USB-C ports and cables are not all equal
USB-C describes the shape of the connector, not what it can do.
A port or cable might support fast data, video output, high-wattage charging, or none of these. Many cheap cables only charge a phone slowly.
- Look for the symbols next to the port: a lightning bolt, a DisplayPort icon or a USB logo with a speed.
- For laptop charging and docks, buy cables that state their wattage and data speed.
- If an external SSD is slow, try a different cable and port before blaming the drive.
Trap: the cable that came with your phone may not carry video or fast data. Keep one properly rated cable for your dock or monitor.