Proprietary Connectors
All Proprietary connector types with specifications and compatibility.
Proprietary connectors are designed by individual manufacturers for specific product ecosystems. Notable examples include Apple's Lightning (iPhone 5 through 14), Microsoft Surface Connect, and various laptop charging ports. While these connectors often deliver optimized performance within their ecosystems, regulatory pressure and industry standardization — particularly around USB-C — have reduced the prevalence of new proprietary designs.
Apple 30-pin
Apple's original dock connector used on iPods, iPhones (through iPhone 4S), and iPads (through 3rd gen). Supported USB, FireWire, and analog audio/video output.
Lightning
Apple's proprietary 8-pin reversible connector used on iPhones (until iPhone 15) and some iPads and accessories. Being phased out in favor of USB-C.
MagSafe
Apple's magnetic laptop charging connector that safely disconnects if the cable is pulled. MagSafe 3 (2021) supports up to 140W fast charging on MacBook Pro.
Microsoft Surface Connect
Magnetic charging connector on Microsoft Surface Pro and Surface Laptop. Also supports Surface Dock for USB/video expansion. Being phased out in favor of USB-C/Thunderbolt.
Samsung DeX
Samsung's desktop experience mode using USB-C with HDMI Alt Mode. Turns Galaxy phones and tablets into desktop computing stations when connected to a monitor via …