My favorite USB-C accessory of all time got a magnetic upgrade (and it’s 30% off)

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• These 240W USB-C connectors have a MagSafe-type mechanism that makes them safe and more secure than standard connectors.
• With prices starting at $28 for a two-pack (currently 30% off coupon on Amazon<!–> ahead of October Prime Day), this accessory is a must-have for travelers, tech enthusiasts, and folks who often switch between different cables and ports.
• Just be mindful of where you store these connectors, as they are small and potentially easy to lose, especially the ends (although you can now buy spare ends).

This might be one of the best USB-C accessories I’ve ever purchased. Although simple and straightforward, it has protected my USB-C ports from damage numerous times and prevented laptops from being pulled to the floor by people (usually me) tripping over the charging cable.

Also: I tested the viral ‘tangle-free’ USB-C cable, and it’s my new travel backpack essential

It’s a magnetic breakaway USB-C connector similar to Apple’s MagSafe connector, compatible with all your devices, from smartphones and tablets to power banks, docks and laptops, including MacBooks that lack MagSafe. I’ve got a good handful of these connectors and I use them daily. 

View at Amazon–>

The best thing of all is that it doesn’t slow down data transfer or charging. The connector has 24 pins, so every channel on the USB-C cable is carried through the connector, resulting in no speed compromises.

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I know this because I’ve been busy testing a bunch of them to find you the best and cheapest model.

A magnetic breakaway USB-C connector consists of two parts: the first part is the USB-C port that plugs into the device you want to protect – be that a laptop, smartphone, charger, power bank, or otherwise – and the other part that goes on the end of the cable you’re going to use.

Also: The best GaN chargers of 2024: Expert tested

A super-strong neodymium magnet keeps the two parts together when in use until there’s a pull on the connector, and then the two parts come apart. The magnets are very strong and pull the two parts together with a very decisive snap. It’s a simple idea, yet brilliantly designed.

Magnetic breakaway USB-C connector tech specs

• Power: Up to 240W
• Data transfer: Up to 40Gb/s
• Video output: Up to 8K@60Hz
• Connection type: 24-pin
• LED indicator: Yes
• Dustproof: Yes 

Just a note on the different versions of this product: I’ve tested both the 140W and 240W versions of this connector, and both reacted identically in the thermal and resistance tests. This make sense, as these are just pass-through connectors, with the only active element being the LED light, leading me to conclude that the 140W versions just have the older branding. 

Also: The most flexible USB-C cable I’ve tested can also deliver 240W of power

I’ve used similar breakaway USB-C connectors before, back when Apple removed the MagSafe charging port from the MacBook Pro. Thankfully, things have come a long way since then: These connectors have been given a revamp, improving the design and the magnet, and bringing them up to date with support for features such as 140W charging.

These breakaway connectors come in three different types – straight–>