USB 3.1 Type C is the latest USB Connector technology, combining data transfer, video output and charging capabilities in a single package—but there are even more benefits. We created this comparison chart to show you exactly what USB 3.1 Type C can do for you.
USB 3.1 Type C has already gained rapid support on the newest laptops, phones and tablets as well as on the lightning-fast Thunderbolt™ 3 cable. As the successor to USB 3.0, the new standard offers several exciting improvements including double the data transfer speed in a reversible, smaller form factor. Keep in mind that although many people shorten “USB 3.1 Type C” to just “USB-C”, the “Type C” part of the name is referring only to the upgraded physical port connection and not necessarily all of the upgraded specs encompassed by the transition from USB 3.0 to USB 3.1. Below are the highlights of the intelligent design and added functionality of the USB 3.1 Type C connector.
USB 3.1 Type C Advantages and Features
•Smaller form-factor – Measuring in at a slim 2.6 mm in height, the new small size allows for more space with the inevitable miniaturization of industrial and consumer electronics. The advantage is that there is no longer a need for the "-mini-" USB.
•Reversible – You no longer have to guess the correct orientation for plugging in your USB connector.
•2X Faster Data Rate – With up to 10 Gbps data transfer, USB 3.1 is twice as fast as USB 3.0. It also offers higher through-put and improved I/O power efficiency compared to USB 3.0.
•Up to 100 W of Power Delivery with up to 20 V and 5 A – USB Power Deliver 2.0 compliant with bi-directional power. This amount of power could allow you to charge a full laptop, compared to USB 2.0, which provided up to 2.5 W, just enough for charging your phone or tablet.
•Alternate Modes – Built-in support for DisplayPort video and 4-channel audio (microphone and speaker). Allows streamlining to a single type of port because one USB port can now use adapters and support HDMI, VGA, DisplayPort, or other power ports.
•Improved EMI and RFI mitigation features.
Another key benefit of USB 3.1 is backwards compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0 (Note that the physical connectors are not compatible and require an adapter).
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