Powerline+ II USB-C to USB-A 2.0 Cable Review

As technology evolves and improves there comes a time when we transition between various cable connection types. Currently we are seeing the transition from the USB-A connection type, which has been with us for a number of years now, to the more recent USB-C standard of connection.

From the latest MacBooks released over the last few years to power banks, chargers, and even the latest Apple iPad Pro now have USB-C connection ports on them to power and sync data to and from them.

If you’re like me, you will most likely have a number of tried and tested power adapters and in-car USB ports that carry the now older USB-A type. From dual sockets to desktop USB-A chargers, these things costed you back in the day, and you might want to keep them for just a bit longer.

If you’re going to keep hold of these older USB-A charging devices, then you’ll need to upgrade your cables if you want to power your latest USB-C tech. Replacing the cable can be a much cheaper option than replacing the charger outright. The Anker Powerline+ II USB-C to USB-A cable fills this void, allowing you to continue to use your existing charger or USB port in your car, for example, and provide power to your latest tech, be it a new USB-C powered smartphone, the latest MacBook laptop or iPad Pro.

Anker is usually my ‘go to’ cable manufacturer whenever I need to purchase additional or replacement cables for my devices. Their price and build quality are always fantastic. Their latest Powerline+ II USB-C to USB-A cable is another product that shines with the looks, the build quality and its price isn’t too bad either.

Its most striking feature is in its looks. Taking the cable out of its zippable pouch you are struck with its bright red braided cable and connections at each end. If jazzy colours do not float your boat you can opt for the more subdued black colour cable instead.

The problem with all cables of this type is that the join between the cable and the connector is always the weakest point and it is where most cables break the most. With the PowerLine+ II cable, its thick braided cable prevents you from creating a tight right angle, whilst the connector looks and feels like this cable will last a long while.

Lasting a while is good for your wallet. Especially when the Powerline+ II cable currently cost $13.99 from Amazon. Most USB-C cables still carry a premium price. Apple doesn’t officially sell a USB-A to C cable currently, instead they relying on third-party makers like Belkin to fill the void with their $29.95 cable. I find Apple’s endorsed cable (although just as thick) can perish quicker than a nylon fibre braided cable can. The Anker is certainly more durable in this department.

The Powerline+ II cable can transfer data to and from your USB-C devices at speeds of up to 480 Mbps. This isn’t the fastest USB-C cable out there. Transferring an HD movie in less than 1 minute. This cable is USB-C 2.0, which has a max speed of 480 Mbps. USB-C 3.0, 3.1 and Thunderbolt 3 can go from 5 Gbps, 10 Gbps, through to 40 Gbps respectively.

For most people, the Powerline+ II cable should cater for most tasks, such as transferring small amounts of data or charging devices such as some Android mobiles and tablets. It will charge Apple MacBook 12”, MacBook Air and 13.3” and 15.4” MacBook Pro, but with limited charging speeds, and it will not be a match to using the dedicated USB-C cable that came with it. Anker does a PowerLine+ USB-C to USB-C nylon braided cable, which we have also reviewed, so check that out.

If you’re looking to continue the life of your old charger, or you want a cheaper solution to powering your latest USB-C tech with your existing USB-A car charger, check out the Anker Powerline+ USB-C to USB-A Cable. It not only looks good, but its durability will last you too.

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