Apple’s own Lightning cables are thinner and more flexible than the competition, with extremely small connectors on the end. These may seem like boons, but Apple’s own cables have also earned a reputation for being easier to break and fray — so while both the USB-C and USB-A cables performed well in our tests, we think most people would be better off with a more durable option from a third party. A Cable for Life: We're so confident about PowerLine's performance that we gave a hassle-free, lifetime warranty. After researching many different lightning cables, we narrowed in on the top ten options, which we put through extensive side-by-side testing. After using each one to charge various generations of iPhones and iPads, we determined our preferences for length, cable material, and how efficient each cable was at charging. Through our testing, we could see the best and worst qualities in each model. It also comes with a leather snapping strap for coiling the cable, though our model was already flaking when we took it out of its brand-new box, which didn’t inspire a ton of confidence. Belkin also offers a USB-A version of this cable in a few lengths and colors, though we didn’t test that version ourselves. Belkin’s standard BoostCharge cables are similar to Anker’s Powerline II — no frills, just good cables at a good price. They use the same standard rubber sheath you’d find on other cables in this price range, and the same standard joints.

Anker USB C to Lightning Cable, Powerline II [3ft+6ft+10ft, 3

An optimized internal structure means the latest generation of PowerLine has become even slimmer than ever before—without sacrificing strength. Combined with the 35,000-bend lifespan, PowerLine+ III is designed to withstand every twist, tug, and tangle. What You Get: Anker 321 USB-A to Lightning Cable (3ft 3-in-1) / Anker PowerLine II 3-in-1 Cable, a hassle-free lifetime warranty and friendly customer service. At this point, I suppose I am juggling bend lifespan, cost, and how the warranties factor in and potentially “cover up” the other two former factors. All this bending robustness discussion is really about is how fast does the resistance increase, and therefore Voltage drop increase, occurs over usage.

Conclusion

USB-IF Certified: Meets safety standards of the USB International Federation for worry-free charging and transferring. Mophie’s USB-C and USB-A cables offer a braided design in three different lengths, but otherwise didn’t stand out much from the competition — they’re thinner than Anker’s cables without being more flexible, and the warranty lasts only two years. But they performed well in our tests, so if you like the design, they’ll do the job.

Anker 321 USB-A to Lightning Cable (3ft 3-in-1) - Anker US Anker 321 USB-A to Lightning Cable (3ft 3-in-1) - Anker US

A Cable for Life: We're so confident about PowerLine II's long-lasting performance that we gave it a hassle-free, lifetime warranty. MFi certification means total peace of mind because PowerLine II is completely Apple authorized. Designed to work flawlessly with iPhone, iPad, iPod or any device with a Lightning port. Satechi’s cable is clearly designed to be a durable monster, similar to Nomad’s Kevlar cables. However, while the Satechi performed just as well as its competition in charging and data transfer, we found it much stiffer than every other cable we tested, without the extra-strong joints of the Nomad cables. It’s a good option — we just prefer the more flexible nature of the other cables we tested. While there are certainly many budget options when shopping for lightning cables, most aren't worth buying. Perhaps the most important thing you want to keep in mind is the longevity of the cable you're considering. If your cable breaks or loses its ability to pair with your device after just a few weeks, it's not worth the low price. There is a sweet spot between the most premium options and the mid-range products.I have been using multiple versions of the Anker Cable including the 1st generation, 2nd gen and the Powerline Plus (+). Anker has been my referral for many friends and family members. I think I have bought 20+ Anker cables so far (people asked me to buy for them). I also have tried cables with various lengths (3, 6 and 10ft). Anker includes a versatile little cable tie right in the box. This is your standard velcro tie, but it has a small tab cut out that affixes it to the cable when it’s unwrapped, letting you easily take it with you. Price: Affordable, but not budget Everyone knows the frustration of unplugging a cable from your phone only to have the cable fall off the end of the table into the abyss behind your desk. Native Union’s cables attempt to solve this problem with a weighted knot that you can slide along the cable to keep it in its place. It’s incredibly practical, and very stylish, thanks to the braided shield that comes in multiple colors and patterns. I have an Apple iPhone XS Max, but I am seeking a well-rounded cable that can handle everyday use for everyday devices, like the iPad, iPhone, and possibly future Apple products that use the lightning cable and USB-A charging. On that note, it is still unknown whether Apple will begin utilizing USB-C fully across all their devices, but if need be, I will make the switch to USB-C cables. In regards to micro USB’s, again, I find no need for them as I do not specifically use devices that utilize micro USB’s. Certified Compatible: MFi certified for flawless compatibility with Apple Lightning devices, ensuring safe charging at the highest possible speed.

Anker Powerline Cable Series Comparisons - II, +II, III, and Anker Powerline Cable Series Comparisons - II, +II, III, and

Enhanced Durability: Extreme reinforcement keeps internal wiring protected from trauma and degradation. There's no reason not to upgrade to the faster charging Anker Nano which costs less while still charging 3x faster." What You Get: PowerLine+ III USB-C to USB-C 2.0 Cable, welcome guide, worry-free lifetime warranty, and friendly customer service. It has reinforced the wires inside to give an added layer of protection beyond the outer rubber. In fact, Anker claims you can support up to 175 pounds of pulling force.

Top 10 Product Ratings

Personally, I am aware USB-C cables enable faster charging, but I do not have any USB-C wall chargers, or anything for that matter, that uses USB-C–and I am not sure if I am prepared to make the jump if using USB-A is going to be more versatile for me to use in the long run. Supports Power Delivery: Up to 60W high-speed charging for all of your USB-C devices when paired with a USB-C charger. (Charger not included).