[Kliment]

For the mini, the wobbly springy bits are in the device, for the micro the wobbly springy bits are in the cable. The cable is cheaper and easier to replace. The springy bits bend out of shape over time and fail.

[ChuckMcM]

That is an excellent way to put it, I'm going to steal that if you don't mind.

[Kliment]

I don't mind in the slightest. Use any way you please.

[iforgotpassword]

Now that truly qualifies as a concise ELI5. Well done. :-)

[megaremote]

I still don't get this:

https://i2.wp.com/www.cheapharddrivesstorage.com/wp-content/...

[Dylan16807]

Here is a mini usb socket showing the metal latch that pushes into the plug: https://image.dhgate.com/albu_198781941_00/1.0x0.jpg

Here is the other side of the micro usb plug, showing the two metal latches that push into the socket: https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/OesAAOSwxu5ZF07R/s-l300.jpg

And like someone else said, that ain't a micro usb socket in your image.

[eclipxe]

That micro usb photo is actually a rare mini usb.