The 10 Best Lightning Cables
This wiki has been updated 29 times since it was first published in December of 2017. If you're one of the millions of people who choose Apple products for their phones and tablets, the one Lightning cable that came with your device may not last forever. Even if it does, it's a good idea to have a few backups on hand, so you can leave one at the office and one in the car, for example. We've selected durable options in a variety of lengths to suit any need. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Anker Powerline III
2. Anker Powerline II
3. Apple USB-C
Editor's Notes
January 28, 2021:
During this update we have strayed slightly from our previous decision to only include MFi-certified cables. While we we have still favored them for the most part, we did add the USams Multi as an exception because we think many people may still appreciate it for the versatility it offers to charge several different kinds of devices at the same time. The Spigen DuraSync 3 in 1 is another versatile model that can connect to a range of gadgets, though only one at a time. We also decided to remove the Anker Powerline 4-Inch, as it was simply too short to be very useful for most people. If looking for a short and compact cable, we recommend the Fuse Chicken Titan Loop TLP-100 instead.
October 18, 2019:
When it comes to Lightning cables, the options available are absolutely dizzying, ranging from deluxe to somewhat sketchy. To protect your devices, we've added only those that are MFi certified, so you can use them without any worries. For most users, the best choices come from Anker, a well regarded company that provides cables for all kinds of devices and brands. We've upgraded our top choices to reflect the newest models, including the Anker Powerline III for those using USB-A and the Anker Powerline II for USB-C.
As a budget alternative, we've selected the upgraded AmazonBasics Advanced Collection; it isn't quite as robust as those from Anker, but it comes in many lengths and colors, a nice plus. We also elected to add a couple of ultra-portable choices for those who are always on the go. These include the Fuse Chicken Titan Loop Keychain, which should pair nicely with your portable phone charger. Unfortunately, though, the ends don't have any sort of cap or protection, so be cautious about shoving it into a full or dirty pocket.
Special Honors
Mous Flexline There's nothing gimmicky about the Mous Flexline; it's simply a sleek but stylish cord built to go the distance. You can toss it in your purse or backpack without worry, then count on it in a business meeting without attracting unwanted attention. mous.co
Gocase Multicolorido If you are well and truly tired of people stealing your cables, you might try a Gocase Customized. Featuring your first and last name, it certainly won't be mistaken for anyone else's. It's on the short side for the cost, though. gocase.com
Dark Energy Paracord You probably don't expect your Lightning cable to help out in a wilderness survival situation, but the Dark Energy Paracord is the exception. Thanks to the 20 feet of 550-pound paracord wrapped around each one, this is an option worthy of everyday carry. The weather-proof head caps are a nice touch, too. darkenergy.com
4. Fuse Chicken Titan Loop TLP-100
5. Volutz Braided
6. Nomad Kevlar USB-C
7. Spigen DuraSync 3 in 1
8. USams Multi
9. AmazonBasics Advanced Collection
10. Idison 4-Pack
A wandering writer who spends as much time on the road as in front of a laptop screen, Brett can either be found hacking away furiously at the keyboard or, perhaps, enjoying a whiskey and coke on some exotic beach, sometimes both simultaneously, usually with a four-legged companion by his side. He has been a professional chef, a dog trainer, and a travel correspondent for a well-known Southeast Asian guidebook. He also holds a business degree and has spent more time than he cares to admit in boring office jobs. He has an odd obsession for playing with the latest gadgets and working on motorcycles and old Jeeps. His expertise, honed over years of experience, is in the areas of computers, electronics, travel gear, pet products, and kitchen, office and automotive equipment.