Type-C, Lightning, micro USB connectors: what are they, features, what is the difference?

Smartphones and tablets use different connectors for connecting the charger: Type-C, Lightning, micro-USB. They differ in design and capabilities. Let's consider their features and differences. Which connector standard for a smartphone, tablet or other gadget is better?

Micro USB is a miniaturized connection standard

This is the most compact connector and plug standard for cell phones and other portable gadgets. The plug doesn't take up much space and the connector looks inconspicuous. It supports OTG, so you can connect USB flash drives via it.

The disadvantage of micro USB is that it's hard to see which side of the plug to turn on the smartphone, especially in the dark. It also has limited functionality and data transfer speed.

Type-C is a universal multifunctional standard

This is the newest modification of the jack and plug. Type-C is made very convenient because it is the same on all sides. There is no need to pick up how to insert it properly into the gadget.

Features of Type-C:

• Type-C has 24 pins, so it has a higher bandwidth. You can transmit sounds over it and use it as a headphone jack. However, only special headphones with the same Type-C plug will fit.
• The standard supports high data transfer rates.
• It has high charging power.
• Type-C is universal in its functions. It can transfer energy from the charger for power, send data. It is used to connect a display and can stream 4K video to external monitors.
• Because of its versatility, Type-C replaces all other types of cables. It can power power-hungry electronic devices: laptops, TVs. Also an important feature of the Type-C connector is support for fast charging.

Lightning is a standard developed by Apple

This is a proprietary type of connector and plug for Apple brand technology. It is similar to the Type-C connector. However, Lightning has only eight pins. It supports the USB 2.0 version. Only the latest Apple devices are equipped with a USB 3.0 connector. Data transmission to a laptop or computer at Lightning has a low speed. Therefore, Type-C is superior to the Apple connector in terms of functionality. Also, Lightning can be used only for iPhones, iPads and other Apple devices. Lightning has a symmetrical shape, so there is no difference in which side to insert the plug into the connector.

What is the difference between USB Type-C and micro USB connector?

The main difference is in the design. Type-C has more pins and wires. Because of this, it is more functional and can transfer large amounts of data. Micro USB with limited functions due to the fact that it has fewer pins. It has a low data transfer rate and does not support fast charging. Micro USB works with fewer types of media than Type-C.

We can confidently say that Type-C is the best standard at the moment. However, some gadgets of different brands still use micro USB, and Apple has not yet abandoned its development of Lightning.