I’m still torn about USB-C charging on laptops. Yes, it’s convenient, but the times that I’ve almost dragged my laptop to a crashing death because the cable got tangled in something still haunt my dreams.
Here’s how you can put a stop to that problem forever, and not lose the convenience of USB-C.
A magnetic breakaway connector.
I’ve written about USB-C magnetic breakaway connectors in the past, but lately, I noticed a new design that looked to be improved, so I bought a few to test.
The verdict — get a set today!
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These connectors consist of two parts.
First is a bit that fits into the USB-C port, and the other is an end that fits onto the cable and magnetically attaches to the bit in the port, creating a secure connection that will disconnect if too much strain is put on the cable.
I’ve been using a set for a few weeks now and they’ve worked flawlessly. They attach easily like any other USB-C connector and don’t in any way impede or interfere with any of the features you’d expect from the USB-C port (you still get 100W charging, 10Gbps data transfer, and 4K@60 Hz video output).
There’s even a built-in LED to show when the laptop is charging.
While the older style was very reliable, I find that the new improved design of these means that there’s less chance of inadvertently mis-seating the connector and it not charging the laptop.
They’re also handy on smartphones, especially if you charge one in the car.
They’re also quite a bargain — two for $22.
Right-angled USB-C adapterSupport up to 100W Fast Charging SafelySupport USB 3.1(10Gbps) data TransferSupport 4K@60Hz Ultra HD video outputSupport OTGStronger magnet means a more reliable connectionBuilt-in LED2-pack
$22 at Amazon