Thunderbolt vs. USB-C: What’s the Difference?
Thunderbolt and USB-C are two of the most popular connector standards today. Both offer a high-speed data transfer rate and the ability to connect various devices. However, there are some critical differences between the two standards.
Thunderbolt is a newer standard that Intel developed. It offers a maximum data transfer rate of 40 Gbps, which is twice as fast as the latest version of USB, USB 3.2 Gen 2×2. Thunderbolt is also bi-directional, meaning that it can transfer data in both directions at the same time.
USB-C is a newer connector standard designed to be more versatile than previous USB connectors. It is reversible so that you can plug it in either way, and it is smaller and more compact than older USB connectors. USB-C also supports a maximum data transfer rate of 10 Gbps, which is still faster than most devices can handle.
Comparison
| Feature | Thunderbolt | USB-C |
|---|---|---|
| Data transfer rate | Up to 40 Gbps | Up to 10 Gbps |
| Bi-directional | Yes | No |
| Reversible | Yes | No |
| Size | Larger | Smaller |
| Versatility | More versatile | Less versatile |
Which one should you use?
If you need the fastest possible data transfer rate, Thunderbolt is the better choice. However, USB-C is a good option if you want a more versatile, reversible connector smaller.
Thunderbolt is generally better suited for high-end devices that require a lot of bandwidth, such as external graphics cards and high-resolution displays. USB-C is a good choice for a broader range of devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
Thunderbolt and USB-C are excellent connector standards with advantages and disadvantages. The best choice for you will depend on your specific needs.