Among numerous electronic device interfaces, Thunderbolt 4 and Type-C have gradually become mainstream in the market due to their unique advantages and high performance. Although the two have a very similar appearance, they have significant differences in performance, functionality, and compatibility. This article will provide a detailed analysis of the differences between the two, helping you better understand and choose the interface that suits your needs.
1. Definition and Standards
Thunderbolt 4 interface: a new generation of high-speed data transmission standard launched by Intel, which integrates PCI Express data transmission and DisplayPort display technology, supporting simultaneous transmission of data and video signals.
USB-C interface, also known as USB Type-C, is a new data transmission and power charging standard developed by the USB-IF organization. It is not only a physical interface form, but also supports multiple transmission protocols and functions.
2. Appearance and identification
Thunderbolt 4 interface: It adopts the physical interface form of USB-C, but there is a unique lightning symbol in the center of the interface, which is an important symbol of the Thunderbolt interface.
USB-C interface: It is also a circular interface, but without the lightning symbol. It is lightweight and supports blind insertion in both directions.
3. Transmission rate
Thunderbolt 4 interface: The theoretical maximum transmission rate can reach 40Gbps, and the actual output bandwidth is relatively high, suitable for high-speed data transmission scenarios.
USB-C interface: The transfer rate varies depending on the supported protocols. Some USB-C interfaces support the USB4 protocol, with a theoretical maximum transmission rate of 40Gbps; However, not all USB-C interfaces support high-speed transmission, and some only support USB 3.0 or lower versions with lower transmission speeds.
4. Video transmission capability
Thunderbolt 4 interface: Supports video transfer up to 8K resolution and bidirectional video transfer, suitable for high-resolution video editing and display scenes.
USB-C interface: The video transmission capability varies depending on the supported protocols and hardware configuration. Some USB-C interfaces support video transmission up to 4K resolution, but not all interfaces have this capability.
5. Charging capacity
Thunderbolt 4 interface: Supports up to 100W power supply, suitable for fast charging of high-performance laptops and other devices.
USB-C interface: It also supports up to 100W of power input and output, but the specific charging capacity depends on the device and interface configuration.
6. Scalability and compatibility
Thunderbolt 4 interface: supports multiple extension protocols such as DisplayPort, HDMI, MHL, etc., and can connect multiple peripherals without the need for additional adapters. At the same time, the Thunderbolt 4 interface has high compatibility requirements and requires strict product functionality, verification testing, and certification.
USB-C interface: Although it also supports multiple protocols and device connections, some interfaces may require additional adapters to achieve specific functions. The USB-C interface has relatively good compatibility and can support multiple USB devices and protocols.
7. Application scenarios
Thunderbolt 4 interface: mainly used for high-performance laptops, workstations, and other devices to meet their high-end needs in data transmission, video transmission, and charging.
USB-C interface: widely used in various electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, etc., it has become a standard configuration for many devices. It provides convenient connection and charging methods, suitable for various usage scenarios.
In summary, there are significant differences between Thunderbolt 4 interface and USB-C interface in terms of definition, appearance, transfer rate, video transfer capability, charging capability, scalability and compatibility, as well as application scenarios. Users should choose the appropriate interface based on their own needs and device performance when selecting equipment.
The performance of the Thunderbolt 4 interface is a very high standard in the USB-C standard. Apple mainly uses the Thunderbolt 4 interface for its Mac series. At the same time, the charging cable suitable for this Thunderbolt 4 interface is also expensive.
However, we have launched a Thunderbolt 4 interface with performance close to that of the Thunderbolt 4 interface, but the price is cheaper than the Thunderbolt 4 charging cable launched by Apple.
Click the link to buy：4-in-1 Fast Charge USB4 Cable (Ultra-Edition)