Starting with the iPhone 15 lineup, Apple finally switched to USB-C — unlocking faster charging and data transfer. But you don’t need to overpay for Apple’s official USB-C cable. There are excellent non-Apple alternatives that are faster, stronger, and cheaper, while still being fully compatible.
We’ve tested the most popular options and found two that stand out: one premium pick and one excellent budget option.
Top Pick: Anker Flow USB-C to USB-C Cable (60W, USB 2.0)
Anker USB C Cable, 100W Type C Flow Cord, Fast Charging for iPhone 16 Series, MacBook Pro 2020, and More (USB 2.0, 6FT, Black)
- Soft to the Touch: You’ve never felt a cable like this before. The silicone finish feels remarkably soft between your fingers as you plug the cable into your device.
- Super Strength: Our softest cable ever is also one of our strongest. Thanks to a 25,000-bend lifespan, this cable is more than ready to handle the stresses and strains of charging on the go.
- Bend It, Twist It, Flex It: Remains tangle-free even when stuffed into a bag or pocket, or wrapped around a portable charger.
List Price :
Price: 15.99
Buy at AmazonWhy It’s the Best
The Anker Flow USB-C Cable is built with a flexible silicone design that makes it tangle-resistant and surprisingly satisfying to use. It’s USB-IF certified and supports up to 100W charging, so it works great with iPhone 15 (and newer) as well as iPads, MacBooks, and Android phones.
- Fast Charging: Supports PD 3.0 and iPhone 15 fast charge
- Incredibly Soft & Durable: Silicone jacket feels premium and doesn’t tangle
- USB-IF Certified: Safe and future-proof
- Colors: Black, White, Light Blue, Green, Mauve, Yellow
Quick Specs:
- Connector: USB-C to USB-C
- Power: Up to 100W
- Certification: USB-IF Certified
- Best for: iPhone 15 series, travel, everyday use
Budget Pick: Amazon Basics USB-C to USB-C Cable (60W, USB 2.0)
Amazon Basics USB-C to USB-C 2.0 Fast Charger Cable, 480Mbps Speed, USB-IF Certified, for Apple iPhone 16/15, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Tablets, Laptops, 6 Foot, Black
- USB-IF Certified, connects any USB-C enabled devices. For power transfer/charging and data transfer between smartphones, power banks, wall/car chargers, hard-drives, tablets, laptops (up to 60W), and more
- In the box: 1 cable, 6 foot 60W USB-C 2.0 cable for charging and powering devices, transfering data, photos, and music
- Fast Charge and Data Transfer: Supports fast charging up to 60W (20V/3A) and data transfer speeds up to 480 Mbps. Do not exceed recommended load (60W, 20V/3A)
Price: 6.88
Buy at AmazonWhy It’s a Great Alternative
If you want a simple, low-cost USB-C cable that gets the job done, Amazon Basics has you. It supports up to 60W charging — more than enough for the iPhone 15 and 16 — and is built to last with tested strain relief.
- Affordable and Reliable
- Supports Fast Charging (plenty fast for phones, tablets, and smaller laptops)
- Basic but Tough: Withstands everyday wear and tear
While it’s not braided or ultra-flexible, it’s perfect as a spare, a travel charger, or a budget replacement for Apple’s overpriced options.
Quick Specs:
- Connector: USB-C to USB-C
- Power: Up to 60W
- Certification: USB-IF Compliant
- Best for: Backups, budget users, general use
Summary
If you’ve upgraded to the iPhone 15, there’s no reason to overpay for Apple’s USB-C cables. The Anker Flow Series gives you top-tier performance, fast charging, and unbeatable feel. For a cheaper option that still works great, the Amazon Basics USB-C cable is hard to beat for the price.
Both are reliable, fully compatible with the newest iPhones, and deliver the power and speed your device deserves.
