Yúbal Fernández
WriterTech journalist with over eight years of experience. I specialize in mobile devices, PCs and consumer tech, as well as software and apps. Head of Xataka Basics, where everyone can find complex tech topics explained in an easy and accessible manner.
Thunderbolt and USB-C are two connection technologies that are often confused. Although they appear similar, their capabilities differ, making it important to distinguish between them.
This article begins by explaining USB-C, followed by Thunderbolt. Finally, we’ll break down the differences and what to look for to tell them apart.
What’s USB-C?
USB-C is a type of connector used in many devices for power and data transfer. It’s small, oval-shaped, and reversible.
USB-C has become the standard for electronic devices. All smartphones and tablets must use it, and even Apple has adopted it for the latest iPhones, such as the iPhone 16. You’ll also find it in laptops, consoles like the Nintendo Switch, monitors, external hard drives, and flash drives.
The “Type C” designation refers to size. Type A USBs are the larger, non-reversible ports that have been around for decades. Type C USBs are smaller and reversible.
USB-C serves as a universal connector across devices, but it supports multiple versions of USB, such as USB 3.1, USB 3.2, and USB 4. These versions differ in data transfer speeds:
- USB 3.1: Up to 10 Gbps (1.2 GBps).
- USB 3.2: Up to 20 Gbps (2.5 GBps).
- USB 4: Up to 40 Gbps (5 GBps).
Beyond data transfer, USB-C cables and connectors also support other functions, such as charging phones, tablets, and consoles.
What’s Thunderbolt?
Thunderbolt is a data transfer technology that uses USB-C ports, adding to the confusion. While USB-C can support USB 3.1, 3.2, and 4, Thunderbolt is another alternative.
One of Thunderbolt’s key advantages is its speed. It reaches transfer rates of up to 40 Gbps, exceeding standard USB speeds. It also supports video output and delivers more power. Thunderbolt ports or cables are often marked with a lightning bolt symbol.
Thunderbolt is commonly used to connect high-resolution monitors to computers. It also connects smartphones to monitors and is used in high-performance storage devices and peripherals that require high bandwidth.
The Difference Between USB-C and Thunderbolt
The best way to distinguish these two technologies is to think of USB-C as a connector type that supports multiple data transfer standards, including Thunderbolt and USB versions.
All Thunderbolt ports and cables use USB-C connectors, but not all USB-C connectors support Thunderbolt. To identify Thunderbolt, look for the lightning bolt symbol.
The main difference is data transfer speed. Thunderbolt specializes in speed, while USB is more versatile.
Thunderbolt cables and devices work with all USB-C and Thunderbolt devices, but not all USB-C devices support Thunderbolt. To take advantage of Thunderbolt, you need a Thunderbolt-compatible port. If you have a monitor with a lightning bolt symbol and a computer with the same slot, you’ll need a Thunderbolt cable rather than a standard USB-C cable.
When shopping for a Thunderbolt cable, look for packaging that clearly states “Thunderbolt” to avoid confusion with standard USB-C cables. Always check before purchasing to ensure compatibility.
Images | Lucian Alexe (Unsplash) edited by Xataka On | Xataka On
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