Cables and Adapters Buying Guide NZ: Pick the Right Lead

Identify both ends first

Write down the port on each device — the cable is named by its two connectors. Common pairings:

• USB-C to USB-C: modern phones, tablets and laptops.
• USB-A to USB-C or Micro-USB: older chargers, power banks and accessories.
• HDMI to HDMI: TVs, monitors, consoles and media boxes.
• 3.5mm aux: older car stereos, portable speakers and headphones.

Length matters more than people expect

Measure the run and add roughly 30% for routing around furniture. Too short strains the connector; excessively long HDMI runs over about 10 metres can need an active cable.

When you need an adapter instead

An adapter changes the connector shape; a converter changes the signal. USB-C to HDMI, for example, only works if the device supports video output over USB-C. Check that before buying.

Charging cables are not all equal

For fast charging and data transfer, look for a cable rated for the current your charger supplies. A basic charge-only lead will work but will be slower.

Practical tips

• Keep a spare of the lead you use daily — they fail at the plug end.
• Label leads behind the TV with a tag so you are not tracing them later.
• Buy in NZ so you are not waiting weeks on overseas shipping; we deliver nationwide with free shipping over $75.