The best lightning cable to keep your gadgets charged up

Forget lightning in a bottle, there's lightning in these cables.

A lightning cable being plugged into a smartphone

by Ryan Gilmore |
Updated on

If you own a modern Apple product, you'll be aware of the Lightning slot that charges it. You'll also know that Apple will only ship one (zero with the latest model) charging cable with your product. General wear and tear, misplacing it or a friend 'accidentally' forgetting to give it back can all leave you with an inexorably deteriorating battery.

Thankfully, there are plenty of great examples for sale that will keep your battery topped up. And even if you still have your original charger, having a few spare lightning cables is a good idea. Keep one in the car or your bag, just in case. And the best part is, they're a relatively cheap way of having peace of mind.

We've found the best lightning cables on the market so you'll be able to find the perfect one for you. And if you're looking at improving your iPhone further. take a look at our favourite cases.

Gallery

The best lightning cables

AmazonBasics Apple Certified Nylon Braided Lightning to USB Cable1 of 7

AmazonBasics Apple Certified Nylon Braided Lightning to USB Cable

A basic but effective lightning cable, the AmazonBasics option will suit most people perfectly. Available in two lengths (0.9 and 1.8 metres) and a variety of colours, it'll be a stylish addition. The nylon fibre cloth will ensure it's both durable and flexible. **Pros:**Excellent quality **Cons:**Not the longest cable

iPhone Charger Cable2 of 7

iPhone Charger Cable

Having multiple lightning cables is a clever idea in any house with children. Not only will it prevent arguments, but an extra cable will always come in handy. The cables in this triple-pack are made from nylon fibre, meaning it'll be tough enough for even the most unruly children.**Pros:Excellent value for moneyCons:**No colour variety

UNBREAKcable iPhone Charger Cable3 of 7

UNBREAKcable iPhone Charger Cable

The perfect option if you have little mechanical sympathy, the UNBREAKcable lightning charger is designed to keep on working. Not only does it boast a nylon fibre cable, but the terminal is upgraded to ensure that you never lose connection. **Pros:Designed to be durable Good cable lengthCons:**Nearly the same price as an official Apple product

Apple USB-C to Lightning Cable4 of 7

Apple USB-C to Lightning Cable

The official product is always going to be a solid choice if you're in the market for a new Lightning cable. A stylish option, it may not be the most durable in the long run, but a two-year guarantee is included. This one connects to a USB C slot, but regular USB examples are also available. **Pros:Offical Apple productLooks very stylishCons:**Not very durableExpensive

2m Braided Lightning Cable5 of 7

2m Braided Lightning Cable

Own a rose gold iPhone? Want a matching lightning cable? Now you can with this stylish cable. The braided finish not only looks, great but is designed to stop the cable from getting damaged. This cable also comes with a one-year guarantee. **Pros:Looks fabulousCons:**Guarantee not as long as other options

Anker PowerLine II Lightning Cable6 of 7

Anker PowerLine II Lightning Cable

Ever go to plug your phone in and the cable is simply too short? It's one of those small but really irritating inconveniences in life. That shouldn't be a problem with this three-metre lightning cable from Anker. Coming with a lifetime warranty also means the quality will be exceptional too.**Pros:Never worry about reaching the charger againOutstanding qualityCons:**Will be a bit harder to carry around with you

Anker USB C to Lightning Cable7 of 7

Anker USB C to Lightning Cable

If you also own a modern Macbook then you'll undoubtedly be aware that they use a UBS C slot. Thankfully, Anker offers a lightning cable that can be plugged into a USB C. It is also one of the best quality cables on the market, meaning it's a great option.**Pros:Offers charging from a USB C slotCons:**Only useful with Apple computers

All of these lightning cables have been hand-selected by What's The Best shopping experts. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching, so you can choose the best one. Plus, we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in. Find out why you should trust us here.

What to read next:

What to buy from Currys PC World, according to the What's The Best team

The Best PopSockets for your phone

Ryan Gilmore is a contributor for What's The Best. He also writes for CAR and Parkers.

Subscribe to the What’s The Best Newsletter to keep up to date with more of the latest reviews and recommendations from the What’s The Best team.

Just so you know, we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this website - read why you should trust us