USB-A to USB-B: The Cable Behind the Printer
Every office has a drawer of these. Knowing which one works prevents a lot of swapping.
Quick Answer
| End A | End B | Speed | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| USB-A | USB-B 2.0 | 480 Mbps | Printers, scanners, hubs |
| USB-A | USB-B 3.0 | 5 Gbps | Fast drives, docking stations |
| USB-C | USB-B 2.0 | 480 Mbps | Modern hosts, legacy devices |
| Charge only A | USB-B | None | Avoid for data devices |
The Data Capable Check
The universal trap
A device that powers on but never appears is almost always on a charge only cable.
Test quickly
Connect to a computer and check for a new device.
Buy with intent
Data capability must be stated in the listing.
Keep a known good one
Mark it and use it for testing, not for a drawer.
When 3.0 Matters
- Devices with the wide 3.0 socket.
- Fast external drives.
- Scanning large documents at speed.
- Everything else is fine on 2.0.
Real-World Applications
- Printer and scanner connections.
- Audio interfaces in studios.
- Laboratory instruments.
- Kiosk and point of sale hardware.
Related Guides
For the B family, read USB-B cable guide. For the printer use case, see USB printer cord. For C host variants, start with USB-A to USB-C.
FAQ
Are all USB-B cables the same?
No. Data capability and speed differ. Charge only versions are common.
Can I use a 3.0 cable on a 2.0 device?
Not if the plug is the wide variant. The socket decides.
Why is the transfer slow?
A 2.0 cable or port caps the link at 480 Mbps.
Does length matter?
Within five metres, no.