This Tiny USB Gadget Saves Me Hours Every Day

As a tech editor and reviewer, I've handled numerous gadgets over many years. However, this has led to an extensive collection of cords that have ultimately turned into one massive knotted mess. To put it differently, these wires form such a thick tangle they might even compete with the least accessible regions of the Amazon rainforest.

The assortment of wires in this tangled heap includes various kinds like USB-A to USB-C cables, power cords, HDMI cables, and chargers. Given that numerous ones only differ by connector sizes, identifying each becomes an exasperatingly lengthy task. Obviously, I require some assistance—and fortunately—I have discovered a solution.

My "aha!" moment with USB cables

My moment of insight happened when I accidentally discovered this. cable wire markers from Amazon Now I feel somewhat embarrassed confessing that the answer to my issue was so straightforward and right before my eyes, priced at merely $7, with quick delivery possible within a matter of days.

Yes, I've begun attaching them to nearly every new USB cable I obtain—along with going back and placing them on the cables in the collection I had previously made. Already, this simple act has brought a newfound sense of order and clarity to my work area that I never imagined was achievable before.

These convenient tags are available in multiple colors, allowing you to categorize your cables according to their function. The labels are large enough that you can specify both the device and the purpose of each cable, making it easy to select the correct one quickly. Additionally, these tags feature adhesive properties that keep them securely attached while also being water-resistant, plus they work well with laser printers.

Dominic Bayley / Foundry

Aside from simply imposing organization on the chaos, I'm pleased that my gadgets are now at much lower risk of getting damaged by me when I mistakenly use the incorrect cords with them.

Since I started tagging wires, I've decided to leave behind my outdated and ineffective methods, which often consumed over an hour just searching for the correct cable. The most straightforward solutions frequently have the greatest influence on our lives, so I'm looking out for additional productivity tips similar to this one to optimize both my workday and free time. I strongly urge you to follow suit.

Further reading: Purchasing a USB-C cable? Here are 6 pitfalls to be aware of.