USB-C, Lightning, USB-A, PD, 65W, 240W. Cable labels can be confusing. Pick the wrong one and your phone might charge at half speed, or not fit at all. Here's how to choose.
1. Start with the two ends
Look at the port on your device, then at the plug on your charger.
- USB-C to USB-C: iPhone 15 and newer, Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel, iPads, MacBooks and most laptops. It's the modern standard and the fastest option.
- USB-C to Lightning: iPhone 14 and earlier, AirPods with Lightning cases, older iPads. Use it with a USB-C wall or car charger for fast charging.
- USB-A to USB-C / Lightning / Micro-USB: for older chargers, cars and computers that only have the larger rectangular USB-A port.
2. Match the wattage to your device
A cable's watt rating is the most power it can carry safely.
- 20–30W: enough for fast-charging any phone.
- 60–65W: tablets, handheld consoles and small laptops.
- 100–240W: MacBook Pro and gaming laptops. A higher-rated cable is also safe to use with a phone. The phone simply draws what it needs.
Your charger matters too: a 240W cable can't make a 5W charger faster. For fast phone charging, pair a PD (Power Delivery) charger with a PD-rated cable.
3. Choose the right length
- 20–30 cm: power banks and keychains.
- 1–1.2 m: everyday desk and car use.
- 2–3 m: beds, sofas and back seats.
4. Pick a build that lasts
Braided nylon jackets and metal connector housings handle daily bending, pocket wear and car doors far better than basic PVC. That's why most budi cables use them.
Quick picks
- New iPhone or Android: USB-C to USB-C PD cable
- Older iPhone: USB-C to Lightning PD cable
- One cable for everything: a 2-in-1 or 3-in-1 multi-head cable
- Laptop: a 100W or 240W USB-C cable
Buying for a store? Cables are among the fastest-selling add-ons at any counter. Open a trade account for wholesale pricing.