Micro USB Cable : The Ultimate Guide On How To Choose

If you are using a cable to connect or charge mobile and compact gadgets like mp3 players, smartphones, cameras, printers, or GPS devices, then most probably, you are using a micro USB cable.

Micro USB cables can be of different types. With the many choices out there, it’s common to get confused with many things to consider. How do you know which micro USB cable to use with different gadgets, and what are the types?

In this guide, we will tell you all you need to know about USB micro cables so that you can always pick the right cable for your purpose.

Chapter 1: What is a Micro USB Cable?

A micro USB cable is the smallest form type of the  Universal Serial Bus (USB) and comes with two connection types and USB 3.0. Micro USB cables provide a convenient means to connect various devices and plug them into your chargers.

Micro USB cables are useful for devices where you cannot use standard or Mini USB connection ports because of their size or usability. All micro USB cables provide the same performance as you would expect from a standard-size USB cable.

Chapter 2：Micro USB types

In the chapter, we will discuss the market’s different types of micro USB cables.

Micro USB A

The micro USB-A is a compact connector in a trapezium shape. Measuring 6.85mm in width and 1.8mm in height, the connector has slanted edges that allow easy orientation while plugging the cable. The connector transmits electric and data signals with the help of five pins: Vcc, D+, D-, ID and Ground. The VCC and Ground can supply a 5 Volts DC supply while Data +/- transmits data signals. ID helps in mode detection.

The following table gives you complete information about the micro-USB A connector.

PIN	NAME	Wire color	Function
1	Vcc	Red	+5 volts
2	D-	White	Data negative
3	D+	Green	Data positive
4	ID	N/A	Mode detection
5	Ground	Black	Signal ground

Micro USB B:

The structure and shape of the micro-USB B are similar to Micro USB A, featuring a trapezium shape with a slanted top and bottom. Like micro USB A, this shape allows the connector to orient easily while you plug the cable. The PIN in micro USB B is also five, but the shape and size of the pins differ from that of micro  USB A. You can use this connector for data transmission and charging compacted devices like mobile phones.

The following table gives you complete information about the Micro USB B connector.

PIN	NAME	Wire Color	Function
1	Vcc	Red	+5 volts
2	D_	White	Data negative
3	D+	Green	Data Positive
4	ID	N/A	Marker pin for OTG devices
5	Ground	Black	Signal Ground

Micro B 3.0:

Micro B 3.0, a superspeed version of Micro USB B, has ten pins. These extra pins enable it to transfer data at high speed, manage power effectively and make it compatible with larger devices.

Popularly called SuperSpeed USB, this micro-B 3.0 shows backward compatibility with old USB standards. However, you must know that USB 3.0 is incompatible with all devices. If you want to use this superspeed USB 3.0, the computer port and the device must be compatible with the new standard.

The following table gives you complete information about the micro-USB 3.0 connector.

Pin	Name	Cable color	Function
1	VCC	Red	+5 volts DC
2	D-	White	Data negative
3	D+	Green	Data positive
4	ID	Dark Blue	Mode detection
5	GND	Black	Ground signal
6	USB3 SSTX-	Blue	Superspeed transmit positive
7	USB3 SSTX+	Yellow	Superspeed transmit negative
8	GND	Not Applicable	Ground signal (return)
9	USB3 SSRX-	Purple	SuperSpeed receive negative
10	USB3 SSRX+	Orange	SuperSpeed receive positive

Important information:

• Port: This is the place where USB cable plugs into
• Type: It defines the shape of the connector or the port
• Version: It defines the technology allowing data transfer along the cable.

Chapter 3 : Types of Micro USB Cables

Before diving into the types of micro USB cables, let’s learn a bit about the USB connection standard.

USB cables were introduced in 1994 by some tech companies to provide a unified connection standard for transferring data and electricity.

These cables are widely used today for different devices and come in different generations, like USB 1.0, USB 2.0, and USB 3.0.

The USB 1.0 and 1.1 can transfer data at 12 Mbps, mostly outdated.

USB 2.0 is the most popular cable, capable of achieving 480 Mbps transfer speeds.

The USB 3.0 can clock 5 Gbps, while the newer USB 3.1 can reach 10 Gbps data speeds.

USB cables feature forward and backward-compatible technology, which means you can use the cables irrespective of their generation (USB 2.0 or USB 3.0) as long as the connectors are the same.

The cables will automatically adopt the lowest USB standard when using cross-generation devices.

Micro USB cables are also classified into USB-A, USB-B, and USB-C types and feature different connectors.

You can differentiate the cables with your eyes, but you can’t tell whether it’s a USB 2.0 or USB 3.0 just by looking.

Here are the common types of micro USB cables-

Micro-A USB Cables

On-the-go (OTG) devices commonly use the Micro-A USB cable and differ from the normal USB connection.

You can establish communication between two devices using Micro-A USB without a computer acting as a mediator.

Micro-A USB cables come with a female, rectangular-sized connector.

You can easily identify a Micro-A USB cable by looking at its compact 5-pin design and white receptacle.

Micro-A USB cables often are compatible for use in conjunction with Micro-B USB gadgets.

The OTG devices normally have a Micro-AB socket, which provides ports for supporting both connection types.

Micro-B USB Cable

The Micro-B USB standard is in most smartphones and small electronic gadgets.

There’s no difference between USB 1.1 and USB 2.0 in the Micro-B ports case; they look the same.

The Micro-B USB cable is available with both male and female connectors, so you can use devices using different connection types.

Generally, you will see a female connector on smartphones, whereas the cable comes with a male connector.

Micro-B USB connectors appear like a half-hexagon in shape, as the ports and connectors feature tapered edges.

Generally, the cables have a black-colored receptacle and portable 5-pin design.

USB 3.0 Cables

USB 3.0 cables can be compatible with both Micro-A and Micro-B USB ports.

The cable connector size of USB 3.0 is a bit bigger than USB 1.0 and USB 2.0 standards and is suitable for handling the high transfer speed of USB 3.0.

Remember that Micro-A and Micro-B don’t use the same connection standards.

The new generation of USB 3.0 standards presents a double-socket connection port.

USB 3.0 devices generally use a cable divided into two connectors to ensure backward compatibility.

You can use one connector for older Micro-A or Micro-B cables, while the other is reserved only for USB 3.0 connections.

Many new smartphones have started using USB 3.0 as it offers a 10 times performance increase compared to USB 2.0.

You can also use improved power efficiency and additional features like USB streams to leverage data throughput for storage devices.

Smartphones using USB 3.0 generally have dual-mode device connections.

The functionality enables you to use the single port as a peripheral port while also playing the part of a host port.

Now that you know about different micro USB cables, let’s learn more about their applications.

Chapter 4: Micro USB Application Options

You can use micro USB cables for a wide range of applications.

Can you even find a micro USB to HDMI cable to directly access all your favorite videos and movies?

Please keep reading to learn more about micro USB cables and their applications.

Micro USB to HDMI Cable

Tablets and phones have displays to help you watch movies, play games, or see videos.

But for many people, the screen size is too small, and they need something bigger!

Micro USB to HDMI cables enable you to connect MHL-enabled tablets and smartphones with TVs or other display devices using the HDMI port.

It is a convenient and cheap method and doesn’t need you to get lost in a mess of cables.

The micro USB to HDMI uses the micro USB port of your tablet or smartphone and passes the signal to the adapter, which converts it to HDMI format to connect with your TV.

If your TV doesn’t support MHL, you must connect a USB power cable to the converter, which provides a charge to your phone or tablet.

You can use your TV display to play games, browse the internet, watch movies in HD, see photos, and more.

The micro USB to HDMI cable supports both video and audio.

The recent standard of MHL can provide 8-channel surround sound and even play videos at 4K resolutions.

Older versions can support 1080p video formats with 7.1-channel digital audio.

Before buying the micro USB to HDMI cable, you should check if your tablet or phone is compatible with MHL.

Micro USB Extension Cable

Do you find the length of your micro USB cable too short? 

Can’t charge your phone sitting on your couch as the cable doesn’t reach the wall power outlet?

Using a micro USB extension cable, you can resolve your problems in an instant.

The extra length of cable serves as an extension between devices or cables and helps you cover more area than you can with a single cable.

The extension cables have a micro USB male port and a micro USB female port.

The extension cables can support USB 2.0 or USB 3.0, so you should consider your data transfer needs before choosing one.

The connectors at the end of the micro USB cables also vary.

You can find micro-A ports, micro-B ports, and some newer versions that also come with a Type-C port.

So, checking the ports of the devices you want to connect is necessary before buying a micro USB extension cable.

Some solar panels also use micro USB cables; the extension cords can help establish connections over increased distances.

Micro USB to Micro USB Cable

Micro USB to micro USB cables connect two devices to transfer data or power.

For example, you can connect two tablets, one tablet, and a smartphone or two smartphones to exchange data or charge the device.

Micro USB to micro USB cables have micro USB ports at both ends.

One end of the cable is generally labeled as “Host,” which you need to plug into the controller device.

The cable carries power from the controller device at the host end to the other device, while you can transfer data both ways.

The cables come in handy when you don’t have a charger nearby to emergency charge one device by sourcing power from another.

You can also establish a direct hardline connection between devices using the micro USB to micro USB cable and eliminate the need for extra adapters and lag in performance.

The device connected to the “Host” port must support On the Go (OTG) functionality.

Most Android smartphones and tablets are OTG compatible, so you can be sure your device can use micro USB to micro USB cables.

Micro USB to micro USB cables have a wide range of applications.

Besides connecting tablets and smartphones, you can connect external hard drives or SSDs to carry out the data read and write function.

You can hook up other accessories using a micro USB to a micro USB cable.

For example, cable connects keyboards, cameras, and controllers to your tablet and smartphone.

The accessories must have a micro USB port so that both devices can work without glitches.

We have now discussed various types of micro USB cables like micro-A, micro-B, and USB 3.0.

Recently a new variant is available in the market called USB Type-C.

In the next chapter, we will discuss Type-C cables and find their difference from micro USB cables.

Chapter 5 : The Difference between Micro USB and USB Type-C

Are we looking to choose between a Micro USB and a USB Type C?

You aren’t alone – many make that choice each day.

While it was the former earlier, it is the choice for many these days.

We will take a look at why.

What is USB Type-C?

You can find USB Type-C in new smartphones, laptops, and tablets.

The new standard is slowly evolving to replace the older USB standards and even works for other technologies like Thunderbolt and DisplayPort.

USB Type-C features all the new improvements, and some smartphones have even replaced their 3.5mm audio jack with Type-C connectors.

Type-C also supports new USB standards like USB 3.1 to achieve higher transfer speeds and improve power delivery using the USB connection.

The USB Type-C cables have a new type of connector, similar in size to a micro USB connector.

USB standards have moved from 1.0 to 2.0, and now we have USB 3.0, but the connectors never changed.

USB Type-C introduces a new connector that meets the small needs of smaller and thinner devices available today.

You can also plug in a Type-C cable without checking its orientation, as it’s reversible.

Most of the current devices have been transformed into USB Type-C, to don’t need to carry around a bunch of different USB cables for different devices.

USB Type-C also improves the power delivery over older standards like USB 2.0, which can carry 2.5 watts of power.

Type-C increases this limit to 100 watts and uses a bi-directional technology to send or receive power while you can exchange data simultaneously.

Some new laptops like Google Chromebook Pixel and MacBook provide USB Type-C ports for charging.

In the future, all devices can switch to Type-C to make charging and transmitting data convenient.

Now, let’s check out the differences between micro USB and Type-C.

Micro USB cable VS USB Type-C cable

Micro USB cables generally have a micro-B USB connector at one end and a rectangular-shaped Type-A USB connector at the other.

Most micro USB cables use the USB 2.0 standard, while some new smartphones feature the USB 3.0 standard.

You can’t connect micro USB cables interchangeably, and they must fit in one way.

There are two hooks on the lower side of the connector to keep the cable in place.

Micro USB connectors were introduced as an industry standard to replace the proprietary connectors used by brands like Samsung and Nokia.

USB Type-C cables have a roundish, oblong-shaped connector, which promises to bring unity in the field of different connectors.

Though it looks bigger than the micro USB connector, it is more streamlined and compact.

The Type-C connector is reversible, which means you can connect it any way you want.

You don’t have to flip it numerous times to ensure the right side goes in!

USB Type-C connectors mostly use USB 3.0 and 3.1 standards, which means they can offer better performance than micro USB when it comes to data transfer speeds (5 Gbps to 10 Gbps).

It can also support up to 100 watts of electricity, enabling you to charge even your laptop or cameras.

Some manufacturers offer Type-C connectors but use USB 2.0 standards due to the low power requirements of smartphones or tablets.

USB Type-C can replace the old Type-A connectors in devices like tablets, smartphones, laptops, cameras, HDMI, game controllers, scanners, printers, and more.

USB Type-C is more versatile than micro USB and is not limited by design.

Chapter 6：Micro USB Vs. Mini USB: What’s the difference?

Between the Micro USB and Mini USB, Mini USB is the earlier version. It was introduced as the first miniature form of USB in 2005. Roughly shaped as an anvil, the Mini USB connector has 5 pins. 

When it was introduced, it was used for Digicams, MP3 pliers, cell phones and various other devices. Due to its small size of 3mm by 7mm, it was widely accepted in the market. Further, its capability of connecting and disconnecting 5,000 times made it highly durable.

On the contrary, Micro USB was introduced in 2007 and displayed better functionality and more convenience than Mini USB. It has five pins, out of which the fifth one is the ID pin. It could function as both Type A and B connectors. On the other hand, the ID pin of the Mini USB offered no value.

Further, Micro USB has a round top with a flat bottom. Its size is smaller, i.e., 6.85mm by 1.8 mm, and 10,000 connect disconnect cycles.

Additionally, you can transfer data faster at 480Mbps with Micro USB. You can find micro-USB ports on various Android devices, tablets, phones, or other devices like GPS navigation devices, digicams, video game controllers, etc.

The best part of Micro USB is its capability to support USB OTG or USB On The Go. This feature allows tablets and phones to work as hosts for small devices like USB flash drives, mice, and keyboards.

So, with this, you can connect and use several devices with your tablet or smartphone. This option is not available in Mini USB.

With this comparison, it seems that Mini USB technology is useless and must be obsolete. However, some devices still use Mini USB ports and connectors.

Conclusion

Micro USB cables are still widely used to connect tablets and smartphones and charge devices worldwide.

We at Wiringo can help you know more about micro USB and the implications of manufacturing cables based on the standard.

Our expert and professional team caters to businesses of all sizes and helps them meet their custom micro USB needs.

We can deliver high-quality cables accurately matching the specifications of your wiring diagram with a quick turnover time.

Contact us as soon as possible for a private consultation to learn more.