The Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface has existed since the mid-’90s, launched as a solution for connecting a variety of accessories to a desktop PC, including devices such as mice, keyboards, and external storage options. While contemporary applications primarily utilize USB-A and USB-C ports, the USB-B specification is still present, albeit less frequently employed.
The USB-B connector is the largest of the three USB connector types. Its connection features a rectangular shape with angled top corners, mainly used for connecting devices like printers and scanners. You’ll also encounter it in musical equipment like MIDI keyboards and synthesizers, as well as in numerous medical devices. Often, a USB-B connector is seen only on one side of a USB cable, with the opposite end being a USB-A connector.
As the USB specification has progressed over the years, USB-B has also undergone several generational updates. The USB 1.1 and 2.0 versions utilize the same USB-B connector design, while USB 3.0 introduced a new variant that incorporates nine pins (as opposed to the four pins in the previous versions) to enhance data transfer speeds. Based on the generation of hardware you are using, USB-B ports and connectors might also come in various colors.
The Importance of USB-B in Essential Equipment
In contrast to USB-A and USB-C, the boxier design of the USB-B port offers a stronger and more stable connection. This does not imply that A and C ports lack reliability; rather, USB-B was specifically designed with additional stability to ensure a secure, wobble-free connection that remains intact even if it is inadvertently bumped.
This is crucial for devices that depend on a consistent data flow to function, such as medical scanners or on-stage equipment for live performances. If an unexpected tug or movement disrupts a USB-B cable, the port’s solid grip is likely to maintain the connection.
Due to the sturdier connector housing and enhanced grip, USB-B connectors can often withstand more plug-unplug cycles — generally up to 5,000 — compared to USB-A, which usually endures 1,500 cycles or fewer. For devices that cannot afford to lose power or data transmission even for brief moments, USB-B is frequently the optimal choice and potentially the only USB connector available.
Why USB-C is the Port Standard That Truly Simplifies Life
While many of the best applications of your PC’s USB ports typically involve USB-A and USB-C devices (especially since most computers do not feature USB-B), you may still encounter occasional USB-B-powered technology. Additionally, there are several Micro and Mini variations of both USB-B and USB-A that you might find in various environments.
In general terms, USB-C is the connection that holds the most significance as we move towards the future of consumer electronics and even professional-grade tools — and it is also much simpler to work with compared to USB-B and USB-A. You might wonder why this is the case. Neither of the latter port types is reversible, meaning your USB cable or device can only be connected in one orientation.
This can be particularly frustrating when navigating in poorly lit areas or when contorting your body at an awkward angle — such as when you’re half-hidden behind a TV, blindly reaching for a port to connect a flash drive. Using USB-A or USB-B often results in the familiar “flip it, flip it back, try again” scenario. USB-C removes the uncertainty. If the connector fits, it will plug in seamlessly.
