For context, Adam and Alex are talking specifically about connection formats, not generational standards — USB 3.0 is obviously better than 2.0. But for a fun discussion on the practical, physical aspects of using technology, it’s fun to take a look at something we all have to deal with more or less every day.
If you don’t have time to watch the video, I’ll spoil it for you:
- S-tier: USB-C, the GOAT
- A-tier USB-B 3.0 (the one that looks like a covered bridge)
- B-tier USB-B (the one that looks like a barn)
- C-tier USB-A (the original), MiniUSB (blech, really, guys?), MicroUSB-B (nooooo)
- F-tier MicroUSB (horrible)
Putting USB-B (which is usually reserved for printers and monitor data connections) in the B-tier was a shock for me. This one is so niche that I hardly ever see it, and I’d have been fine with just yeeting it out of existence for the sake of having one less cable to worry about. There’s no physical reason they need to be so big, but they’re usually plugged into static devices most of the time, soooo, fine.
I agree that MiniUSB (the trapezoid one) is much better than MicroUSB (the even smaller trapezoid). I still don’t like it. I’ll agree that MicroUSB is in F tier. Cast it into the fire! Personally, I hate MicroUSB-B even more, if only because they’re so rare that losing the only cable you have might cripple the corresponding gadget, like an older USB monitor.
No surprises for guessing what’s the S-tier champ here: it’s USB-C. The format isn’t perfect, especially if you’re trying to charge some power-hungry devices like laptops. But it’s easily the best that USB has ever been, thanks to more power, data, and video options, and, of course, it doesn’t need you to look at the port and see which way is up.
For more flamin’ hot takes (and also reviews and tips that are a little more serious), be sure to subscribe to PCWorld on YouTube. And check out The Full Nerd Network for our weekly podcast, and other shows like Dual Boot Diaries and Expedition Handheld.