USB-C versus Micro USB

What are the differences between USB-C versus Micro USB?

Micro USB has been around for longer and can be found in more devices like digital cameras and smart homes. Technically, Micro USB can be defined as one of three types: Micro USB-A (or Micro USB-B), or USB 3.0 Micro-B (or both). Learn which is best for you: USB-C versus Micro USB.

USB-C can be used mostly on newer smartphones, headphones, and computer systems. It also has different specs due to its evolution over time. The best part about USB-C is that the form has remained unchanged despite all its evolution.

USB C and micro versions of USB differ based on data transfer speed, charging speeds, compatibility, and other factors. Our full breakdown of the differences between a USB-C and Micro USB is below.

TLDR Summary

USB-C

Data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps
Use on smartphones, laptops
Can produce up to 100 Watts power
Can be used in any orientation

Micro USB

Data transfer up to 480 Mbps
Compatible with other electronic devices
Limit of 9 Watts power
Correct orientation must be used when inserting

Differences in Micro USB and USB C

Micro USB VS USB C Data Speeds

It is a common practice to compare data transfer speeds between USB connectors. Because data speed is important in choosing a USB connector, therefore it is so important. USB C uses both USB 3.1 technology and USB 3.0 technology. It can achieve data speeds of 5Gbps to 10Gps.

The data transfer speed of micro USB is slower than USB Type-C. The standard speed of micro USB data transfer is up to 48Mbps. You can get up to 5Gbps if your micro USB cable is flat and supports USB 3.0 standards.

These data speeds represent theoretical transfer speeds based upon the maximum speed through a USB port. The actual speed of USB-C and micro USB differs depending on what devices they are. Flash memory speeds can limit the speed of some USB drives.

How do you determine the speed of data transfer? MiniTool Partition Wizard FREE Edition is a disk benchmarking software that you can use to help you do this. You can use it to resize, partition, and convert MBR into GPT.

Additionally, the tool is very useful for comparing M.2 with, size vs. size on disk, Hardware vs. software RAID, and many other things.

TLDR: Data Transfer Rates

USB-C

Capable up to 10 Gbps
May include USB 3.0/USB 3.1 technology
The limiting factor in device data transfer speed is typically the speed of devices

Micro USB

Maximum of 480 Mbps
Uses USB 3.0 technology
The limiting factor in cable data transfer speed is typically the slowest

Micro USB VS USB C Charging Speed

USB Type C is faster than the micro USB connector in terms of charging speed. A USB Type-C power supply is also more powerful than the micro USB. Type C is more common than micro USB. However, micro USB can still be used on older devices. Many Android phones continue to charge using USB Type-C.

USB Type-C has become a widely accepted charging standard as a brand new charging port. USB Type C is faster and more flexible than micro USB. According to a survey Type-C port can be used for input or output power while micro USB can only do the same.

USB Type C port charges phones at 18Watts fast and laptops at 100Watts. The micro USB charging speed is slower than USB-A.

TTLDR: Charging Speed

USB-C

Powers low-wattage and high wattage devices
Rapid-charging capability
It saves you time when charging your smartphone

Micro USB

It can only power low-wattage electronics
Not capable of fast charging
When charging your smartphone, it takes longer

Micro USB VS USB C Durability

Many believe it is better to change from micro USB port to USB C for the long-term durability. These are just a few of the common reasons.

Reversibility. Because of its physical design, USB Type C allows you to plug the cable slide right in any orientation. This makes it easy to plug your devices in, which will help reduce wear.
Future trend: Increasing numbers of devices, especially Android phones are choosing to use the micro USB type C port. USB Type C port is more compatible than the micro USB port to make it compatible with the latest phones.
Versatility– The USB Type C is used to charge or transfer data such micro USB. You also have many options like MTP file transfer and PTP photo transfer.
Cycles– Both micro USB C and USB C are designed to last at least 10,000 cycles (insertion and deletion). However, some users have reported that micro USB is much more comfortable to wear.

Micro USB vs USB C Compatibility

It is important to choose a connector for a micro USB, or USB C. Micro USB was developed to make devices smaller so they can be connected to computers and hubs. The only limitation of micro USB’s plug-in method is that it can only be plugged correctly. It will not work if it is plugged incorrectly.

The majority of new mobile devices, including those from Samsung, use USB Type-C. Many modern laptops have Type-C USB ports. The best thing about the laptop is its “one-size-fits all” design, which allows you to use it on common peripherals and gadgets. You can use it with smartphones, cameras, game controllers and printers.

To determine the physical compatibility between USB and other devices, you need to compare their connectors. The male connector fits in your devices. The female connector is what you attach to.

TLDR: Compatibility

USB-C

Use it in any orientation
Limited use in higher-power electronics

Micro USB

Correct orientation is required
Compatible with many other electronic devices
Compatible with all USB power adapters

Micro USB versus USB C Price

USB C vs. Micro USB. Which is more affordable? Their price is the last thing you should consider. Because micro USB Type C technology is relatively new, you will often pay more for Type C than for micro USB.

Price is also affected by the brand, length, and versions of USB cables. According to Amazon prices, most micro USB cable prices range from $3 to $10. Some micro USB cables are used to make gaming controllers, and they are priced at around $20. But, most micro USB Type C products cost $10-20, while some are more expensive than $20.

USB-C versus Micro USB: Conclusion

USB-C vs. micro USB: Which one is better? The answer is probably obvious to you. USB Type C is undoubtedly the fastest micro USB in many areas, such as data transfer speed (with durability), compatibility and charging speed.

While micro USB is cheaper than Type C, their prices are almost the same. Although micro USB has many of the same benefits as Type C, it is still quite affordable. You should also consider the fact that more and more devices have Type C ports. Switching from micro USB to USB C is highly recommended.

USB-C versus Micro USB: FAQs

Can Micro-USB use USB-C?

Because of physical limitations, it is not possible. First of all, there is a difference in size. Micro-USB is smaller than USB-C. A few connectors may also be different.

Ports come in different shapes. USB-C can be plugged in both directions. However, Micro-USB ports require you to pay attention to which direction the port is facing. Only thing you can do is buy a separate USB Type C to Micro-USB converter.

Are all USB-C Cables the Same?

When it comes to shape, yes. They are all compatible. But they may be slightly different in technical terms.

Some USB-C cables are designed for charging only. These cables are typically used to charge headphones, but they can’t transfer data. However, the cables that come along with smartphones can transfer data because the manufacturer expects you plug your smartphone into a computer to copy and save photos and music.

There is also a difference between the speed of the cables. Thunderbolt 3 cables have a regular USB Type C connector. Thunderbolt 3 cables are likely to be located in USB-C ports that have a small lightning symbol next to them.

This port can charge multiple devices simultaneously, and it can also transfer large data amounts. It can also transmit video and audio data to external devices, such as displays with up 5k resolution.

Does Apple use USB-C?

Apple devices can be connected to USB type C, except for iPhones that use the older Lightning port. Primarily Thunderbolt 3 (which we discussed above).

This universal connection has many technical advantages such as fast-charging, data transfer at high speeds and data transfer.

Do USB-C Headphones Sound Better than Wired 3.5mm Headphones?

Both work the same, so they should not be used together. Some might argue that USB headphones are more appealing because they use a digital signal.

But, our world is completely analog. Therefore, digital signals will always be converted into analog signals. The only difference between the two is in DAC (digital–to-analog convertor).

The conversion takes place inside the headphones. The sound quality of your wired headphones will change depending on what source you are listening to. If you have an expensive, high-quality audio system, this is a great option. But it can be harmful if your headphones have a 3.5mm connector on a low quality phone.

Because they have a built in DAC, USB-C headphones are able to help. These headphones are much more consistent in audio quality, regardless if the source is good or bad.

Why is it important to have one universal port?

There were many different types of charging cables that you had around your house a while back. Each cable had a different connector for charging your USB device. Many of them were proprietary, and they came in various shapes from circular to flat. Today, one universal port produces less garbage and is more useful.

Less Trash: A few years ago, nearly every smart device had a Micro USB port for data transfer and charging. It is more sustainable to have one universal USB port on all devices. It’s possible to use an old charger with new USB-C gadgets, so you don’t have to trash old chargers.
Practicality: Another important benefit to having one connector that can power them all is the practicality. Now you don’t even need to hunt for the right connector to power your headphones. Instead, your headphones, smartphone, or laptop can all be charged with the same cable.