With technology changing so quickly these days, it is not uncommon to learn that your new device is not compatible with your existing USB accessories. Luckily, with a large variety of USB adapters on the market today, adapters are a quick and inexpensive fix. However, finding the perfect USB adapter for your unique needs is not always easy. We made this guide to highlight the best USB adapters on the market so that you can seamlessly use your new tech devices with all of your old ones.
What to Look in a USB Adapter
- Compatibility: Before making your purchase, be sure to closely inspect the adapter to ensure it is a perfect match for your device. You can assess this by considering the male and female components of the adapter. Additionally, there is a world of difference in terms of speed and performance between USB 1-3, so be sure your converter is USB 3.0 compatible if your device is as well.
- Connection Quality: A stable connection will ensure your device is able to charge or sync as quickly as possible with no interruptions. Some USB adapters are notorious for offering a lot of wiggle room after plugging your device into the adapter. This leeway is almost never a good thing, so check the product’s description to ensure it can provide a secure connection.
- Usage: While some adapters will allow you to charge your devices or sync data, many have a specialized application that covers one or the other. Thus, be sure to read a product’s specs to make sure it can do everything you need.
Best USB-C to USB: Syntech USB C to USB Adapter
With USB-C becoming the new standard connection for modern laptops and other electronics, the need for high-quality USB-C male to USB 3.0 female adapters like this one from Syntech grew significantly. Compatible with most laptops with a USB-C port, including MacBook Pros after 2016 and MacBook Airs after 2018, this adapter maintains fast USB 3.0 speeds whether charging your device or syncing data. Additionally, these durable little adapters are designed to be plugged and unplugged up to 10,000 times and require no drivers or complicated setup steps, making them an amazing value.
Best USB to USB-C: yootech USB-C Female to USB Male Adapter
Featuring a durable double-braided nylon cable and reliable connection, this USB-C female to USB male adapter from Yootech was a shoo-in for a spot on our list. Its design features 5Gbps data transfer speeds and 2.4A charging capacity that, unlike many USB adapters, maintains the high standards of a USB 3.1 connection. Thus, while this adapter won’t work with the popular MagSafe charger, it is your best option for syncing media and quickly charging your device when you are in need of a reliable USB-C connection.
Best Micro USB Adapter: UGREEN Micro USB 2.0 OTG Adapter
While some people upgrade their mobile phones every year or so, there are still many people out there who rely on Micro USB technology to charge their older devices and sync data. Thankfully, the UGREEN Micro USB 2.0 OTG Adapter is compatible with most Micro USB devices and is designed so that even your phone case won’t diminish its usefulness. Featuring durable PVC construction and a tinned copper connection, this adapter is capable of 480 Mbps data transfer rates as well as emergency charging use. Since it’s increasingly hard to find adapters for antiquated tech these days, grabbing one of these is a no-brainer if you still use Micro USB devices.
Best USB Charging: JSAUX USB Data Blocker
Charging your device in public via USB can be a risky proposition due to the prevalence of hacking and identity theft. However, you can do so with peace of mind using the JSAUX USB Data Blocker, thanks to its data pin-free design. Including this feature in the design means that while you will benefit from the full 2.4A charging ability of USB 3.0 technology, there is no risk of your device’s data being stolen from public computers or charging terminals. Additionally, these products feature sturdy aluminum construction and a textured, non-slip design, making them a steal at their low price point.
Best USB-C to USB-C: Cellularize Right Angle USB C Adapter
USB-C cables are still fairly expensive and can be easily damaged when bent at awkward angles. With the Cellularize Right Angle USB C Adapter’s simple plug-and-play functionality, you can minimize damage to your USB-C cables without reorganizing your tech. You also won’t lose a bit of USB-C’s charging or data syncing capability. When you factor in this product’s reversible design, secure connection, and ability to keep your cables tidy, you can see why this is a must-have for your USB-C cables.
