3 Best USB Cables For Android Auto

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One major pain point when using Android Auto is that not every USB cable is made equally. Sure, the app supports Bluetooth, but if you want a consistently stable connection, corded is the way to go. The problem is that some USB cables don't support data transfers whatsoever (only offering charging capabilities), which would not allow a proper connection with Android Auto. Google recommends using the cable that came with your phone, and it suggests using as shorter cables, if possible. It's also a good idea to consider what every different USB port color actually means, to locate the fastest port in your car.

Now that you know what type of cable you need, let's look at which brands offer the most reliable cables that meet Google's main criteria: short length and fast data transfers. For this reason, we are looking exclusively at USB 3 and up to ensure those fast speeds, while also only considering cables that are three feet in length. If you're sick of fighting with your USB connection over Android Auto problems that are almost always the cable's fault, perhaps it's time to spend the extra money on a cable that won't falter when you need it most. Here are our top three choices, and by considering user testimonials, Amazon review scores, and leveraging our own tech expertise, we've uncovered the cream of the USB cable crop.

For the most affordable option that nets you a 10 Gbps high-speed cable for charging and data, look no further than the Amazon Basics USB-C to USB-A 3.1 Gen 2 cable for $6.29. At this price, you get a 3-foot cable that is backed by USB-IF certification. While Android Auto only requires a USB 2.0 connection (up to 480 Mbps and 2.5 watts), you can future proof your setup by snagging a USB 3.1 cable with power support for up to 4.5 watts, in case you were curious how much power a USB port actually delivers.

Affordability comes at a cost, though, as the rigid casing of this cable does make it hard to bend. While this does mean the cable should stand to abuse, it's not as flexible as competitors. Still, the Amazon Basics USB cable is a great choice, with users giving it a stellar 4.6-star rating on Amazon. Customers praise the cable's secure fit, noting its connectors snap firmly into place. Tech-savvy reviewers also confirm it instantly solves the random black-screen disconnects caused by cheaper, low-bandwidth wires on Android Auto. You can even snag a two-pack, should you need a backup or wish to add a USB cord to a second vehicle.

Another option fitting Google's requirements for Android Auto connection is the Ugreen USB-A to USB-C Cable 5Gbps. For $10, you get a 3.3-foot cable that offers a braided casing that easily bends and flexes, gold-plated connectors, and even offers aluminum shells, ensuring a snug and stable fit. While the cable is only rated for 5 Gbps, that's still 10-times faster than USB 2.0, once again future-proofing your purchase.

In addition to the braided exterior, this cable features triple layers of internal protection. Couple this with the braided nylon exterior, and you get a cable that can be easily bent and routed how you wish without compromising on blocking electromagnetic interference from the car or other electronics. Basically, if you've ever had to deal with dropped connections from a loose plug or data interruptions from a poorly shielded cable, the quick fix is a new cable that offers those features, like this Ugreen USB cable.

You also don't have to look far to find customers who are pleased with this cable, which has a lofty 4.6-star rating from users on Amazon, based on almost 7,000 reviews. These users specifically appreciate the cable's sturdiness and endurance, and they even mention how well it works with Android Auto. You also get a generous two-year warranty, so if something goes wrong, you're covered by the manufacturer a full year longer than with Amazon's cable.

Last, we have the Cable Matters 10Gbps Gen 2 USB-A to USB-C Cable, priced at $13. Not only does this cable offer USB-IF certification with USB 3.1 Gen 2, but it also features a premium rubberized TPE jacket with built-in strain-relief connectors to keep it flexible without sacrificing protection or longevity. And since it's certified, you can expect electromagnetic noise shielding. Basically, it's bendy without risking electronic interference during data transfers, and at 3.3 feet long, it's the recommended size for Android Auto.

Plenty of users name this cable as the solution to their Android Auto issues in more than 4,000 reviews on Amazon, where it has received a 4.7-star rating. Users note its stable connection, which solves their disconnect issues with competitors' cables, but also that it is easy to manage thanks to its flexible casing. While the Cable Matters 10Gbps Gen 2 USB-A to USB-C Cable is priced as a premium product, users are clearly pleased.

The limited one-year warranty may fall short of Ugreen's, but you do get lifetime technical support via email if you ever run into an issue. Spending a few extra dollars on a dedicated, high-speed cord could mean no more fighting with your dashboard mid-drive, and that's certainly a price worth considering.

There are plenty of USB cables for sale out there, from no-name brands all the way to giants that are instantly recognizable, but Google has outlined which cables make for the best options to use with Android Auto. For this list, we first looked at cable that meet the physical recommendations for optimal use, which include short cables that support both data and power. That was the easy part.

After that, we leaned on our years of tech expertise as well as the input from user testimonials and scores on Amazon to identify the cables that work best for Android Auto users in this specific use case, coming away with three USB cables that are indeed the cream of the crop no matter if you need something affordable, an all-rounder, or the best of the best.