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Apple is renowned for its impeccable synergy of top-tier hardware and software, ensuring seamless performance and longevity. However, when it comes to their Lightning cables, the story takes a different turn. The ‘Best Lightning Cables‘ often fall short of the same high standards, proving to be less durable and frequently necessitating replacement throughout the lifespan of your iPhone or Mac.
There are a lot of Lightning cables from different brands, which is good news. We’ve put together this list of some of the best Lightning cables. If I had to choose, I would go with cables made by Anker. Anker is a reputable company that makes accessories of high quality. The cable that comes with your iPhone is short and easy to wear out, but third-party companies like Anker and Nomad have made cables that are more durable and work better than Apple’s.
Best Lightning cables Comparison Table
| Name | Compatibility | Connector Type | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anker USB-C to Lightning Cable | iPhone, iPad, iPod | USB-C to Lightning | Durable design, MFi certified |
| Anker USB-C to 90 Degree Lightning Cable | iPhone, iPad, iPod | USB-C to Lightning | 90-degree connector |
| Nomad Lightning to USB-C | iPhone, iPad, iPod | Lightning to USB-C | Durable build, sleek design |
| Apple Lightning to USB-C Cable | iPhone, iPad, iPod | Lightning to USB-C | Official Apple accessory |
| Anker 331 USB-C to Lightning Cable | iPhone, iPad, iPod | USB-C to Lightning | Durable design, MFi certified |
Anker USB-C to Lighting Cable
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Connector Type | USB-C to Lightning |
| Cable Length | Varies (multiple options) |
| Compatibility | Apple devices |
| Material | Durable and flexible |
| Charging Speed | Fast charging supported |
One of the best lightning cables on the market is the Anker PowerLine II. It lasts a long time and can be charged quickly. You also get a warranty that lasts forever.
The Good
- superior and robust construction
- ability to charge quickly
- suitable for Apple products
The Bad
- possibly cost a little more than generic cables.
Anker USB-C to 90 Degree Lightning Cable
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Connector Type | USB-C to 90 Degree Lightning |
| Cable Length | Varies (multiple options) |
| Compatibility | Apple devices |
| Material | Durable and flexible |
| Charging Speed | Fast charging supported |
We want you to be able to live your life without having to worry about where your next charge is coming from. Our chargers and accessories don’t just give your devices power; they also give you the freedom to use your tech the way you want.
When you use an 18W USB-C charger with your Lightning devices, you can use Power Delivery to charge them quickly. (Not including the charge) MFi-certified to work perfectly with Lightning devices, making sure that every charge is safe and easy.
The Good
- Innovative 90-degree connector design for easy use
- ability to charge quickly
- suitable for Apple products
The Bad
- slightly more expensive because of the unique connector design
Nomad Lightning to USB-C
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Connector Type | Lightning to USB-C |
| Cable Length | Varies (multiple options) |
| Compatibility | Apple devices |
| Material | Premium quality |
| Charging Speed | Fast charging supported |
While Anker is the best value for money, Nomad’s USB-C cable was the best in our tests because of how well it was made and how long it lasted. With a double-braided Kevlar sheath, Nomad’s cable felt thicker and stronger than every other cable we tested, without losing too much flexibility. It comes with a rubber cable tie for neatly coiling it up, and its joints were by far the strongest of the bunch. It also comes with a five-year warranty.
If you want the best cable you can buy, the Nomad Lightning to USB-C cord and its Lightning to USB-A version, which we also tested, are the best you can get. We couldn’t recommend them to everyone because they cost $40. They are better for heavy travelers who want more comfort and durability.
The Good
- High-end construction for lasting use
- supported by fast charging
- Specifically made for Apple devices
The Bad
- Possibly more expensive than generic cables
Apple Lightning to USB-C Cable
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Connector Type | Lightning to USB-C |
| Cable Length | Varies (multiple options) |
| Compatibility | Apple devices |
| Material | High-quality |
| Charging Speed | Fast charging supported |
To use Fast Charge on your iPhone, you need a USB-C to Lightning cable and at least an 18W adaptor. Apple’s version might be one of the most expensive, but it’s also the most reliable because it comes straight from Apple.
The Apple Lightning to USB-C cable comes in three lengths: 0.5m, 1m, and 2m. It only comes in the classic Apple white color. Keep in mind that it can get pretty dirty quickly.
The Good
- official Apple cable for compatibility assurance
- supported by fast charging
- durable construction with high-quality materials
The Bad
- Usually more expensive than alternatives from third parties
Anker 331 USB-C to Lightning Cable
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Connector Type | USB-C to Lightning |
| Cable Length | Varies (multiple options) |
| Compatibility | Apple devices |
| Material | Durable and flexible |
| Charging Speed | Fast charging supported |
Anker is one of the most trusted brands of Apple accessories, and it has a large selection of USB to Lightning cables. Anker’s cheapest cable is the Apple-certified nylon-braided Anker 331 USB-C to Lightning Cable. It is still more durable than Apple’s cables and comes in more lengths and colors (Black, Silver, Blue, and Red) than Apple’s cables. Anker says that the 331 cable can bend up to 12,000 times before it breaks. With the Anker 762 USB-C to Lightning Cable, that number goes up to 35,000.
The Good
- Enduring and adaptable design
- ability to charge quickly
- suitable for Apple products
The Bad
- May only be partially available in some areas
FAQs
Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and iPods can’t be charged or synced without Lightning cables. They make it possible for the device to connect to a power source or a computer.
The best Lightning cables are those that are durable, can charge quickly, transfer data quickly, and work with a variety of Apple devices. They should also be a good value and made by well-known brands.