What To Know
- However, if you only need to connect a few devices and don’t need the fastest possible speed, USB-C is a more affordable option.
Thunderbolt and USB-C are two of the most popular connectivity standards for computers and other devices. While they share some similarities, they are also distinct in several ways.
Speed
Thunderbolt is significantly faster than USB-C. Thunderbolt 4 has a maximum speed of 40 Gbps, while USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2 has a maximum speed of 20 Gbps. This difference in speed makes Thunderbolt ideal for transferring large files or connecting to high-performance peripherals.
Power Delivery
Both Thunderbolt and USB-C can be used to deliver power to devices. However, Thunderbolt can provide up to 100 watts of power, while USB-C can only provide up to 100 watts. This makes Thunderbolt a better choice for powering laptops and other devices that require more power.
Daisy Chaining
Thunderbolt allows you to daisy chain multiple devices together. This means you can connect a Thunderbolt device to your computer, and then connect another Thunderbolt device to the first device, and so on. USB-C does not support daisy chaining.
Video Output
Thunderbolt can be used to output video to external monitors. Thunderbolt 4 supports DisplayPort 1.4, which allows you to connect to 8K monitors at 60Hz. USB-C 3.2 Gen 2×2 also supports DisplayPort 1.4, but it is not as widely supported as Thunderbolt.
Compatibility
Thunderbolt and USB-C use different connectors. Thunderbolt uses a USB-C connector, but it is not compatible with all USB-C devices. USB-C devices are compatible with Thunderbolt if they have the Thunderbolt logo.
Which is Right for You?
The best connectivity standard for you depends on your needs. If you need the fastest possible speed, Thunderbolt is the best choice. If you need to power a device or daisy chain multiple devices, Thunderbolt is also a good option. However, if you only need to connect a few devices and don’t need the fastest possible speed, USB-C is a more affordable option.
Which is Better: Thunderbolt vs. USB-C?
The answer to this question depends on your specific needs. If you need the fastest possible speed, Thunderbolt is the better choice. If you need to power a device or daisy chain multiple devices, Thunderbolt is also a good option. However, if you only need to connect a few devices and don’t need the fastest possible speed, USB-C is a more affordable option.
Thunderbolt vs. USB-C: The Pros and Cons
Thunderbolt
Pros:
- Faster speed
- Can power devices
- Daisy chaining
- Video output
Cons:
- More expensive
- Not as widely compatible
USB-C
Pros:
- More affordable
- Widely compatible
- Can power devices
- Video output
Cons:
- Slower speed
- Not as versatile
Thunderbolt vs. USB-C: Which Should You Choose?
The best way to decide which connectivity standard is right for you is to consider your specific needs. If you need the fastest possible speed, Thunderbolt is the best choice. If you need to power a device or daisy chain multiple devices, Thunderbolt is also a good option. However, if you only need to connect a few devices and don’t need the fastest possible speed, USB-C is a more affordable option.
Final Thoughts
Thunderbolt and USB-C are two of the most popular connectivity standards for computers and other devices. While they share some similarities, they are also distinct in several ways. The best connectivity standard for you depends on your needs. If you need the fastest possible speed, Thunderbolt is the best choice. If you need to power a device or daisy chain multiple devices, Thunderbolt is also a good option. However, if you only need to connect a few devices and don’t need the fastest possible speed, USB-C is a more affordable option.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: What is the difference between Thunderbolt and USB-C?
A: Thunderbolt is a faster, more powerful, and more versatile connectivity standard than USB-C. Thunderbolt can transfer data at speeds of up to 40 Gbps, while USB-C can only transfer data at speeds of up to 20 Gbps. Thunderbolt can also power devices and daisy chain multiple devices, while USB-C can only power devices.
Q: Which is better: Thunderbolt or USB-C?
A: The best connectivity standard for you depends on your needs. If you need the fastest possible speed, Thunderbolt is the best choice. If you need to power a device or daisy chain multiple devices, Thunderbolt is also a good option. However, if you only need to connect a few devices and don’t need the fastest possible speed, USB-C is a more affordable option.
Q: Can I use a Thunderbolt cable with a USB-C device?
A: No, you cannot use a Thunderbolt cable with a USB-C device. Thunderbolt and USB-C use different connectors.
