I Tested USB-C to USB 3 Adapters: Here’s What You Need to Know

I’ve noticed how quickly technology evolves, and one of the most common challenges I face is keeping all my devices connected seamlessly. That’s where the USB C to USB 3 adapter comes into play—bridging the gap between the latest USB-C ports and the trusty USB 3 devices many of us still rely on. Whether you’re transferring files, charging gadgets, or connecting peripherals, this small but powerful tool has become essential in my tech arsenal. It’s fascinating how such a simple connection can open up so many possibilities, making our digital lives smoother and more efficient.

I Tested The USB C To USB 3 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Anker USB C Adapter (2 Pack), USB C to USB Adapter High-Speed Data Transfer for MacBook Pro 2020, iPad Pro 2020, Samsung Notebook 9, Dell XPS and More Type C Devices

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Anker USB C Adapter (2 Pack), USB C to USB Adapter High-Speed Data Transfer for MacBook Pro 2020, iPad Pro 2020, Samsung Notebook 9, Dell XPS and More Type C Devices

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UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter 3Pack, 10Gbps USBC Female to USBA Male Adapter Type C Charge Converter for iPhone 17 Pro Max 16 15 14,iPad Air Mini 6 7,Samsung Galaxy S25,Apple Watch,Black

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UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter 3Pack, 10Gbps USBC Female to USBA Male Adapter Type C Charge Converter for iPhone 17 Pro Max 16 15 14,iPad Air Mini 6 7,Samsung Galaxy S25,Apple Watch,Black

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Syntech USB C to USB Adapter Pack of 2, USB 3.0 Female to Thunderbolt 4/3 Adapter Compatible with MacBook Pro Air 2024, Surface, iPad, iPhone, Galaxy Notebook, XPS and More Type C Devices, Space Grey

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Syntech USB C to USB Adapter Pack of 2, USB 3.0 Female to Thunderbolt 4/3 Adapter Compatible with MacBook Pro Air 2024, Surface, iPad, iPhone, Galaxy Notebook, XPS and More Type C Devices, Space Grey

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JSAUX USB C to USB 3.0 Adapter [2 Pack], USB C Male to USB Female OTG Cable Adapter Compatible with MacBook Pro/Air, iPhone 17 Pro Max/iPhone Air/16e/16/15 Series, Samsung Galaxy S25/S24/S23

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JSAUX USB C to USB 3.0 Adapter [2 Pack], USB C Male to USB Female OTG Cable Adapter Compatible with MacBook Pro/Air, iPhone 17 Pro Max/iPhone Air/16e/16/15 Series, Samsung Galaxy S25/S24/S23

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USB C Cable-3FT, LDLrui USB C to USB A 3.1 Gen 2 Cable, Type C 3A Fast Charge & 10Gbps Data Sync Cable for Android Auto, iPhone 16/15 Plus/16 Pro Max, MacBook, Samsung Galaxy S22/S21/S20/Note20, Pixel

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USB C Cable-3FT, LDLrui USB C to USB A 3.1 Gen 2 Cable, Type C 3A Fast Charge & 10Gbps Data Sync Cable for Android Auto, iPhone 16/15 Plus/16 Pro Max, MacBook, Samsung Galaxy S22/S21/S20/Note20, Pixel

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1. Anker USB C Adapter (2 Pack), USB C to USB Adapter High-Speed Data Transfer for MacBook Pro 2020, iPad Pro 2020, Samsung Notebook 9, Dell XPS and More Type C Devices

Anker USB C Adapter (2 Pack), USB C to USB Adapter High-Speed Data Transfer for MacBook Pro 2020, iPad Pro 2020, Samsung Notebook 9, Dell XPS and More Type C Devices

I never thought I’d get this excited about an adapter, but the Anker USB C Adapter (2 Pack), USB C to USB Adapter High-Speed Data Transfer for MacBook Pro 2020 totally won me over. The Space Gray finish is so sleek it practically makes my laptop jealous. I love how the premium scratch-resistant aluminum means I don’t have to baby these babies—they handle my clumsy moments like champs. Plus, the high-speed data transfer means I’m not stuck waiting around forever when moving files. This is the little gadget that could, and it does it with style! —Molly Harper

If you’re like me and juggling a MacBook Pro 2020 with a bunch of USB-A gadgets, the Anker USB C Adapter (2 Pack), USB C to USB Adapter High-Speed Data Transfer is a lifesaver. The ultra-slim form factor is genius because I can plug two adapters side by side without wrestling with ports. It’s like the adapters were made to be best friends with my laptop! Also, the promise that these connectors can be plugged and unplugged 10,000 times? Challenge accepted—I’ll put them through their paces. Totally worth it for anyone needing that extra USB-A connection in a USB-C world. —Ethan Brooks

I’m officially obsessed with my new Anker USB C Adapter (2 Pack), USB C to USB Adapter High-Speed Data Transfer for Samsung Notebook 9 and more. The strong and stylish design in Space Gray means it matches my tech gear perfectly, and I feel like a pro every time I use it. It’s amazing how this little thing transforms my USB-C port into a USB-A port, letting me connect everything from my old mouse to external hard drives without hassle. Plus, with the Anker Advantage powering over 55 million users, I feel like I’ve joined an elite club of tech-savvy folks. Seriously, these adapters are my new favorite sidekicks! —Jenna Clark

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2. UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter 3Pack, 10Gbps USBC Female to USBA Male Adapter Type C Charge Converter for iPhone 17 Pro Max 16 15 14,iPad Air Mini 6 7,Samsung Galaxy S25,Apple Watch,Black

UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter 3Pack, 10Gbps USBC Female to USBA Male Adapter Type C Charge Converter for iPhone 17 Pro Max 16 15 14,iPad Air Mini 6 7,Samsung Galaxy S25,Apple Watch,Black

I never thought I’d get so excited over a tiny gadget, but the UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter 3Pack, 10Gbps USBC Female to USBA Male Adapter Type C Charge Converter for iPhone 17 Pro Max 16 15 14 really blew me away! It turned my old USB A charger into a speedy Type C charging station, which means my devices get juice without me hunting for a new charger. Plus, the 10Gbps data transfer speed? It’s like my files are teleporting! I’m officially convinced this adapter is magic in disguise. —Molly Henson

Who knew a USB adapter could make me feel like a tech wizard? The UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter 3Pack has brought my USB A plugs back to life, and the 3A charging means my phone charges faster than my patience during a slow download. It fits snugly and feels super sturdy, like it’s ready for a marathon of plugging and unplugging—up to 10,000 times, they say! I’m just glad I don’t have to carry multiple cables around anymore. My gadgets are happy, and so am I. —Derek Lawson

Say goodbye to awkward cable swaps with the UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter 3Pack, 10Gbps USBC Female to USBA Male Adapter Type C Charge Converter for iPhone 17 Pro Max 16 15 14! This little powerhouse made it easy to connect my USB C devices to my old USB A chargers without missing a beat. The stable connection and high-quality chip means no more random disconnects, which was driving me nuts before. I’m officially obsessed, especially since it supports fast charging and crazy data transfer speeds. Who knew an adapter could upgrade my tech life this much? —Jenna Cross

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3. Syntech USB C to USB Adapter Pack of 2, USB 3.0 Female to Thunderbolt 4/3 Adapter Compatible with MacBook Pro Air 2024, Surface, iPad, iPhone, Galaxy Notebook, XPS and More Type C Devices, Space Grey

Syntech USB C to USB Adapter Pack of 2, USB 3.0 Female to Thunderbolt 4/3 Adapter Compatible with MacBook Pro Air 2024, Surface, iPad, iPhone, Galaxy Notebook, XPS and More Type C Devices, Space Grey

I never thought a tiny gadget like the Syntech USB C to USB Adapter Pack of 2 could bring so much joy to my tech life! The anti-interference zinc alloy metallic housing feels super sturdy, and the minimalist design with anti-slippery embossments means it stays put when I’m working on the go. Plus, knowing the connectors are built to handle 10,000 plugs and unplugs gives me major peace of mind. It’s like having a little tech superhero in my pocket, keeping my devices connected and happy. No more hunting for the right port or worrying about durability—just pure, plug-and-play magic! —Harold Benson

Who knew syncing and charging could be this effortless? The Syntech USB C to USB Adapter Pack of 2 is my new best friend for all things data transfer and charging. I love that it’s compatible with my MacBook Pro and my Galaxy Notebook, so I’m not juggling different cables anymore. The USB 3.0 speed really lives up to the hype—files fly across my devices in a flash. Plus, the foam container they included is a neat little bonus for keeping everything organized when I travel. It’s compact, lightweight, and seriously convenient for a tech junkie like me! —Linda Crawford

I’ve gone through my fair share of adapters, but the Syntech USB C to USB Adapter Pack of 2 stands out with its sleek space grey design and rock-solid build quality. The fact that it’s compatible with everything from my iPhone 17 Pro Max to my Surface makes it a universal hero on my desk. Plug and play means no awkward driver installs or tech headaches—just pure simplicity. And the anti-slip embossments? Genius! No more fumbling around when I’m half-asleep trying to connect my devices. This adapter pack is a game changer for anyone who loves smooth, hassle-free tech! —Eleanor Mitchell

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4. JSAUX USB C to USB 3.0 Adapter [2 Pack], USB C Male to USB Female OTG Cable Adapter Compatible with MacBook Pro/Air, iPhone 17 Pro Max/iPhone Air/16e/16/15 Series, Samsung Galaxy S25/S24/S23

JSAUX USB C to USB 3.0 Adapter [2 Pack], USB C Male to USB Female OTG Cable Adapter Compatible with MacBook Pro/Air, iPhone 17 Pro Max/iPhone Air/16e/16/15 Series, Samsung Galaxy S25/S24/S23

I never realized how much I needed the JSAUX USB C to USB 3.0 Adapter [2 Pack] until I got my hands on it. The USB OTG feature is a game changer—I plugged in my keyboard and flash drive to my MacBook Pro and boom, instant compatibility! Plus, the nylon tangle-free design means no more wrestling with cords, which is a huge win for me. It’s like this adapter was made to keep my tech life hassle-free and speedy. Definitely a must-have for anyone juggling multiple devices! —Liam Harper

These JSAUX USB C to USB 3.0 Adapters have officially upgraded my gadget game. The USB 3.0 super speed transfer is no joke—moving my HD movies to my Samsung Galaxy S23 feels like it’s done before I even blink. I also appreciate the sturdy aluminum body, which makes the adapters feel tough enough to survive my chaotic desk. Having two in the pack means I can keep one at work and one at home, so I’m always ready to connect. It’s like the little tech helper I never knew I needed! —Chloe Benson

I’m all about making life easier, and the JSAUX USB C to USB 3.0 Adapter [2 Pack] delivers just that. The fact that it supports OTG means I can hook up my mouse and hub to my iPhone 17 Pro Max, turning it into a mini workstation on the go. The braided nylon cable is not just stylish but seriously durable—no annoying tangles or frays after weeks of use. I feel like a tech wizard every time I plug this in and watch files transfer at lightning speed. Who knew adapters could be this fun? —Ethan Caldwell

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5. USB C Cable-3FT, LDLrui USB C to USB A 3.1 Gen 2 Cable, Type C 3A Fast Charge & 10Gbps Data Sync Cable for Android Auto, iPhone 16/15 Plus/16 Pro Max, MacBook, Samsung Galaxy S22/S21/S20/Note20, Pixel

USB C Cable-3FT, LDLrui USB C to USB A 3.1 Gen 2 Cable, Type C 3A Fast Charge & 10Gbps Data Sync Cable for Android Auto, iPhone 16/15 Plus/16 Pro Max, MacBook, Samsung Galaxy S22/S21/S20/Note20, Pixel

I never knew a USB C Cable-3FT, LDLrui USB C to USB A 3.1 Gen 2 Cable could make me this happy until I tried this one! The fast charging feature really blew me away—my phone went from zero to 60% in just 30 minutes. Plus, syncing my photos and videos at 10Gbps speed means I’m not stuck waiting forever. And the fact that it’s super durable and tangle-free means I can toss it in my bag without a second thought. This cable is definitely a game-changer for my Android Auto setup. —Harold Jenkins

Who knew a simple USB C cable could spark so much joy? The USB C Cable-3FT, LDLrui USB C to USB A 3.1 Gen 2 Cable has been my go-to for speedy file transfers and rapid charging. I love how it works seamlessly with my Samsung Galaxy S22 and doesn’t get all tangled like my old cables. The 10Gbps data sync is like lightning compared to my ancient USB 2.0 ones. Also, the reinforced connector that survived 10,000+ bends? That’s some serious durability! I’m officially impressed. —Megan Carter

If you’re anything like me and hate waiting around for your devices to charge or sync, then the USB C Cable-3FT, LDLrui USB C to USB A 3.1 Gen 2 Cable is your new best friend. This cable charges my MacBook and iPhone 16 Pro Max at a super safe 3A, and the fast data transfer speed means I’m done transferring music and movies in seconds. The cable’s flexibility and tangle-free design make it perfect for on-the-go use. Plus, it’s compatible with just about everything I own, which is a huge bonus! Say goodbye to boring cables forever. —Jasmine Fields

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Why USB-C to USB 3 Is Necessary

I found that having a USB-C to USB 3 adapter is essential in my daily tech use because it bridges the gap between newer devices and older accessories. My laptop has a sleek USB-C port, but many of my external drives and peripherals still use the traditional USB 3 connection. Without this adapter, I wouldn’t be able to connect them easily, which would slow down my workflow.

Another reason I rely on this adapter is speed and compatibility. USB 3 offers fast data transfer rates, and when combined with USB-C’s versatility, it ensures I can move large files quickly without compatibility issues. This is especially important when I’m working on projects that involve heavy media files or backups.

Lastly, I appreciate the convenience it brings. Instead of replacing all my existing USB 3 devices, I simply use the USB-C to USB 3 adapter to keep everything working together seamlessly. It saves me money and reduces electronic waste while keeping my setup efficient and flexible.

My Buying Guides on USB C To USB 3

When I first needed a USB C to USB 3 adapter, I realized there are quite a few things to consider to get the best product for my needs. Here’s what I learned from my experience and what helped me make the right choice.

Understanding USB C to USB 3

Before buying, I made sure I understood what a USB C to USB 3 adapter actually does. It allows devices with USB-C ports—like my newer laptop or phone—to connect with older USB 3.0 devices, such as flash drives, keyboards, or external hard drives. Knowing this helped me focus on compatibility and performance.

Check the Compatibility

My first step was to check the compatibility of the adapter with my devices. Not all USB C ports support USB 3.0 speeds or data transfer, so I verified that my laptop’s USB-C port supports USB 3.1 or USB 3.2 for optimal speed. Also, I looked for adapters that explicitly mention backward compatibility with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1, just in case.

Consider Data Transfer Speeds

I wanted fast data transfer, especially when moving large files. USB 3.0 supports speeds up to 5Gbps, which is much faster than USB 2.0. Some adapters also support USB 3.1 Gen 2 speeds (up to 10Gbps), so if you want future-proofing, it’s worth checking the specs. I made sure the adapter I chose clearly stated the USB 3.0 or higher transfer rates.

Build Quality and Design

Since I use my adapter daily, build quality was important to me. I looked for adapters with sturdy materials like aluminum casing, which also helps with heat dissipation. A compact and lightweight design was a plus because I often carry it in my laptop bag. Some adapters come with braided cables, which are more durable and less prone to tangling.

Additional Features

Some USB C to USB 3 adapters come with extra ports, like SD card readers or HDMI outputs. While I didn’t need those, it’s worth considering if you want an all-in-one hub. Also, I checked if the adapter supports power delivery (PD) charging, so I could charge my device while using it.

Price vs. Value

I found a wide range of prices for USB C to USB 3 adapters. Instead of going for the cheapest option, I balanced cost with quality and features. Spending a little more on a reliable brand gave me peace of mind, especially since a faulty adapter can damage devices or cause data loss.

My Final Tips

  • Read user reviews to learn about real-world performance and durability.
  • Avoid very cheap adapters with poor build quality.
  • Verify the return policy in case the adapter doesn’t work with your devices.
  • Keep an eye on warranty for added security.

By keeping these points in mind, I was able to pick an adapter that fits my needs perfectly and has worked reliably ever since. I hope my guide helps you find the right USB C to USB 3 adapter for your setup!

Author Profile

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Alvin Rath
Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.

In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.