How to choose a cable to charge your smartphone

With the replacement of the charging cable to face almost every smartphone owner. The options here are many: from expensive to cheap original accessories cords questionable production. Whichever one you choose, there are a few things that are better taken into account when buying.

Determine the type of power cord

An obvious but necessary step. Cables for charging smartphones come in several types. The most common is carried with connector microUSB. However, some modern phones use USB Type-C. This connector is different from the previous one in that it can be inserted into the connector by either party. On the iPhone cords used Lightning. By the way, when you buy such a cable you need to look on the packaging MFi label - it says that the product is certified by Apple.

Where it is to take

• microUSB cable, 235 rubles →
• USB cable Type-C, from 174 rubles →
• Lightning cable, from 142 rubles →

Check the strength of the current, which is able to hold the cord

Original cords rated for the amperage that gives charger. When you purchase a cheaper accessory sure to check how much power current is able to hold the cable. If, for example, the charger produces 2 amps, and the cord can pass only 0.6-0.7 A, the charging time of the smartphone will increase significantly, and in some cases, the gadget may not be charged. Sometimes because of such cords fails smartphone battery.

The strength of the current, which holds the cable can be indicated on the packaging or the accessory, refer to the product description in the online store.

Decide on the shape

Cords for charging basically come in three types: round, flat and twisted. The first type is most common. It is characterized by the strength and durability. The second well suited for travel, because there is less entangled and folded up almost no space. The third is for charging in cars: this cable will not get in the way.

Where it is to take

• Round microUSB cable, 165 rubles →
• Flat Cable USB Type-C, from 214 rubles →
• Twisted microUSB cable, 74 ruble →

Select braid material

Braided cord may be formed of plastic, cloth, metal, silicone, skin. Most short-lived - cords with plastic braid. The most durable and reliable - with the metal, but they are expensive. Cords with fabric braid less prone to damage, so well suited for continuous wear with them.

Where it is to take

• USB Type-C cable is sheathed in plastic, 210 rubles →
• microUSB cable braided fabric, 165 rubles →
• Cable 3 in 1 (microUSB, Type-C and Lightning) in the metal braid 337 rubles →

Check the build quality

On a good cable should be no wrinkles, protruding plastic curves of contacts of different sizes. The plug should not hang out and look flimsy. The most vulnerable place for a break - the connection cable and plug, so the most durable cords with dense stiff plastic flexi hose at this point.

see also

• What to do if your phone is not charging →
• How do I know whether effective your chargers →
• How to check the laptop battery, smartphone or tablet →