USB 3.1 (aka USB 3.1/gen 1 and USB 3.1/gen 2) is the successor to USB 3.0. What is USB 3.1? USB Type-A and a USB Type C side-by-side in harmony Remember, Type-C is the connection type and may actually run on a lesser spec – USB 2.0 even – so don’t assume you’ll be getting all that 3.1 or 3.2 goodness just because you see that tiny reversible port. One thing to note, because announcements of Type-C connections have come hand in hand with USB 3.1/3.2, many people assume they’re the same, or at the very least that all Type-C runs on the faster spec. If you’ve purchased a new PC recently, you probably have at least one USB C port. Over the next few years, look for USB Type-C to begin becoming the universal port for all devices including desktop, laptop, and mobile.

And best of all, it’s reversible, so the days of flipping your USB cable three times before inserting it correctly may finally be numbered. Basically, it’s one USB connection type to rule them all. It’s the form factor – small, compact, and replaces the standard USB Type-A and B connections as well as the myriad of micro and mini USB ports. USB Type-C is a description of the port connection itself. Here’s a chart:īut now Type-C is here to save the day. Add micro and mini versions commonly used with phones/tablets of each of these into the fold and suddenly you’ve got a half dozen connection types and a recipe for confusion. The blocky, almost square port used in many large peripherals like printers is USB Type-B. The rectangular port you’re most familiar is called USB Type-A.

Over the years, the USB connection has taken on many forms. But what’s the difference? Which one do you need? And how are they different from previous types like USB 3.0 or even 2.0? Let’s break it down. If you’ve been paying attention to the world of USB, you may have heard about USB 3.1/3.2 and USB Type-C.

C vs d drive