The USB-C or USB Type-C is a specific type of Universal Serial Bus or USB connector system that is characterized by a two-fold rotational-symmetrical connector with 24 connector pins. The system replaces the older USB-A and USB-B systems and the micro-USB connections such as the USB Micro-A and USB Micro-B plugs and ports.
It is important to underscore the fact that USB Type-C is a USB type and not a USB version nor a USB interface. A USB type refers to the physical shape, pin arrangements, and the wirings of the plugs and ports. A USB version such as USB 1 or USB 3.2 refers to the generation of a USB interface characterized by speed, features, and functionalities.
Nevertheless, since its first introduction in 2014 and further adoption beginning in 2016, it has taken over USB Type-A and micro-USB as the dominant USB type standard. The goal of this USB type is to standardize further the Universal Serial Bus interface. This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of USB Type-C or USB-C.
Pros of USB-C: Advantages of USB Type-C and Notable Features
Manufacturers of computers and mobile devices have opted to adopt this connector system due to the fact that it has become a standard. The European Union has also required manufacturers that market their products in European countries to use this system. Below are the specific pros or advantages of USB Type-C:
1. Support for Modern USB Versions
Future-proofing is the primary advantage of USB Type-C. This USB type promotes the adoption of newer generation of USB versions such as USB 3.2. This means that it can inherit the advantages of more advanced USB versions such as higher bandwidths and faster data transfer rates. It is also backward compatible with older USB versions with compatible plugs and ports and will further support all future USB versions to become a standard USB type.
2. Smaller and Thinner Physical Profile
It is a little bit bigger than Micro USB but is smaller and thinner compared to USB Type-A and Mini USB. This more compact physical profile means that using associated ports decreases the physical dimensions of portable devices. This enables the design of thinner smartphones, tablet computers, laptops or ultrabooks, charger bricks, power banks or battery packs, peripherals such as external solid-state drives, and other consumer electronic devices.
3. Expansive Usability and Applications
A cable with a USB Type-C connector system can support up to 100 watts of power to power or charge devices such as smartphones and laptops and support fast-charging features. The support for newer USB versions means that it can be used for connecting 4K monitors and faster external storage devices. Newer interfaces such as Thunderbolt 3 from Intel, HDMI, and DisplayPort are now based on USB Type-C using the USB Alternative Mode feature.
4. Reversible and Hassle-Free Insertion
This might not seem a big deal but another key advantage of USB Type-C is that it is reversible. Note that plugs and ports based on USB Type-A and Micro USB can only be connected in one orientation and direction. However, with USB Type-C or USB-C, the plugs are reversible and thus, can be fitted with a USB-C port without the need for flipping until it fits. The cables are also reversible because modern standards feature the same USB type on both ends.
Cons of USB-C: Disadvantages of USB Type-C and Main Issues
1. Confusion Due to Expansive Applications
The advantage of USB Type-C also translates to its disadvantage. The problem with this USB connector system is that it has different applications and different interface compatibilities that can lead to confusion. Take note that a particular device that implements USB-C through its port does not mean that it also supports or implements the latest USB version and other USB features such as USB Power Delivery and USB Alternative Mode.
Furthermore, because the plugs and ports of USB 3.1 and 3.2 and Thunderbolt 3 or other HDMI cables use the same USB-C connector system, consumers are more prone to confuse these three different hardware interfaces. Some might think that all USB Type-C or USB-C ports found in their devices support Thunderbolt 3 or HDMI. Others might think that all USB-C cables such as USB 3.2 cables are similar to Thunderbolt 3 and HDMI cables.
2. Need for Proper Definition and Labeling
Another disadvantage of USB Type-C that concerns its implementation and adoption is the need for proper definition and labeling to avoid the aforementioned confusion. Remember that a USB type is different from a USB version. It only tells what the plugs and ports look like. USB-C or USB Type-C is a USB type and not a hardware interface. It does not describe data transfer rates, power transfer capabilities, and supported interfacing protocols.
In addition, for manufacturers of cables based on this USB type, as well as for manufacturers of consumer electronic devices that implement this USB connect system, it is critical for them to provide proper labels that describe the specifications, features, and capabilities of their specific implementations. This also means that potential consumers and existing users should pay close attention to these labels and the specifications of their devices.
USB-C in A Nutshell: Advantages and Disadvantages of USB Type-C
It is important to reiterate that USB Type-C or USB-C is a USB type and not a USB version nor a hardware interface protocol. It pertains to the physical characteristics of the plugs and ports. It is not a USB version unlike USB 3.2 nor a hardware interface protocol such as Thunderbolt 3 or HDMI. This is one of the notable issues or disadvantages of USB Type-C.
Different cables and various hardware interfaces can use the USB Type-C. This is one of its key advantages. It has been demonstrated in the implementations of USB Alternate Mode or support for the Thunderbolt 3, DisplayPort, and HDMI interface. However, because of the possible user confusion, remember that different interfaces have different specifications.
Nevertheless, despite the aforementioned drawbacks, the main benefit of USB Type-C centers on the standardization of the physical shape, pin arrangements, and the wiring of the plugs and ports used on modern consumer electronic devices. It is still important to remember that all USB-C implementations look the same but can have different functions and limitations.
