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USB4 vs Thunderbolt: Which Port Should You Choose?

2/6/2026 · Connectivity · 8 min

USB4 vs Thunderbolt: Which Port Should You Choose?

TL;DR

  • USB4 offers broad compatibility and affordability for most users.
  • Thunderbolt excels in speed and versatility for professionals and power users.

What is USB4?

USB4 is the latest iteration of the USB standard, combining high data transfer speeds, video output, and power delivery in a single port. Key features include:

  • Speeds up to 40Gbps (depending on the implementation).
  • Backward compatibility with USB 3.x and USB 2.0 devices.
  • Support for multiple protocols, including DisplayPort and PCIe.
  • Lower cost compared to Thunderbolt.

What is Thunderbolt?

Thunderbolt is a high-performance connectivity standard developed by Intel. The latest version, Thunderbolt 4, builds on the USB4 framework but includes additional features:

  • Guaranteed 40Gbps data transfer speeds across all certified devices.
  • Support for dual 4K displays or a single 8K display.
  • Enhanced power delivery capabilities, up to 100W for charging laptops.
  • Daisy-chaining support for up to six devices.

Key Differences

Speed and Performance

  • USB4: Speeds vary depending on the implementation (20Gbps or 40Gbps).
  • Thunderbolt: Consistently delivers 40Gbps, ensuring top-tier performance for demanding applications.

Compatibility

  • USB4: Works with a wide range of devices, including older USB standards.
  • Thunderbolt: Supports USB4 but requires Thunderbolt-certified hardware for full functionality.

Display Capabilities

  • USB4: Supports at least one external display but may require additional configuration.
  • Thunderbolt: Natively supports multiple high-resolution displays without additional adapters.

Cost

  • USB4: Typically more affordable, making it ideal for general consumers.
  • Thunderbolt: Higher cost due to enhanced features and certification requirements.

Use Cases

When to Choose USB4

  • General-purpose tasks like charging devices, connecting peripherals, or transferring files.
  • Budget-friendly setups where high performance isn’t a priority.
  • Ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.

When to Choose Thunderbolt

  • Professional workflows that require high-speed data transfers, such as video editing or 3D rendering.
  • Connecting multiple high-resolution monitors or external GPUs.
  • Building a daisy-chained workstation with multiple peripherals.

Bottom Line

Choose USB4 if you’re looking for an affordable, versatile solution for everyday use. Opt for Thunderbolt if you need maximum performance and advanced features for demanding applications.

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