When it comes to connecting a variety of modern devices, you’ll most likely be using a Universal Serial Bus (USB). However, don’t be fooled by the name — this seemingly “universal” industry standard actually comes in multiple versions.
Understanding the various types of USB ports will help you to have a better idea of what types of connections come with different devices. Let’s take a look at today’s different types of USB ports in this comprehensive USB guide.
The USB-A port is your standard connector, which you’ll find on the end of just about every one of today’s USB cables. This rectangular connector fits in only one way.
Virtually all laptops and personal computers feature this type of USB port. You won’t come across cables featuring this type of port on both of its ends, though. That’s because connecting two laptops or computers together with such a cable may end up damaging both machines.
In addition to seeing the USB-A port on computers, you can find it on many media players, vehicles, game systems, and TVs as well.
This port happens to be an older one that you won’t see very often today compared with the other types of USB ports in this USB guide. It features a nearly square shape on one of its ends and can be plugged into your printer.
The USB-C port is the most recent standard of these innovations. This type of USB is becoming more and more popular across different devices due to its stunning 10Gbps data transfer rate. This port also offers the benefit of being reversible — another advantage it has over other types of USB ports.
You can find the USB-C standard on devices such as Google Pixel phones, Samsung Galaxy S9s, and MacBook.
This small connector is popular on today’s many portable devices, and has the ability to function as both an A and B type connector. You’ll find this type of port on some Android phones, bluetooth headphones and on many external power banks. Still, as mentioned earlier, some of today’s smartphones use the USB-C standard instead.
This is another small USB port option that has been used for many of today’s mobile devices, although the micro-USB has mostly replaced it. Originally, this USB type was loved for its conveniently small size. While it’s becoming more outdated each year, you may still see this type of port on devices like some cameras and MP3 players.
At Targus, we make connecting peripherals to your laptop easy with our high-quality USB hubs. Take advantage of our USB 3.0 7-Port hub, which allows you to transform a single port into seven. Make your workstation more versatile than ever.
Learn more about the various types of USB ports we offer and find out which hub will best meet your needs.
