Is USB-C the Same as USB 3.1?

Nowadays, the appearance of USB Type-C connector and latest USB 3.1 standard bring many conveniences to consumers. However，many of them feel confused about the USB-C with USB 3.1 when they appear together in some website or product description. What make it worse is that even some website reviews mix them up. They are actually two different things.

What’s the difference between USB-C and USB 3.1? This article will help you to distinguish them and give you suggestions on how to choose the best USB-C cable based on the discussion.

USB-C

USB Type-C, also named as USB-C, is a description of port connector. It can be used for data transferring and devices charging.

USB-C connector is small and compact measured about 8.4mm x 2.6mm, which means it takes less space on the circuit board and makes it easily used on your devices, like laptop, smartphone and Apple new MacBook, etc. USB-C connector has four unique advantages compared with the previous connectors like USB A, B, Micro A, B and Mini A, B.

Fast Transfer Speeds

USB-C ports can transfer data by the amazing speeds with maximum transmission rate up to 10 Gb per second under the latest version of the USB protocol.

Powerful

USB-C connectors can transmit DisplayPort signals at up to 4K resolution. It provides the maximum power up to 100 watts, which makes it more powerful to charge your smart phones, laptops and tablets.

Reversible

There is no "up" or "down” when you connect the USB-C port with your device. The USB-C port supports to be inserted into your devices upside down, which means that you can connect it in any direction, no worrying about the pros and cons of a traditional USB port as previous USB-A or USB-B. The convenient using experience is just like using Apple Lightning port.

More Flexible and Backward Compatible

USB-C connector is compatible with the old USB standard. And you are able to connect old devices to USB-C ports via adapters.

USB 3.1

USB 3.1 is one of the Universal Serial Bus port standards. It is a generational number that means USB connector data transfer speed. The superior transfer rate of USB 3.1 is up to 10 Gb/s, doubled the USB 3.0 which is 5Gb/s. So, if you have a USB 3.1 host port, and a USB 3.1 device, but are using a USB 3.0 cable, you’ll still see speeds of 10 Gb/s. The maximum transfer rate is under theoretical USB standard, and it’s unlikely to be seen in daily use, but it is still faster when transfer files under USB 3.1.

USB-C is Not the Same as USB 3.1

USB-C is often confused with USB 3.1. USB-C is not a new USB standard as USB 1.1, USB 2.1, USB 3.0(Referred to as USB 3.1 Gen 1) or latest USB 3.1(Referred to as USB 3.1 Gen 2). The biggest difference between USB-C and USB 3.1 can be summarized as “The USB-C is a physical connector while the USB 3.1 is a transfer standard.”

The USB-C can be used with previous standards of USB. And there is no absolute correlation between USB 3.1 and USB-C. Many traditional devices like USB-A, USB-B, and micro USB ports are placed by USB-C, because it is small, reversible, and often goes hand in hand with USB 3.1 transfer speeds up to 100W power delivery—although not always. USB 3.1 isn’t always supporting all devices. The laptop, tablet and smart phone has USB-A, USB-C or some other connection, but it can’t guarantee it’s USB 3.1 standard.

The Best USB-C Cable

As mentioned above, we know the difference between the USB-C and USB 3.1. And we learn that USB-C has more unique advantages than the traditional USB connectors. Now let’s talk about the best durable and safe USB cable you should own for charging. Here is a Zendure Supercord Durable USB Cable.

This Zendure USB-A to USB-C cable interwoven with defense-grade material and Nylon in a braided design. It is ultra-strong and durable, certified by surpassing a bend test 50,000 times. SuperCord has high-speed charging, which can help you charge your devices in a short time. What a great convenience that your smart phone can be fully charged in the short time of taking shower. Besides, the integrated leather strap can easily store the cable without any worry about cable tangling. It is a high-tech and safe design with lifetime warranty—a great item for work, travel and household use. The perfect guarantee of safety and convenience in your daily life.

SuperCord also comes in many other options like Apple lightning cable, 2 in 1, and USB C to USB C cable.