I’ve compared a couple of cables to existing Apple lightning cables I had, but that’s not really fair as they’re older cables that have been quite heavily used. As you can see, cables do degrade over time but a new Apple Lightning cable is not quite as good as I had expected. They’re OK for an included cable, but nothing special. If you’re buying aftermarket lightning cables, you can do better given how much these cost individually (currently £19 from Apple).

This 5-pack of TNSO Extra Long Nylon Braided Cables, in 3, 6 and 10 foot lengths came from Amazon UK. They cost £10.99. I do not recommend these cables.

I bought this 2-Pack RAVPower Lightning Cable Set, 3ft and 6ft, from Amazon UK for £10.19 on a lightning deal. They’re normally £13.99 and come with a lifetime warranty. They’re good cables, recommended.

I bought these cables from Sainsburys which is a supermarket here in the UK. The braided lightning one was £11.99 and the micro-usb one was £6.76. They’re ok, but nothing special. You can find better cables for less money, but they’ll do if you need something in a hurry that you can go and pick up straight away.

I bought this Anker PowerLine+ II Lightning Cable (6ft) on a lightning deal from Amazon for £9.09. The current price is £12.99. It seems to be of decent quality and I’m recommending this one.