USB-C Adapters: Types & Uses (2025 Guide)

USB-C Adapters: 6 must-know types (multiport, SD card, 3.5mm) + how they simplify your tech. 2025’s concise pick for laptops/phones.

1. USB-C Adapters: Types & Uses
(2025 Guide)
USB-C has taken over as the universal connector for laptops,
phones, and tablets—but what if your favorite peripherals still use old
ports? Enter USB-C adapters: compact bridges that unlock
compatibility between new devices and legacy gear. Below are the 6
essential types you need to know, plus how to use them.
 
USB-C to USB-A Adapter: Legacy Peripheral
Saver
What it does: Connects USB-C devices (e.g., 2025 MacBook Air,
Samsung Galaxy S24) to traditional USB-A peripherals like Usb flash
drive，wired mice, or old printers .
Key variants:
USB-C Male to USB-A Female (most common): Plug the C-end
into your laptop, then attach USB-A gadgets.
USB-C Male to USB-A Male: Use a USB-A charger to power
your USB-C phone.
Speed note: Look for USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) models—cheaper
ones may only support USB 2.0 (480Mbps) .

2. USB-C to HDMI/DisplayPort Adapter: Big-Screen
Booster
What it does: Mirrors or extends your USB-C device’s display to a
monitor, TV, or projector .
Critical check: Your USB-C port must support DisplayPort Alt
Mode or Thunderbolt 3/4—charging-only ports won’t work .
Resolution support:
HDMI: Up to 4K@60Hz (ideal for home theaters).
DisplayPort: Up to 8K@30Hz (great for creative work).
Avoid VGA/DVI adapters unless necessary—they convert digital to
analog, lowering quality
 
USB-C to Ethernet Adapter: Stable Network Fix
What it does: Adds a wired RJ45 connection to thin laptops/tablets
(e.g., iPad Pro) for faster, more reliable internet than Wi-Fi .
Perfect for: Gamers, remote workers, or anyone in areas with spotty
Wi-Fi.

3. Inside secret: It uses a built-in chip to convert USB-C signals to
Ethernet .
USB-C to 3.5mm Adapter: Audio Lifesaver
What it does: Lets you use traditional wired headphones/speakers
with phones/laptops that lack a headphone jack (e.g., iPhone 15,
Google Pixel 8) .
Sound tip: Quality depends on the built-in DAC (digital-to-analog
converter) .
 
USB-C to SD/MicroSD Adapter: Media Transfer
Tool
What it does: Reads camera/drone memory cards directly on USB-C
devices (e.g., MacBook Pro, Samsung Galaxy Tab S10) .
Speed hack: For 4K video, pick a UHS-II adapter (up to 312Mbps)
instead of UHS-I (104Mbps).
USB-C Multiport Adapter (Mini Hub): All-in-One
Travel Buddy
What it does: Combines 2+ ports (e.g., USB-A + HDMI + SD card) in
one compact device .
Best for: Travelers or anyone who hates carrying multiple adapters.
Pro caution: It’s bus-powered (draws power from your device), so
avoid connecting high-power gadgets like external SSDs .
Quick-Reference: Adapter Types & Uses

4. Adapter Type Key Use Case Must-Know Specs
USB-C USB-A
→
Connect legacy peripherals USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10Gbps) for speed

5. USB-C HDMI/DP
→
External displays 4K@60Hz (HDMI); 8K@30Hz (DP)
USB-C Ethernet
→
Wired internet Gigabit Ethernet (1Gbps) support

6. USB-C 3.5mm
→
Wired audio High-quality DAC for better sound
USB-C SD/MicroSD
→
Camera media transfer UHS-II for 4K video

7. USB-C Multiport Travel/light multitasking Max 60W power passthrough
 
Final Buying Tip
Always check device compatibility first—not all USB-C ports support
video output or high-speed data . For example, a charging-only USB-
C port on a budget phone won’t work with an HDMI adapter. Stick to
trusted brands like Foyun .
Which USB-C adapter solves your connectivity headache? Let us
know in the comments!