USB Reference
USB Charging
USB charging includes several ways USB ports, chargers, devices, and cables provide or negotiate power. USB-C, USB Power Delivery, PPS, and Battery Charging describe different parts of that system.
USB charging comparison
Compare the main USB charging terms by what they describe, how power is handled, and the main compatibility requirement.
| Technology | What it describes | How power is handled | Key compatibility check |
|---|---|---|---|
| USB-C charging | Power over the USB-C connector system | USB-C current advertisement and optional USB PD | Port, device, cable, and PD support |
| USB Power Delivery | Negotiated USB power | Source and sink negotiate supported power levels | PD support and required cable capability |
| USB PD PPS | Programmable USB PD power | Compatible devices request adjustable output within advertised ranges | PPS support on both charger and device |
| USB Battery Charging | Legacy USB charging-port behavior | BC 1.2 port detection and charging rules | BC 1.2 support and port type |
| USB fast charging | General higher-speed charging concept | Depends on the supported charging protocol and power profile | Charger, device, cable, and protocol match |
Sources: USB-IF USB Power Delivery, USB-IF USB Type-C Specification, USB-IF Battery Charging documents, and USB-IF Fast Charging.