A Must-Have 3-in-1 USB-C Cable for Travelers – Here's My Experience

ChubbyCable Tri-Flex: The Versatile Charging Solution

Essential Insights from ZDNET

On my recent European adventure, which lasted for a month, it became glaringly obvious that my charging gear needed an upgrade by the year 2026. Being a frequent traveler with gadgets such as an Apple iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods Pro, I was constantly battling with the challenge of keeping them charged outside the comfort of my home, where a nightstand charging station serves me well.

Having tested various 3-in-1 charging solutions, which typically combine into a single unit with dual USB-C ends and an Apple Watch puck, I found them all lacking. Some failed straight away, while others couldn’t last beyond a few days of usage.

Enter the ChubbyCable Tri-Flex, a revelation in my quest for the perfect charging cable.

ZDNET's Recommendation Highlights

ChubbyCable Tri-Flex: Designed for the Modern Traveler

For owners of both the Apple Watch and AirPods, this cable is a travel essential.

Built for Durability

The ChubbyCable boasts an impressive construction, akin to that of a tank. Measuring 4.1 feet in length, it features a smooth, untangleable silicon surface, reminiscent of premium audio cables. Per the manufacturer, it endures over 10,000 bends, making it suitable for the rigors of travel.

Its thickness exceeds that of a standard cable.

Featuring aluminum-protected USB-C connectors, the cable confidently fits into even the bulkiest smartphone cases, maintaining an elegant streamline profile.

The cable features two USB-C ends: one enables 100W power delivery and data speeds of 480 Mbps, and the other offers 12.5W for fast charging.

Aluminum shields also protect the connectors, ensuring they fit snugly into cumbersome smartphone cases.

Additionally, there’s a 2.5W charging puck, compatible with cases that allow wireless charging. While slower than Apple's Magnetic Fast Charger which handles up to 5W, it suffices for overnight charging needs.

To harness the full power of this cable, a 100W or higher adapter is needed, although it remains functional with low-power USB-C sources.

Stays Cool Under Pressure

Equipped with an E-Marker chip, the cable sustains a full 100W load without overheating, as my extensive testing confirms.

It also includes a convenient vegan leather strap to keep the cable neat, which I favor over Velcro as it avoids snagging in bags and luggage.

Buying Tips from ZDNET

Available in a variety of colors like orange, green, blue, black, and a classic all-black, the ChubbyCable is not an economical pick but a perfect solution for anyone tired of hauling multiple cables while traveling.