This catches almost everyone at some point. A charge-only lead has the power lines wired and the data lines absent, so the device powers up and the computer never sees it. There is no way to tell by looking. Buy leads specified for data where transfer matters, and label them, because they end up in the same drawer. Cable version also caps speed. See charging cables, cable accessories and USB hubs.

Data transfer cable connected between a laptop and external drive on a bright modern workspace desk.

Data Transfer Cables

Shop data transfer cables for USB, USB C, Thunderbolt, storage devices, backups and file transfers.