USB ports aren’t always clearly marked. On laptops, sometimes you may see an identifier somewhere but on smaller devices – such as smartphones – it can be hard knowing what USB cable is right.

What Kind of USB Ports Are There?

Several USB cable types exist. USB is the most common plug-and-play interface in modern technology, after all.

Though smartphones and computers often offer very standard USB ports, there are hundreds of devices that may display a different kind of port or require a different cable than what you typically employ. Here are the most popular USB ports and cable types used today.

– USB-A.
– USB-B.
– USB Type-C.
– Micro-USB.
– Mini-USB.
– USB 3.0.
– USB 2.0.

Please note, this also doesn’t factor in the various USB adapters that exist, such as USB-to-HDMI cables.

How to Know What USB Ports Are on A Smartphone

On a smartphone, the process is relatively simple.

Androids have used the USB-B connector on practically every device since 2008. USB-B was dominant for many years until the introduction of USB-C which is now the preferred cable of smartphones in the last couple of years.

USB-C cables look similar to USB-B although they tend to be slightly more oval-shaped and thicker.

When in doubt on what USB cable might be needed to match the port on your smartphone, searching the information online isn’t difficult based on your phone type. If you had a manual come with the phone, this should also indicate what kind of USB port is on the device.

How to Know What USB Ports Are on Your Computer

If it’s a computer, the process of finding out what USB cable you need is simple.

Open the ‘Device Manager’. Look for ‘Universal Serial Bus controllers’ and click. This will show all USB ports installed on your computer.

If a USB port name shows as ‘Universal Host’, it’s USB 1.1.

If a USB port shows up as ‘Universal Host’ and ‘Enhanced Host’, it’s USB 2.0.

If it’s identified as ‘USB 3.0’, what you will need is then a USB 3.0 cable.

Can You Connect the Wrong USB Cable to Your Port?

If the cable fits, it’s the right USB cable for the port. A port is made for one specific cable type, refusing connection to any other.

Try to fit a different cable into the port than what is recommended and it will be so differently-sized that it’ll be either impossible to fit in because the cable connector is larger than the port or the cable connector will be too small and not connect.

PrimeCables.ca is your one-stop-shop for USB cables of all types. Once you know what USB port you’re working with, order high-quality long-lasting USB cables from the experts with fast, free shipping to anywhere in Canada on orders above $49.