Also, for the sake of clarity, we should mention the “Lightning” cable. Lightning connectors are Apple’s proprietary charging option, although they are not categorized as USBs. They are slim and small like micro and mini USB connectors, but they are not the same thing and are only compatible with Apple devices. That’s where most of the comparisons end. USB Type C is supposed to be the wunderkind of USB technology. It can theoretically replace a whole host of connector cables including: Flash drives are convenient marketing tools and simply great gifts. Most flash drives come with the standard rectangular USB connector, but there are also models that offer both. Because USB Type C connectors haven’t achieved the popularity of their predecessors, it’s always a good idea to offer both options with flash drives. What makes a power bank (or any charger for that matter) function? Charging cables. If you are unsure what type of phones or devices your intended audience has, then go with charging cables. Our friends at iPromo have a 4-in-1 option that even has a mini USB cable and a 3-in-1 option, as well. Charging cables are always wearing out or getting lost, and you can certainly help your prospective customers in that regard. USB Flash Drives What you might not have known is that there are many other USB types than the traditional rectangular one. Mini USB, micro USB, and “ Type C” USB connectors are all used for a variety of different reasons. Whether it’s charging or connecting devices, or simply uploading data, you need to know which one to use.

The most recognizable USB connector type (the rectangular one mentioned above) is known as “Type A.” It has been around since the ‘90s, and you have undoubtedly encountered these USBs at some point or another.As their name suggests, mini and micro USBs are smaller than the regular Type A USB connector. They were introduced to the market in 2005 and 2007 respectively. Both were predominately used for charging mobile phones and other devices like cameras, but they can also be used for data transfer. Modern USB devices are starting to appear with just one USB C port replacing all others, this means you are restricted on what older equipment you can use. USB Type C (also simply referred to as USB-C) is considered the heir apparent to the original USB Type A. Most prognosticators believe that the USB Type A that we all know and love will be all but phased out in the next 5 to 10 years. Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s take a look at a few specifics. Micro USB vs Mini USB You may also have noticed that we seem to have skipped over any discussion of Type B connectors. These square-shaped connectors do exist, but they are primarily used to connect appliances like printers or copy machines to computers or other devices.

You have also probably come across these USB types at one point or another. You probably didn't even recognize them as USB-related. But, how do you distinguish between micro vs mini USB (and Type C connectors), and what functionality do they offer? While micro USB cables can do a lot, they can’t go that far. In more technical terms, USB-C connectors have a transfer rate of between 5 and 10 gigabits per second and can provide 100 watts of charging power at any given time. Many Android phones are already using USB Type C as their go-to charging method. In addition to all that, micro USBs support USB On The Go (USB OTG) which is a feature that permits smartphones or tablets to function as a host for accessories like a mouse, keyboard, or USB flash drive. Essentially, you can connect to and use external devices on your smartphone or tablet. The mini USB does not have this option. So, is there a comparison when it comes to the “micro USB vs USB C” matchup? In some ways, there is. Both cables are often equipped with the same connector on both sides of a cable, meaning you don’t have to fumble with your cords anymore. The connector shapes do look somewhat similar, but the USB Type C is more oval and can be plugged in in either direction. The way to get around this and use older equipment is via an adapter. Our USB Type C to Micro USB adapter will allow you to use a USB Type Micro B cable on your USB Type C equipment for charging and data transfer. As this adapter is for charging and data transfer it don't matter if your devices are USB C only.

What About USB Type C?

Of course, power banks are some of the most relevant promotional items on the market. They provide around 900 impressions throughout their lifetimes according to a 2019 Advertising Specialty Institute study. Power banks simply provide a mobile charging solution that most people desperately need.