What is the main difference between USB and USB-C?

The main difference is that USB is a data transfer standard, while USB-C is a specific physical connector shape that can carry that data, plus power and video.

Is USB-C faster than a standard USB-A port?

USB-C is not automatically faster, but it supports the newest USB 3.2 and USB4 speeds, whereas older USB-A ports often use slower USB 2.0 standards.

Which is better for charging a modern laptop, USB-A or USB-C?

USB-C is better for charging laptops because it supports Power Delivery for up to 100 watts, while standard USB-A ports typically deliver only 2.5 to 15 watts.

Why is the USB-C cable more expensive than a standard USB cable?

USB-C cables are more expensive because they require additional internal chips and stricter build quality to safely handle higher power delivery and faster data speeds.

Is it safe to plug a USB-C cable into a USB-A port using an adapter?

Yes, it is safe with a certified adapter, but you will only get slower USB-A speeds and lower power output than a native USB-C connection.

Will a USB-C device work with an older USB port on my computer?

Yes, a USB-C device works with an older USB port, but only if you use a compatible adapter and the device does not require more power than the port provides.

What is the common beginner mistake when buying USB-C cables?

The common mistake is buying a cheap cable that only supports USB 2.0 speeds or lacks the power rating needed, which leads to slow transfers and failed charging.

Can I use a USB-C charger to charge a device that has a standard USB port?

No, you cannot directly connect a USB-C charger to a standard USB port, because the physical shapes are different and the power delivery protocols are not interchangeable.

Which connector should I choose for connecting an external SSD drive?

You should choose USB-C for an external SSD because it provides the fastest data transfer speeds and a reversible plug that is easier to connect.

Can I switch all my old USB-A devices to USB-C with simple adapters?

Yes, you can switch most old USB-A devices to USB-C with simple adapters, but you must verify the adapter supports the required data speed and power level.

Difference Between

Difference Between Usb and Usb C

Written byNex Virox Team

Editorial Team

Reviewed byVarshal Nirbhavane

Senior SEO & Organic Growth Professional · 5+ years

Published: September 10, 202620 min read

Quick answer

The main difference between Usb and Usb C is that Usb is a general standard for connecting devices, while Usb C is a specific, reversible connector type. Usb is a legacy port standard for data and power, while Usb C is a modern, oval-shaped connector supporting faster speeds and higher power delivery.

Key takeaways

Core distinction: USB defines data transfer standards; USB-C is a physical connector shape.
How they work: USB-C cables carry power, video, and data through one reversible port.
Performance gap: USB-C supports up to 40Gbps and 100W, far exceeding older USB types.
Best-fit use: Choose USB-C for modern laptops, phones, and fast charging; USB-A for legacy devices.
Common mistake: Assuming every USB-C cable delivers identical speed, power, and video capabilities.

Table of Contents18 sections

Difference Between Usb and Usb C: Comparison Table

Aspect	Usb	Usb C
Definition	Legacy standard for connecting peripherals and transferring data and power.	Modern reversible connector standard that also defines the cable and port shape.
Purpose	Provides a universal interface for mice, keyboards, printers, and storage devices.	Serves as a single connector for data, video, and power delivery across many device types.
Core Mechanism	Uses a host-centric protocol where a computer acts as the master device.	Uses a protocol-agnostic connector that supports USB, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt signals.
Connector Shape	Uses a rectangular, non-reversible Type-A plug that only fits one way.	Uses an oval, reversible connector that works when inserted either way up.
Data Transfer Speed	Ranges from 1.5 Mbps for USB 1.1 up to 20 Gbps for USB 3.2 Gen 2x2.	Supports up to 40 Gbps with USB4 or Thunderbolt 3 and 4 connections.
Power Delivery	Standard ports typically deliver 2.5 watts to 4.5 watts for basic charging.	Supports USB Power Delivery up to 100 watts for laptops and large displays.
Reversibility	Requires multiple attempts to insert the plug correctly into the port.	Features a symmetrical design that connects without checking orientation.
Port Size	Type-A port is roughly 12.5 millimeters wide and 4.5 millimeters tall.	Port is about 8.4 millimeters wide and 2.6 millimeters tall, saving space.
Durability	Rated for approximately 1,500 insertion and removal cycles before wear.	Rated for about 10,000 insertion cycles, lasting significantly longer in daily use.
Video Support	Requires separate video cables like HDMI or VGA for display output.	Carries DisplayPort and HDMI signals directly for monitors and TVs.
Charging Speed	Charges phones slowly at 5 volts and 0.5 to 1.5 amps typical.	Charges fast at up to 20 volts and 5 amps with Power Delivery profile.
Backward Compatibility	Older USB devices plug directly into newer Type-A ports without adapters.	Requires an adapter or cable to connect with legacy Type-A peripherals.
Cable Design	Uses thicker, stiffer cables with a specific plug on each end.	Uses slimmer cables with identical connectors on both ends for universal use.
Data Direction	Generally one-way data flow from the peripheral to the host computer.	Supports bidirectional communication for device-to-device data transfer.
Signal Type	Transmits data using a differential signal over four internal wires.	Transmits data over multiple channels, allowing simultaneous data and video streams.
Physical Lock	Lacks any locking mechanism, relying on friction to stay connected.	Optional locking screws exist for industrial and high-vibration environments.
Footprint	Occupies more chassis space, limiting port count on slim devices.	Compact size allows multiple ports on thin laptops and smartphones.
Adoption Rate	Still common on older computers and budget peripherals worldwide.	Now standard on most new laptops, phones, and tablets from major brands.
Audio Support	Requires a separate 3.5mm headphone jack for analog audio output.	Carries digital audio signals directly through the same cable as data.
Ecosystem	Works with a vast installed base of existing cables and devices.	Growing ecosystem includes docks, hubs, and universal chargers.
Cost	Type-A cables and ports are inexpensive due to mass production scale.	Usb C components cost slightly more but prices have dropped with adoption.
Scalability	Limited by older protocol versions that cap speed and power growth.	Designed for future standards, supporting higher speeds and power levels.
Maintenance	Ports collect dust and loosen over time, requiring occasional cleaning.	Reversible design reduces physical stress but still needs periodic cleaning.
Safety	Lacks built-in authentication, allowing potential data theft from public ports.	Supports authentication protocols to verify device identity and prevent attacks.
Compatibility	Connects with almost every legacy computer and peripheral made since 1996.	Requires adapters for older devices but works with all modern hardware.
Availability	Found on millions of existing devices, cables, and chargers in use.	Included on nearly all new electronics shipped after 2020.
Example Use	Connects a wired mouse or keyboard to a desktop computer tower.	Charges a modern ultrabook and connects it to an external 4K monitor.
Typical Users	Used by people with older PCs, budget peripherals, and legacy equipment.	Preferred by professionals needing fast data, video, and charging in one port.
Limitation	Bulky size and non-reversible plug frustrate users on modern thin devices.	Confusing cable standards mean not every Usb C cable supports full speed or power.
Best Fit	Ideal for simple, low-power peripherals on older or budget systems.	Best for modern laptops, phones, and docks requiring fast data and high power.

What Is Usb?

Usb is a standard connection system that lets devices exchange data and receive power through a single cable. It exists to replace the many different ports and plugs that older computers used, giving one common way to connect keyboards, printers, phones and storage drives.

Definition of Usb

Usb, short for Universal Serial Bus, is an industry standard that defines the cables, connectors and communication protocols used for linking computers with external devices. The specification covers both data transfer speeds and electrical power delivery, allowing a single port type to serve multiple hardware functions.

Key Characteristics of Usb

Characteristic	What It Means in Practice
Hot-swappable	You can plug or unplug a device while the computer is running without restarting it.
Backward compatible	Newer Usb versions still work with older devices, though speed drops to the slower standard.
Directional plug	The rectangular Type-A connector fits only one way, so you may need to flip it.
Power delivery	Usb ports supply 5 volts by default, enough to charge phones and run small peripherals.
Data transfer	Speeds range from 12 Mbps on Usb 1.1 up to 20 Gbps on Usb 4.
Daisy chaining	Some Usb standards allow connecting multiple hubs in a series to add more ports.
Cable length limits	Standard Usb cables work reliably up to roughly 5 meters before signal quality drops.
Plug and play	Operating systems detect Usb devices automatically without manual driver installation.
Widespread adoption	Usb ports appear on laptops, desktops, TVs, cars, game consoles and wall chargers.
Multi-protocol support	Usb can carry audio, video, storage, input signals and network data over one connection.

Common Examples of Usb

USB flash drive – a portable storage stick that plugs into any Usb port for file transfer.
Wireless mouse receiver – a small dongle that connects a radio-frequency mouse to a laptop.
External hard drive – a desktop or portable disk that connects via Usb for backup storage.
Printer cable – a Usb-A to Usb-B cable that links a printer to a computer for document output.
Smartphone charging cable – a Usb-A to micro-Usb cord used to power older Android devices.
USB keyboard – a wired input device that sends keystrokes through a Usb connection.
USB hub – a small box that expands one Usb port into several for multiple accessories.
Webcam – a video camera that streams images to a computer through a Usb link.
USB audio interface – a device that connects microphones and instruments to a computer for recording.
Card reader – a Usb accessory that reads memory cards from cameras and phones.

Advantages and Limitations of Usb

Advantages	Limitations
One port type works with hundreds of devices, simplifying connections across computers and peripherals.	The rectangular Type-A connector is not reversible, so users often struggle to plug it in correctly.
Devices are recognised instantly on most operating systems, removing the need for complex setup steps.	Usb ports supply limited power, so large devices like monitors still require a separate power cable.
Usb cables are inexpensive and widely available in nearly every electronics store worldwide.	Older Usb versions transfer data far slower than modern internal drive connections like SATA or NVMe.
Hot-swapping lets you change devices without shutting down the computer, saving time during work.	Cable quality varies greatly, and cheap cables often fail to deliver advertised speeds or stable power.
The standard supports both data and power, so one cable can charge a phone and sync files at once.	Usb ports are physically fragile, and repeated plugging can loosen the connector inside the socket.
Backward compatibility means older peripherals still work on newer computers without extra adapters.	Maximum cable length is limited to about 5 meters, which restricts placement of distant devices.
Usb hubs allow many devices to share a single port, expanding connectivity on slim laptops.	Security risks exist because any Usb device can carry malware or act as a keyboard to inject commands.
The standard is maintained by a large industry group, ensuring consistent behaviour across brands.	Different Usb versions look identical, so users cannot tell a slow port from a fast one by sight.
Usb provides a universal charging method for phones, tablets, earbuds and small gadgets.	Power delivery is not standardised across all ports, so some ports cannot charge high-drain devices.
Usb supports a wide range of data types, including audio, video, storage and networking protocols.	Connector wear is common, and a damaged port often requires motherboard repair rather than simple replacement.

What Is Usb C?

Usb C is a small, reversible connector standard for data, power, and video. It replaces older, bulky ports with one symmetrical design that works in any orientation. Usb C exists to unify devices, delivering faster transfer speeds and higher power delivery through a single, future-proof cable.

Definition of Usb C

Usb C is the 24-pin connector specification defined by the USB Implementers Forum, featuring an oval, reversible plug. It supports alternate modes like DisplayPort and Thunderbolt, negotiates power delivery up to 100W, and carries USB 3.2 or USB4 data rates. It is a physical interface, not a speed standard.

Key Characteristics of Usb C

Characteristic	What It Means in Practice
Reversible plug	The oval connector inserts either way, eliminating the frustration of upside-down attempts common with older rectangular ports.
24-pin design	Twelve pins per side handle data, power, ground, and configuration channels, enabling smart negotiation between connected devices.
Power Delivery	Supports up to 100W charging, enough to power laptops, monitors, and fast-charge phones from one compact port.
Alternate modes	Carries DisplayPort, HDMI, and Thunderbolt signals over the same physical connector, replacing separate video cables.
Data flexibility	Works with USB 2.0, 3.2, and USB4, so speed depends on the cable and device, not the port shape alone.
Symmetrical shape	The rounded, slim profile is roughly the size of a micro-USB port, saving space in thin laptops and phones.
Single-cable convergence	One cable can charge, transfer files, and drive an external display simultaneously, reducing desk clutter.
Durability rating	Rated for 10,000 insertion cycles, offering reliable daily use across years of plugging and unplugging.
Directional power flow	Power can flow either direction, so a phone can charge a laptop or a laptop can charge a phone through the same port.
Universal adoption	Found on smartphones, tablets, laptops, earbuds, and peripherals, making it the default connector across modern electronics.

Common Examples of Usb C

MacBook Pro – Apple uses Usb C for all ports, delivering charging, Thunderbolt data, and DisplayPort video through a single connector type.
Nintendo Switch – Charges via Usb C and supports docked video output, proving the port works for gaming consoles.
Google Pixel phone – Uses Usb C for fast charging and data sync, replacing the older micro-USB on Android devices.
Samsung Galaxy Tab – Employs Usb C for power delivery and DeX desktop mode, connecting to external monitors with one cable.
Dell XPS laptop – Relies on Usb C for charging and Thunderbolt docking, enabling a single-cable workstation setup.
Apple AirPods Pro case – Charges through Usb C, aligning with the universal standard across Apple's accessory lineup.
Anker power bank – Uses Usb C for both input and output, allowing the same cable to recharge the bank and power a phone.
Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones – Charge via Usb C, replacing proprietary or micro-USB ports on premium audio gear.
LG UltraFine monitor – Connects to laptops via Usb C, carrying video, data, and 85W power back to the computer.
External SSD drives – Use Usb C for 10Gbps transfer speeds, making large file moves faster than older USB-A drives.

Advantages and Limitations of Usb C

Advantages	Limitations
Reversible connector eliminates orientation guesswork, saving time every single plug-in.	Cable quality varies wildly, so cheap cables may only support USB 2.0 speeds despite the port shape.
Delivers up to 100W power, charging laptops that older ports could never handle.	Power delivery requires both device and charger to negotiate, so mismatched gear charges slowly or not at all.
One port carries data, video, and power, reducing the need for multiple dedicated connectors.	Alternate modes like Thunderbolt need special controllers, raising costs on premium devices.
Symmetrical design is durable, rated for 10,000 insertions without failure.	Not all Usb C ports support the same features, so a port on one laptop may lack video output on another.
Universal adoption means one cable works across phones, laptops, and peripherals.	Legacy devices still require adapters or dongles, creating extra clutter during the transition period.
Supports high data rates up to 40Gbps with USB4 or Thunderbolt connections.	Speed depends on the cable generation, so a Usb C cable can bottleneck a fast device without warning.
Directional power flow lets either device charge the other, adding flexibility.	Non-certified cables risk damaging hardware due to improper power negotiation or poor shielding.
Compact size saves physical space, enabling thinner laptops and smaller phones.	The small connector is harder to grip for users with limited dexterity compared to larger USB-A plugs.
Future-proof design supports emerging USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 standards.	Confusing naming conventions make it hard for buyers to know if a port supports 10Gbps or 40Gbps.
Works with DisplayPort and HDMI alternate modes, replacing dedicated video cables.	Some devices implement Usb C without alternate modes, silently missing video or Thunderbolt capabilities.

Similarities Between Usb and Usb C

Shared Aspect	How Usb and Usb C Are Alike
Core Purpose	Both Usb and Usb C transfer data and deliver power between devices.
Device Category	Usb and Usb C are both industry-standard connectors for consumer electronics.
Data Transfer Role	Usb and Usb C both carry digital signals to move files between hosts and peripherals.
Power Delivery	Both Usb and Usb C supply electrical current to charge batteries and run gadgets.
Signal Type	Usb and Usb C both transmit serial data using differential signaling pairs.
Hot Swapping	Usb and Usb C both support connecting and disconnecting devices without rebooting.
Plug Orientation	Both Usb and Usb C are designed for simple, tool-free insertion into ports.
Backward Compatibility	Usb and Usb C both maintain compatibility with older Usb devices through adapters.
Universal Standard	Usb and Usb C both follow specifications set by the Usb Implementers Forum.
Peripheral Support	Usb and Usb C both connect keyboards, mice, drives, cameras, and printers.
Common Users	Usb and Usb C are both used daily by consumers, IT staff, and engineers.
Workflow Integration	Usb and Usb C both plug into laptops, desktops, phones, and tablets.
Plug And Play	Usb and Usb C both auto-detect connected devices without manual driver setup.
Voltage Levels	Usb and Usb C both operate at standard 5-volt base power by default.
Grounding Scheme	Usb and Usb C both share a common ground reference for stable operation.
Cable Construction	Usb and Usb C both use shielded copper wires inside a protective jacket.
Connector Durability	Usb and Usb C both endure thousands of insertion cycles in normal use.
Cost Range	Usb and Usb C both offer low-cost cables and ports for budget builds.
Replacement Availability	Usb and Usb C both have widely stocked replacement cables and hubs.
Risk Profile	Usb and Usb C both carry low electrical risk when used with certified gear.
Failure Mode	Usb and Usb C both fail from bent pins, frayed cables, or worn connectors.
Maintenance Need	Usb and Usb C both require simple cleaning and occasional cable replacement.
Measurement Method	Usb and Usb C both measure performance in megabits or gigabits per second.
Latency Profile	Usb and Usb C both deliver low-latency communication for real-time input.
Protocol Foundation	Usb and Usb C both rely on the same underlying Usb data protocol stack.
Power Management	Usb and Usb C both negotiate power states to conserve battery life.
Ecosystem Reach	Usb and Usb C both appear across millions of devices from thousands of brands.
Long Term Outcome	Usb and Usb C both remain supported standards for the foreseeable future.
Adoption Drivers	Usb and Usb C both gained dominance through open licensing and low cost.
Physical Robustness	Usb and Usb C both resist vibration and accidental disconnection when seated.

Usb or Usb C: Which Should You Choose?

Your existing devices decide the answer. If you own older peripherals or need to charge a legacy phone, the classic Usb port remains practical. For nearly everyone buying new gear today, Usb C is the better choice because it is faster, reversible, and universal.

When to Use Usb

Choose Usb when you must connect legacy devices like older printers, mice, or flash drives that only have the rectangular port. It is also the right call if you are on a strict budget because cables and accessories cost less. Stick with Usb for simple, low-speed tasks.

When to Use Usb C

Choose Usb C when you buy a new laptop, tablet, or smartphone because most modern devices only accept this oval connector. It is also essential if you need fast charging or high-speed data transfer for video files. Usb C handles power delivery up to 100W and supports 4K displays.

Common Misconceptions About Usb and Usb C

Common Myth	The Reality
Usb C is a new version of the Usb standard.	Usb C is a physical connector shape, not a speed standard; Usb C cables can support Usb 2.0, 3.2, or 4 speeds.
All Usb C ports support the same power delivery.	Usb C power output varies by device; a Usb C port may deliver 5W, 15W, 60W, or 100W depending on the charger and cable.
Usb C is faster than every Usb A connection.	Usb C speed depends on the underlying protocol; a Usb C port with Usb 2.0 runs slower than a Usb A port with Usb 3.2.
Usb and Usb C are completely different technologies.	Usb C is a specific connector type within the broader Usb family; both Usb A and Usb C use the same underlying data protocols.
Usb C cables are all identical in capability.	Usb C cables vary widely; some support only charging, while others carry data, video, or full Thunderbolt signals.
You can charge any laptop with any Usb C charger.	Usb C charging requires matching voltage and wattage; a low-watt Usb C charger may charge a laptop slowly or not at all.
Usb A ports are obsolete and useless today.	Usb A remains widely used for keyboards, mice, flash drives, and legacy devices; billions of Usb A ports still ship annually.
Usb C automatically supports video output.	Usb C video output requires DisplayPort Alternate Mode or Thunderbolt support; not every Usb C port carries a video signal.
Usb C is the same thing as Thunderbolt.	Thunderbolt uses the Usb C connector but adds faster speeds up to 40Gbps; a Usb C port without Thunderbolt runs at standard Usb speeds.
Usb 3.0, Usb 3.1, and Usb 3.2 are different standards.	Usb 3.0, Usb 3.1, and Usb 3.2 are renames of the same 5Gbps and 10Gbps technology; the Usb C connector does not change the speed.
Usb C is reversible, so Usb A is not reversible.	Usb C is reversible by design, but Usb A is not; this is a physical difference, not a performance difference between the two.
Usb C cables can transfer data at 40Gbps always.	Usb C cables only reach 40Gbps if they are certified for Thunderbolt or Usb4; many Usb C cables cap at 480Mbps or 5Gbps.
Usb A cannot charge modern smartphones quickly.	Usb A supports fast charging protocols like Quick Charge; a Usb A port can deliver up to 18W or more with compatible devices.
Usb C is only found on new computers and phones.	Usb C appears on many devices since 2015, but Usb A still dominates desktops, TVs, cars, and budget electronics worldwide.
Usb C is more durable than Usb A.	Usb C connectors are rated for 10,000 insertion cycles, similar to Usb A; durability depends more on cable build quality than connector type.
Usb and Usb C have different data transfer speeds.	Usb and Usb C share the same speed protocols; the connector shape does not determine whether data moves at 480Mbps or 20Gbps.
Usb C replaces all Usb cables completely.	Usb C adoption is growing, but Usb A and micro-Usb remain in billions of devices; full replacement will take many more years.
Usb C is a proprietary Apple connector.	Usb C is an open standard maintained by the Usb Implementers Forum; Apple uses Usb C but did not invent or own it.
Usb A is slower than Usb C for charging.	Usb A charging speed depends on the port and cable; a Usb A 3.0 port can charge at the same wattage as a basic Usb C port.
Usb C supports audio output through headphones.	Usb C supports analog audio only with specific adapters; many Usb C ports require digital-to-analog conversion for headphone use.
Usb C is backward compatible with Usb A devices.	Usb C requires an adapter or cable to connect to Usb A; the Usb C port itself does not accept a Usb A plug directly.
Usb C is the same as Usb 4.	Usb C is the connector, while Usb 4 is the data protocol; Usb 4 runs over Usb C, but Usb C can also run older Usb protocols.
Usb A cannot support 4K video output.	Usb A can carry video using DisplayLink or alternate modes; Usb C offers native video but Usb A is not inherently video-incapable.
Usb C charging is always faster than Usb A charging.	Usb C charging speed depends on power delivery negotiation; a Usb C 5W charger is slower than a Usb A 18W fast charger.
Usb C is required for data transfer on all new laptops.	Many new laptops still include Usb A ports; Usb C is common but not mandatory for data transfer on modern hardware.
Usb A and Usb C use different data encoding methods.	Usb A and Usb C use identical data encoding and signaling; the connector shape is the only meaningful difference in data handling.
Usb C cables are all compatible with every Usb C device.	Usb C cables may lack data lines, power lines, or alternate modes; a charging-only Usb C cable will not transfer data between devices.
Usb C is more expensive to manufacture than Usb A.	Usb C manufacturing costs are similar to Usb A; the price difference in retail cables comes from added chips for power or data features.
Usb A ports cannot deliver power to external displays.	Usb A ports can power small monitors or hubs; Usb C handles higher wattage displays, but Usb A is not power-free.
Usb C is the future, so Usb A will disappear next year.	Usb A remains in production for legacy compatibility; industry forecasts show Usb A coexisting with Usb C for at least another decade.

Conclusion

Difference Between Usb and Usb C comes down to speed and shape. Usb C handles data, video, and power through one reversible connector. Choose Usb for older devices needing basic connections. Choose Usb C for faster transfer, charging, and future-proof compatibility with modern hardware.

FAQs on Difference Between Usb and Usb C

What is the main difference between USB and USB-C?: The main difference is that USB is a data transfer standard, while USB-C is a specific physical connector shape that can carry that data, plus power and video.
Is USB-C faster than a standard USB-A port?: USB-C is not automatically faster, but it supports the newest USB 3.2 and USB4 speeds, whereas older USB-A ports often use slower USB 2.0 standards.
Which is better for charging a modern laptop, USB-A or USB-C?: USB-C is better for charging laptops because it supports Power Delivery for up to 100 watts, while standard USB-A ports typically deliver only 2.5 to 15 watts.
Why is the USB-C cable more expensive than a standard USB cable?: USB-C cables are more expensive because they require additional internal chips and stricter build quality to safely handle higher power delivery and faster data speeds.
Is it safe to plug a USB-C cable into a USB-A port using an adapter?: Yes, it is safe with a certified adapter, but you will only get slower USB-A speeds and lower power output than a native USB-C connection.
Will a USB-C device work with an older USB port on my computer?: Yes, a USB-C device works with an older USB port, but only if you use a compatible adapter and the device does not require more power than the port provides.
What is the common beginner mistake when buying USB-C cables?: The common mistake is buying a cheap cable that only supports USB 2.0 speeds or lacks the power rating needed, which leads to slow transfers and failed charging.
Can I use a USB-C charger to charge a device that has a standard USB port?: No, you cannot directly connect a USB-C charger to a standard USB port, because the physical shapes are different and the power delivery protocols are not interchangeable.
Which connector should I choose for connecting an external SSD drive?: You should choose USB-C for an external SSD because it provides the fastest data transfer speeds and a reversible plug that is easier to connect.
Can I switch all my old USB-A devices to USB-C with simple adapters?: Yes, you can switch most old USB-A devices to USB-C with simple adapters, but you must verify the adapter supports the required data speed and power level.