USB Type-C is a shape, not a technology. Just because two USB cables have a reversible Type-C plug doesn't mean that they are the same. In fact, the most recent "Type C Cable and Connector Specification" PDF uses 373 pages to explain the differences between the eight standards that are all (confusingly) called “USB Type C.”

USB 3.1 and USB 3.2 Are the Same Thing; “Gen 1” and “Gen 2” Are Not

Most USB standards were renamed in 2019 (even as shoppers struggled to understand the existing names!). This confusion is easily exploited by shady manufacturers.

Some USB-C cables are slow and overpriced; others can fry your gadgets instead of fast-charging them. This article focuses on USB-IF-certified "SuperSpeed" Type-C cables that can transfer data at 10 Gbps and provide at least 60 watts of charging power. Until recently, these cables were called USB Type-C 3.1 Gen 2: Now, these cables are called USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 2.

All of the cables in this article are reversible (i.e. the Type-C connector fits in the port either way). They can transfer data and charge a device at the same time (using USB-PD, the power delivery standard), and with an adapter, they can convert HDMI, VGA and DisplayPort signals.

How Much Does a Good USB-C Cable Cost? A one-meter USB-IF certified cable (with verified, above-average reviews) costs approximately $15, according to a 12-month analysis of price trends. Those same USB-C cables cost around $10 while on sale: an average discount of 33%.

Here are the best cheap second-generation USB-C cables (aka "3.1 Gen 2" or "3.2 Gen 2") for the money: