Rode

Rode SC21-R USB-C to Lightning Cable Red

4.0 (10 reviews)
USB-C

The SC21 locks your MFi USB-C microphone to any Lightning iOS device with a reliable 30cm connection — in red.

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Overview

The Røde SC21 exists to solve one specific problem: getting audio from an MFi-certified USB-C microphone into a Lightning-port iOS device cleanly and reliably. At 30cm, it's engineered for close-proximity setups — a mic clipped to a phone in a grip, mounted on a cold shoe, or held in-hand for interview content. The MFi certification is the detail that matters most here; it's what separates this cable from generic adapters that throw up Apple warnings or introduce noise into the signal chain.

The build is consistent with Røde's accessory line — reinforced connectors, a flexible but durable jacket, and color-coded variants that make cable management easier when you're running multiple mics or devices. The red variant reviewed here is electrically identical to every other SC21 color. One constraint to plan around: this cable carries audio only — it will not charge or sync your iPhone while connected, which means budget your battery accordingly for long recording sessions. It's a focused tool for a focused job, and it does that job well.

Key Features

The SC21 is a high-quality 30cm Lightning Accessory Cable (USB-C to Lightning) designed to connect MFi-certified USB-C microphones to iOS devices

High-quality Lightning Accessory Cable (USB-C to Lightning)

30cm (1') long

Available in a range of colours, including black, orange, red, purple, pink, green and blue

Note: This cable will not charge or sync your iOS device.

Specifications

Cable Type
USB-C to Lightning (MFi Accessory Cable)
Length
30cm (approx. 1 ft)
Color
Red
Compatibility
MFi-certified USB-C microphones to Lightning iOS devices
Charging/Sync
Not supported

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • MFi certification ensures reliable, Apple-approved signal transfer without dropouts
  • Compact 30cm length keeps the cable tidy in handheld and on-camera mic setups
  • Available in multiple colors — useful for cable identification in multi-mic or multi-device rigs
  • Røde build quality means consistent connector seating and a durable jacket

👎 Cons

  • 30cm length is limiting if the microphone needs to be positioned more than arm's reach from the device
  • Will not charge or sync — purely an audio accessory cable, not a general-use Lightning cable
  • Compatible only with Lightning-port iOS devices — not useful for newer USB-C iPhones or any Android device
  • Only works with MFi-certified USB-C microphones — not a universal USB-C to Lightning adapter

Frequently Asked Questions

No. This cable is strictly a data/audio accessory cable — it will not charge or sync your iOS device. Its sole function is connecting MFi-certified USB-C microphones to Lightning-port devices.
It is designed for MFi-certified USB-C microphones — such as the Røde VideoMic Me-C — connecting them to iPhones and iPads with a Lightning port. It will not work with non-MFi devices or as a general-purpose USB-C cable.
For most handheld and clip-on configurations, yes. 30cm keeps the cable tidy when a mic is mounted directly to a phone or held close. If you need the microphone at a distance — on a boom arm or desk stand — this length will be restrictive.
No. The red finish is cosmetic only. All color variants of the SC21 carry the same MFi-certified signal path and electrical specifications.
No. The SC21 has a Lightning connector on one end, making it compatible only with Apple devices that use the Lightning port. USB-C iPhones and Android devices require a different cable.