetech's 5-in-1 USB-C Hub is equipped with two USB 3.0 ports, an HDMI port that supports 4K video, and an SD/microSD card reader. Just clip the coupon on its product page and use the following code at checkout to score this low price.

Choetech car air vent wireless charger mount

$6.99 $11.98 Save $5 1534824000

This USB-C wall charger features a single USB-C port with a maximum output of 60W. Devices compatible with Power Delivery 3.0 will charge even faster than others, though all devices should charge safely thanks to the charger's built-in smart identification chip which can identify the voltage and current that your device requires to charge properly.

You'll be able to power up laptops such as the 13-inch MacBook Pro fully in just two hours. You could also use it with devices such as the Nintendo Switch. It has a foldable plug, is compact, and easy to pack in nearly any bag. Just make sure you have a USB-C cable to go along with it, or add one to your cart before checking out if you don't. This guide to the best USB-C cables has a good list to choose from.

Choetech includes an 18-month warranty with this charger's purchase. Shipping at Amazon is free on orders totaling $25 or more, or with an Amazon Prime membership. Having a membership could also score you an extra discount on today's purchase, so why not start a free 30-day trial and see how it is? You'll snag free two-day shipping with no order minimum, along with access to the Prime Video streaming service, other exclusive members-only discounts, and more.

Powering up your phone could be much quicker with a more efficient charger. For devices that are compatible with Power Delivery, the ESR 30W USB-C Wall Charger works nearly three times faster than standard chargers. Today you can pick one up on sale at Amazon for just $17.99 by clipping the coupon on its product page. That saves you $8 off its usual price and brings this USB-C charger down to one of its best prices yet.

This compact 30W USB-C wall charger automatically detects what device is plugged in to deliver an optimal charge. That stops your devices from being over-charged, too. The charger has a foldable plug to make it even smaller when you need to pack it away. Plus, its durable exterior makes it a dependable option to bring on your travels.

Power Delivery-enabled devices can reach 50% in just 30 minutes with this charger, but other devices can be charged with it as well. ESR includes an 18-month warranty with its purchase.

Shipping at Amazon is free on orders totaling $25 or more, or with an Amazon Prime membership. If you've never been a member before, you can start a free 30-day trial to score free two-day shipping with no order minimum, along with access to the Prime Video streaming service, exclusive members-only discounts, and more.

Making sure your computer can do everything you need it to do could be much easier with a USB hub as versatile as this. The Aukey 7-in-1 USB-C Hub is packed with connectivity options and 50% off at Amazon when you enter promo code 6DXH7D7V during checkout. Today's sale brings this helpful accessory down to just $24.99 while supplies last.

The deal given is no longer valid and we do not have a better one. However, we have found some similar deals

Aukey 9-in-2 USB-C hub for MacBook Pro or MacBook Air

$41.99 $60.00 Save $18 1619614641

Unique design requires two USB-C ports back-to-back, which is why this is particularly suited for a MacBook that has such a configuration. Turn those two ports into nine tools including HDMI, Thunderbolt 3, and a 100W Power Delivery charging port.

Aukey Sports true wireless earbuds with earhooks

$27.49 $50.00 Save $23 1617281514

Include powerful 12mm drivers for high-fidelity audio. The ear hook design won't let go even when you're at the gym. They have IPX8 water resistance, which is full waterproof support. The battery life lasts up to 35 hours with the included case.

Aukey Bluetooth true wireless earbuds

Up to 30% off 1616670686

All the prices are discounted and the costs vary between $21 and $49. All you have to decide is which one looks best to you and has the features you need (like the Sports earbuds that stay on even while you run). Choose from black, white, and pink.

Aukey KM-G6 LED Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

$27.99 $44.99 Save $17 1615820991

This well-reviewed keyboard features 104 anti-ghosting keys, nine preset lighting effects, and even comes with a two-year warranty. Today's deal at Amazon saves you $12 off its regular price while supplies last!

Aukey Sports true wireless earbuds

$25.24 $50.00 Save $25 1615297522

Include powerful 12mm drivers for high-fidelity audio. The ear hook design won't let go even when you're at the gym. They have IPX8 water resistance, which is full waterproof support. The battery life lasts up to 35 hours with the included case.

The hub includes three USB 3.1 Type A ports, SD and microSD card slots, an HDMI port, and a 100W USB-C Power Delivery port. The HDMI port is capable of outputs up to 4K to a connected display. All the USB-A ports and SD slots support data transfer rates up to 5 Gbps. The Power Delivery port is powerful enough to charge your MacBook and other USB-C devices using the original power adapters thanks to 100W pass-through. That means you'll be able to keep your laptop powered up while using this USB-C hub even if it only has a single USB-C port. Aukey backs up this USB-C hub with a two-year warranty, and users give it 4 stars out of 5 based on nearly 175 reviews.

Shipping at Amazon is free on orders totaling $25 or more, or with an Amazon Prime membership. If you've never been a member before, you can start a free 30-day trial to score free two-day shipping with no order minimum, along with access to the Prime Video streaming service, exclusive members-only discounts, and more. Since you only need to add a penny to your order for free shipping without Prime, make sure to not checkout without adding something to your cart. If you're having trouble deciding, this section of tech accessories under $10 is always a good place to look. If you're willing to spend a bit more, Thrifter is full of great Amazon deals.

When it's time to replace your charging cables, spending just a little bit extra can make a huge difference in how your device charges. Anker's Premium Nylon USB-C to USB-A Fast Charging Cables are designed to be compatible with Quick Charge-enabled chargers, and they tend to put any charging cable that you recieve with a new device to shame, too. Now that a two-pack of these six-foot long cables are on sale at Amazon for only $6.99 when you enter promo code AKMCM733 during checkout, there's really no excuse not to upgrade today. The pair is regularly sold for up to $11; only the black cables are on sale currently.

The deal given is no longer valid and we do not have a better one. However, we have found some similar deals

Anker Soundcore Life Q30 hybrid active noise-cancelling Bluetooth headphones

$59.99 $79.99 Save $20 1623229746

These hybrid Bluetooth headphones reduce ambient noise up to 95% thanks to active noise-cancelling mics. The battery lasts up to 40 hours with ANC on or 60 hours with it off, and recharge via USB-C. Clip the $20 on-page coupon.

Anker Powerline II 6-feet USB-C to Lightning cable

$12.74 $15.00 Save $2 1622381674

When using a USB-C power adapter (not included), you'll get the fastest possible charge for your iPhone. Plus you can seamlessly sync and charge your Mac. This is Apple MFi certified and lasts 12 times longer than other cables.

Anker Liberty Air 2 Pro true wireless earbuds Best Buy

$79.99 $130.00 Save $50 1621774136

These earbuds have active noise-cancelling that's customizable with a simple app. You'll get a total of 26 hours of playtime with seven hours from a single charge and the rest from the charging case. Uses USB-C and has wireless charging.

Anker Soundcore Rave Neo portable Bluetooth speaker with LED lights

$84.99 $120.00 Save $35 1621165777

Includes a rechargeable battery that will last for up to 18 hours and can charge other devices with the USB port. IPX7 rated for water resistance. The built-in LED lights will sync to the music you're playing. Connect multiple speakers together.

Anker Soundcore Liberty 2 Pro true wireless earbuds black

$49.99 $100.00 Save $50 1620646265

They last for up to eight hours on a single charge with up to 32 hours total using the charging case. They have quick charge so you can get two hours after 10 minutes spent charging. They also charge via USB-C or a Qi wireless charger.

Anker designed these cables not just with speed in mind, but durability too. Their premium nylon-braided construction helps these cables last five times longer than standard options. They're universally compatible with any device that has a USB-C port, and with Quick Charge compatibility, you'll be able to get the fastest speeds possible using a Quick Charge USB wall charger or a similar accessory.

You'd also be wise to keep one in your backpack or vehicle so you're always prepared to charge on-the-go. This guide to the best power banks under $30 might come in handy too in that regard. There's also a guide on best portable high-capacity power banks that is worth a glance.

These cables even come with a lifetime warranty, and it's easy to take Anker up on its offer for a replacement if one of them does happen to stop working properly.

Shipping at Amazon is free on orders totaling $25 or more, or with an Amazon Prime membership. If you've never been a Prime member before, consider starting a free 30-day trial today. You'd score free two-day shipping with no order minimum, exclusive members-only discounts, access to the Prime Video streaming service, and more.

Why is USB-C important?

Having a USB-C port is important for a few big reasons. The main one is that it allows more power and data to be transferred per second than other USB connection types, which makes charging and data transfer faster respectively. In addition to that, both the port and the plug of USB-C is smaller than the other USB types. This results in less space being taken up. Finally, another notable advantage that the smaller design of USB-C brings is that it's simply easier to connect and disconnect plugs from the port, which will make the quality-of-life for the user better.

Like many other previous-generation Surface devices, the Surface Laptop 2 didn't come with a USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 port, which was a massive disappointment on an otherwise great device. With te addition of a USB-C port on the Surface Laptop 3 and the Surface Pro 7, it finally looks like Microsoft is embracing the future.

What does the Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 offer?

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 has a lot more going for it than just the addition of a USB-C port. Regardless of whether you choose the 13-inch variant or the 15-inch one, you'll be in for a good time. It comes with either a 13.5-inch 2256x1504 display or a 15-inch 2496x1664 one for the smaller and larger versions, respectively, and the device also has Intel's new 10th Gen CPUs and can be configured with up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage. The 15-inch version can also be configured with an AMD Ryzen 7 custom CPU and a AMD Vega 11, if you wish.

In terms of physical design, the laptop is fairly light at just 2.79 pounds (13-inch) and 3.4 pounds (15-inch). It also comes with a Windows Hello-compatible camera, and also a USB-C port, something that Surface Laptop fans have been requesting for a long time.

While computers are built with fewer and fewer ports these days, USB-C hubs are becoming more and more commonplace. Plugging one into your computer gives you access to multiple USB ports, and some even include HDMI ports, microSD card slots, and more. If your computer could use a bit more versatility, you're in luck as Amazon has the HooToo 6-in-1 USB-C hub discounted to just $23.99 when you enter promo code UBEQ9JK2 during checkout. That'll save you more than $25 off its regular price there, and it's one of its best deals ever too.

Shipping at Amazon is free on orders totaling $25 or more, or with a Prime membership. If you're not a member already, you can start a free 30-day trial to have this order shipped with two-day shipping for free.

This all-in-one USB-C hub is packed with ports, from an HDMI port to three USB 3.0 ports. There's also an Ethernet port and a USB-C power pass-through port that allows you to charge your computer while the hub's plugged in. With an HDMI cable, you can use your TV's screen as a monitor for your computer, or hook up a dedicated computer monitor for a dual display. It even supports 4K UHD resolution. Meanwhile, its various USB ports can help connect everything from keyboards and mice to flash drives while the Ethernet port offers wired internet speeds up to 1 Gbps.

Nearly 550 customers have left reviews for this USB-C hub at Amazon, and it sounds like they've been pretty pleased with it as it's garnered a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in that time.

HooToo also has a USB-A hub on sale today for only $6.99 when you enter promo code 67AENXP8 during checkout. It's equipped with four USB ports and now 30% off.

For the most part, the move to USB-C has been a positive change in tech's endless march forward. It's versatile and compact which has meant that our portable machines can get smaller and lighter, and we can consolidate the ports on our desktop PCs. However, having a laptop with just one or two USB-C ports isn't so great when you have a few legacy peripherals to hook up at once. That's where USB-C hubs come in and, today only, you can save on these multi-port hubs from Totu that give you way more I/O options on your computer. Prices start at just $40 and you can get a hub with as many as 11 additional ports for your computer.

The deal given is no longer valid and we do not have a better one. However, we have found some similar deals

USB C Hub, TOTU 8-In-1 Type C Hub with Ethernet Port, 4K USB C to HDMI, 2 USB 3.0 Ports, 1 USB 2.0 Port, SD/TF Card Reader, USB-C Power Delivery, Portable for Mac Pro and Other Type C Laptops (Silver)

$25.49 $31.99 Save $7 1544072400

USB C Hub, TOTU 8-In-1 Type C Hub with Ethernet Port, 4K USB C to HDMI, 2 USB 3.0 Ports, 1 USB 2.0 Port, SD/TF Card Reader, USB-C Power Delivery, Portable for Mac Pro and Other Type C Laptops (Silver)

$26.99 $59.99 Save $33 1544072400

USB C Hub, TOTU 8-In-1 Type C Hub with Ethernet Port, 4K USB C to HDMI, 2 USB 3.0 Ports, 1 USB 2.0 Port, SD/TF Card Reader, USB-C Power Delivery, Portable for Mac Pro and Other Type C Laptops (Silver)

$25.99 $29.99 Save $4 1544072400

USB C Hub, TOTU 8-In-1 Type C Hub with Ethernet Port, 4K USB C to HDMI, 2 USB 3.0 Ports, 1 USB 2.0 Port, SD/TF Card Reader, USB-C Power Delivery, Portable for Mac Pro and Other Type C Laptops (Silver)

$25.99 $29.99 Save $4 1544072400

USB C Hub, TOTU 8-In-1 Type C Hub with Ethernet Port, 4K USB C to HDMI, 2 USB 3.0 Ports, 1 USB 2.0 Port, SD/TF Card Reader, USB-C Power Delivery, Portable for Mac Pro and Other Type C Laptops (Silver)

$25.99 $29.99 Save $4 1544072400

The most affordable option in the sale is the 8-in-1 Totu hub at $39.59. It turns one USB-C port into three regular USB ports, a 4K HDMI connector, a microSD and SD card reader, as well as Ethernet and USB-C power passthrough to keep your laptop charged. It regularly sells for $60 and this is the first time we've seen it go below $50. Its slim and light design makes it a perfect pick up for your laptop bag.

If you need more ports, Totu is also offering its 11-in-1 USB-C Hub with a $21 discount today. It's equipped with four USB ports, USB-C power passthrough, microSD and SD card readers, and Ethernet and 4K HDMI. As well as all of that, it adds a VGA connector and a 3.5mm audio jack. That's probably more than most people need, but if anything on that list is a must for you then today's the day to snap this well-reviewed hub up.

What you need to know

• The USB4 specification has been published by the USB Implementers Forum.
• The new spec could cause confusion for consumers regarding Thunderbolt 3 and USB4.
• Thunderbolt 3 is optional for USB4 and may not be included by all manufacturers.

The USB Implementers Forum published the USB4 specification recently(via PC World). While the new specifications are a step forward for USB4 in terms of speed and capability, the fact that Thunderbolt support is optional may cause confusion among consumers looking to purchase devices.

One of the notable aspects of USB4 is that Thunderbolt 3 compatibility is now included in the USB4 specification. This inclusion means that it is royalty-free for formal adopters. But the inclusion does not mean that all devices with USB4 will have Thunderbolt 3 support. Intel still maintains the Thunderbolt 3 branding and certification so some manufacturers may elect to not include Thunderbolt 3.

The USB Implementers Forum issued a statement clarifying the relationship of USB4 and Thunderbolt 3.

The fact that Thunderbolt 3 and USB4 overlap frequently, but not all of the time could lead to confusion for consumers. USB-C is a universal port when it comes to the shape of the port and cables, but that doesn't mean all USB-C cables or ports are the same. For example, some USB-C ports support Power delivery, while others do not. USB4 and Thunderbolt 3 are similar, but not identical, so the differences between devices are not always clear to consumers.

Powering up faster comes down to having the right charging accessories, like this EasyAcc 48W USB-C Fast Wall Charger. Using promo code QGS3C7V8 during checkout at Amazon drops its price to just $11.19, saving you more than $10 off its regular cost there. Shipping is free at Amazon on orders totaling $25 or more, or you can score free two-day shipping with Amazon Prime.

This fast USB wall charger is equipped with a USB-C Power Delivery port featuring an output up to 30W that can power up everything from your phone to your laptop or Nintendo Switch. There's also a USB port which supports Quick Charge 3.0 to power compatible devices four times faster than standard chargers can.

EasyAcc designed this charger with a foldable plug to make it even more compact while on-the-go. It also features protections against over-voltage, over-current, short-circuiting, and more. An 18-month warranty is also included with its purchase.

What better way to keep your desk tidy than to combine two useful tech products into one? AUKEY's 5-in-1 USB-C Hub doubles as a wireless charging pad for your phone so you can keep your device close while it's powering up, and today it's down to just $30.99 for Prime members when you first enter promo code W3WU6HU2 and then clip the coupon on its product page at Amazon. That saves you nearly $20 off its regular price.

If you're not a Prime member, you can still clip the coupon on its product page and enter the promo code during checkout to bring this USB-C hub down to $35.99. Considering it hasn't ever gone on sale before now without a coupon, that still makes for a nice $14 savings. You could also start a free 30-day trial of Prime to make your account eligible for the additional discount.

The deal given is no longer valid and we do not have a better one. However, we have found some similar deals

Aukey 9-in-2 USB-C hub for MacBook Pro or MacBook Air

$41.99 $60.00 Save $18 1619614641

Unique design requires two USB-C ports back-to-back, which is why this is particularly suited for a MacBook that has such a configuration. Turn those two ports into nine tools including HDMI, Thunderbolt 3, and a 100W Power Delivery charging port.

Aukey Sports true wireless earbuds with earhooks

$27.49 $50.00 Save $23 1617281514

Include powerful 12mm drivers for high-fidelity audio. The ear hook design won't let go even when you're at the gym. They have IPX8 water resistance, which is full waterproof support. The battery life lasts up to 35 hours with the included case.

Aukey Bluetooth true wireless earbuds

Up to 30% off 1616670686

All the prices are discounted and the costs vary between $21 and $49. All you have to decide is which one looks best to you and has the features you need (like the Sports earbuds that stay on even while you run). Choose from black, white, and pink.

Aukey KM-G6 LED Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

$27.99 $44.99 Save $17 1615820991

This well-reviewed keyboard features 104 anti-ghosting keys, nine preset lighting effects, and even comes with a two-year warranty. Today's deal at Amazon saves you $12 off its regular price while supplies last!

Aukey Sports true wireless earbuds

$25.24 $50.00 Save $25 1615297522

Include powerful 12mm drivers for high-fidelity audio. The ear hook design won't let go even when you're at the gym. They have IPX8 water resistance, which is full waterproof support. The battery life lasts up to 35 hours with the included case.

This 5-in-1 USB-C Hub features 100W Power Delivery via its USB-C passthrough port, allowing you to keep your laptop charged while you're putting the hub's other ports to use. It's equipped with an HDMI port that can output resolutions up to 4K to connected displays as well as two USB 3.0 ports which support data transfer rates up to 5Gbps. However, its winning feature is its integrated fast wireless charging pad on top.

Sitting your Qi-enabled phone down on this USB-C Hub allows it to wirelessly charge at up to 10W, though you'll need to have it plugged into a compatible fast charger like this Quick Charge 3.0 USB Wall Charger to reach its maximum speed. You should add one to your cart if you don't own one already, as you won't receive a USB wall charger with this hub. However, AUKEY does include a 2-year warranty with its purchase.

If you're looking to get your devices powered up quicker, the Anker PowerPort Atom PD 1 could be a wise pick-up. This 30W USB-C wall charger features Power Delivery and is on sale for just one day only at Amazon for $29.99. That's $12 below what it normally sells for these days, though only the white model is on sale. This product previously sold for $56 just a few months ago. It also comes with Anker's 6-foot PowerLine II USB-C charging cable so you're able to start using this charger right out of the box.

This discount is part of a larger one-day sale on Anker charging essentials and accessories that features several other great deals worth adding to your cart.

Unlike previous wall chargers, this one is powered by gallium nitride, which generates less heat and allows Anker to make it much smaller. Despite its size, it has 30W output with Power Delivery, so it can charge your USB-C phones, tablets, laptops, and more. It also comes with Anker's 18-month warranty.

It's a good idea to keep extra daily-use items around. Think paper towels, toilet paper, dish soap, and phone chargers. Luckily, if you have a USB-C device, today you can score an Xcentz 3-foot USB-C to USB-A Cable for only $5.99 at Amazon. Just use code XCENTZS83 to get in on the deal, which saves you half off the usual cost. This is close to the best deal we've seen for it.

This cable features fast data transfer, durable nylon braiding, and a 30,000 bend lifespan. Plus, it's backed by a lifetime warranty, making it the last cable you'll ever need to buy. The USB-C port even lights up, so you won't need to fumble around in the dark in order to plug it in. The light turns off automatically, meaning it won't be a hindrance whilst your tech is charging.

You may also want to pick up a wall charger with your purchase today.

Adding more ports to your computer just became much more affordable. The Abask 8-in-1 USB-C Hub with Power Delivery drops to only $9.15 at Amazon when you first clip the coupon on its product page and then enter promo code ABASKHUB65 during checkout. That's a stunning discount of more than 80% off its normal price there, and it's one that likely won't last much longer either.

This 8-in-1 USB-C hub has various built-in ports and connects to your USB-C computer so you can put them all to good use, from its three USB 3.0 ports to its Gigabit Ethernet port, 4K HDMI video output, and microSD and SD card slots. There's even a USB-C port that supports data transfers and charging via Power Delivery.

With its three USB 3.0 ports, this USB-C hub offers data transfer speeds up to 5 Gbps, while its HDMI port supports both 4K UHD and Full HD 1080p video. There's also a built-in multiple protection system to protect your computer and connected devices from high temperatures, over-current, over-voltage, and short-circuiting. Abask even includes an 18-month warranty with its purchase in case you experience any issues.

Powering up your devices could be much quicker if you had the appropriate charger. If you have any Power Delivery-compatible devices, then the RAVPower 61W USB-C PD 3.0 Wall Charger is a stellar option, and today you can grab one for only $26.99 in black when you clip the coupon on its product page and enter promo code 9TO5UXE8 during checkout.

The deal given is no longer valid and we do not have a better one. However, we have found some similar deals

RAVPower 65W 4-port USB Desktop Charging Station

$34.99 $49.99 Save $15 1603725563

Keep USB ports close by with this 65W USB Desktop Charging Station by RAVPower. It's equipped with two USB-C ports as well as two USB-A ports. Clip the coupon on its product page and use the following code at checkout to save $15.

RAVPower 10000mAh portable charger dual USB power bank

$9.99 $15.00 Save $5 1598272446

The ultra slim power bank is only 15mm deep, so it's extremely portable. The battery size of 10000mAh is enough for a full charge of even the largest phones. Can charge two devices at once and has built-in safety features to protect them all.

RAVPower 61W Power Delivery 3.0 USB-C 2-port wall charger

$23.39 $30.00 Save $7 1598006386

Has 61W output with Power Delivery 3.0. Can charge a MacBook in 2.1 hours. Can detect what's plugged in and deliver fastest possible speeds. Wants to be portable with slim, compact design and foldable pins. Includes built-in safeguards.

RAVPower 48W USB-C Car Charger with Power Delivery 3.0 and Quick Charge 3.0

$14.99 $19.99 Save $5 1597914777

RAVPower's fast dual-port car charger features a 30W Power Delivery 3.0 USB-C port along with an 18W Quick Charge 3.0 USB-A port. Clip its on-page coupon to snag this deal.

RAVPower 25000mAh solar phone charger outdoor portable charger

$21.99 $46.00 Save $24 1597857135

Use sunlight to recharge this charger's batteries or plug it in via micro USB or USB-C. The 25000mAh capacity is enough to keep all your devices going outdoors. Includes an LED flashlight and SOS mode for emergencies. Waterproof and dust proof.

This wall charger features a USB-C Power Delivery 3.0 port with a powerful 61W output that is comparable to Apple's own MacBook Pro charger in a smaller form factor, and it's compatible with devices like models of the Apple MacBook, the Nintendo Switch, smartphones, and more. It's pretty slim as well and even features a foldable plug, along with built-in safeguards to protect against overcharging, short-circuiting, and overheating. You'll need to use your own USB-C cable with it though, as one isn't included with today's purchase.

I was lucky enough to get my hands on one of these chargers recently, and it certainly seems to live up to RAVPower's claims. It's noticeably durable, and customers at Amazon have been enjoying it too based on recent reviews scoring it with a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

I like having a small, sleek laptop, but sometimes I just want to plug in my phone's charging cable or use a USB-A receiver to unify my external keyboard and mouse. It's never fun being in that awkward in-between stage when it comes to tech. My laptop uses USB-C, my phone uses USB-A and a proprietary connector, my monitor uses something else entirely, and heaven forbid I need to plug in something like a microSD card. If these scenarios sound familiar, it's time to get a USB-C hub. The HooToo 6-in-1 USB-C Hub is a solution that works for most consumers, and today it'll fall from $39.99 to $19.99 at Amazon when you first clip the coupon on its product page and then apply code 6FDJWZR6 during checkout. This deal is the best we've seen.

This 6-in-1 USB-C hub is compatible with all sorts of USB-C laptops. It features a charging port, a 4K HDMI port, an SD card slot, and three USB-A 3.0 ports. There's 100W Power Delivery, too, so the hub can support pass-through charging. The ports are the perfect combination for most customers. You can easily use, say, a Logitech Unifying Receiver, a phone charging cable, and a flash drive simultaneously. The manufacturer backs your new product with an 18-month warranty, and there are plenty of positive customer reviews too.

I actually have a hub from this brand and I love it. I use it every day, and it doesn't get too hot, nor is it slow to connect. My one gripe is that the design's a little wonky. I move my computer around quite frequently, and the heavier end of my hub can sometimes partially slip out of my MacBook's Thunderbolt port. It doesn't happen frequently, but if you work on the go, it may be something to keep in mind. The hub also has a light that glows, but if I'm using my laptop in the dark, I simply flip the hub over and have the light facing down. Reversible connectivity FTW! Note that neither issue wouldn't prevent me from buying the product again, and it shouldn't deter you either.

Not all power strips are made equally, and many of them are made without one thing that would make them much more efficient: USB ports. There are some great options you can find on Amazon that now include them, such as Anker's PowerPort Strip 3 with 3 USB Ports. It's on sale today for just $18.99 there, saving you $7 off its regular cost. This is the first time it's been available this affordably, too.

With three AC outlets and three USB charging ports, you'll be able to power up to six devices at once from a single wall outlet. The AC outlets are spaced apart to allow for bulky plugs to fit beside each other, while the USB ports feature PowerIQ to provide an optimized charge per device at a maximum output of 18W total for the three ports combined. Along with advanced surge and overload protection, this power strip also features a fire-resistant casing and a safety switch to keep you and your connected devices safe. It has a 5-foot power cable and comes with an 18-month warranty.

Though this product is still new, early reviews are pretty great.

Amazon is offering 50% off a variety of Veckle USB-C cables when you click this link and add your chosen item to your cart. The discount will appear automatically during checkout. Shipping is free with Amazon Prime.

The deal given is no longer valid and we do not have a better one. However, we have found some similar deals

Veckle Phone Mounts

$5.99 $11.99 Save $6 1560964224

There are several styles to choose from, all at one low price. Some items have already sold out, though, so move quickly.

Veckle USB-C Cable 3-Pack

$6.99 $10.99 Save $4 1526300340

It doesn't have to cost a fortune to stock up on a few new USB-C cables.

There are cables of all lengths, but note that they're USB-A to USB-C. If you're looking for straight USB-C to USB-C, these are not the cables for you. After discounts, prices start at only $6, making now the perfect time to stock up. Each option is backed with a year-long warranty and positive reviews.

If you're currently rocking a device with a USB-C port, you could be listening to higher-quality audio by choosing a pair of USB-C headphones, such as the Lecone USB-C Earbuds. Right now they're on sale for only $9.99 at Amazon when you clip the coupon on their product page and then enter promo code THXFANEB during checkout.

These headphones plug directly into your device's USB-C port and are equipped with a DAC chip and support for various digital input signals. The integrated in-line microphone allows you to take calls hands-free, while the 3-button remote lets you answer or end calls, pause music, adjust the volume, and more. Several sizes of eartips are included with today's purchase so you can find the best fit, along with a travel pouch where you can keep these headphones safe while on-the-go.

It's important to note that Lecone states on this product's description that Samsung devices aren't compatible with these earbuds' microphone; you'd only be able to listen to music with them, while the latest iPad Pro models can't use their in-line remote. A longer compatibility list can be found at Amazon so be sure to check that out before completing this purchase.

There are plenty of reasons why you should choose wired USB-C headphones over Bluetooth models, and this article at Android Central lists a bunch of them.

Plugable's USB-C Mini Laptop Docking Station is built with several integrated ports to offer more versatility to your USB-C laptop, and today you can grab one on sale for only $104 at Amazon. You'll just need to clip the coupon on its product page to snag this deal which saves you $25 off the regular cost and brings it within $3 of the best price it's reached so far there.

This USB 3.1 Type-C docking station plugs into your computer's USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 port, lending it access to a 4K-capable HDMI output, Gigabit Ethernet, audio input/output, and four additional USB ports, while charging your laptop at up to 85W with Power Delivery. You'll be able to connect a monitor, headphones, a wired keyboard or mouse, and more without your laptop ever going dead.

It utilizes "VESA DisplayPort Alternate Mode over USB-C" (Alt Mode), giving it direct access to the host graphics processor in your system so that the monitor you've connected performs as a natively attached display. A VESA mount is included with its purchase for mounting to desks, stands, and monitors, along with a one-year warranty.

At Amazon, more than 100 customers have left reviews for this USB-C docking station resulting in a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

We now know the official date and time for Amazon Prime Day, but we don't have to wait until July 15 to start saving with a bunch of pre-Prime Day deals popping up already. One such deal is the Prime-exclusive 20% discount that Plugable is on its PC peripheral devices from today until the event itself. That means products like the Plugable USB-C Cube mini docking station fall to new all-time low prices when the on-page coupons are clipped.

The deal given is no longer valid and we do not have a better one. However, we have found some similar deals

Plugable USB 3.0 Dual 4K Display Horizontal Docking Station with DisplayPort and HDMI for Windows (Dual 4K DisplayPort & HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, Audio, 6 USB Ports)

$119.20 $149.00 Save $30 1534910400

Plugable 512GB Thunderbolt 3 NVMe solid state drive

$179.00 $199.00 Save $20 1579616280

Up to 2400 MB/s and 1800 MB/s read and write speeds. Powered by the USB connection. Requires Thunderbolt 3 USB-C port. Works with Windows, Mac or Linux. Has three-year warranty.

Plugable 2TB Thunderbolt 3 external NVMe solid state drive

$469.00 $499.00 Save $30 1579087455

Connects via Thunderbolt 3, which is capable of speeds up to 40 Gbps. The SSD has read/write speeds of 2400 and 1800 MB/s respectively. Keep large files like games or photos with you wherever you are. Includes 3-year warranty.

Plugable USB 3.0 Dual 4K Display Horizontal Docking Station with DisplayPort and HDMI for Windows (Dual 4K DisplayPort & HDMI, Gigabit Ethernet, Audio, 6 USB Ports)

$126.00 $149.00 Save $23 1534910400

Plugable USB-C Triple Display Docking Station with Charging Support Power Delivery for Specific Windows USB Type-C and Thunderbolt 3 Systems (2X HDMI and 1x DVI Outputs, 5X USB Ports, 60W USB PD)

$151.00 $178.00 Save $27 1463025600

The Plugable USB-C Cube was described as "the perfect accessory to complement your USB-C computer" in iMore's review and it's easy to see why. It has a minuscule footprint yet allows your USB-C-equipped computer to connect to a 4K HDMI monitor, 2 USB 2.0 devices, 1 USB 3.0 device and wired gigabit Ethernet. The discount drops it to $64 from $80 which is the first discount we've seen on it to date.

Plugable's highly-rated Performance Gaming Mouse is also 20% off making it just $24, while the Plugable Performance Onyx Gaming Headset and 7-Port USB 3.0 SuperSpeed Charging Hub have 20% off coupons, too.

All of the deals are exclusively available to Amazon Prime members. If you're not yet signed up, then now is the best time to take advantage of the 30-day free trial to get in on these savings and all of the deals come the big day itself.

Why is there no USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 on the Surface Pro 6?

Microsoft has been criticized extensively for not including high-bandwidth USB-C connectivity in either the Surface Pro or Surface Laptop lines for some time, thus far only including it in the Surface Book 2 and the Surface Studio 2. The reasons why it's not in the Pro 6 are similar to that of the Laptop 2; Microsoft tends to value its own proprietary Surface Connect port for additional USB, external monitors, and docking stations, such as Microsoft's own Surface Dock.

In the case of the Pro 6, the omission of Thunderbolt 3 is frustrating because the Pro 6 would benefit more than most devices from a dedicated external GPU, like the Razer Core.

USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 are more costly than regular USB to implement, particularly since it would require a shuffle of components for the Pro 6 and Laptop 2, which are incremental hardware updates for the most part. Eventually, Microsoft won't be able to ignore the proliferation of the tech, particularly now that Intel has scrapped the licensing fee for Thunderbolt 3 to help drive adoption.

The Surface Pro 6 is a stunning 2-in-1 device regardless, but if you desperately need USB-C and Thunderbolt 3, there are plenty of great alternatives to consider.

Best alternatives

Microsoft won't be able to ignore USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 forever, and while we wait for them to get on board with the big-bandwidth revolution, here are some 2-in-1 versatile Windows PCs with touch you should definitely consider.

The Dell XPS 13 2-in-1 is a pretty and powerful device, and the inclusion of Thunderbolt 3 increases its versatility immeasurably. However, if you want a device that can do all of that as well as inking, take a look at the HP Spectre x360.

Why no USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 for Surface Laptop 2?

Microsoft is often criticized for its dismissal of USB-C, touting its own Surface Connect Port for things like docks and extra ports, such as Microsoft's own Surface Dock. Frustratingly, it prevents the Surface Laptop 2 and similarly USB-C-less Surface Pro 6 from accessing external GPUs, which would vastly increase the usefulness of those devices, particularly as a true desktop replacement.

Microsoft tends to refer to market demand for USB-C when defending its lack of support for the input. It's certainly true that other, older standard USB ports are more widespread, particularly when it comes to legacy devices. However, USB-C and particularly Thunderbolt 3 are far more useful and versatile that Microsoft could really be doing more to push the tech, sporting vastly higher bandwidth. That said, Thunderbolt 3 tends to be more costly to implement than old-school USB ports, which would undoubtedly drive the price of the Surface Laptop up even more. Intel dropped the licensing fee associated with Thunderbolt 3's implementation, though, in an attempt to improve adoption. So far it seems to have helped with almost every OEM ... except for Microsoft.

Microsoft isn't ignoring USB-C completely though, including it in its Surface Book 2 and upcoming Surface Studio 2. There's still no support for Thunderbolt 3, though, and that's frustratingly.

Best alternatives

While we wait for Microsoft to get with the program, there are many great alternatives worth your consideration if you need Thunderbolt 3-powered USB-C ports. These are a couple of our favorites.

The Dell XPS 13 more closely matches the Surface Laptop 2's form factor, but if you're interested in spending a little more for additional features like inking and multiple display configuration modes, check out the versatile HP Spectre x360.

The way you connect devices to one another has changed. No longer are you required to aim for the USB Type-A port and hope for the best, only having to switch it around because you have it pointing the wrong way. USB Type-C solved this issue by allowing you to connect the cable into the port whichever way you desire. The port itself is also smaller, no longer requiring a bulky cable head. Still, we use USB Type-A today. So just how long will it take for the new to oust the old completely?

Community member GreaseMonkey255 asked this very question on our forum:

I believe it's going to be some time before we see USB Type-A assigned to the dustbin of technological history. Think of VGA and DVI, which are still around, and while more devices are making full use of USB Type-C, and I'd be more than happy to see the entire connector replaced overnight, it's just not going to happen with the sheer number of consumers who still rely on USB Type-A cabling. Laptops are leading the way, with some only sporting the smaller USB ports, while desktop PC motherboard vendors are slowly making progress.

We've also provided some recommendations (and some USB Type-C hubs!) for bridging the gap between the two connector systems. It's going to take a number of years, but we'll likely reach a point where USB Type-A is no longer used in newer components and PCs.

What say you?

Join the conversation on our community forum!

While the Surface Pro and Surface Laptop impressed with their debuts last year, some were disappointed by their notable lack of USB-C ports. Fortunately, Microsoft said at the time that it was planning to release a USB-C dongle for people who want to add the port to their Surface. Since then, Microsoft has been mum on when to expect the adapter, but now it looks like we have a better idea.

Speaking with The Verge, a Microsoft spokesperson confirmed that the USB-C Surface dongle is "on the roadmap for later this year." Unless and until those plans are delayed, you can expect the adapter to be available before the end of 2018.

While Microsoft itself hasn't shown off the dongle in public, noted leaker WalkingCat has posted what appears to be a picture of it to Twitter. And yes, it does appear rather large.

A dongle certainly won't be for everyone, but it should go a long way toward satisfying many who opted for a Surface Pro or Surface Laptop. Given that Microsoft deemed it too early to bring USB-C to the devices in 2017, it's possible we could see it with future iterations; the port is already available on the Surface Book 2, for example.

USB standards have a long history, and they've gone through plenty of changes since first implemented in 1996. The premise behind them is providing a way to standardize cables, connectors, communication, and power transfer between electronic devices. Those are some pretty high goals to reach, but the specifications do just that, and the rest is up to the manufacturers of all the products that use them.

Some of the first equipment to use USB was the really old, brightly colored iMac G3 (I had a Tangerine Rev. 3 model) and, oddly enough, speakers. Trust me when I say things were not even close to plug-and-play, and really, it stayed that way for a few years until operating systems caught up. But, those speakers and that orange iMac would still be able to communicate with any device made today provided it didn't do something to break legacy USB support. USB was designed to be the one standard that does it all, and that's pretty much how it all worked out.

The USB-C specification is one of those USB standards. Released in August 2014, it's a set of rules for a small 24-pin reversible plug connector to use with existing USB systems. Some of the connections inside are used to tell which way a cable is plugged in; others are used to transfer data or power, and some are used as a dedicated connection to allow both sides to talk to each other. There are also connections and software rules that make sure the right amount of electrical current is being sent to safely charge or power one device from the other using the Power Delivery specifications. Though it was released in tandem with the USB 3.1 specification, USB Type-C rules are only for the physical connections — data speeds are covered by other rules. You can think of USB-C as a set of rules that only exist to make smarter USB plugs, cables, and connectors.

Power Delivery is one of the best features of the USB specification and also the part that makes buying the right cable or adapter important. Technically, Power Delivery 2.0 is a separate standard and applies to USB Type-A, USB Type-C, and Micro-USB but when you're dealing with normal consumer-grade devices you will only see it through USB-C. That's great for safety reasons; if you thought finding the right USB-C cable was a mess, try to find a "USB Type-A to Micro-USB PD 5A" cable.

With USB-C and Power Delivery, all connected devices can send power out as well as receive power in. You can charge a phone or set of headphones or anything else that uses the USB-C spec with another phone that uses the USB-C specs (I do it all the time because the Galaxy S8+ has a decently-sized battery). You could also rig up cables that can pull power from several phones and charge the battery in a MacBook if you wanted to. We tried that once, too.

USB-C with Power Delivery (PD) also includes a native way to "fast-charge" one USB-C PD-certified device safely from another using that dedicated connection channel mentioned above. While the previous version of USB power standards allowed for five volts and 2.5 watts (USB 2.0) or 4.5 watts (USB 3.0), the new PD specs allow using up to 20 volts and 100 watts. The tiniest bit of current could potentially cause a fire or harm you under the right circumstances, but 100 watts of power is dangerous even in the best situation. We're talking amounts of electricity that can cause serious damage if not used the right way.

It's also an open specification that anyone can use and alter to better suit their needs. This means not everything using USB-C is the same and buying the right cable is a must or you can risk damaging the things you're plugging in or even starting a fire.

More: New USB Type-C Authentication spec can stop faulty cables before they do damage

But don't fret. You don't need to know all the rules in the USB specs or how it can tell which way it's plugged in or any of the other geeky details to make the right choice if you follow a few easy tips when you're buying a cable or connector. These three tips will help you get exactly what you need.

Know what you need

Remember when we said the USB-C spec was an open standard that companies can change to better suit their needs? Phone manufacturers are doing that, and sometimes the cables and chargers they sell and use aren't compatible with all the rules. Qualcomm's Quick Charge is really popular, and phone makers can use a USB-C connector that isn't fully compatible with the USB-C PD standards. Other companies have their own proprietary fast charging methods, and you'll need a cable that's compliant with their equipment, too.

If your phone has a USB-C port you can look at the papers it came with or online to see if it uses the port in a way that's not "standards compliant." Terms like "Quick Charge" or "Turbo Charge" or any other trademarked fast charging method are a dead giveaway. The list of devices doing this is always changing but we've seen phones from every manufacturer that aren't fully standards compliant. That means you shouldn't use the charger, cable, or any adapter that came with them for any other piece of equipment without making sure they are compatible.

A third-party high-quality cable that follows the USB-C PD specifications can be safely used with phones that use other quick charging methods, but don't go the other way and use cables designed for Qualcomm Quick Charge or any other fast charging method without checking to see if they are standards compliant.

The best thing to do is use the cable, charger and any adapters that came with your phone and order direct from the manufacturer if you need a spare or replacement. We know that's not feasible for most of us so make sure you check before you plug anything in.

Buy a reputable brand

We've all seen ultra-cheap USB cables online or at the drug store and were tempted to buy them. While still not the best idea in the world, most of the time that was fine with the older USB Type-B micro standard used on most phones and other gadgets. Low voltage and low current were sent on the same pins every time, and the cable only connected in one direction. That's changed, even for the older Micro-USB "standards" because of the need for faster charging.

When you're buying a USB-C cable or a connector, be leery of companies you've never heard of and stick with names that are generally trusted. This is the best way to make sure the cable is using the appropriate size wires inside, the connector is properly constructed and the right resistance is being used. All three of these things are important when you're sending more current over tiny wires, and cheaply-made cables that aren't using the right components can be dangerous.

Don't blindly buy a cable because it's a "name-brand" though, as we've seen some that aren't built correctly. That's where the next tip comes in ...

Make use of reviews or forum posts

There are still a lot of cables that have a USB-C plug on one end and a "regular" USB plug on the other that are non-compliant in a dangerous way.

Besides using the appropriately sized wire and properly shielding the cable and connector ends, a "regular" USB to USB-C cable requires a 56k Ohm resistor to act as what's called a "pull-up" on the VBUS (pins 2 and 17 if you're curious) power channel. This is one of the things you need so a USB-C device can let a power source know how much current to send and when to stop sending it. Using a cable with the wrong size wire will damage the wire. Using a cable with the wrong size resistor can damage the things plugged into each end or start a fire. If one of those things plugged in is your phone you certainly don't want it to be damaged and nobody likes a house fire.

This isn't just a problem with bargain-bin cables, either. Some very high-profile companies have had (or still have) issues with their cables. If you're the type who has fun doing things like testing continuity and resistance of USB cables, that's awesome and you should test everything you buy then share your results. If you're not, you can do a quick google search of the brand or part number and see what those people have to say.

I'll do my part here since I do like to do things like test cables. These Anker brand 6-foot cables are advertised as being compliant, and I've cut one open to make sure. They will work to fast charge every device that uses the USB-C PD standards, as well as work with Qualcomm's Quick Charge 3 and Motorola's Turbo Charge. I am unable to test them with Dash Charge but see no reason why they wouldn't work as advertised. The best part is that they're inexpensive and you can buy a handful of them right now and not have to worry about cables until you change phones.

See at Amazon

USB-C isn't dangerous. It's capable of safely delivering relatively high current as long as the proper equipment is used, and offers a lot of benefits because of the way it can communicate with other compliant devices. What started out by powering small speakers in the late twentieth century is now robust enough to talk with the instruments used to make the music that comes through them or even the bus the band drives to concerts. What's important is that you're using the proper cables and adapters, though.

Just follow these tips, and you'll be fine.

There's a good chance the next phone you buy will support USB-C audio, even if it still has a "regular" 3.5mm headphone jack. That means we'll soon be seeing more headphones that have a USB-C connector because that's how this circle works — support a thing and companies will make the things. But there's a lot of confusion about using a USB port for audio and what's different than how we've been doing it for years. If you're into electronics and love getting down and dirty you can take a look at the USB-C audio specification (direct download link) but for the rest of us here's what you need to know.

New port, same parts

Audio of any type that can be played back on our phones needs to have a handful of specific parts to work. Moving from a 3.5 mm jack to a USB-C port doesn't change that. Where those parts are, though, can change a lot.

You need a DAC (Digital to Analog Converter), an amplifier, and a speaker(s) to turn files into sounds on your phone. Speakers work by moving and creating a pressure wave that our eardrums pick up, and the moving parts use electromagnetism to do their thing. That pressure wave corresponds with whats called an analog signal and the variation of that signal is what creates different tones and sounds. In a nutshell, the signal waveform is what a speaker uses to vibrate, that vibration sends pressure waves to our eardrums, and they vibrate in time inside our head to make the sound. Biological magic aside, it really is that simple. If you look at an analog audio waveform and hear the sound, you can see how things line up.

Files on our phone or files streamed through the internet are digital. That means they are a bunch of binary (a counting system that only uses zero and one) bits that are packed together so a computer can read them and know what to do with them. Yes, your phone is a computer! Digital files do not have any type of waveform that a speaker can use to create sound. We need something to convert them.

Complex algorithms are able to take recorded audio, which is in an analog format, convert it to a digital format like a .mp3 file for storing on a computer, and convert it back to analog when played. This data needs to be sent through the DAC for conversion to a proper waveform and then sent through an amplifier so that the waveform is made strong enough for headphones to use. There are some pretty cool things that scientists and engineers can do to "make" sound, but every phone and every portable audio player and every set of speakers need this process.

More: Does my phone have a DAC? Explaining DACs and Amps in smartphones today

A phone like the LG V30 has a very good DAC and a very good amp and a 3.5 mm headphone jack. An app plays the file, the DAC converts it to analog, the amp boosts the signal, and the 3.5mm headphone jack sends it out to whatever you have plugged in. Every phone with a 3.5 mm headphone port works exactly the same way, even those without the promise of a premium sound experience. A phone that uses the USB port for audio might not work this way, though.

A little more legroom

For an explanation, let's turn to Bluetooth. You don't need to physically connect Bluetooth headphones to anything, so things are built differently even if they are using the same parts. Your Bluetooth headphones have their own onboard DAC and amplifier. The digital file is sent from your phone and all the conversion is done on your head. At first, this can feel a little complicated but it's not really. The same process is used and the only difference is where the components are. Now let's get to USB.

There are two ways to send audio data through the USB port, and I'll bet you can guess them: Analog and digital. Analog audio can be converted with an onboard DAC and amplifier inside your phone then sent out through the port to a passive set of headphones or an adapter. For this to work, the device needs to support whats called "audio accessory mode" and the headphones or adapter are just "dumb" connections that pass along the signal.

If you are using an active set of headphones or adapter, the audio signal being sent through the USB port is still in its digital form. That means the DAC and amplifier are inside of the headphones or the dongle, and the conversion is done there instead of the phone.

This can get messy. You need to make sure that you're using the right "thing". If you are using a passive adapter or headphones, your phone needs to support audio accessory mode and many don't. The mess is because most dongles, adapters, and headphones aren't labeled with how they are built and we don't know if they are active or passive.

The Pixel 2 has an onboard DAC embedded in its Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 SoC, but audio accessory mode isn't supported. That means you need a pair of active headphones or an active adapter, like the dongle that came with the phone. The HTC U11 and Essential Phone are the same, and the only phone I've heard (but am unable to test) that does support USB audio accessory mode was the LeEco Le Pro3. All phones should support an active adapter or headphones, though.

One more thing: Not all active USB audio products will work with all phones because manufacturers are able to use several new wires in the USB-C connection for extra features, like HTC did with the U11's earbuds to provide active noise cancellation.

Before you buy any USB-C headphones or an adapter, find out where it works with your phone.

Is USB-C audio better?

Yes, but also no. The actual sound isn't better just because the port has changed. As mentioned above, you still need to use the same components and manufacturers are free to choose from high-end gear or budget gear. USB-C doesn't make anything better here, it just changes the connection.

But there are some benefits. The USB Type-C Specification 1.0 was released by the USB-IF (USB Implementers Forum) in 2014 along with the USB 3.1 specification. While not required, USB-C has plenty of tricks up its sleeve for the way it can communicate and connect. A USB-C port can support these things simultaneously:

• Audio accessory mode - For passive audio or passthrough audio.
• Alternate mode - This uses some of the wires in the USB connection for direct device-to-host transmission of alternate data protocols; as of 2016 this includes Thunderbolt, DisplayPort, Mobile High-Definition Link, and HDMI.
• Billboard Device Class - This communicates to supply details of Alternate mode connections or to simply provide information about the connection or the device connected at either end.
• Audio Device Class 3 specification - This sends analog or digital (or both) audio data through the port.
• USB Power Delivery - This not only provides "fast charging" over USB, but it also supports DRP (Dual Role Power) to fast charge your phone and supply power to a connected device at the same time.

The USB Type-C specification doesn't require these things, but they are supported. That means you can do a lot more with the USB-C port on your phone that listen to music or charge it if the company making it wants to include any of these extra modes. Some are great — HDMI or DisplayPort through the Alternate mode specifications means you can connect your phone to an AV Receiver for premium sound and mirror the screen. And charge it, and send data or charge another USB-C accessory with the right cable all at the same time.

Android, along with Chrome, Windows, macOS, and Linux all fully support the USB Type-C specification. While the audio won't necessarily sound better because it's using the USB-C port, there are a lot of cool things that can be done while we are listening.

It's coming

Some phones line LG's V series will likely support the 3.5 mm headphone jack for the immediate future. That's great for people who have other audio gear that uses the old standards and want their phone to be a great sounding music player. But the move to USB-C for audio has happened, and eventually all portable (and possibly standalone) audio will use USB-C. That's because it benefits the companies who make the products we love.

When you aren't using a 3.5mm jack, you don't have to make the phone as thick and have a few square centimeters of space on a circuit board to put other components. With AI and Machine Learning also being a thing, there are multitudes of tiny parts that need a home somewhere on a circuit board and now they have one. The headphone jack itself isn't very expensive (though every penny counts), but if a company is not supporting any type of passive or passthrough audio connection over USB-C it doesn't have to design, build, and solder in an amplifier for the signal. That can be a significant saving for the cost of making a phone from beginning to end.

Some of us will miss the 3.5mm jack. I know I will because I love my favorite headphones more than the phone or player they connect to. But benefits are there for users if companies choose to implement them, and smarter connections that are faster sound pretty awesome.

Buying a shiny new laptop that does everything you need it to while keeping its form factor portable and attractive to the eye is a challenge. Keeping the size small means you'll be losing a DVD drive (which no one really uses anymore, right?) as well as some ports, including the trusty Ethernet jack. But what if you want to hook up to a wired connection for internet access? Here's how you can make use of an adapter to enjoy a reliable experience.

Wi-Fi has come a long way, but it's still not perfect and there are times when there are no wireless access points available. This is where an Ethernet to USB Type-C or Thunderbolt adapter can really make the difference between remaining connected to the outside world and going dark. Should you have a limited number of ports on a laptop, an adapter is a logical and affordable choice. There are a bunch of different types of adapter that do different things.

Best USB Type-C adapters

The ones we're interested in are the Ethernet to USB Type-C and Ethernet to Thunderbolt converters, which do exactly what the names imply. They both take data received from the outside world and pass it through the USB or Thunderbolt port by converting the connection type in the process. Not all adapters are compatible with both USB 3 and Thunderbolt, so be sure to double check before you buy.

All you need to do is plug the adapter in and you're good to go; there are no settings to change or software to install on Windows 10. There are plenty of options for adapters, but we recommend the following one.

Gofanco USB Type-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter

This USB Type-C to Ethernet adapter by gofanco is all you need to add wired network connectivity to a laptop without a dedicated port. It's compatible with USB 3.x and Thunderbolt, all using the same Type-C connector, so it will work with the Razer Blade, Surface Book 2, MacBook, and other PCs. Sporting a transfer rate of up to 1 Gbps — with support for both 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps networks — makes it possible to use the adapter pretty much everywhere.

It's costs only around $16, too, which makes it even more enticing to purchase and take along for the ride.

See at Amazon

How do you make use of limited port availability? Do you have particular adapter to recommend? Let us know in the comments.

We're not talking about adding a dongle or a USB powered hub here, but actually adding USB-C hardware to your rig. This particular method won't work for all PCs, but assuming you have a spare PCIe slot on your motherboard you should be good to go. A lot of modern motherboards already have USB-C pre-installed, but older ones and a lot of pre-built PCs won't.

That's because for the purposes of this guide we're adding a PCIe card to a desktop PC that has a single USB Type-A 3.1 port and a USB-C 3.1 port on it. There will be different cards to choose from, but we're using this Dodocool card picked up from Amazon for $22.

Besides an empty PCIe slot in your PC, you'll also need an SATA power cable for it if you're going to be connecting high-powered devices. The PCIe lane will provide enough for lesser devices like thumb drives, but by hooking up the card to your external power supply you'll have more freedom of use. For this, you'll need to find an unused connector coming out of your power supply.

To prepare your PC first shut it down and unplug the power. Then take off whatever side panel(s) your particular case has. You'll also need to remove one of the rear panels on the case by the PCIe slots, so go ahead and take out the one relevant to the slot you're using.

In terms of installation there's only one way you can put it into the slot, otherwise, the back plate would be inside the PC! Line up the card over the notch in the motherboard and gently push it in. If you're using the SATA power connection, you'll now need to hook up one of the unused connectors coming from your power supply.

You may now need to install some drivers, probably from a disc included in the box. Chances are you won't since Windows usually plays ball. In our case, it's just plug and play.

Obviously, besides the new future-proof connector, the big draw to USB-C, in this case, is USB 3.1 data transfer speeds. USB-C itself doesn't equal faster data transfer since it could be hooked up to USB 3.0. Our particular card can handle 10Gbps data transfer between it and USB 3.1 compatible devices, but you won't be able to use both slots for this at once.

That's all down to the controller of this particular card. Others may vary, but this one it seems can only use 1 PCIe 3.0 lane at once, so you can only get super fast data speeds from one port at a time.

In any case, adding a PCIe USB-C card to your PC is both simple to do and inexpensive, with the added bonus of opening up some faster ports thanks to USB 3.1. Not all PCs will be able to take advantage since you need a vacant PCIe slot to be able to do this, but if you do, it's about 10 minutes of time and around $20 to make a useful, future-proofed upgrade.

See at Amazon

One of the most common complaints, and really one of the very few gripes, about the Surface Pro (2017) is the 2-in-1's lack of USB-C ports, which is the newest port standard for laptops. The Surface Pro is modern in just about every way, so the lack of USB-C is notable.

Why Microsoft's new Surface Pro doesn't have a USB Type-C port

But what does it really mean? And does the average person need USB-C? That's the question that's being tossed around in our Surface Pro forum right now.

The Surface Pro has one Mini DisplayPort port for connecting an external display, which is probably good enough for most users. And if you need another display connector, you can purchase the $200 Surface Dock. It also has one USB Type-A port. However, there's no USB-C port and no Thunderbolt 3 port. I use my new Surface Pro along with the dock and two big ol' HD monitors, and I have no complaints.

Of course, USB-C is more versatile because it can be used for many other purposes than connecting displays, such as providing power and data transfer. And it's more "future proof," meaning it will be compatible with future generations of accessories and peripherals.

I wish the new Pro had USB-C but it's definitely not a deal breaker — as I stated already, I bought one after all. What do you think? Does a modern laptop or PC really need USB-C today? Why or why not? Jump on over to the forums via the link below and let us know how you feel.

• From the forums: What are you doing without usb-C?
• Everything Surface Pro (2017) on Windows Central

Microsoft announced the all-new Surface Pro for 2017 today in Shanghai, China. The fifth generation of the "most versatile laptop" is impressive thanks to many new improvements. Like other new devices, though, there seems to always be at least one controversial decision. This time around it's the lack of a new USB Type-C port, which is quickly becoming the darling of tech enthusiasts.

What was Microsoft thinking? We sat down with Microsoft's Vice President of Devices Panos Panay and asked him to explain the decision.

What do people use USB Type-C for?

USB Type-C is poised to be the ultimate all-in-one port for devices in the future, but its status is still opaque for consumers.

Microsoft did research on why people want USB Type-C. Panay said that "by far" the number one use for Type-C is charging. Data and external hubs are a distant second, he said, with external GPUs (eGPUs) falling squarely in the niche enthusiast category.

The problem for Microsoft is consumer confusion. The company tried before with a standardized power port with the Surface 3 and micro USB. "Many customers complained about their Surface 3 not being able to charge," Panay said.

The problem was that customers were not using the included Surface micro USB charger, but regular phone chargers – which are also underpowered for the task. While prosumers know this, your average Joe is befuddled at trying to figure out A/C output for a micro USB wall charger.

Panay shared the following analogy. "Imagine you have just one pair of socks. You always know where those socks are. Now suppose you have ten pairs of socks. Suddenly it's now not so important to know where they all are as you always have a backup."

The comparison is interesting. According to Microsoft, people tend to lose their A/C wall chargers when they assume they can use any similar charger. (Confession: I have lost my micro USB Surface charger and have experienced the "under charging" effect of using a phone charger as a replacement. Analogy confirmed.)

What consumers do not do is lose their Surface Connect A/C Charger. After all, they only have one.

The same problem exists for USB Type-C. While many Type-C phone chargers will fit into a PC's port and even light up the charging indicator, they rarely meet a 45W or 65W output to charge a Core i7 laptop.

Grabbing your Type-C phone charger and Surface Pro for a road trip sounds amazing, but that moment you realize your laptop is not being charged can be devastating.

Microsoft is not against USB Type-C

Panay insists that the company is not against using USB Type-C in its products. However, when building for the average consumer, the design and engineering team is adamant that it is still too early and perplexing.

Take, for instance, Thunderbolt 3. While USB Type-C can support Thunderbolt 3 for 40Gbps data throughput, most Type-C ports are not configured to do so. Part of the reason is cost – it's more expensive to implement. Another reason is hardware engineering – it's harder to make thin devices with full Thunderbolt 3 because the PCB board needs reconfiguration. (This is partially solved by Intel's "Kaby Lake" processors, however.)

Even then, Thunderbolt 3 is a confusing mess. Dell infamously supports the standard but only uses two PCIe lanes versus the recommended four. As a result, it can do some Thunderbolt 3 things but falls behind on eGPU support. Toss in the different USB Type-C chargers and their outputs, and suddenly this magical port is a nightmare for your average consumer (who may not even know why it's there).

Microsoft and the Surface team say they will adopt the technology when the time is right.

Help is on the way thanks to Surface Connect Type-C adapter

During our conversation on the topic, Panay asked one of his engineers for an adapter. Although it was just a prototype, this adapter plugged right into the Surface Connect port. That proprietary port is used for charging all the current Surface Pros and Surface Book in addition to being used for the optional Surface Dock.

The forthcoming adapter from Microsoft converts the Surface Connect to a USB Type-C port. It works with power and data, too, while keeping the Surface Connect's magnetic abilities in place.

Although such a conversion dongle won't satisfy everybody's yearning for a native Type-C port, it should mollify many.

The Surface Connect/Type-C converter gives people who want to charge their Surface via Type-C an easy solution. Likewise, for those who want to utilize Type-C hubs. Surface Connect – via the Surface Hub – already supports two high-definition video ports, a gigabit Ethernet port, four USB 3.0 ports, and an audio output, so any Type-C conversion should be similar.

The takeaway

Some potential Surface Pro buyers will not find solace in any of the above rationales. The dream of a Surface Pro with full Thunderbolt 3 support to power dual-4K displays or an eGPU is out of reach. Still, from a pragmatic perspective, the decision by the Surface team makes some sense. Panay told us the company prototyped the Surface Laptop and new Surface Pro with USB Type-C but thought the Surface Connect charger is currently a better solution for the masses.

Whether or not that statement is true for you will likely vary. A conversion dongle for Surface Connect to Type-C is liable to go a long way to fixing the problem, but for now Microsoft is forgoing the nascent technology.

From my personal experience, much of Panay's reasoning rings true. I have Type-C on many of my laptops, but admittedly I only use the port for charging. Occasionally I plug in a Type-C hub, but it's not a common usage scenario. I can't say that the lack of Type-C is a deal-breaker for me. But it'd be good to have.

Update 5/24/17: Intel just announced that starting in 2018 it is dropping royalty fees for Thunderbolt 3 usage and is integrating the technology into the CPU. Both moves should streamline and increase adoption by companies like Microsoft for future products.

Luckily, many of Microsoft's partners are adopting USB Type-C in their convertibles, giving consumers even more choice. Whether the conservative bet on Type-A pays off for the new Surface Pro remains to be seen, but at least you now have a clearer idea of why Microsoft made the decision it did.

Related Surface Pro stories

• Everything you need to know about the new Surface Pro
• Why isn't the new Surface Pro named 'Surface Pro 5?'
• Surface Pro pricing and availability
• Surface Pro full tech specs
• All the details on the brand new Surface Pen
• Windows Central Surface Pro hub

USB Type-C is the new hotness when it comes to plugging things in. It's better that the old USB connector standards in every way because it provides a standardized way for everything with a battery and a USB-C port to be a charger and get charged. And you can plug your stuff in on the first try because the cable end is reversible — even in the dark. But one problem that's plagued USB-C since it launched was that you can't use just any cable.

More: What to look for when buying USB-C cables and adapters

It can be a big problem, too. The wrong cable can fry the things it's plugged into and even start a fire. Since most of us have a bunch of cables sitting around, knowing which ones won't wreck things is kind of important. It's not hard to tell — if you have multimeters and get way up inside the end of the cable, which nobody is going to do. Luckily, now we don't have to.

This is the Satechi USB-C Power Meter. It plugs into your phone or laptop or anything else with a USB-C port, and you plug the cable into the other end of it. It measures both the input and the output power you're sending through the cable in real time. This will let you know if the power source and cable are providing the proper power and that your USB-C equipped phone or laptop is getting the right amount of power to safely charge its batteries. As long as you know the amount of juice a thing is supposed to be getting, you'll know at a glance if everything is good or not.

The one thing the Satechi meter doesn't do is shut it all down if things aren't right. Remember that this isn't a surge protector and has no buzzers or red lights to let you know you have a potentially bad cable or power source. You have to know how to read the information.

You should still try to buy the right cable when you get something new that uses USB-C and make sure it's properly built for the charging technology your phone uses. But this cheap meter is a way to double check everything before it all goes boom.

See at Amazon

Accessory maker Belkin has announced a brand new USB-C car charger that delivers all of the power your phone, tablet, or computer needs while on the go. The charger offers up to 27W of power, and intelligently manages how your device is charged.

The centerpiece of Belkin's new charger is support for USB-PD, or Power Delivery. With Power Delivery, the charger can adjust how much energy it uses based on the device that you've plugged in. Belkin says that because of this, the charger can deliver up to 70% faster charging for smartphones over 5W chargers.

The Belkin USB-C Car Charger comes with a four-foot USB-C cable, and is available now from Belkin for $49.99.

See at Belkin

SanDisk is one of the big names you expect to see at a show like Computex 2016, and this year it has a brand new version of its Dual Drive flash drive to show off. As we've seen in previous versions of the product, the Dual Drive is a dual-sided flash drive that gives you a full-sized USB-A plug for use with a computer on one side, and a USB-C plug on the opposite side from use with a smartphone, tablet or one of the handful of computers with the port.

Not only does the dual-sided nature of the Dual Drive make it a great choice for folks who have multiple devices and only want to carry one flash drive, it also works as a great intermediary for quickly moving files to and from your USB-C phone and a laptop or desktop. This new version being announced at Computex bumps up both speed and capacity; with the USB 3.1 spec on board, SanDisk quotes up to 150MB/s reads on the new Dual Drive, and there's now a 128GB storage option for the big file users out there.

The new Dual Drive flash drives arrive at solid prices as well, starting at $19.99 for a 16GB model and heading up to $69.99 for 128GB of storage in the same small package. The Dual Drive is available from major retailers such as Amazon, as you'd expect.

See at Amazon

Press release:

SanDisk Mobile Storage Portfolio Expanded with Faster, Higher Capacity USB Type-C Flash Drive

New SanDisk Ultra® Dual Drive USB Type-C offers hassle-free transfer between smartphones and next-generation USB-C devices

COMPUTEX 2016 — TAIPEI, Taiwan – June 1, 2016 – Western Digital® Corporation (NASDAQ: WDC), a global storage technology and solutions leader, today expanded its line of SanDisk-branded mobile storage solutions with the new SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive USB Type-C flash drive. The newest generation drive features a new retractable design, faster speeds and higher capacity, giving consumers the ability to quickly and easily free up space and transfer content between their smartphones and today's USB-C devices1.

"With its reversible connector, impressive speeds, and multi-purpose potential, USB Type-C is a game-changer," said Dinesh Bahal, vice president of SanDisk product marketing, Western Digital. "More Type-C devices are entering the market and through our Type-C mobile drives, we can offer consumers a complete line of mobile storage solutions. The new SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive USB Type-C flash drive now provides more than twice the capacity and offers the flexibility to quickly and conveniently move photos, videos and files between devices, as well as the freedom to expand device capacity."

Now available in up to 128GB*, the sleek, new SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive USB Type-C includes one reversible USB Type-C connector and one standard USB (Type-A) connector, enabling users to easily free up space on a smartphone or tablet, or transfer files between smartphones, tablets and computers and next-generation devices. The drive also now delivers high-speed USB 3.1 performance of up to 150MB/s2 – offering users phenomenal speeds when moving their photos, videos and files to a computer.

"By 2020 we expect that 44 percent of all mobile phones sold worldwide will include a USB-C connector, that's about 800% growth over the next four years," said Ken Hyers, director, Wireless Device Strategies, Strategy Analytics. "At this rate of anticipated growth, we expect to see more and more solutions like the SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive USB Type-C flash drive that offer consumers a way to move and access their content between devices with varying connectors."

The SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive USB Type-C flash drive also works with the SanDisk® Memory Zone app for Android, giving users an easy way to manage and back up content on their device. The app, which is available for free through the Google Play Store, auto-launches upon insertion of the drive into a compatible device, allowing immediate access to the user's content.

The SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive USB Type-C flash drive complements the company's suite of SanDisk brand USB Type-C flash memory solutions which range from USB drives to portable SSDs.

Pricing and Availability

The SanDisk Ultra Dual USB Type-C Flash Drive features a five-year warranty, and is now available worldwide at Amazon and other leading retailers. The new offering comes in capacities of 16GB, 32GB, 64GB and 128GB with U.S. MSRPs of $19.99, $29.99, $39.99 and $69.99, respectively.

About Western Digital

Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ: WDC) is an industry-leading provider of storage technologies and solutions that enable people to create, leverage, experience and preserve data. The company addresses ever-changing market needs by providing a full portfolio of compelling, high-quality storage solutions with customer-focused innovation, high efficiency, flexibility and speed. Our products are marketed under the HGST, SanDisk and WD brands to OEMs, distributors, resellers, cloud infrastructure providers and consumers. For more information, please visit www.hgst.com, www.wd.com, and www.sandisk.com.

About SanDisk

SanDisk, a Western Digital Corporation (NASDAQ: WDC) brand, provides trusted and innovative flash storage products that have transformed the electronics industry. SanDisk's quality, state-of-the-art solutions are at the heart of many of the world's largest data centers, and embedded in advanced smartphones, tablets and PCs. SanDisk's consumer products are available at hundreds of thousands of retail stores worldwide.

The USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF), which is in charge of certifying standards-compliant USB devices, has announced a new protocol that seeks to prevent non-compliant USB Type-C cables from doing damage to a connected device.

Through what has been dubbed the USB Type-C Authentication specification, devices like phones and tablets will be able to confirm the authenticity of a connected USB-C device or charger. Through the authentication protocol, devices can then set rules that could, for example, keep data safe by only allowing connected cables to charge. As a second method of protection, devices could also be set to disallow charging through non-compliant cables.

The authentication process occurs the "moment a wired connection is made," says the USB-IF. So, in other words, no data or power will be exchanged until the connected device is authenticated.

The new specification is welcome news in light of recent problems surrounding faulty USB-C cables on the market. For its part, Amazon recently cracked down by banning the sale of bad USB-C cables. Google engineer Benson Leung has also led the charge in testing hundreds of cables after a non-compliant one ruined his Chromebook Pixel tablet. While the new protocol won't impact cables already on the market, we'll hopefully begin to see cable makers adopt the specification going forward.

VESA has introduced the newest DisplayPort standard, version 1.4, which noticeably will embrace the standard USB-C connector. It isn't the first either, with Thunderbolt 3 already jumping on board, meaning in the future we may just see USB-C ports on PCs and laptops and little else.

On a technical front, DisplayPort 1.4 will introduce support for 8K and HDR video up to 60Hz, and 4K HDR up to 120Hz. That's an incredible amount of information to be transferring at once, all down one little cable. Quite extraordinary, really.

VESA also says that the latest version of its Display Stream Compression is lossless and provides bandwidth for 32 audio channels.

While most of us won't be seeing this any time soon, not to mention the fact that 4K still isn't exactly common, it's always impressive to see technology advancing. Excuse me while I start saving for an 8K display.

Source: DisplayPort via Engadget

If you're still looking to add some more USB-C cables to your arsenal, you'll want to check out this deal from Choetech which drops them as low as $7 per cable. Choetech is offering savings on both the USB-A to USB-C as well as USB-C to USB-C cables in various lengths. You'll need to use a coupon code for the savings here, and the codes vary depending on which cable you are interested in. The deals are:

• AC cable (6.6ft): $6.99 with code L3JGFC9V
• CC cable (6.6ft): $6.99 with code B3JCFC9D
• AC cable (9.9ft): $7.99 with code WTZ35GDZ
• CC cable (9.9ft): $7.99 with code A8EPELJF
• Bundle deal: AC cable 3.3ft + CC cable 3.3ft = $11.99 with code SLK7DSFC

To get the bundle deal, you'll need to add both cables to your cart separately, and then use the coupon code above to score the savings. Should you also find yourself needing a USB-C Fast Charging wall charger, Choetech is offering this one for just $13 with coupon code ZCU2CZDC. We are not sure how long this deal will last, so if you're interested don't wait too long.

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