What is the difference of a USB-A and USB-C cables?

I am wondering what the difference is between a USB-A and a USB-C cables. I have an iPad Air 2 and a 9th generation iPad (2021). Can I use charging cords interchangeably?

Thank you.

iPad Pro 9.7-inch WiFi

Posted on Jan 11, 2023 09:52 PM

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5 replies

Jan 12, 2023 06:10 AM in response to Nancy Fredrickson

While there are technical differences, your Lightning to USB Type-A (iPad Air2) and Lightning to USB-C (iPad9) cables are essentially the same for data and charging your iPads.


USB Type-A is now a deprecated standard - having been superseded by USB-C. Many newer computers now only have USB-C ports (potentially providing much faster data transfer - and wider support for other services).


All USB Power Adapters and charging cables are moving rapidly to using USB-C. Many countries/regions (e.g., European Member States) now mandate use of USB-C for portable electronic devices. Manufacturers now have a relatively short period within which to ensure that new products comply.

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What is the difference of a USB-A and USB-C cables?

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