Are those USB cabs unnecessary?

By common sense, I think USB ports and connectors are designed to withstand real-life environment to some extent, at least, they should be able to withstand some dust, dirt and even some water splash in a reasonable amount. In other words, is it really unnecessary to get those "USB cabs" or "USB protectors"?

Is it only a fancy but unnecessary accessories for those who are obsessed with their new expensive device?

Could a poorly made silicone or plastic cabs even cause wear to the USB connectors/ports, which does more harm than good?

I've been using USB ports since they first came out. I've never, ever used a 'USB port protector' and have never once had an issue.

IMO, they appear to be a product designed to fix a problem that doesn't actually exist.

There are legitimate uses for covers in industrial, lab or outdoor workplaces to protect from exposure.

For normal users, not eating or drinking next to your PC and the occasional blast from an air duster is perfectly fine.

garlin said:

There are legitimate uses for covers in industrial, lab or outdoor workplaces to protect from exposure.

For normal users, not eating or drinking next to your PC and the occasional blast from an air duster is perfectly fine.

Oh yes, but if I like to eat and drink next to my PC then will those silicone/plastic protective cabs offer some levels of insurance against accident?

Id say the protectors are only any good for showing off.

Abit like the old leather bonnet bras you could get for your car.
There was a right fad at one stage in the late 90's, early 2000's, where all the £300 respray chavs, had to spend £100 on a bonnet bra..
It was to cover up the crappy paint job

Nowadays, you can get exactly the same protection for your car from a super thin transparent film of vinyl wrap.

So i reckon, if you aint going to use the USBs, just get some clear selotape and whack it over the ports.
Lots of positives from this mod.

1. It didnt cost anything.
2. You cant see the tape.
3. You cant stick anything in the slots.
4. No dust build up.
5. Cider or Lager hazards do not exist.
6. Food crumbs do not stand a chance.
7. Years of protection.
8. Piece of mind.

Clear selotape for the win

Only place I have ever seen that seems to benefit from some sort of port protection is in small electronics that get carried in a pocket like a phone. I have personally known at least 2 people who had problems charging their phones when the port became plugged up with lint from their pockets. But all they had to do was hit it with a quick blast of air and a very small brush and all was as good as new.

Its not so bad

I start twitching when I see liquid (other than cooling liquid) anywhere near a PC.