Why Your USB Port Type Matters
Before you connect your camera to your computer for tethered photography or any high-speed data transfer, it’s critical to know what kind of USB ports your computer has. Whether you’re using USB-A or USB-C, understanding the type and speed of your USB ports will ensure compatibility and optimal performance.
In this tech tip, we’ll break down:
- The different USB port types (USB-A vs USB-C)
- How to physically identify your USB ports
- How to find out your USB port type using your system settings
- Why knowing your port matters when choosing the right USB cable
What Are the Different Types of USB Ports?
Let’s start by clarifying the most common USB types you’ll encounter:
USB-A
- The traditional rectangular port found on older PCs and some Macs.
- USB-A ports support USB 2.0, 3.0, and 3.1 speeds.
- USB 3.0 ports often have blue plastic inside to differentiate them from USB 2.0 (usually white or black).
USB-C
- The newer, oval-shaped, reversible connector.
- Found on newer Macs, PCs, and many mobile devices.
- Supports faster data transfer rates (USB 3.1, 3.2, and even USB4) and often supports charging and video output.
USB-A vs USB-C
| Feature | USB-A | USB-C |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Rectangular | Oval (reversible) |
| Speed Support | Up to USB 3.2 | Up to USB4 / Thunderbolt 4 |
| Orientation | One-way insertion | Reversible |
| Power Delivery | Limited | Supports high-wattage charging |
How to Identify USB Ports on Your Computer
Physically Examine Your Laptop or Desktop
Look at the ports on your device. Here are clues to help you identify:
- USB-C Port: Oval-shaped, often labeled with a lightning bolt if it supports Thunderbolt.
- USB-A 3.0 Port: Rectangular with blue or teal interior.
- USB-A 2.0 Port: Same shape as 3.0, but interior is usually white or black.
On PCs, blue ports = USB 3.0, white ports = USB 2.0
On Macs, the color is not labeled, but the shape and port symbol give clues.
Use System Settings to Check Your USB Ports
On a Windows PC:
Type “Device Manager” in your Start menu.
Expand the “Universal Serial Bus controllers” section.
Look for entries that mention USB 3.0, USB 3.1, or USB-C Host Controller.
On a Mac:
Click the Apple logo and choose “About This Mac.”
Click “System Report.”
Go to “USB” or “Thunderbolt” to view port specifications.
Apple also offers a Mac port guide to help identify different connections by Mac model.
USB Cable Compatibility Tips
Once you’ve identified your ports, it’s time to find the right cable.
- If your computer has USB-C, use a USB-C to USB-C cable or USB-C to USB-A (if your camera uses USB-A).
- If your computer has USB-A, use a cable that matches your port and camera type.
- Not all USB-C cables are the same—some are for charging only, others support high-speed data transfer.
Pro Tip: Use our Search by Camera guide on our website to find the correct cables.
Thunderbolt vs USB-C: What’s the Difference?
Many users confuse Thunderbolt 3/4 with USB-C because they share the same port shape.
- Thunderbolt 3/4 ports use the USB-C connector but support faster speeds and more features (like daisy-chaining and external displays).
- USB-C-only ports cannot use Thunderbolt cables unless the device also supports Thunderbolt.
If your Mac or PC has a lightning bolt icon next to the USB-C port, that’s a Thunderbolt port.
Know Your USB Port Before You Connect
Understanding whether your computer uses USB-A, USB-C, or Thunderbolt is essential before buying any USB cable. Not only will the right USB port and cable improve tethered photography performance, but it will also prevent connection issues, data bottlenecks, or device incompatibility.
