What To Know
- It operates over a dedicated PCIe slot on the motherboard, providing a direct link between the CPU and peripherals like graphics cards, storage devices, and network cards.
- Thunderbolt 4 is a versatile connectivity standard that combines high-speed data transfer, video output, and power delivery over a single cable.
- 0 is suitable for internal connections within a computer system, while Thunderbolt 4 supports both internal and external connections.
In the realm of high-speed data transfer, two prominent technologies stand out: PCI Express 4.0 (PCIe 4.0) and Thunderbolt 4. Both offer impressive bandwidth and speed, but they differ in their applications, protocols, and capabilities. Understanding the nuances between these technologies is crucial for making informed decisions about your connectivity needs.
PCIe 4.0: The Internal Express Lane
PCIe 4.0 is a high-speed serial computer expansion bus standard designed for internal connections within a computer system. It operates over a dedicated PCIe slot on the motherboard, providing a direct link between the CPU and peripherals like graphics cards, storage devices, and network cards.
Key Features of PCIe 4.0:
- High Bandwidth: PCIe 4.0 supports a maximum theoretical bandwidth of 16 GT/s (gigatransfers per second), twice that of PCIe 3.0.
- Low Latency: PCIe 4.0 offers low latency, ensuring minimal delay in data transfer.
- Multiple Lanes: PCIe 4.0 can be configured with multiple lanes, each providing a dedicated data path, increasing overall bandwidth.
- Backward Compatibility: PCIe 4.0 is backward compatible with previous PCIe versions, allowing older devices to be used in newer systems.
Thunderbolt 4: The External Thunderbolt
Thunderbolt 4 is a versatile connectivity standard that combines high-speed data transfer, video output, and power delivery over a single cable. It operates over a USB-C connector and can be used for both internal and external connections.
Key Features of Thunderbolt 4:
- Multi-Protocol Support: Thunderbolt 4 supports multiple protocols, including PCIe 3.0, DisplayPort, and USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- High Bandwidth: Thunderbolt 4 offers a maximum theoretical bandwidth of 40 Gbps, four times that of USB 3.2 Gen 2.
- Power Delivery: Thunderbolt 4 can provide up to 100 watts of power, allowing it to charge devices and power peripherals.
- Daisy Chaining: Thunderbolt 4 supports daisy chaining of up to six devices, creating a single high-speed network.
PCIe 4.0 vs Thunderbolt 4: A Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | PCIe 4.0 | Thunderbolt 4 |
| — | — | — |
| Interface | PCIe slot | USB-C |
| Primary Use | Internal | Internal/External |
| Maximum Bandwidth | 16 GT/s (per lane) | 40 Gbps |
| Latency | Low | Very Low |
| Multiple Lanes | Yes | No |
| Power Delivery | No | Up to 100 watts |
| Daisy Chaining | Not supported | Up to 6 devices |
| Backward Compatibility | With previous PCIe versions | With previous Thunderbolt versions |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Applications of PCIe 4.0 and Thunderbolt 4
PCIe 4.0 is primarily used for internal connections within a computer system, making it ideal for high-bandwidth applications such as:
- Graphics processing: PCIe 4.0 provides the necessary bandwidth for demanding graphics cards.
- Storage devices: PCIe 4.0 enables faster data transfer speeds for NVMe SSDs.
- Network cards: PCIe 4.0 supports high-speed network connections for gaming and professional applications.
Thunderbolt 4 is versatile and can be used for both internal and external connections. It is suitable for applications such as:
- External storage: Thunderbolt 4 allows for high-speed data transfer to and from external storage devices.
- Video output: Thunderbolt 4 supports DisplayPort for connecting external monitors with high resolutions and refresh rates.
- Docking stations: Thunderbolt 4 docking stations provide a single cable solution for connecting multiple peripherals.
- Daisy chaining: Thunderbolt 4 allows for daisy chaining of multiple devices, creating a single high-speed network.
Choosing Between PCIe 4.0 and Thunderbolt 4
The choice between PCIe 4.0 and Thunderbolt 4 depends on your specific needs and applications. Consider the following factors:
- Internal vs External: PCIe 4.0 is suitable for internal connections within a computer system, while Thunderbolt 4 supports both internal and external connections.
- Bandwidth: PCIe 4.0 offers higher bandwidth per lane, while Thunderbolt 4 provides a higher overall bandwidth.
- Power Delivery: Thunderbolt 4 supports power delivery, making it convenient for charging devices and powering peripherals.
- Daisy Chaining: Thunderbolt 4 allows for daisy chaining of multiple devices, while PCIe 4.0 does not.
- Cost: Thunderbolt 4 is typically more expensive than PCIe 4.0.
The Future of PCIe and Thunderbolt
PCIe 5.0 is the next generation of the PCIe standard, offering even higher bandwidth and lower latency. It is expected to become available in the near future.
Thunderbolt 5 is also in development and is expected to provide even faster data transfer speeds and improved power delivery.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Which is faster, PCIe 4.0 or Thunderbolt 4?
Thunderbolt 4 has a higher overall bandwidth (40 Gbps) compared to PCIe 4.0 (16 GT/s per lane). However, PCIe 4.0 can support multiple lanes, providing higher bandwidth in multi-lane configurations.
2. Can I use a Thunderbolt 4 device on a PCIe 4.0 port?
No, Thunderbolt 4 devices require a Thunderbolt 4 port. PCIe 4.0 and Thunderbolt 4 use different protocols and are not compatible with each other.
3. Can I use a PCIe 4.0 device on a Thunderbolt 4 port?
No, PCIe 4.0 devices require a PCIe 4.0 slot. Thunderbolt 4 ports only support Thunderbolt 4 devices.
4. Which is better for external storage, PCIe 4.0 or Thunderbolt 4?
Thunderbolt 4 is better for external storage due to its higher overall bandwidth and support for daisy chaining.
5. Which is better for connecting a graphics card, PCIe 4.0 or Thunderbolt 4?
PCIe 4.0 is better for connecting a graphics card due to its higher bandwidth per lane and low latency.
