This is probably one of the best USB-C accessories I’ve purchased and used. While it looks so simple, it has saved my USB-C ports countless times, and it has helped prevent laptops from being knocked to the ground by clumsy people (usually me) tripping over the cable dump.
It’s a magnetically snap-off USB-C connector that’s reminiscent of Apple’s MagSafe connector, and you can plug it into all your devices, even MacBooks that don’t have it. I use them on everything from power banks to laptops. And the best part is that it doesn’t slow down data transfer or charging.
Magnetic Breakaway USB-C Connector Technical Specifications
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Power : up to 140 W. -
Data transfer : Up to 40Gb/s. -
Video output : up to 8K at 60Hz. -
Connection type : 24 pins. -
LED indicator : Yes - Dustproof : Yes
I know this because I tested a number of them to find the best and cheapest model.
A magnetic snap USB-C connector consists of two parts. One is the USB-C port that plugs into the device, whether it’s a laptop, smartphone, charger, power bank, or any product with a port USB-C you want to protect from damage, and the other is on the end of the cable you’re going to use.
A neodymium magnet
A super strong neodymium magnet holds the two parts together when in use, until a pull is placed on the connector, and the two parts then separate. The magnets are very powerful and bring the two parts together with a sharp snap.
The idea is simple but brilliant!
I’ve used similar breakable USB-C connectors before, back when Apple removed the MagSafe charging port from the MacBook Pro. But things have evolved a lot since then: these connectors have had a facelift, improving the design and the magnet, and adding new features such as charging up to 140 W.
I like the angled design
These breakable connectors exist in three different types: straight, 90° angled and with the male plug located in a plane perpendicular to that of the female plug.
Personally, I like the angled design. It is the most versatile and safest. I find that straight and right angle connectors come apart much more easily, leading to more accidental splits.
The magnet of the breakable connector is powerful. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
Still, I’d much rather deal with an accidental breakage than a laptop being dragged across the floor.
The magnetic snap USB-C connector is also perfect for smartphones. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET
The connectors feature a convenient indicator light, which lets you know if a device is charging. I think that’s a really nice touch.
Ultimately this system is a simple but effective way to prevent ports from being damaged and laptops from falling to the ground. A few dollars spent on these adapters could save you thousands of dollars!
Source: “ZDNet.com”