Connect
A connector does not tell you what the port can do. The port and the cable decide. First identify what is in your hand, then check what it can carry.
The procedure
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Identify what is in your hand
Compare the shape and pin count with the atlas below.
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The connector is not the speed
USB-C can be USB 2.0 or USB4. Look up the port marking in the manual and what the cable can handle.
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Monitor: pick the interface by bandwidth
Resolution times refresh rate decides whether HDMI 2.0 is enough or you need DisplayPort 2.1 or HDMI 2.1.
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Charger: check the power
Read the laptop’s label with minimum and maximum charging power and compare it with the charger.
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Wi-Fi: look for the weakest link
Network speed is set by the weakest device and the internet connection, not by the number on the router.
On the bench
Port and connector atlas
Not sure which connector this is? Find it in the atlas. Each one shows its pin count and what it is for.
USB-C
- Contacts
- What it is for
- Watch out
Guides for this job
- USB without the confusion – versions, speeds, connectors and ThunderboltChecked
- Monitors – resolution, refresh rate and the right interfaceChecked
- Charging a laptop over USB-C – the EU rules and choosing a chargerChecked
- Wi-Fi 6, 6E and 7 – what has changed and when you will noticeChecked
- External drives and drive enclosures – 3.5″, 2.5″, M.2 and how they connectChecked