Is It Okay to Use a Lightning to USB C Cable on an iPhone X?
When you're considering connecting your iPhone X with a Lightning port to another device using a USB C port, the reality is that it works just fine and often offers additional benefits. Let's explore the possibilities and limitations of using a Lightning to USB C cable with your iPhone X.
Compatibility and Charging Capabilities
Interestingly, Apple's Lightning port is compatible with standard USB C cables and charging is one of the key benefits. Essentially, when you use a Lightning to USB C cable, your iPhone X will adapt to the cable's capabilities. This means that if the other end of the cable is a USB C port connected to a compatible charger, your phone can draw power from it. Most importantly, the iPhone X supports fast charging via a USB C Power Delivery (PD) charger at up to 18 watts.
Enhanced Charging Speed
Using a Lightning to USB C cable with a USB C PD charger that provides enough power output (18 watts or more) can significantly boost the charging speed of your iPhone X. This is a particularly useful feature if you're using an iPhone X in a tablet or a desktop charger setup. For instance, connecting your iPhone X to an iPad Pro with a USB C port should enable your phone to charge at a faster rate. Additionally, using a USB C charger, even a basic one, can still provide adequate charging, though at a slightly lower wattage. Most iPads come with a charger that outputs around 2.1-2.4 amps, which generally translates to 10-12 watts of power for your iPhone X.
Camera Functionality and Data Transfer
In some cases, you might be using the Lightning to USB C cable not just for charging, but also for data transfer or even sharing your camera with another device. While the primary function of the cable is to transfer power, you can also use it for minor data exchange. For example, if you connect your iPhone X to an iPad Pro that has a USB C port, your iPhone X should show up as a camera (or picture-taking device) on the iPad Pro. This means that you can use the iPad Pro to control the camera functions of your iPhone X for video recording or taking pictures.
Conclusion
In summary, using a Lightning to USB C cable on an iPhone X is not only perfectly acceptable but can enhance your experience by providing faster charging and the ability to share your camera with other devices. Whether you're looking to charge your phone quickly or share your photos on the go, the Lightning to USB C connection is a versatile and efficient solution.