I used to buy the cheapest charging cable available. I figured if the cord was getting electricity to the device, it should be fine. Over the years, I have learned that this was a naive assessment. \n\nThis cable was the latest piece of evidence supporting this conclusion. I bought a refurbished iPad (certified refurbs are the way to go, but this isn't the place for that discussion). I plugged it into the same USB plug, using the same USB cord I have been using to charge my older iPads and iPhones (when I want to use it while charging and can't use wireless charging.\n\nThe words "Not Charging" were appearing by the battery meter. In spite of these words it was charging, but very slowly.\n\nI presumed I'd gotten a bad unit. After all, my other Apple devices even iPads, charged there just fine.\n\nBut, before reaching out to Apple and starting a repair, I decided I would make sure I had an actual Apple cable and an Apple wall plug. Fortunately, all the USBC wall plugs I have came with Apple devices. \n\nAnd the iPad charged. It charged quickly, and without any weird messaging.\n\nMany things go into making something even as simple as a cord. Copper cords vs. copper coated aluminum, design, fabrication.\n\nIf you're spending the money to get an Apple device, for whatever reason, spend the extra $10 and buy a proper Apple charging cord if your device didn't come with one or you need a replacement/spare. Their cables are also rated for data transfer, not just for charging.\n\nIf makes a difference.