The micro:bit has a USB Type-B micro connector, also referred to as USB-micro, or USB-B. You can use the USB interface to transfer code onto the micro:bit and to power it. 


The USB lead or cable that you require will depend on what device you are plugging the micro:bit into:

  • Typically, you will need a USB Type-A plug for the computer and a USB Type-B plug at the other end to be plugged into the micro:bit. This is the type of cable supplied in the BBC micro:bit Go and BBC micro:bit Club packs.


Cable with micro USB type B on one end (left) and USB-A on the other (right)

Cable with micro USB Type-B on one end (left) and USB Type-A on the other (right).


  • Newer computers, as well as Android, iPad, and iPhone devices, typically now have USB Type-C connectors (a small connector with rounded corners that can be plugged in any direction) rather than USB Type-A connectors.
    Apple can also refer to USB-C connectors as "Thunderbolt" connectors in their documentation.

    For these devices, you can either:
    • Use an adapter (more common for Android devices): Adapters are available to convert from USB Type-A to USB Type-C, or a multi-port adapter/hub that you connect between the supplied cable and your computer/Android device. These adaptors are widely available.
    • Use a micro USB-C to USB-B cable, which has a USB-C plug at one end and a USB-B plug at the other end. These micro:bit USB-C cables are readily available. 


USB-A to USB-C adapter

Example of an adapter with (plug) USB-C on one end and (socket) USB-A on the other end.



Example of a USB-Type-C(on left) to USB-B (on right) cable


Most modern cables are designed to serve as both data transfer cables and power cables, rather than just charging cables. Some (typically older or low-cost) cables are charging cables only, which means that your micro:bit will power up when plugged into it, but it will not appear on the computer as a MICROBIT drive.


For a micro:bit V2:

When the micro:bit is powered using the correct USB cable, the red (power) LED and the yellow/orange (system) LED on the back of the micro:bit will be on.


For a micro:bit V1:

When the micro:bit is powered using the correct USB cable, the yellow/orange (system) LED on the back of the micro:bit will be on. When plugged in, it will appear on the computer as a MICROBIT drive. Please refer to our v1-tuneup user guide to get the most out of using the micro:bit V1 board.


If a successful data connection is established over your USB cable, your computer will add a MICROBIT drive to the file manager view. If it is unsuccessful and you are certain you are using the correct type of cable, follow our advice on fault-finding with a micro:bit. If the issue remains unresolved, please contact our support desk.


Please note: For users of iPad and iPhone devices

Unfortunately, you cannot use a cable with an Apple iPhone or iPad as iOS prevents this sort of usage. To transfer code to a micro:bit from an Apple iPhone or iPad, you will need to use the iOS app with Bluetooth.