Consumers should avoid buying new gadgets with micro USB ports
Tech analysts advise buyers to skip devices using micro USB connections because the standard limits performance and compatibility compared to modern alternatives.
Micro USB limits device power
The micro USB format dates back to 2007, which is an eternity in technology. Current wall chargers for this standard are unlikely to deliver more than 7.5W of power. Fast charging standards allow modern laptops and Android phones to reach over 100W via USB-C. Devices exploiting the USB PD standard can hit 240W at the extreme.
Data speeds remain outdated
Micro USB is limited to data speeds that top out at USB 2.0 specifications of 480 Mbps. In contrast, USB 3.0 enables speeds of 5 Gbps while USB 4 starts at 40 Gbps. This older standard also lacks the reversible design found in newer connectors. Users must fumble around to find the right orientation every time they plug a cable in.
Availability drops sharply
It will be increasingly hard to find new micro USB products as manufacturers shift away from the form factor. You cannot assume there will be composite cables for old devices at local big-box retailers anymore. New smartphones and computers do not feature micro USB ports on their chassis today.
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