How to tell cables apart?

#1

So I have a bunch of USB C to USB C cables. Is there a way to tell them apart? For example, a USB 3.1 gen 1/2 cable vs a USB 2.0 one.

#2

Depending on the manufacturer, they may put an “SS” (SuperSpeed) logo on their cable, indicating that it is, at least, a USB 3.0 cable, or they may put a label on the cord like this

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If you know what brand the cable came from, you can probably do quick research on your cable’s specifications online. However, that’s about it. USB-C [to USB-C] cables aren’t color-coded, unlike USB-A, from my experience, so it’s kind of hard to judge whether the cable supports USB 2.0 or 3.0.

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#3

Unless they have text or a logo printed on them, which is rare, your best bet is to know exactly what make and model cable you bought. If you bought on Amazon you can look up your order history. If bought in a store you may be out of luck.

The majority of USB-C to USB-C cables support USB 2.0 and 3A/60W power. If you paid $20 or more then it is more likely you have a USB 3.1 cable, but you can’t tell if Gen 1 or Gen 2 from price alone. There are USB-C testers available that can read cables and give you their specs. But for 1/3 of the price you could just buy a new cable you know the specs of.

If you keep several different types of USB-C cables consider getting small, colored dot stickers to help tell which is which.

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#4

This is your best bet, looking at what’s written.

#5

Thanks for the tips. Unfortunately most of my cables aren’t labeled. Anker and non Anker. But I do like the idea of labeling it somehow. Just need a good way to do it because i don’t like using stickers because it will eventually leave a sticky residue.