Universal Serial Bus (commonly referred to as USB) is an adaptable interface utilized in a wide range of devices — spanning from smartphones to lifestyle products — for transmitting data, power, and video signals. USB ports are most frequently encountered in computers, mobile devices, peripherals, and accessories. Nevertheless, even with “universal” in its title, USB does not conform to a one-size-fits-all port — they are available in numerous shapes and capabilities.
USB-C has become the preferred port for many contemporary devices, attributed to its remarkable features. However, the older ports, like USB Type-A and USB Type-B, remain quite relevant in our daily lives. In fact, they still appear across various devices, with Type-A being significantly more prevalent than the Type-B port. Therefore, if you’re uncertain about the different types of USB ports and their functionalities, here’s a brief overview of the various connectors you may come across on different devices, inclusive of their appearance and capabilities.