The best iPhone Lightning cables

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The best Lightning cables can fast charge a compatible iPhone and provide long-lasting use. While Apple has largely transitioned from Lightning to USB-C, Lightning cables will be needed for older devices that are still in use.

To help you properly charge an iPhone 14 or earlier, or pre-USB-C AirPods and iPads, we've compiled our favorite Lightning cables for USB-C and USB-A chargers, along with 3-in-1 cables that include a Lightning connector, from trusted brands like Anker, Nomad, Spigen, and more.

Among the best iPhone Lightning cables for USB-C chargers, our top pick is the Anker Powerline II USB-C to Lightning cable, which supports 20W fast charging and offers a 10-foot-long version. Our favorite budget option is the Amazon Basics USB-C to Lightning cable, which is available in 3-, 6-, and 10-foot models, and provides 18W charging. Note that only USB-C supports fast chargers, while USB-A tops out at around 12W.

Best iPhone Lightning cables for USB-C chargers

• Staff Pick

  

  Best overall

  Anker Powerline II USB-C to Lightning Cable
  Anker's Powerline II is the best available combination of price, durability, and utility. It supports the iPhone's maximum charging capacity, 20W, comes in three different sizes at three, six, and 10 feet, and has a lifetime warranty.
• 

  Best long cable

  Native Union Night Cable USB-C to Lightning
  Native Union's braided, 10-foot Night cable has a helpful built-in weight to anchor the cord when in use. Though Native Union offers a lifetime warranty for its cables, the cable's sturdy DuPont Kevlar fiber material will itself provide long-lasting protection.
• 

  Best durable cable

  Nomad Kevlar USB-C to Lightning Cable
  With a double-braided Kevlar sheath, this Nomad cable offers the most “extreme durability” of any available option. It’s available in 4.9 and 9.8 feet and also allows for the fastest iPhone charging possible.
• 

  Best budget cable

  Amazon Basics USB-C to Lightning Cable
  For under $12, the Amazon Basic cable is a durable and affordable option that offers a respectable 18W charging, and it's available in three and six feet.

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Best iPhone Lightning cables for USB-A chargers

• Staff Pick

  

  Best overall

  Anker Powerline II USB-A to Lightning Cable
  The Powerline II from Anker combines superior function, durability, and affordability. For a relatively low cost, you get a lifetime warranty on an already long-lasting cable that is tested to withstand 12,000 bends.
• 

  Best long cable

  Native Union Night Cable USB-A to Lightning
  The sturdy, 10-foot Night cable from Native Union is your best bet for a long cable. Its adjustable weighted knot is a handy feature, and it's tested to last through 10,000 bends.
• 

  Best durable cable

  Fuse Chicken Titan Lightning Cable
  The Fuse Chicken Titan cable is encased in steel and can supposedly survive a chainsaw. It's somewhat stiff, but still flexible.
• 

  Best budget cable

  Amazon Basics USB-A to Lightning Cable
  An affordable option that doesn't sacrifice function, the reliable and sturdy Amazon Basic cord is available for as little as $8, and comes in three- and six-foot versions.

Best 3-in-1 cables for iPhone with Lightning charging

• Staff Pick

  

  Best overall

  Anker Powerline II 3-in-1 Cable
  With a bulletproof fiber core and ultra-durable 12,000-bend lifespan, Anker's 3-in-1 cable can reliably charge USB-C, Lightning, and Micro USB connections for many years, within a lifetime warranty.
• 

  Best long cable

  Native Union Belt Cable Universal
  At 6.5 feet, Native Union's universal belt is the longest reliable cable you can buy with USB-C, Lightning, and Micro USB charging tips built-in. Its strong nylon braiding comes in three colors.
• Sale

  

  Best durable cable

  Spigen DuraSync 3-in-1 Universal
  Tested to withstand an impressive 30,000 bends, the nylon braided cords of Spigen's 3-in-1 DuraSync cable make it the longest-lasting option among universal charging cables at a convenient 4.9 feet in length.
• 

  Best budget cable

  Smartish 3-in-1 Universal Fabric Wrapped
  Smartish's fabric cable may not be the most durable option available, but for $20, the six-foot, 3-in-1 cable offers a great combination of affordability and utility.

FAQs

Has Apple discontinued the Lightning cable?

Apple has effectively discontinued the Lightning charging standard, though Lightning cables will remain in use and likely remain widely available for years to come. All new Apple products are expected to move to USB-C entirely by 2025.

The iPhone 14, still one of the best iPhones, is the singular holdout from Apple's gradual transition to a USB-C charging standard. The company switched from Lightning to USB-C ports in 2023 with the release of the iPhone 15 generation and an update to the second-generation AirPods Pro. In 2024, Apple discontinued AirPods models that still used Lightning and replaced them with the AirPods 4. The company also phased out the 9th-generation iPad with Lightning in 2024, but it's still available to buy from retailers like Amazon.

The Lightning cable will have to persist for a while, though, as the charging standard still exists in the iPhone 14 series or earlier; in iPads released before 2022; and with any AirPods case released before 2023. 

What is an MFi-certified Lightning cable?

"MFI," which stands for "Made For iPhone, iPad, or iPod," is Apple's designation for authorized in-house and recommended third-party charging cables. 

Each cable above is MFI-certified, so each can properly fit and charge your Apple products without damaging them. 

Any cable without MFI certification is liable to either break easily, damage the device you're charging, or not properly fit the device's charging outlet.

Is it safe to use cheap Lightning cables?

If an affordable Lightning cable has authentic MFI certification, you can consider it safe to use. 

However, many cheap cables available online are not MFI-certified and are liable to damage your Apple device. Make sure to double-check the product listing for MFI certification before making a purchase.

What should I look for in a Lightning cable?

First and foremost, you should ensure that a Lightning cable is MFI-certified, so that it can properly charge your Apple device without risking damage. 

Cable durability is another paramount factor, and cable length and aesthetic considerations will depend on your preferences and charging habits.  

If you want to take full advantage of an iPhone's fast-charging capability, you'll need to get a Lightning to USB-C cable and one of the best USB-C chargers with at least 20W. Lightning to USB-A cables and 3-in-1 "universal" cables, which are meant for USB-A charging ports, will not fast charge an iPhone.