Tethering
The Industry Standard for Tethering Cables in Photography
When it comes to professional photography, tethering isn’t just a convenience. It’s a necessity. Shooting tethered allows photographers to view images in real time on a laptop or monitor, ensuring critical sharpness, precise composition, and immediate client feedback. But a solid tethering workflow is only as good as the cable connecting your camera to your computer.
In the photography industry, two brands have long been considered the standard: Tether Tools and Area 51 Tether Co. That said, after multiple failures with Tether Tools, I began testing third party alternatives—including Cable Matters, which has become a surprisingly reliable option.
Why Tethering Cables Matter
Not all USB or data cables are created equal. The demands of professional photography require:
Reliable connections: Dropped signals can interrupt shoots and frustrate clients.
High data transfer speeds: Modern cameras produce massive RAW files that need fast, uninterrupted transfer.
Durability: Studio and on-location environments are tough. Cables get stepped on, bent, and coiled repeatedly..
That’s why investing in a purpose-built tethering cable is critical if tethering is part of your workflow.
Tether Tools: Once the Gold Standard
Tether Tools has long been considered the gold standard in tethering. Their high-visibility orange cables are instantly recognizable, and they’ve built a reputation around professional-grade quality and a robust accessory ecosystem.
Key features:
Premium shielding to minimize signal loss
Reinforced connectors for durability
Wide range of lengths and types (USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB-C, etc.)
Extensive compatibility with most camera systems
However, my own experience with Tether Tools has changed. I used to shoot exclusively with their cables, but I had four cables fail within a single year. Around 2022, I began hearing similar complaints from other photographers, suggesting a possible change in their manufacturing. Because of this, I’ve since explored other options.
Area 51 Tether Co.: A Dependable Alternative
Area 51 Tether Co. has quickly gained traction among working photographers for their durability and performance at a competitive price point.
Key features:
Reinforced connectors and robust shielding
USB-C and legacy options available
Black, low-profile cables (a more subtle look compared to Tether Tools’ orange)
Strong track record for reliability under heavy use
Cable Matters: A Tested, Non-Photography Brand
About two years ago, after repeated failures with Tether Tools, I began experimenting with more affordable USB-C to USB-C cables to see if there were any reliable alternatives. That’s when I found Cable Matters Active USB-C Cable (16.4 ft / 5m), which is marketed for Oculus Quest 2 headsets and external hard drives.
My experience with Cable Matters:
I initially bought two, assuming I’d eventually replace them with Area 51 once one failed.
After two years of fairly heavy use, neither has failed.
I’ve experienced no dropped connections or slow transfers.
The length (16.4 ft / 5m) is perfect for studio work.
The limitation: these are USB-C to USB-C only, which many cameras (especially older ones) don’t support.
⚠️ Important note: While I’ve had excellent results, third-party cables aren’t always recommended for tethering. Tethering requires both stable long-distance performance and fast data transfer speeds. Some cheaper cables claim “high speed” but choke when moving large RAW files. If you do decide to experiment, make sure to verify the specs before relying on them in a professional setting.
Choosing the Right Cable for You
When deciding between Tether Tools, Area 51, or alternatives like Cable Matters, consider:
Budget: Tether Tools is the most expensive; Area 51 and Cable Matters offer strong quality at a lower price.
Visibility vs. discretion: Bright orange (Tether Tools) vs. low-profile black (Area 51, Cable Matters).
Accessories: Tether Tools has the largest ecosystem of hubs, extensions, and management tools.
Reliability: My personal track record now leans toward Area 51 and Cable Matters.
Whether you’re in a high-volume studio, shooting on location, or working solo, a reliable tethering cable is non-negotiable. Tether Tools once defined the standard, but in recent years Area 51 has proven to be a stronger competitor, and Cable Matters has unexpectedly become my personal workhorse after repeated failures with Tether Tools.
If tethering is part of your workflow, invest in at least one primary cable and one backup. Because nothing brings a shoot to a halt faster than a dropped connection