Is Upgrading from USB Type-A to USB Type-C Really Worth it?
USB Type-C has many advantages. It:
- Eliminates the need for proprietary micro-USB ports, which means your iPhone charging cable may one day be compatible with your friends’ Android
- May make separate laptop and cell phone chargers a thing of the past
- Charges cell phones faster by using up to 100 watts of power, which is enough to charge a laptop
- Creates additional space, on the side of computers and other electronic devices, for more ports or other forms of technology
- Reduced the overall number of cables and adapters needed for households with multiple electronic devices
These benefits are great. But, is making a switch from USB Type-A to USB Type-C worth it?
Making the switch from USB Type-A to USB Type-C would be a very expensive and time-consuming endeavor because, as of October 2016, 99.9% of all laptops, televisions, and other electronic devices are only compatible with USB Type-A.
Adapters exist for making the switch. However, the usage of adapters means cellphones and other handheld devices cannot utilize the quick charging capabilities of USB Type-C. Adapters cause USB Type-C to lose the high wattage needed for quick charging.
However, most individuals won’t have this problem because there are no cell phones on the market with USB Type-C anyways. Apple suggested USB Type-C as a method for streamlining all cell phone ports but continues to use proprietary thunderbolt connections. Likewise, other manufacturers have been slow to implement the new technology.
The only Android-based smartphone with a Type-C USB port is the Samsung Galaxy Note 7.
However, Samsung Galaxy Note 7 was recalled for spontaneous combustion. The manufacturer admitted fires were caused by a faulty battery, and some speculate the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 battery was unable to handle the 22.5 watts of energy from its Type-C USB port. Given all prior phone batteries have just been able to receive between 5 and 10 watts of energy, it is quite possible Samsung Galaxy Note 7 was ill-equipped for handling the advanced charging capabilities of USB Type-C.
One can only speculate about the cause of Samsung Galaxy Note 7 fires. Even so, it’s safe to say one should wait until this technology has been out a while before making the switch from USB Type-A to Type-C. The main reason why it is important to hold off on upgrading is because, at present, the 12-inch MacBook laptop is the only device you’ll find using USB Type-C.
There are many benefits to USB Type-C. At the same time, USB Type-A doesn’t seem to be going anywhere soon. New handheld devices, laptops, and computers still come with USB Type-A. However, if you own a 12-inch MacBook or would like to try USB Type-C, visit MemoryC.com.
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