Everyone knows that you can’t leave the house without your phone, wallet, and keys. They’re listed in that order, and there’s a reason why the phone is listed first. Your phone contains all your personal data, pictures, contacts, and a line to anyone who may need to reach you while you’re on the go.
So the least you can do is keep it charged. The included manufacturer’s iPhone charger cable gets the job done, but will fray over time from constant bending and is generally much shorter than some of the third-party counterparts. When replacing or upgrading your iPhone charger cable, here are some of the best ones you can find.
Apple Lightning to USB Cable (1 m)
Best Overall
Exceptional Engineering
Okay, so we can’t really pick on the manufacturer’s version of the charger cable. Available in 0.5m, 1m, or 2m, you’ll get a quick charge and an excellent quality cord if you elect to keep things on brand.
Why We Love It:
- Brand recognition
- Quick charge
- Available in 3 different lengths
Something to Consider:
- Cord will fray and break from bending over time
- Only 1 color choice available
AmazonBasics Nylon USB-A to Lightning Cable Cord
Runner-up
Made by One Industry Giant to Power Another Industry Giant
With a versatile nylon exterior, you’ll get a long-lasting cord and a quick charge from this product. It’s the perfect replacement cable to have on hand whenever you may need it.
Why We Love It:
- Tough nylon construction
- Available in 4 different colors
- Available in 3 different lengths, up to 6 feet
Something to Consider:
- Slower charge compared to authentic Apple charger
- Connective pieces can fall off
iPhone Charger, TAKAGI Lightning Cable 3PACK
Best Design
Toughest Cord
Looking for durability? This cord is made of braided nylon to sustain significant repeated bending and still not fray or break like the traditional alternatives. Plus, it comes in a 3-pack to keep one at home, one at work, and one in the car.
Why We Love It:
- Tough nylon construction
- Comes in a 3 pack
- 6 feet long provides ample length
Something to Consider:
- Only available in 1 color
- 6 feet may be excessive to some
iPhone Charger, YUNSONG 3 Pack
Best Quality
High Speed and High Quality
Looking for durable construction that resists repeated bending and remains intact? This cable is made from high-quality material, charges at high speed, and comes in a 3-pack so you can have one for yourself, one for your spouse, and one for your child.
Why We Love It:
- Braided design to avoid tangles
- Comes in a 3 pack
- Compatible with most iPhone models
Something to Consider:
- May not last long
- Charger may work slowly
[Apple MFi Certified] 6Pack iPhone Charger Lightning Cable
Most Efficient
Fast Charging for the Whole Family
Are the 3-packs insufficient? Pick up this 6-pack, and you’ll have enough cables for everyone in the family. Made of premium materials, this cord resists splitting and breaking from bending and provides reliable charging for years.
Why We Love It:
- Premium, durable materials
- Comes in a 6 pack
- Fast charging
Something to Consider:
- Not ideal for newer iPhones
- Wire may be stiff for some
iPhone Charger Cable
Also Consider
Options Galore for Fully Customized Charging
These cables are amazing. First off, they’re tough and charge quickly, so you know you’re getting a quality product. But they also come in 5 colors and 5 different lengths, maxing out at 15 feet. You could charge your phone in an outlet across the room while still scrolling through your social feed.
Why We Love It:
- Premium materials
- Available in 5 colors
- Available in 5 lengths
Something to Consider:
- Slower charge compared to authentic Apple
- Connective pieces can fall off
FAQs
What’s wrong with the charger that comes with the iPhone?
Nothing. Apple makes an excellent product and an excellent charger. However, there are two glaring drawbacks to the included charging cord. For one, it is short. This is no problem if you’re abandoning your phone as it charges, but some of us prefer to continue using it while it is plugged in. In addition, the standard casing is very susceptible to breaking from repeated bending, and it won’t be long before the essential iPhone charging cable charges no more.
Our list includes various options that use braided nylon and other premium materials to combat breakage from bending and guarantee a longer lifespan. Plus, they come in generous lengths anywhere from 6 all the way up to 15 feet! What an improvement!
What are the best materials for an iPhone charging cable?
Any premium material will result in a high-quality cable, but some edge out others in terms of functionality.
For the cable itself, rubber or PVC is common, but braided nylon gives it more toughness and flexibility to withstand the inevitable repeated bending involved in charging your phone. You’ll get the most life out of braided nylon.
For the connective pieces, alloys are commonly used because they are lightweight and are high conductivity. Steel alloy or aluminum alloy are common connective piece materials that provide fast charging and a good lifespan.
For the wires, copper is pretty standard and resists overheating.
Buying Guide
Keep these pointers in mind when you next purchase an iPhone charging cable:
- Compatibility: All iPhones are iPhones, but there are now a prodigious amount of them on the market, and not all chargers will fit all iPhones. Confirm on the packaging or in the product description that the cable you plan to purchase is compatible with your version of the iPhone.
- Materials: The connective pieces and wiring are all generally one of very few options, but the cable itself may come in a few different materials. We recommend braided nylon above all others, as you’ll generally get the best lifespan from it.
- Color choices: Just because it’s a functional item doesn’t mean you can’t have it be pretty too. Pick something you like, and you will smile every time you see it.
- Length of the cord: Think about where you’re going to use the cord. Is it for your bedroom at the end of the day, or the office where the nearest outlet is across the room behind a desk? Make sure you’ll have plenty of length available so you can still use it while it charges if you so choose.
- Quantity: Pay careful attention to how many come in the pack. If you only need 1, don’t buy a 6-pack, unless you want multiples for your own personal use. Likewise, don’t buy a 3-pack if you have a family of 5.
