Do I 'need' USB-IF USB-C Cables

tempestswitch on 02/03/2024 - 08:42

For a long time I've just been using decent USB-C to USB-C cables off Anker and UGREEN.

I've built myself a power station where there's a lot of USB-C chargers to charge all my camera equipment.
Never had a single issue with them.

I was looking to buy some more cables and found out about a USB-IF certification some cables use.
There are people who swear by them and also people who don't really care.
I did some research and companies like Belkin are USB-IF certified. Anker claims they are USB-compliant but not certified. UGREEN have no markings.

With that being said, is a USB-IF certification necessary for devices these days? All the devices I am charging are between 10-30 watts such as cameras, drones, gimbals, audio equipment, iPhone 15 Pro, etc…

Will a cable that is not USB-IF certified do any possible damage on electronics.

Poll Options

  • 2
    Buy USB-IF Cables
  • 15
    Stick to Anker + UGREEN 'non USB-IF'Cables
Electrical & Electronics USB Cable

Comments

  • apsilon on 02/03/2024 - 09:14
    +4

    I believe the only certification that takes place is the annual fee payment that allows them to use the logo. If you use good quality cables that meet the standards that should be sufficient, of course be wary of ultra cheap unknown brands making big claims.

  • ihfree on 02/03/2024 - 09:41
    +4

    As long as you've bought from a reputable brand, you'll be fine. Choice of charger is probably more important.

  • JimmyF on 02/03/2024 - 10:10

    There are people who swear by them and also people who don't really care.

    Welcome to the internet.

    I did some research and companies like Belkin are USB-IF certified. Anker claims they are USB-compliant but not certified. UGREEN have no markings.

    Do you know what USB-IF is and why you want it or just assuming that USB IF certified means it is better?

    USB IF is meant be tested and cables of a high quality, but it does appear to be a self certified standard in most cases and the company pays a free to be able to put the logo on the product. So you can read what you like what that.

    I did some research and companies like Belkin are USB-IF certified.

    Totally not surprised, overpriced cables have the fat to cover unnecessary licencing fees ;)

  • Daabido on 02/03/2024 - 10:43

    I buy what influencers are shilling. They've never steered me wro

  • bazingaa on 02/03/2024 - 13:31
    -2

    what is USB-IF? never heard of that

    My phone (S23U) is 45 W and my soldering iron probably 60 W . I just use normal 100 W cables with $26 Simplecom 65 W chargers lol. Recently got a Kogan 65 W charger for $30 as well

  • Mechz on 02/03/2024 - 14:35

    It's worthless marketing similar to when McDonald's got the Heart Foundation tick of approval.

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