The Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P use two completely different cables

Considering how Google’s two upcoming Nexus smartphones were developed by separate companies, the Nexus 5X by LG and the Nexus 6P by Huawei, there’s only so much consistency that can be achieved, and it’s only natural for there to be some glaring differences between the two devices. One of the most notable of these differences is the fact that the Nexus 5X uses a USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable, while the Nexus 6P uses a USB Type-C to USB Standard-A cable. 

After a nice new Nexus 5X this autumn? Or what about a sleek Nexus 6P? If you still haven’t made your mind up, then there’s another small difference between the two that might convince you one way or the other. It all comes down to cables: the more expensive 6P has a USB Type-C to USB Standard-A cable included, whereas the more affordable 5X offers a USB Type-C to Type-C one instead. In plain English that means you can’t plug your Nexus 5X into a standard USB port without buying another cable. You can plug it into machines with the new USB Type-C standard, including the latest MacBook and the second generation Chromebook Pixel. Both phones come with plug adaptors so there’s no problem on that score: you can of course charge your Nexus 5X phone with what’s in the box. It’s just phone-to-computer connections that might need an extra bit of kit, if you’re buying the Nexus 5X. It’s not a major problem – you may never have to plug your Nexus into your laptop anyway – but don’t forget to factor in the potential cost of an extra cable if you have your heart set on the Nexus 5X.