Best USB-C-to-Lightning Cables iMore 2021

A USB-C-to-Lightning cable comes with newer iPhone models, and it is a convenient piece of tech to have. It's worth having a couple on hand. You can use it to sync or charge your iPhone from your MacBook or iPad Pro. You can also use it to fast-charge your iPhone with a USB-C power adapter. Here are some of the best USB-C-to-Lightning cables around.

Apple USB-C to lightning cable

Straight from the source: Apple USB-C to Lighting Cable

Staff Pick

Safely connect your iPad, iPhone, or iPod with this Apple USB-C to Lightning Cable. This particular cable is durable, comes in one-meter (3.3-foot) and two-meter (6.6-foot) lengths, and you can trust it to connect your Apple devices.

Native Union Cable UBC C To Lightning

Premium: NATIVE UNION Belt Cable USB-C to Lightning

This ultra-strong reinforced braided cable is MFi-certified and six times more durable than standard cables. It measures four feet in length and comes in fun colors like Cosmos, Rose, and Zebra.

AUKEY USB-C to Lightning Cable

Best value: AUKEY USB-C to Lightning Cable

This well-priced 6.6-foot long cable is MFi-certified. It's designed for fast charging and reliable data charging, and the tough braided nylon cable has aramid fiber support cores for extra durability.

$13 at Amazon
UGREEN USB-C to Lightning Cable

Fast charging: UGREEN USB-C to Lightning Cable

This three-foot-long MFi-certified cable is made for both data transfer and fast charging. It's been tested for over 15,000 bends and has over-voltage protection. Choose from three different lengths ranging from one to three meters (roughly three feet to nine feet.)

$14 at Amazon
AmazonBasics Double Braided Nylon Lightning to USB Cable

You have choices: AmazonBasics Double Braided Nylon Lightning to USB Cable

This durable braided MFi-certified cable has a copper core reinforced with Kevlar, plus it comes in a handful of different colors, including Red, Dark Gray, Rose Gold, and Silver. It comes in various lengths: a tiny and portable four-inch cable, three feet, and six feet.

From $13 at Amazon
Spigen DuraSync USB C to Lightning Cable

Two-pack: Spigen DuraSync USB C to Lightning Cable

You get two MFi-certified fast-charging cables, each measuring three feet long. The cables' UltraFlex Technology withstands excess bending. Choose from Black or White.

$30 at Amazon

Which should you choose?

We recommend using Apple's own USB-C to Lightning cable, of course. Apple stands behind its products, and you can trust that Apple's cable won't ever damage your devices.

If you want to save a few bucks going third party, be sure to look for the Apple stamp of approval: the MFi certification badge. MFi stands for "made for iPhone/iPad/iPod." I'd never buy a cable without that badge, as an uncertified cable could potentially damage your devices.

The AmazonBasics Double Braided Nylon Lightning to USB Cables would be my third-party pick because I like choices. This one comes in such a variety of colors and sizes that you're sure to find the exact cable you need. Plus, the braided nylon means extra durability.

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