An inevitable evolution or a marketing ploy?
The USBType-C Initiative started out as a solution to the problems of bulkier and less compatible ports. Now the connector can be found on board flagship smartphones, premium laptops, and even in headphones. Unfortunately, the process of transition to the new standard has been delayed, despite the official approval of the specifications back in August 2014. But when I saw the new connector on the $ 99 smartphone, I knew the time had come. The era of USB Type-C has arrived.
And in fact, it's high time. But until it comes to a tearful tirade about how everything works for you and how you don't like changing something, let's see what the new connector offers.
First, the connector is double-sided. Therefore, unlike micro-USB, you no longer have to worry about sticking the connector the other way. The Lightning connector from Apple has been on the market for a long time and may sound a little superficial, but it has significantly raised the level of the overall usability of the devices.
Secondly, USBType-C will simplify and reduce the amount of wires needed to carry around all the time. The standard was designed to replace both USBType-A ports on laptops and USBType-B ports on most smartphones.
If ZTE is capable of USB-C in the ZMaxPro at a cost of $ 100, then there is simply no reason for other manufacturers to continue living in the past.
Third, the dimensions of the connector allow gadget manufacturers to produce the thinnest devices possible. This may not play a role in phones, but take a look at laptops such as the delightfully thin MacBook (1.3cm) and the HPSpectre (1cm). This slim profile was achieved only by ditching the angular USB-A ports in favor of slim and sleek Type-C.
Fourthly, Type-C allows you to speed up the transfer of power and information. To get USB 3.0 (up to 5 Gb / s) or 3.1 (up to 10 Gb / s) speeds using the Micro-USB port, you need to use a separate and annoying MHL connector. In terms of power, the A and B standards are limited to 7.5 watts. The connector boasts the ability to pass from 15 to 100 watts for ports supporting USB power transmission. This means that you can charge everything except a full-fledged PC with one cable. The simplicity is there. And we have not yet mentioned Thunderbolt 3, whose requirements imply a Type-C port. Thunderbolt 3 boosts transfer speeds to a staggering 40 Gb / s, leaving enough 'space' for connecting multiple 4K displays and transferring power.
HPSpectre with three USBType-C ports
Then you might argue, 'But I already have a set of Micro-USB and Type-A cables. I want to buy new ones. ' Fortunately, this is not a problem either. For as little as $ 9, you can purchase new cables from one of the reputable sellers like Monoprice. Micro-USB-USB-C and USB-A-USB-C adapters are even cheaper. Well, more often than not, the cable is already included with the supplied phone.
Even Samsung, after many years of using the micro-USB connector in its flagships, decided to move to a new standard for itself.
What does this transition mean for the average user? First of all, from now on it is no longer worth buying a phone with a micro-USB port. Yes, you may have to suffer a little now, but in a year you will be grateful to yourself, because you will not be burdened with outdated technology. For other devices, it is also important to check for USB-C support, be it external batteries or hard drives. If it is in your interest to make the transition as easy as possible, then invest $ 10-15 in a wire or adapter in order to be ready to make the transition to the new standard.
There's no need to ditch the old ports entirely, but at least one USB-C like on the XPS 13 is a big plus.
Finally, this is a warning to you, the device manufacturers. Now if the device comes with one port, then let it be USB-C. If not, then I will most likely not vote for you with my money. If we talk about devices with multiple ports, then the absence of at least one USB-C connector will cause a similar reaction.
USBType-C is an improved and more useful connector than its predecessors. But it's time to move forward. Plus, you don't want to look like the ancient Luddites referring to their perfectly working VCRs and cassette players. Time to usher in the USB Type-C era.
Original material
There is a very fine line in the situation in which the user of comparatively “older” devices is faced with the imminent need to “enter the era” of a new connector. It separates the really meaningful innovation and performance improvements from device manufacturers trying to get users to spend their money on another piece of metal and plastic with 'vital' functions.
To pass or not? For an answer, it is worth evaluating your typical scenario for working with a particular device, weighing the arguments, going through thematic sites in order to understand the approximate cost of adapters / cables and highlight reliable manufacturers. The main thing is not to rush. Your K.O.