The arrival of the connection interface USB Type C It's a very important evolutionary step for all types of devices, including phones and tablets with the Android operating system. Some of the most important new features offered by the new connection are: higher data transfer and, also, a greater energy supplyAnd, this is where there is an interesting question to address.
In a basic way, it must be said that the power supplied by USB type C is greater than that currently used in the usual way USB type A. The first, for example, is capable of reaching 3A / 5V, something that is not possible to achieve with the cables or adapters currently used by most mobile devices that end up in a microUSB port. And, this is the reason given by Google for its accessory it is much more expensive than others that are in stores like Amazon.
And this is not exactly a minor issue, since for example the Nexus 5X not include cable We are talking about (the Nexus 6P does have it), so you have to get one if, for example, you want to take advantage of the chargers you have or connect the phone to a computer to transfer information. Therefore, it is necessary to value the purchase of the accessory from Google itself if you want to take full advantage of the options offered by USB type C.
The reasons given by a Google worker
As we have said, the reason for the price of the official cable of the Mountain View company to amount to 14,99 Euros It has to do with the energy power that it supplies, and a Google employee named Benson Leung (who has participated in the development of the hardware where the USB type C interface is included), is the one who has confirmed that his cable is the only one that is certificate to arrive to the aforementioned brands.
Thus, it also indicates that the rest of the cables that can be obtained in stores such as Amazon do not offer solvency and protection through internal manufacturing - and the existence of a identification resistance– so that there are no problems when using them, providing the maximum possible energy. Leung even “dares” to say that the risk is great for the integrity of the phones if you do not use Google's own product.
USB C is not a new standard, it's a new connector
USB-C is just the connector. Performance depends on the standard inside the device and cable: USB 2.0, 3.x, or USB4, in addition to profiles of USB Power Delivery (PD)This explains why two cables with the same appearance can offer very different results in data speed o load power.
A cable can be USB-C and yet be limited to USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) in data. Others achieve 5, 10, or more Gbps if they implement higher standards. The same thing happens with energy: not everyone negotiates the same current and voltage.
Certification, e-marker and the 56 kΩ resistance: what makes the cable more expensive
The higher price of Google's cable is explained by components and processes, that are not seen but are important. Among them are:
- 56 kΩ resistor on USB-A to USB-C cables: Informs the device of the port's capability and avoids requesting more current than necessaryWithout it, it is possible to damage the phone or charger.
- Chip e-marker on high-power USB-C to USB-C cables: Identify the cable, its caliber, length and if it supports up to 5 A (100W loads or more). Without e-marker, the cable is usually limited to 3 A.
- Shielding and twisted pairs quality: they reduce interference and losses, key to maintaining the signal integrity in data and video.
- Conformity testing (USB-IF): electrical and safety testing, plus batch quality control. It all adds up, but reduces risks.
In advanced cables (for example, with alternative modes or very high bandwidth protocols) the connector may integrate active drivers and energy regulation. It is not “just any cable”: there are electronics that manages signals, power and protection.
Power, data, and video: what your cable can and can't do
- Load: With PD, a cable can negotiate typical profiles such as 5V / 3A, 9V / 2A, 20V / 3A or even more if it is e-marked for 5 A. If the cable does not support the power, the system will lower the delivery or fail the fast charge.
- Facts & figures: Many USB-C cables are still USB 2.0 (480 Mbps). For 5-10 Gbps or higher, look for clear specifications from the manufacturer. A poorly specified cable can create bottleneck.
- Institutional: Not all USB-C cables support alternate modes such as DisplayPort AltMode nor very high-performance protocols. If a cable indicates that it doesn't support video output, it won't, even if the connector is the same.
Why Google's official cable may cost more
Remember that in addition to the correct resistance and the e-marker When applicable, a branded cable usually offers: conductors of larger caliber for minor losses, reinforced connectors and stress relief, multiple layers of armor, tighter tolerances, and certification which involves security and compatibility testing. All of this impacts the manufacturing and validation costs, and explains price differences with generic proposals.
This approach is in line with the recommendations of specialists who have documented cases of damage caused by poorly designed cables. The combination of suitable internal components and testing processes reduce the likelihood of incidents and ensure that the cable delivers exactly the power and signal that promises.
Common mistakes when buying and using USB-C cables
- Confusing connector and standard: A USB-C may only be USB 2.0. If you need speed, check the USB version.
- Choosing cables without e-marker for high powers: for 5 A/high power, it requires certified e-marker.
- Magnetic adapters and dirty pins: can cause electric arcs and faults. Cleaning and caution with third-party accessories.
- Old or low-quality cables: Mechanical fatigue, pin oxidation and deterioration of the shield make the fast charging fails intermittentlyIf it charges fast sometimes and not always, it's probably the cable. has been degraded.
- Length and thickness: Very long or thin cables can introduce more voltage drop. A “heavier” cable usually uses larger caliber copper.
How to identify a reliable cable at a glance
- Search certification marks (USB-IF Certified) and labeling indicating speed y power supported.
- In high power cables, the manufacturer should indicate 5 A and presence of e-marker.
- If video is required, please check that it specifies DisplayPort AltMode or the corresponding protocol.
- Be wary of listings without clear technical specifications. A good manufacturer provides details. caliber, length, standards and tests.
The fact is that with this explanation you can know the main reason why the USB type C to USB type A cable from Google is so expensive. It may or may not be ignored, but with the change in power supply that comes with the new interface, what we have indicated is something that must be valued (without ceasing to be a real nuisance that the Nexus 5X does not have the aforementioned accessory, which is almost unbelievable). When choosing a cable, prioritize to maximise security and your enjoyment., compatibility y certification: is the way to protect your devices and get the performance you expect.