When upgrading to USB C, can there be one USB cable to rule them all?

Solution 1:

With regard to transfer speeds, USB-C has no effect. USB-C is distinct and separate from USB 3.1/3/2/1.1 and your transfer speeds are determined solely by the capabilities of the devices communicating at either end.

1. A cable from USB-A male to USB-C male and a USB-C female to USB-micro male adapter

This configuration is not permitted by the USB specifications.

2. A cable from USB-A male to USB-micro male and a USB-micro female to USB-C male adapter

This configuration will charge and transfer data at whatever the maximum capabilities are of the least capable device, exactly the same as any other kind of USB connection.

3. 2 cables and no adapter

This configuration will charge and transfer data at whatever the maximum capabilities are of the least capable device, exactly the same as any other kind of USB connection.