Is Apple's Lightning Cable Really Worth The Markup?
Apple’s lightning cable with its connector has become a key accessory of the company’s line of products. However, although it is a well-known product of the Apple brand, many are asking if the Apple lightning cable is really worth the markup and if it is time to phase out the lightning cable.
Many experts believe that there is a pretty good chance that USB-C may eventually replace the Lightning connector on Apple’s iPhones and iPads. USB-C offers many advantages over the Lightning apple lightning cable, including the cost to the consumer. The following is a list of reasons why Apple's lightning cable is not really worth the markup.
1. Cost to Consumers
Apple’s lightning connector cable tends to cost more than their USB-C counterparts. There is an extra fee involved since the lightning connector is proprietary technology belonging to Apple therefore any third party manufacturer that make devices with these connectors and ports must pay a license fee to Apple. This means a product markup to consumers is added along with production costs and general markup.
Also, there are more costs associated with adapters. For instance, iPhone owners normally have to buy adaptors for third-party accessories because only Apple devices use the Lightning connector, and each adaptor will have a licensing fee included in its cost.
2. USB-C is Set to Become the Standard
USB-C is spreading to many different devices. It is reversible and compatible with a host of peripheral devices. USB-C has advantages that the Lightning connector doesn’t. When included with the USB 3.1 standard, it can transfer data quickly and deliver more power, enough to easily charge most laptops.
USB-C’s shape, a thin oval-shaped connector, is one of its main benefits. The USB-C connector plugs into the pins in a device’s port, and can go in right-side up or upside-down. Most new Android devices use USB-C and some Microsoft devices also include the connector.
Even Apple used it rather than one of its traditional proprietary chargers on their super slim MacBook in 2015 and later MacBook Pro . Hardware makers are slowly selecting USB-C, except for the iPhone. USB-C enables the iPad Pro to connect to an increasing range of accessories, including hubs and peripherals. As well,USB-C connectors and ports are compatible with Thunderbolt 3, and are even being used for some HDMI cables.
3. Apple Lightning Cable is Slower
Most Lightning cables transfer data at USB 2.0 speeds, however there are some reports of newer models having USB 3.0 speeds. Because it's proprietary, we don't know how fast Apple Lighting cable and connector actually is because Apple is not required to release all of the specifications.
The included Lightning cable in Apple devices do not even support fast charging, a feature found on almost every new Android phone. And the lightning cable is known for fraying or breaking. As well, the modern port offers faster charging and data transfer speeds than Lightning.
4. User Convenience
The use of Apple's proprietary connector does not make it more convenient. With USB- C devices, users can charge their laptops and phones with a single cable.And if they travel, typically all they need is one or two cables for portable modems, a power bank, phone, phone, Bluetooth earphones, and more. With Lightning connectors, it is not possible to interchange cables with different devices.
When it comes to Apple vs. non-Apple devices, iPhone owners have to consider multiple cables which means they have to be aware of the various types of adaptors that will be required. For instance, The 2018 MacBook, MacBook Pro, and MacBook Air, all use USB Type-C ports and don’t have USB-A ports. This means iPhone owners have to purchase special Lightning to USB Type-C cable to connect their smartphones to new Apple laptops.Therefore, consistently replacing their proprietary connector with USB Type-C would greatly increase convenience for new Apple device owners.
Many advocates for the adoption of a universal connector for mobile devices and laptops. Since the apple lightning connector is proprietary, it is not able to do the job. Apple Lightning connector has become increasingly outdated in that even Apple no longer includes it on every iPhone or iPad anymore. This means that apple lightning connectors no longer allow users to connect their devices across the Apple spectrum.
5. Too Much E-Waste
Too much variety with connector types greatly contributes to electronic waste. Cables and adaptors end up in landfills whenever companies with connectors phase them out for new connectors and when people change their main devices. Moving to a universal connector type for power and data transmission will reduce future e-waste. If users can use the same connector type across different laptops, smartphone brands, and other devices, they will re-use the same cables, particularly if they are strong, durable cables. It will also reduce the need for accumulating adaptors and dongles.
Even though Apple has been reluctant to implement USB-C on all of its devices, USB-C is an upgrade from the apple lightning cable and connector as it has the advantage of being a universal connector across many brands. Over time, the switch to USB-C is of great benefit to people as it simplifies the utilization of cords and accessories that consumers use with their smartphones, tablets, notebooks, and more. And, USB-C opens up completely new types of use to consumers, such as connecting to an extensive range of peripherals, mirroring out to monitors, and mass storage devices.
What Are my Options?
USB Type-C plugs support superfast charging and SuperSpeed data transfer rates. For devices that use this cable, Zendure offers SuperCord strong USB-C cables with a lifetime warranty.
Zendure’s SuperCord Lightning Cable is an example of a high quality, strong lightning cable. Zendure SuperCord Lightning Cable is certified by Apple for high-speed charging with compatible Lightning devices, which is up to 12W optimal charging. Each cable is woven with defense-grade fibers to enhance durability and flexibility. To provide all-around protection for the whole cable, Zendure also reinforces the cable’s construction with advanced technology.