Thunderbolt 4 vs. USB-C

Attribute	Thunderbolt 4	USB-C
Data Transfer Speed	40 Gbps	10 Gbps
Power Delivery	100W	100W
Compatibility	Backward compatible with Thunderbolt 3	Compatible with Thunderbolt 3, USB 3.1, USB 3.2
Display Support	Two 4K displays or one 8K display	One 4K display
Cable Type	USB-C	USB-C

Introduction

Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C are two popular connectivity standards that are commonly found in modern devices. While they may seem similar at first glance, there are some key differences between the two that can impact their performance and compatibility. In this article, we will compare the attributes of Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C to help you understand which one may be better suited for your needs.

Speed and Bandwidth

One of the main differences between Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C is the speed and bandwidth they offer. Thunderbolt 4 is capable of speeds of up to 40 Gbps, making it one of the fastest connectivity standards available. On the other hand, USB-C can support speeds of up to 10 Gbps, which is significantly slower than Thunderbolt 4. This means that Thunderbolt 4 is better suited for tasks that require high-speed data transfer, such as video editing or gaming.

Compatibility

Another important factor to consider when comparing Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C is their compatibility with other devices. Thunderbolt 4 is backward compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and USB 4, which means that you can use Thunderbolt 4 devices with older Thunderbolt 3 and USB 4 ports. USB-C, on the other hand, is a more universal standard that is compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more. This makes USB-C a more versatile option for users who need to connect to a variety of devices.

Power Delivery

One of the advantages of both Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C is their support for power delivery. Both standards can deliver power to connected devices, allowing you to charge your devices while transferring data. However, Thunderbolt 4 offers higher power delivery capabilities compared to USB-C. Thunderbolt 4 can deliver up to 100W of power, while USB-C is limited to 60W. This means that Thunderbolt 4 is better suited for charging larger devices, such as laptops, that require more power.

Display Support

When it comes to display support, Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C both offer the ability to connect to external monitors and displays. However, Thunderbolt 4 has an edge over USB-C when it comes to display support. Thunderbolt 4 can support up to two 4K displays or one 8K display, while USB-C is limited to one 4K display. This makes Thunderbolt 4 a better option for users who need to connect multiple high-resolution displays to their devices.

Cost

Cost is another factor to consider when comparing Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C. Thunderbolt 4 devices are typically more expensive than USB-C devices due to the higher speed and capabilities of the Thunderbolt 4 standard. If you are on a budget, USB-C may be a more cost-effective option for your connectivity needs. However, if you require the higher speeds and capabilities of Thunderbolt 4, the extra cost may be worth it for you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C are both popular connectivity standards that offer different advantages and capabilities. Thunderbolt 4 is faster, offers higher bandwidth, and has better display support compared to USB-C. However, Thunderbolt 4 devices are typically more expensive and may not be necessary for all users. USB-C, on the other hand, is a more universal standard that is compatible with a wide range of devices and is more cost-effective. Ultimately, the choice between Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C will depend on your specific needs and budget.