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Mini USB

USB Mini-B

Standard: USB-IF Last updated: 2025-01-21

Mini USB was introduced with USB 2.0 in 2000 and was the standard small device connector before Micro USB. It was officially deprecated by USB-IF in 2007 due to durability concerns and the desire for an even smaller connector. However, many devices continued to use it for years, and some niche devices still ship with Mini USB ports today. The PS3 controller's use of Mini USB kept it relevant longer than expected.

Quick Specifications

Max Speed

480 Mbps

Max Power

2.5W

Pins

5

Reversible

No

⚠️ Common Confusion Points

  • Mini USB is larger and taller than Micro USB - they are not interchangeable
  • Mini USB was deprecated by USB-IF in 2007 in favor of Micro USB
  • Mini-A, Mini-B, and Mini-AB connectors exist but Mini-B is by far the most common
  • Mini USB has no USB 3.0 variant - it maxes out at USB 2.0 speeds
  • Mini USB is rated for only 5,000 insertions vs 10,000 for Micro USB

Protocols & Versions

Protocol Data Rate Power Max Length
USB 1.1 (1.1) 12 Mbps 2.5W (500mA @ 5V) 5m
USB 2.0 (2.0) 480 Mbps 2.5W (500mA @ 5V) 5m

USB 1.1 Features

Full Speed

Cable requirements: Standard Mini USB cable

USB 2.0 Features

Hi-Speed OTG support (Mini-AB variant)

Cable requirements: Standard Mini USB cable

Connector Specifications

Shape
trapezoidal
Pins
5 (1 rows)
Width × Height
6.8 × 3 mm
Depth
7 mm
Reversible
No
Pin Pitch
0.8 mm

Electrical Specifications

Max Voltage
5V
Max Current
0.5A
Max Power
2.5W

Compatibility

Backwards Compatible With

  • USB 1.0
  • USB 1.1

Can Adapt To

  • USB-A
  • USB-C
  • Micro USB

Can Adapt From

  • USB-A
  • USB-C

Common Uses

  • Digital cameras (older models)
  • MP3 players (early 2000s)
  • Older GPS devices (Garmin)
  • PS3 controllers
  • Texas Instruments calculators
  • Older external hard drives
  • GoPro cameras (older models)
  • Some audio interfaces

Buying Guide

Mini USB cables are becoming harder to find as the connector is largely deprecated. Any Mini USB cable will work for data and charging since there's no USB 3.0 variant to worry about. If you have devices still using Mini USB, consider stocking up on cables or using adapters.

Also Known As

Mini USB Mini-B Mini USB-B

Data Sources