Lightning Cables are necessary items for anyone who wants to charge their mobile devices with a cord.
The lightning cable is a charging cord developed by Apple along with the creation of the iPhone in 2012. It was created similarly to the 30-pin Dock connector.
Apple has since replaced the lightning cable with the USB Type-C cable.
Lightning Cables are still used as of September 2016, but USB-C Lightning cables are now more popular. These cables are used to charge newer mobile devices like the iPhone 7, iPad Pro, and the 2017 MacBook Pro.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Native Union Belt Cable XL | Best Overall |  |
| iPhone Charger,UNEN MFi Certified Lightning Cable(3/3/6/6/10FT)Charging USB Syncing Data Nylon Braided | Budget Pick |  |
| Anker Powerline+ II Lightning Cable | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. Native Union Belt Cable XL
Pros:
- Zero-fret topology permits round-the-clock rope corrosion safeguard
- Laerdal’s ZOLL Charge, charge your entire touchscreen devices
- Made by Zoll, one of the most well known companies in the medical industry
- Ankle flexion contracture and grasp knee
2. Anker Powerline+ II Lightning Cable
Pros:
- A stylish flat cable for increased durability, less tangles, and easier cable management.
- The well-made connector is molded from high-grade aluminum alloy and is protected by a rubberized boot for maximum durability.
- Comes with Anker’s 18 month hassle-free warranty.
Cons:
- As has been mentioned by a few users, the cable can seem a little stiff at first and take a while to break-in itself.
- It might not be the most durable cable out there.
Anker Powerline+ II Lightning Cable (6ft), MFi Certified for Flawless Compatibility with iPhone Xs/XS Max/XR/X / 8/8 Plus / 7/7 Plus / 6/6 Plus / 5 / 5S and More(Black) is made with a flat design that prevents tangling and eases cable management. It will stand up to the rigors of everyday use, as it is made with high-grade copper wire and a sturdy nylon jacket.
The cable comes with MFi certification and is also optimized for use with Siri. It also allows you to sync and charge at fast speeds. The cable comes with Anker’s 18-month hassle-free warranty.
3. AmazonBasics MFi-Certified Lightning to USB A Cable
Pros:
- Fairly long length
- Relatively inexpensive
- Works in the rain
Cons:
- Feels cheap
- Braided cable can easily get damaged
As you’ve noticed, the competition in the bidirectional charge cable department is quite stiff. AmazonBasics made a name for themselves by creating cheap and affordable accessories, but they’re also quite dependable and always maintain high standards in terms of quality control.
This 6-foot apple certified cable is MFi certified, which means it’s fully guaranteed to work with any Apple device, including the new iPhone, iPad and iPod models. This is super convenient because the last thing you want is to be stuck with a cable that won’t work with your device.
This 6-foot cable is great for most situations as it’s pretty long. If you’re using your phone while sitting at your desk or in the car, it’ll reach your phone no problem.
4. Cabepow iPhone Charger Cable
Pros:
- Tangle-free
- Fine quality
- Durable
- Good length
- Overall value for money
- Cheapest option
- Very long lasting
- Strong
- Retractable cables
- Good for travel
5. Right Angled iPhone Charging Cable 3 Pack Lightning Cable 10 FT Charge & Data Transfer Cord Compatible with/iPhone XS/Max/XR/X/8/7/6/iPod/iPad.(Grey,10ft)
Pros:
- Good Length
- Great for Charging
Cons:
- Mood Lighting
- Bit Bulky
The Rabbit Digital 10Ft Eight Color Charging and Syncing Cable for iPhone is one of the best lightning cables you can get. What makes it so great is that it can charge fast thanks to the high-strength copper wires it uses and its excellent insulation and shielding.
6. Tech Armor Apple MFi Certified Lightning to USB Sync/Charge Cable Compatible
Pros:
- Durable
- Charges lightning-fast
- Charges multiple devices
- Up to 7-foot length
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
Cons:
- A bit expensive
- Not made for iPhone 7 in Lightning
- No model for Android
/1.8 Meters
The Apple MFi certification ensures all Lightning cables are 100% safe to use with your Apple devices. This Tech Armor cable features a nylon braided jacket that resists kinks and tangles to prevent damaged plugs.
Its Lightning connector has been designed to fit both the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus. They’re also efficient as they support your phone’s fast-charging technology.
7. iPhone Charger 10 ft
Pros:
- Affordable charging cables
- Accessories come in separate packets
- Several lengths to choose from
Cons:
- Overall quality could be better
- Not totally Apple-approved
- Could have a longer warranty
The iPhone Charger 10 ft by iBartoncc is a set of three heavy duty 3-in-1 lightning cables and phone holders. If you’re looking for the best lightning cables on this list, this could be one of the more interesting picks.
This package includes a three-pack of lightning cables that comes in several different colors and lengths. Some of these include a 6 ft, 10 ft, and a 20-foot cord.
They all use reinforced stress points and feature flat, tangle-free durable nylon lining that makes it less likely your cable will break or short out.
8. FEEL2NICE 5 Pack 10ft Charger Cord
Pros:
- High-quality Gneiss magnet with a unique design
- Magnetic lightning cable is almost 20% stronger than a standard lightning cable
- Very strong and sturdy
- Safe and reliable design
- Lifetime warranty and 30-day money back guarantee
- Works with almost every device that has a lightning port
- Compatible with iPhone X, iPhone 8/8 Plus, iPhone 7/7 Plus, iPhone 6/6s Plus, iPhone 5/5s/5c, iPad 4, iPad Air, iPad with Retina Display, iPad mini, iPad mini with Retina display.
Cons:
- The cable is a bit stiff and does not bend as easily as a factory cable.
- It does not work with iPad mini 4.
The Feel2Nice magnetic lightning cable is a very durable and flexible cable.It includes a high-quality Gneiss magnet with a unique design, which firmly attaches the connector to the charging head. The magnet is almost 20% stronger than a standard lightning cable.It is the only magnetic cable that comes with a lifetime warranty and a 30-day money back guarantee.
9. iPhone Charger 3Pack 10FT Cablex iPhone Charger Cable iPhone Charging Cable Cord Compatible iPhone Xs MAX XR X 8 8 Plus
Pros:
- 2.9 ft long
- Cheapest
- Very durable
- Actual 3 Pack
- Good quality
- Fast charging
Cons:
- 5V/1A only for each cord
- Not original
Like most iPhone users, you’ve probably never had enough lightning cables around and constantly lose them or even forget them at home.
The iPhone Charger 3 Pack from Cablex is designed to solve all of these issues. Whenever you leave your home you have to take an iOS device, so why not take 3 lightning cables with you and join the cord-free movement?
This 3 pack of Lightning cables are very durable and come in an Apple-like box. One of the best things about this pack is the 2.9ft long length. Compatible with all iPod, Apple, and other electronic devices with a lightning port.
10. (6ft/1.88m) LISEN iPhone Charger Cable,[ MFi Certified ][ Never Rupture ] Lightning to USB-A Cable,2.4A Fast Charging Cord Compatible
![(6ft/1.88m) LISEN iPhone Charger Cable,[ MFi Certified ][ Never Rupture ] Lightning to USB-A Cable,2.4A Fast Charging Cord Compatible](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51ibNGKNK8L._SL500_.jpg)
Pros:
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- Well priced
- Certified by Apple
Cons:
- Not as fast as advertised
- Could be too long for some applications
This lightning charging cable is made from highly durable aluminum-coated PVC material and can be bent up to 9,000 times. You really can’t kill it, and when you’re done, you’ll be able to send it back for a free replacement!
Here’s how it works: You can return the cable once the good folks at Lisen see that it’s damaged, and they’ll swap it for a brand new one, no questions asked. The process takes about a month.
In order to provide that warranty, the wires and connectors are reinforced with steel strands. Lisen also touts this cable as being “Anti-oxidant” thanks to the inclusion of calcium and magnesium aluminum alloy conductors.
11. KINPS Apple MFI Certified Lightning Cable 10FT
Pros:
- Apple MFI certified
- 10ft cable
- Money back guarantee
- Nylon cord protector and matte finish
Cons:
- The durability of the cable isn’t the best
- The cord becomes hot when charging
As you can tell from the name already, the Kinps cable is designed to charge the newer iPhones and iPads (from the iPhone 5S on), the Apple MFI certification also means that it’ll be able to charge your iPhone or iPhone faster than your regular micro-USB charging cable.
We recommend charging your phone with the Kinps cable as it’ll take the same amount of time, which is significantly faster than your unlimited charging cable.
The Kinps Lightning cable supports fast charging and can charge your MacBook, iPad, and iPhone at full speed while syncing data.
12. TT&C Short iPhone Cable Charger
Pros:
- The coiled cable is very convenient
- Gives the wrist strain
- The cable coils got longer, easier to pack
Cons:
- Tencent and Apple products are not perfect
- Requires a light pull to get the cable super straight to charge.
TT&C Short iPhone Cable Charger [ 6 inches ] Sync and Charging Data Cord Compatible with iPhone 11,Xs,Xs Max,Xr,X,8,8 Plus,7,7 Plus,6s,6,5,iPad (White).
This is one of the best lightning cables to use with your Apple devices. The iPhone cable is 6 inches, which is perfect for charging your iPhone or iPad near your lamp or on your computer.
TT&C short iPhone cable is compatible with iPhone 11,Xs,Xs Max,Xr,X,8,8 Plus,7,7 Plus,6s,6,5,iPad,iPod touch, and also all Apple devices with lightning connector.
13. AmazonBasics Double Braided Nylon Lightning to USB Cable
I would highly recommend this product for people on tight budget. It doesn’t cost much, and it’s not made by low-quality materials. It’s very durable, and I love it.
14. iPhone Charger Cable
Pros:
- Offers the fastest charging for iPhone and iPad
- Made with high-quality Nylon and Aramid flexible thread
- Supports 8 different-sized heads and bends in any direction!
- Ease of use and lightweight
- No fraying, tangle or mess
- Includes a 100% lifetime guarantee for money back or replacement.
This lightning cable is made from durable nylon and kevlar material and can support the strongest bending of 8 different-sized ends. It can withstand repeated use and is designed with an integrated cord guard to keep knotted cables at bay.
The premium nylon and kevlar materials can prevent the cables from being broken, fraying, tangling, and bring a simple and elegant style to your life. JSAUX are willing to replace your lightning cable for free if you’re not satisfied with the product.
The kevlar outer fibres effectively provide a higher level of ruggedness than most other conventional cables do.
15. Anker 6ft Premium Nylon Lightning Cable
Pros:
- Affordable
- Long cables
- Compatible with all Apple devices that support lightning-based charging
- Nylon fabric for lightweight durability
- Premium construction to attractively house your lightning cable
- MFi certified
- High quality nylon finish
- Flexible design allows for easy storage
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- Waterproof material to protect your Apple devices from inclement weather
The Anker 6ft Premium Nylon Lightning Cable comes with a premium nylon fabric housing and anodized connector pins for added durability and weather resistance.
Anker's PowerLine cables also use heavy duty connectors that can take on repeated abuse without failing, which makes them perfect for frequent travel.
Its woven fabric design provides added comfort and flexibility so that tangle-free storage is an absolute breeze. In addition, it's a water-resistant design that will not let moisture affect your cable.
16. iPhone Charger Cable Sharllen Lightning Cable 5 Pack[3/3/6/6/10FT] Fast Charging Cords Syncing Extra Long USB iPhone Charging Cable Compatible iPhone 11/ XS/Max/XR/X/8/8P/7/7P/6/iPad/iPod White
![iPhone Charger Cable Sharllen Lightning Cable 5 Pack[3/3/6/6/10FT] Fast Charging Cords Syncing Extra Long USB iPhone Charging Cable Compatible iPhone 11/ XS/Max/XR/X/8/8P/7/7P/6/iPad/iPod White](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/418O4iISB4L._SL500_.jpg)
Pros:
- Sync/charge any iPhone, iPad, iPod with lightning port.
- Always stay connected during charging.
- Compatible with iOS 12.
- Support high speed charging.
- 100% brand new and high quality.
- Durable cable…made by durable and high quality material.
- High Speed Charge & Sync.
Cons:
- The three pack only comes with three 3-foot cables that measure three feet long.
The product is really affordable. They look like really nice cables and they are easy to use. The picture shows a variety of colors so the buyer has a variety of options. I definitely recommend this product.
17. HOVAMP iPhone Charger
Pros:
- Great length
- Super durable
- Cheap compared to apple and other brands
Cons:
- Maybe not the most durable
- The numbers can wear off
The product might take a while to arrive, but it shouldn’t take more than a month. Arrived well, but the numbers were slightly smudged. The cable was initially stiff, but it has become more flexible with time.
If you’re looking for the best lightning cable in bulk, then this HOVAMP MFi iPhone Charger Lightning Cable 5 Pack is most likely the one you’re looking for.
It’s made of quality nylon fabric that not only looks great, but is also very durable.
18. Maitron for iPhone Charger,Lightning Cable 3PACK 6FT Nylon Braided Fast Charging High Speed Data Sync Cord Compatible
Pros:
- Comes with 3 cables
- Fast charging
- Compatible with iPhone X
19. iPhone Charger,UNEN MFi Certified Lightning Cable(3/3/6/6/10FT)Charging USB Syncing Data Nylon Braided
Pros:
- Easy charging function
- Supports iOS 12
- Moisture-proof and tear-proof
- Anti-fouling
- Apple certified
This product used imported materials.It is with standard of Apple MFi Certification. Convenient design, easy to plug in and out. The nylon fiber jacket makes it tangle free, prolong the service life of the lightning cord.
It is desighned with the perfect length.5ft/6ft/10ft.It can meet your different need.
The Led indicator makes you know the charging status. The data line is made of pure copper core, faster for charging, and much stable than ordinary cable. It is safe to use and no radiation.
20. CredDeal Multi Charging Cable
Pros:
- Cheap
- Nylon braided
(Black+White)
Lazing around on the couch is a good way to drain your phone’s battery. Watch your favorite Netflix show or play a game, and you’re dead for the next few hours. If you want to stay connected no matter the time, take a look at the CredDeal multitasking cable.
With this cable, you can charge multiple devices at the same time. And with its 5-foot length, you won’t have to run back and forth from your bed to the power strip.
21. YUNSONG Compatible
Pros:
- Durable
- Good length for use at home and on the go
Cons:
- A little on the flimsy side
- Not very tangle resistant
The YUSONG cable is a high-quality lightning cable with nylon braiding, making it pretty durable and allowing it to withstand some rough handling.
The cable is 6 ft long, which is a nice balance for using it at home and on the go. It has a slim and compact design, so it’s easy to carry in a pocket or purse.
The YUSONG charger comes with a pass-through technology that allows you to charge your device even if you are charging cables at the same time.
22. iPhone Charger Lightning Cable
Pros:
- Good quality
- Fast charger
- Work well
Cons:
- Sometimes you have to break the cord.
(Space Grey)
This 3pack lightning cable is pretty nifty. All three cables are 6 feet long, which is particularly useful for people that want to use the cable while charging and stand up at the same time.
The package includes one space grey, one red, and one black cable. The red and black cables are thicker than the grey one, which is pretty standard.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most durable Lightning cable?
Lightning cable doesn’t have to be expensive to be durable, but it still has to be a good quality one. To make things a little clearer, the following is my best pick for the most durable lightning cable: the Anker PowerLine+ Lightning Cable.
It has an impressive 10,000 bend lifespan, making it extremely durable. It’s also very functional with its thin and lightweight design, highly resistant to wear and tear, perfect for everyday use and even rugged outdoor use.
Who makes the best lightning cable?
This question is much easier to answer now that Apple has stopped keeping the specs for the lightning cord a secret. Currently, the best lightning cables come from a number of different brands including Anker, Nomarski, Anzoon and Incase. However, each brand seems to have their own flaws and strengths.
The Apple Lightning Cable has the best build quality, is the most durable and the highest quality.
However, in many scenarios and in many generations of Apple devices, these cables tend to be a little bit fragile, especially at the point where the cable meets the plug at the end.
The Incase and Nomarski cables are significantly cheaper but are extremely poorly made.
The chargers tend to fray and break after very short periods of time.
The Anzoon cable is somewhere in-between Apple and Incase/Nomarkski but the material quality is not as good as the Apple lightning cord.
Why are lightning cables so bad?
Apple introduced the lightning cable in 2012 and has since received a lot of flak for doing so. The older 30-pin connector was far superior to the new lightning cable in a lot of ways.
First, they’re flimsier than the 30-pin connectors. When the Apple lightning cable is bent, it may snap and you’ll be left with no cable at all. This can be very frustrating especially since it degrades the lifespan of the device.
Second, they offer less data speed than the old 30-pin cables. The lightning cable may work on newer devices but it’s not capable of transmitting data at near the same speed of the 30-pin cable.
Are all lightning cables the same?
Short answer: No.
Long answer: The short answer is no, not all lightning charging cables are the same, but the long answer is a bit more convoluted.
All of the cables listed here are certified to the Apple MFi standard, meaning that they were made by or for Apple and they can be used with Apple devices at full speed. But, on a more general level, all of these cables are the same length.
All of these Lightning cables are also maxed out at 28 AWG wire and 480 mA. So none of them are capable of burst speeds to charge your Apple devices more quickly.
But overall, the differences in quality and build are noticeable in many (but not all) of these cables. There’s a wide variation between the both the build and the performance of different brands and types of Apple MFi certified lightning cables.
Conclusion
In order to get the most out of your iPhone, we believe it’s important to have the very best lightning cables you can get. And yes, it does matter which one you settle on. A poor quality cable will make it difficult for your phone to charge. That’s why we spent hundreds of hours to find the best lightning cables that are worth buying.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Native Union Belt Cable XL | Best Overall | |
| iPhone Charger,UNEN MFi Certified Lightning Cable(3/3/6/6/10FT)Charging USB Syncing Data Nylon Braided | Budget Pick | |
| Anker Powerline+ II Lightning Cable | Upgrade Pick | |