AmazonBasics USB A Nylon Braided Lightning Cable

If you’ve bought a new Apple device in recent years, you probably are aware that the ports have changed. You’ll need a cable with something called a lightning port for your iPhone, iPad, iPod and Nano. This is the cable that allows you to charge your device’s battery. The other end is a USB connector that you can either plug into your computer or a wall plug with USB ports built in.

Your device may have come with a lightning cable, but it can never hurt to have another one on hand. At some point, you’ll inevitably lose it. But you may want to consider buying another cable anyway. Although the Apple cable is certified to work with its products, the cable itself can be a little on the flimsy side.

Going with third-party cables can be risky, though. Apple recommends only choosing products with the “Made for iPhone/iPad/iPod” logo. Those are what’s known as MFi certified, and they have been tested and approved for use with Apple products. Using noncertified cables can cause damage to your device, or you may spend the money to find they don’t work at all.

Once you’ve opened up the possibilities to third-party cables, though, you’ll find you can get a variety of upgraded features at affordable prices. One of the biggest benefits you can gain is a thicker, more durable build that survives wear. Some have even been tested to ensure they can withstand thousands of bends without wearing out.

In addition to durability, some of these third-party cables feature a design that speeds up data transmission. That means if you move your photos and other files from your mobile device to your computer, you’ll get a boosted experience. Lastly, there’s the build of the connector. With the right materials, you get durability, as well as enhanced features like a 90-degree connector that allows for easier access and less strain on the cable itself as it reaches around objects.

• If you buy an MFi-certified lightning cable, it should at least meet the minimum requirements for charging your phone and transferring data. However, it can’t hurt to look at the specifications. Check the data transfer speed and make sure it offers USB 2.0 transfer rates and at least 12W of charging power.
• Look at the design of the cable to make sure the materials are strong enough to withstand typical wear and tear. This includes bending due to getting caught between tables or folded improperly in your bag.
• Pay close attention to the length of any cable you order. While it can be tempting to order the longest available, that can become unwieldy. Order the length you need to comfortably reach from your device to your computer or the plug in the wall.
• That said, if you want flexibility while charging your phone, you may want to have at least one extremely long cable on hand. That will let you use your phone on your bed or sofa while charging it on a wall outlet that’s not conveniently located nearby.
• If you’d like fast-charging capabilities, make sure your cable has 2.4A fast charging built in.
• Although most cables come in a neutral white or black color, there’s something to be said for choosing one in a unique color. If you have a bundle of cables, you’ll be able to quickly identify it. Friends and household members will also have a harder time “accidentally” taking yours and using it.
• Some cables are built with a layer of protective cloth on the outer core. This makes it easier to tightly wind the cables inside since there’s no need to worry about the exterior. It also provides a layer of protection.