If you own a smartphone, GPS, e-book reader, baby monitor, digital camera, or are a Mac user, there’s a good chance you need a Micro USB cable in your life. Micro USBs are smaller versions of traditional 2.0 and 3.0 USBs, so yeah, it’s not just a clever name.
There are three main types of Micro USBs. The Micro-A USB has a five-pin design and a female-only connector. It’s typically found on more updated, slimmer devices. A Micro-B USB is slightly bigger than the Micro-A and is also often found in updated, slim devices like smartphones. It also has a five-pin design and half-hexagon shape. It also has both male and female connectors. Micro-B USB 3.0 only works with devices that use USB 3.0 and unlike other Micro USBs, it works at the same speed as a full-sized USB 3.0.
What To Look For In A Micro USB
As we noted above, there are three main types of Micro USBs, plus a more rarely used Micro AB USB. It’s important to read the fine print to know exactly what type of Micro USB will be supported by your device.
Consider the length of the cable attached to your Micro USB. Depending on how you’re using your device, a longer cable may be necessary.
Look at upload speeds. Micro USBs are typically slower at charging and transferring data than USBs, so you’ll want to be cognizant of power and gauge before purchasing.
How We Chose The Best Micro USBs
We’ve included all three of the main types of Micro USBs listed above and a variety of cable lengths. We’ve also included various price points, which are typically determined by the gauge of the Micro USB or speed. The material that covers the Micro USBs cord also largely dictates the price, with some cords offering better, more fray-resistant, and tangle-resistant protection.
All the Micro USBs on our list are highly rated and trusted by consumers. Now all you have to do is figure out which one is best suited for your device.
1. Amazon Basics USB 2.0 A-Male to Micro B Charger Cable
BEST OVERALL
For an affordable charger that is built to last, there’s the Amazon Basics USB 2.0 A-Male to Micro B Charger Cable. Available in three, six, and 10-foot cable lengths and one, two, three, and five packs, the USB 2.0 cable with A Male to Micro B connectors can support transmission speeds up to 480 Mbps. An improved charging capability boasts 2100 mA and the compact design of the connector head gives this USB a universal fit. The cable features a thin and flexible design and the connectors are finished with gold-plating to improve durability and resist corrosion.
With a focus on speed and quality, the three-pack of Micro USB cables by Ailun is a great option for anyone looking for a 2.0 USB Male to Micro USB cord. Available in nine colorful braided nylon cords that are sturdy and tangle-resistant, the Ailun pack is a Type-C and Micro USB combo. Each cable boasts a 480Mbps data transfer rate and is designed to last thanks to its TPE coating and heat-resistant alloy cable head. At 10 feet in length, the Ailun makes it easy to connect devices even when they’re not directly next to each other.
The Anker Powerline II is an excellent option for users who want to charge their devices at home or while on the go and don’t want to keep track of several cables. The three-foot cable features both a lightning and USB-C adapter as well as a Micro-USB port. A great option for Apple phone users, the Anker is MFi certified to charge at the same speed as an Apple charger. Charge your phone, tablet, e-reader, Bluetooth speakers and more devices with this multi-purpose charger. The Anker cable is designed to twist and stretch and is backed by reinforced fibers for added durability.
The JSAUX Micro USB Cable Android Charger is a great option for Android users who want a charger that can handle a few bumps and bruises. The premium nylon braided cable is designed to withstand more than 20,000 bends and can even survive run-ins with pets who love to chew on household items. Sold in a pack of two and available in five colors, the JSAUX has a transfer speed of up to 480 Mbps and a 2.4A charging speed. Compatible with most Samsung phones, as well as several tablets, MP3 players and any devices with a Micro USB connector, the JSAUX can be a charger and transfer data. The metal parts of the JSAUX have been upgraded to include a 3D aluminum connector and are made with laser welding technology to reduce any chance of breakage.
5. Amazon Basics USB Type-C to Micro-B 2.0 Charger Cable
REVERSIBLE DESIGN
Charge your MacBook, Chromebook, Galaxy Note 7 and more using the affordable and reliable Amazon Basics USB Type-C to Micro-B 2.0 Charger Cable. The cable connects a Type-C USB-enabled device to a Micro-B USB 2.0 enabled device. The Type-C is reversible and can be inserted in either direction for added convenience. The charger cable has an impressive 480 Mbps data transfer speed and a power output of up to 5V or 3 Amps. The charger cable is available in three and six-foot lengths.
The Anker Powerline Micro USB charging cable comes in a set of three, making it a great option for a house full of Samsung, Nexus and LG users. The three-foot cables connect a Micro USB and USB port, making this ideal for Android and tablet users. The cable is made with bulletproof aramid fibers and protected with flexible PVC for a long-lasting finish. The charger boasts high-speed data transfer rates for a cable that will keep your gadgets running smoothly.
7. CinchForce 540 Degree Magnetic 3-in-1 Data/Charging Cable
MOST VERSATILE
There’s a good chance your home is filled with devices that don’t all use the same type of charger. Annoying? Yes. Impossible to deal with? Definitely not, especially with the smart design of the CinchForce 540 Degree Magnetic 3-in-1 Data/Charging Cable. Apple and Android users can come together in harmony with the charging cords that are equipped with magnetized connectors for Type-C, iProduct, and Micro-USB connections. Each pack includes three cables with color-corresponding lengths and three connector tips per cable. All three cables support a QC 2.0/3.0 quick charge with overheat protection, can transmit and sync data at speeds of up to 480 Mbps and are compatible with devices that feature a Type-C port. The cables are covered with 3.5mm thick nylon and have a lifespan of 11,000 plus bends. Finally, harmony.
