'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?
ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.
When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.
ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form.
Is this 6-in-1 keychain charging cable a gimmick or pure genius? I tested it and found out
ZDNET's key takeaways
- The Zeus-X Go 6-in-1 universal cable is available from Futurizta for $39.
- It's a well-made universal cable that features every combination most people will ever need while supporting a 240W power transfer.
- It's bulky, and the powder-coated finish isn't all that durable. Plus, if you primarily use USB-C, you probably don't need it.
When I shared details about my keychain EDC (Every Day Carry), several readers inquired why my setup lacked a multi-connector x-in-1 "universal" keychain charge cable, like the widely-advertised Zeus-X Go Ultra 6-in-1 universal cable by Futurizta, which I've seen all across social media lately.
Also: 10 tiny 'everyday carry' tools and gadgets I keep on my keychain
Here's the honest truth -- we have a bit of a complicated history. I actually did carry one for several years, and it turned out to be quite bulky and unwieldy, so over time I found myself using it less and less. But in the spirit of science, and in an attempt to reignite my affection for such gadgets, I got my hands on the Zeus-X Go Ultra for testing. I was ready to give it another go with a fresh perspective.
View at FuturiztaZeus-X Go Ultra tech specs
- Features USB-C/USB-A to USB-C/Lightning/microUSB
- Zinc alloy shell
- Ergonomic 180° swivel & 360° rotate mechanism
- 240W Power Delivery and USB 3.1 support
- Built-in E-Mark smart chip
- Compact
- Anti-tangle
The Zeus-X Go Ultra, a 6-in-1 cable, features a versatile connector on one end that switches between USB-A and USB-C. On the other end, it offers a multi-purpose connector that alternates among USB-C, Lightning, and microUSB.
Connecting the two ends is a 2-inch (5 cm) flexible ribbon cable, with ends crafted from zinc alloy and finished with powder coating. It has the look and feel of a gadget designed by someone who grew up watching Transformers.
However, the durability of the powder coating has been less impressive than I anticipated, showing considerable chipping after just a few weeks of use. While this wear is purely cosmetic and may not bother everyone, it could be a significant drawback for those who prioritize aesthetics.
The two ends are secured with strong neodymium magnets, and a non-detachable rubberized cap covers the connectors when they're not in use.
Also: Why I limit my iPhone 15's charge capacity to 80% (and you should you too)
Overall, the cable lives up to its promises. It comes equipped with all the advertised connectors, which function reliably. The USB-C to USB-C portion is indeed equipped with an E-Mark smart chip, and it supports up to 240W of power transfer. Additionally, it is indeed very hard to tangle.
But there are downsides.
In addition to the powder coating issue, the fit and finish of the screws and screw holes leave something to be desired. I know that it's a cable and not a Fabergé egg, but when I carry this thing in my pocket, the screws have a tendency to catch on my skin. Not something you want to be carrying around all day.
Ultimately, these are just minor nit-picks. It's a good cable, it works well, and if you want to simplify your load out of gear, it's a good option.
But, there's one final issue I have with this device: it's just so bulky.
And it adds a lot of extra bulk to a keychain, and as you can see, I'm not resistant to having a bulky keychain.
Considering that approximately 99% of my cable requirements are for a USB-C to USB-C connection, and I seldom need a microUSB connector, opting for a smaller cable makes more sense for me. something where I can get two cables for under $10, for example. If I lose one of these or leave it at a job, no big deal!
If I need something more fancy, there are options such as a small, flexible ribbon USB-C cable that supports 100W power transfer for under $10 too.
In my tool bag, these keychain cables prove to be too compact for my liking, so I prefer carrying something longer, something in the three-foot or even six-foot size range.
ZDNET's buying advice
If you're someone who appreciates having a Swiss Army Knife of cables, especially if you frequently use devices with microUSB and Lightning ports (yes, Apple's Lightning ports are now considered legacy), then a Zeus-X Go 6-in-1 universal cable might be exactly what you need. And at $39, it's hardly going to break the bank.
However, if you find the world around you has shifted over to USB-C, then you might be better off just grabbing yourself a few cheap cables, such as those found in the Amazon Basics line.