Micro-USB and Mini-USB cables for connecting phones, cameras, external drives, readers and other devices to a computer or charger. Most of our range is USB A to Micro-USB B, with Mini-USB B, USB C and Micro-USB A versions as well. Brands include StarTech.com, LINDY, LogiLink and Micro Connect.
How to choose a Micro-USB or Mini-USB cable
Connector combination. Check the plug on the device first, then the port on the computer or charger. In our range, USB A on one end and Micro-USB B on the other is the most common pairing, while Mini-USB B suits older cameras, GPS units and some external drives. Cables with USB C or Micro-USB A ends are also available for less usual setups.
USB version and speed. Most cables here are USB 2.0, which tops out at 480 Mbit/s and is enough for charging, phones and most peripherals. If you move large files to an external drive, look for USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbit/s) or USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbit/s), both of which we stock. The device and the port must support the same standard, otherwise the cable runs at the slower speed.
Plug shape and fit. Straight plugs are the usual choice, but angled connectors help when a device sits against a wall, in a rack or in a tight case. Some cables have a female end instead, which makes them extensions rather than leads. Check the gender before ordering.
Build quality. Nickel-plated contacts are the most common finish in our range, and gold plating is available too. Gold resists corrosion better, which matters if you plug and unplug often or use the cable in humid places. Length matters as well: a longer cable is convenient, but very long USB 3 runs can be less stable.
Brands we carry
- StarTech.com: known for connectivity products such as cables, adapters and docking accessories, and the largest brand in this category for us.
- LINDY: a long-established maker of computer cables and connectivity products, with a large number of models here.
- AKASA: best known for PC cooling and cases, and also makes cables and internal accessories.
- Axagon: known for USB adapters, card readers and drive enclosures, so its cables suit those peripherals.
- Zebra: a maker of barcode scanners, label printers and mobile computers, with cables for its own devices.
- Duracell: best known for batteries, and also sells charging cables.
Also in our range: LogiLink, Micro Connect, Maxtrack, InLine and Goobay.
Frequently asked questions about Micro-USB and Mini-USB cables
What is the difference between Micro-USB and Mini-USB?
Mini-USB is the larger and older connector, while Micro-USB is thinner and was widely used on phones, tablets and accessories. They are not interchangeable, so the plug must match the port exactly. Mini-USB B is still found on some cameras, GPS units and external drives.
Can a Micro-USB cable transfer data as well as charge?
Yes, most Micro-USB cables carry both data and power, but some cheap or charge-only cables do not. A USB 2.0 data cable transfers at up to 480 Mbit/s. If you need to sync files, choose a cable described as a data or sync cable.
Will a USB 3.0 Micro-USB cable fit a normal Micro-USB port?
Not usually. A USB 3.0 Micro-B plug is wider than a standard one because of an extra section for the additional contacts, so it does not fit a standard USB 2.0 Micro-B port. A USB 3.0 Micro-B port accepts both types of plug.
Does gold plating make a Micro-USB cable faster?
No, gold plating does not increase speed. It protects the contacts from corrosion and oxidation, which can help with long-term connection quality. Speed depends on the USB version of the cable, such as USB 2.0 or USB 3.2 Gen 1.
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