Difference between Micro USB and USB-C


USB stands for Universal Serial Bus. USB is a modern communication interface used in computers and other electronic devices for connecting peripherals such as mouse, keyboard, etc. Today, USB has become a standard protocol for connections in electronic devices. USB was first introduced in mid-1990 and has become popular due to its plug and play feature.

The USB interface allows peripheral devices to connect to and disconnect from electronic devices without the requirement restarting of the device. USB interface uses Bus Network Topology, allowing multiple devices to connect to a single USB port through a USB hub.

Several types of USBs have been developed, such as Micro USB, Mini USB, USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, etc.

In this article, we will discuss the important differences between Micro USB and USB-C. But before that let us first discuss the basics of micro USB and USB-C individually.

What is Micro USB?

The micro USB is the miniaturized version of the USB that is most commonly used in compact electronic devices such as smartphones, cameras, etc. Micro USB is basically a smaller version of the Mini USB that was introduced in 2007.

In most portable electronic devices, the Micro USB is mainly used for charging and data transfer purposes. Micro USB is so widely used in electronic devices due to its availability and compatibility with almost all types of devices.

Micro USB is further available in four USB connector types namely, Micro USB-A, Micro USB-B, Micro USB 2.0, and Micro USB 3.0.

What is USB-C?

USB-C is a newer version of USB connector. USB-C was first introduced in the year of 2014. The most important characteristics

of USB-C which makes it different from other types is its reversibility that means it can be inserted into the port without worrying about plugging in the wrong way. This feature makes it easier to insert in the plug.

USB-C is also more compact form factor of USB as compared other types of USBs that makes more useable in small and portable devices, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, etc.

USB-C connector also offers better power delivery capabilities that allows fast charging feature in battery powered mobile devices. Another major advantage of USB-C is the high speed data transfer rates than other versions of USB. However, the major disadvantage of the USB-C is that it is not fully compatible with older versions of USB. These days, USB-C is becoming more popular in all the electronic devices.

Difference between Micro USB and USB-C

The following are the important differences between Micro USB and USB-C −

Parameter

Micro USB

USB-C

Basic

Micro USB is a more compact version of Mini USB.

USB-C is a modern type USB which is designed to be smaller and versatile than earlier versions of USB.

Release year

Micro USB was introduced in 2007.

USB-C was introduced in 2014.

Reversibility

Micro USB is non-reversible, therefore it should be inserted into the port in a specific way.

USB-C is reversible. Hence, it can be inserted into the port in either way.

Data transfer rate

Micro USB has comparatively slower data transfer rates, typically upto 480 Mbps.

USB-C has faster data transfer rates as compared to the micro USB, typically up to 10 Gbps.

Charging speed

In micro USB, the charging speed is slower.

USB-C supports fast charging speeds.

Size

Micro USB is larger in size as compared to USB-C.

USB-C is compact in size than micro USB.

Backward compatibility

Micro USB is fully backward compatible with earlier versions of USB like USB 1.1, USB 2.0, etc.

USB-C is not fully backward compatible with older versions of USB.

Power delivery capability

Micro USB is limited to deliver 9 watts of power.

USB-C can deliver upto 100 watts of power.

Design

Micro USB has less strong design.

USB-C has robust design.

Cross-platform compatibility

Micro USB is mainly compatible with Android based devices.

USB-C is compatible with several types of devices like Android, iOS, MacOS, Windows, etc.

AV (Audio-Video) support

Micro USB does not support AV output.

USB-C supports AV output, thus it can be used for connecting output devices like monitor, speakers, projectors, etc.

Durability

Micro USB is less durable as it is more prone to damage.

USB-C is more durable as it is less prone to damage.

Applications

Micro UBS is used in a wider range of electronic devices like smartphones, computers, laptops, printers, cameras, etc.

UBS-C is a modern USB connector used in smaller and portable electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, etc.

Conclusion

The most significant difference is in their way of connecting in the port, i.e. the micro USB is to be plugged into the port in a specific way, whereas the USB-C can be plugged into the USB port in either way. Hence, USB-C eliminates the problem of wrong connection. Another key factor that differentiate Micro USB and USB-C is their power delivery capability and data transfer speed.

Updated on: 25-Apr-2023

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