Anker USB-C cables are just $3.50 each when you buy a 2-pack for $6.99. Also, the best-selling wireless CarPlay adapter is down to just $49.99 right now, matching an all-time low.

We've said it before, and we'll say it again: USB-C is confusing. A USB-C port or cable can ... from 0.48Gbps (USB 2.0) all the way to 40Gbps (USB4, Thunderbolt 3, and Thunderbolt 4).

USB 3.1 Gen 2 speeds make a difference. In our testing, this Cable Matters cable read data at 1,743 megabytes per second, in contrast to cables with USB 2.0 speeds, which managed about 36 MB/s.

While a USB 2.0 port could deliver just 2.5 watts of power, about enough to slowly charge a phone, USB 3.1 upped this to about 4.5 watts, and the initial uses of USB-C topped out at 15 watts of power.

but use a USB 3.0 cable—data will only transfer at USB 3.0 speeds. Make sure every link in your chain is rated for the speed you need. USB Power Delivery (or USB-PD) Instead of carrying a ...