The USB-C cable is a data transfer and charging cable. Its full name is USB Type-C. It is a miracle of technological standards, especially when it comes to cables and connections. It has a reversible design, providing a one-size-fits-all charging and data transfer solution for devices ranging from laptops, tablets, mobile phones to game consoles.
USB-C is versatile in charging and data transfer, and can integrate multiple cables into a universal cable. With its excellent data transfer rate (USB 3.1 up to 10 Gbps), it can transmit data, video, audio and power at the same time. This multi-purpose function is achieved by supporting different modes (such as DisplayPort and HDMI on USB-C) and protocols including Thunderbolt 3 and USB4.
USB-C has the following main features:
1. Double-sided: The USB-C interface is designed to be non-directional, which means that there is no need to distinguish between the front and back sides, and it can work normally when plugged in and unplugged at will.
2. High-speed transmission: Supports multiple data transmission protocols. The basic version provides a transmission speed of up to 10Gbps. The newer USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 version can reach 20Gbps, and Thunderbolt 3 or 4 can provide a transmission rate of up to 40Gbps through the USB-C interface.
3. Strong power supply capability: USB-C supports the USB Power Delivery (USB PD) protocol and can provide up to 100W of power transmission, allowing it to charge laptops and even larger devices.
4. Versatility: In addition to data transmission and charging, USB-C can also transmit audio and video signals. Many modern laptops and smartphones use the USB-C interface to realize video output functions such as DisplayPort and HDMI, realizing multiple uses of one line.
What to look for in a USB-C to USB-C cable to play a video?
When selecting a USB-C to USB-C cable mainly for video play, it's essential to look for the following features:
DisplayPort Alternate Mode (DP Alt Mode)
DP Alt Mode on USB Type-C allows the cable to carry DisplayPort signals. Therefore, it enables the usage of adaptors that can output DisplayPort, HDMI, VGA, DVI, etc. Choose a cable that explicitly supports DP Alt Mode to ensure exceptional video quality.
Thunderbolt 3 Support
Thunderbolt 3 cables utilize the same connectors as USB-C and can carry audio, video, data, power, and even network traffic. A cable with Thunderbolt 3 support ensures you can transfer videos at a breathtaking speed of up to 40Gbps and connect to high-resolution displays like 4K and 5K monitors.
USB4 Compatibility
Being backward compatible, USB4 cables can connect easily with older USB versions while preserving their features. For video play, USB4 compatibility ensures faster transfer speeds simultaneously with power delivery, offering better performance.
What are some other ways to play a video with USB-C?
Here's a walkthrough of various methods you could consider to play a video using USB-C:
Use USB-C to HDMI or DisplayPort Adapter
One efficient method is to use a USB-C to HDMI or DisplayPort adapter. Ensuring your device(s) are compatible with these ports, simply connect one end of the adapter to your USB-C device, and the other to a television or monitor's HDMI or DisplayPort. This method supports high-definition video and audio transmission, providing stunning image and sound quality.
The USB-C Adapter (8K DisplayPort) offers high-definition video support up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@144Hz for seamless screen mirroring or extension. This plug-and-play adapter transforms your laptop's USB-C port into a DisplayPort without installation, is HDCP-compliant for encrypted content, and is universally compatible with various TVs, monitors, and projectors.
USB-C docking station
Another option is a USB-C docking station, a hub allowing connection between multiple devices. Docking stations often come with a variety of ports e.g., HDMI, VGA, and Ethernet. It allows your USB-C device to connect to different video and audio interfaces, not limited to HDMI or DisplayPort. When coupled with your USB-C device, you can play video on various screens or projectors, providing versatility and convenience.
Use streaming devices
Streaming devices like Google Chromecast or Amazon Fire Stick also support video playback via USB-C. Using these devices involves connecting them to your TV's HDMI port and supplying power with USB-C cables. Once set up, you can stream videos from your mobile devices or services like Netflix and YouTube to your TV.
