USB-C is finally becoming ubiquitous, no longer just for phones or laptops. In fact, there are a lot of cool devices that can work with just a USB-C cable, and I recently bought three things I never thought I'd need.
Using just one cable to charge a multitude of devices is clearly much more convenient than rummaging through drawers full of USB-A and micro-USB cables. Of course, USB-C isn't perfect yet, but it's definitely a step in the right direction. Below are a few USB-C gadgets costing a few hundred thousand VND that you might also like.
USB-C charging adapter with coil
I'm quite particular about keeping things tidy, especially in my car. I'm fed up with charging cables dangling from the center console, getting tangled in the gear shift, or constantly being pulled out of the charger.
That was until I discovered Anker's coiled USB-C fast charger. Actually, I've known about it for a while, but for some reason, I only bought it now. And once I've used it, I never want to go back to a regular charger again.
Although many manufacturers produce this type of accessory, Anker remains a very trustworthy name in the smartphone accessory market. The version I'm using is a 75W USB-C charger with a retractable cord.
This device charges extremely fast and supports most popular charging standards currently available. It comes with a built-in USB-C cable that can be neatly extended or retracted, along with a second USB-C port for connecting another cable. What I like most is that I'll never lose my USB-C cable again, or let friends and family borrow it and forget to return it. The cable is attached to the charger, convenient and doesn't go anywhere.
Anker also has a similar version that plugs into a household wall outlet, which is pretty good value for money.
Rechargeable AA and AAA batteries via USB-C
Rechargeable AA and AAA batteries are nothing new, but many older types only provide 1.2V instead of the 1.5V of disposable batteries. Therefore, they aren't really suitable for household appliances, wireless security cameras, or many other items. Not to mention, you have to buy a separate charger, and the batteries don't hold a charge for very long.
Since becoming a dad, I've realized I use up an incredible amount of AA and AAA batteries, from my kids' toys to household appliances. So I decided to try rechargeable AA batteries via USB-C, and the results have been really great.
These AA USB-C battery packs use lithium batteries, similar to those in smartphones or laptops. I've tried a few different brands, including a pack of four AA batteries for around 450,000 VND, which comes with a USB-A cable that splits into four USB-C ports, allowing you to charge them all simultaneously. They also have AAA versions if you need them.
EDC flashlight with USB-C port
Chances are you have a yellow or red flashlight lying somewhere in a drawer or in your car's glove compartment. It's highly likely it's a pretty bad one, and by the time you need it, the battery's completely dead.
I always recommend that people get a good flashlight, preferably one with a rechargeable 18650 lithium-ion battery. But besides keeping one at home, I also want one that's small enough to carry around every day.
I'm the kind of person who always carries an EDC (everyday carry) flashlight. I've used many different models from various brands, but none have been quite like the one I recently bought.
This is the Wuben G5 – the 'viral' flashlight you've probably seen on Shopee or TikTok. I really like it. It's about the size of a Zippo lighter, has a rotating head that allows you to project 400 lumens of light in any direction. It also has a three-way pocket clip, a magnetic base, and, most importantly, charges via USB-C.
The USB-C port has a sliding cover that also doubles as a lock, preventing the light from being accidentally turned on when in a pocket. This is a compact, sturdy flashlight that's well worth having.
Considering that most of us already have several USB-C cables for charging our phones, tablets, laptops, AirPods, and all sorts of other devices, buying additional accessories that utilize this port is clearly very logical.