While Apple USB cables get the job done, they are also pretty unreliable. They rarely last longer than a few months without getting major wire issues around the device-end.

I have a store in walking distance of my house that sells third party cables for $5 that last three times as long. These are good if you're in a pinch and need the nearest cable, or as a backup, but it's better to look into other options for your charging needs.

I bought this cable about 6 months ago, it seemed fine at the time although it never seemed to plug in to my iPod smoothly. Then recently it had a bad connection and wouldn't charge if the cable wasn't in the right position. Then last week it simply stopped working. Disappointing