The USB-A and USB-C are two of the most essential USB connectors that almost everyone uses today. This article will discuss usb a vs usb c and how they are distinct from one another. Both of them have their different purposes. Users have their reasons for why each is chosen for data transfer, power transmission, and the physical design. You can continue reading below to know more about USB-A and USB-C and their difference in terms of speed, power, and compatibility. You will also learn about their backgrounds and their uses today.
USB-A vs USB-C: Connector Specifications
Background
The history of these two widely used connecting devices should be examined before discussing the distinctions between usb a vs usb c connectors. The acronym for Universal Serial Bus is USB. It is a circuit connection that allows two devices to exchange data, power, and other kinds of information for the benefit of the device and the user. The baseline standard for both USB-A and USB-C connectors has been the serial bus's ability to send one bit at a time. It was as early as 1996 when USB-A was introduced to the public. The data speeds for the USB-A started at around 1.5 Mbps, but right now, one can go as high as 10 Gbps or more. USB-C connecting devices, on the other hand, can transfer data at speeds of 20 Gbps or more.
Data transmission
When it comes to data speed and data transmission, it is somewhat incomparable because they are two very distinct USB connectors. Obviously, since the base standard comes from USB Type A, this kind of connecting device is slower than USB-C. However, both the USB-A and the USB-C have had some significant improvements throughout the years. You can get data transfer rates of up to 20 Gbps for the latest USB-A versions, that is, USB 3.0 and 3.1. USB Type-C is able to have data speeds of 40 Gbps. This is two times the allowable data speed of USB-A.
Power delivery
Different devices can be charged and powered by both USB-A and USB-C connection devices. A USB-A connector may produce up to 2.5 watts of electricity for USB 2.0 and 15 watts for USB 3.0 or 3.1. This may be small, but they are sufficient to power small devices and peripherals. For larger devices like laptops, you will need USB-C connectors. This kind of USB can handle and manage huge power outputs. This is actually great for both because they are catering to two different purposes.
Physical design and compatibility
Nearly everyone is familiar with the design of USB-A. Its connector is rectangular and measures around 12 mm in length and 4.5 mm in breadth. Compared to USB-A, this type of USB is larger. This kind of port is seen on power banks, computers, and other electrical devices. Computers also have this port available on the CPUs. There's a good chance that the rechargeable devices you own come with a USB-A connector. USB-C or Type-C connectors, on the other hand, are rather oval in shape and measure 8.4 mm by 2.6 mm. The newly released phones and tablets mostly come with USB-C connectors.
Conclusion
When the discussion about usb a vs usb c comes, it is not about which one is better. Both serve their purpose in the tech market. Both can deliver power and allow data transmission. They are also installed in various devices to be recharged. They are just generations apart, but the utilization for both is still evident today. Both USB-A and USB-C are powerful connecting devices that have their specific benefits and advantages. You have to tap on those features in order to improve your productivity and perform your tasks.