Is Thunderbolt The Same As USB-C?

Often, individuals mistakenly believe that Thunderbolt and USB-C are the same thing. However,  the truth is far from that. Honestly, these are connectors praised for their versatile nature. People use them to transfer data and video output and charge their devices. Yes, the confusion is in their similar looks, but the reality check is that they can do different tasks. On one hand, USB-C is a universal connector, which makes it compatible with multiple devices. It does not hinder data transfer speeds; you can easily use it for chagrin or other things. Then, the Thunderbolt is Intel’s interface that delivers high performance. Compared to USB-C, it provides more speed when transferring data and is perfect for streaming video games and editing.

If you are searching for these connectors, you can always visit Mobile Pixels and choose the one that best fits your needs.

Are you curious to learn about the USB-C and Thunderbolt? Allow the blog to provide you with details regarding the ways of their identification and how they can be applied.

What is USB-C?

As mentioned above, USB-C is a connector type whose compact size and the ability to support various functions and devices have increased its fanbase. If you recall, the previous versions of USB-C were not equipped with a reversible design like the modern one. You can insert it into the port without the tension of aligning the connector to work correctly.

USB-C plays a role in supporting multiple data transfer speeds. Be it the mainstream USB 2.0, the new USB 3.0, or the 3.1. You can use the cable for video output, connecting external storage devices, and charging them. These qualities of the connector type have attracted many users who use tablets, smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles.

Features and Capabilities

1. Reversible Design: The latest USB-C connectors have a reversible design. The feature allows you to connect them in either way. There is no need to straighten the wire to align it correctly.
2. Data Transfer Rates: The connector type steals the show in supporting several data transfer speeds, such as USB 2.0 to USB 3.1. The fast speed allows easy transfer of files and applications with a high bandwidth without interruptions.
3. Power Delivery Capability: Put your laptop and other devices on charge using the USB-C connector or USB-C charger and witness the fantastic power delivery capability.

What is Thunderbolt?

Intel and Apple are the brains behind Thunderbolt. They designed the interface to amaze users with high speed while data transferring and other capabilities that a traditional USB lacks. In 2011, it was introduced as a technology that only the company could use, but later Intel declared it to be open to all.

The make of Intel and Apple support the PCI Express (PCIe) bus, which you use on and off for connecting your computer with high-speed devices. The connection opens the door for a super-fast data transfer rate. Hence, you can use the connector type for gaming, streaming videos, video editing, and other applications.

Features and Capabilities

1. High-speed Data Transfer: Thunderbolt offers a higher speed for transferring data than an old USB. Therefore, gamers and video editors use it more.
2. Support For Multiple Protocols: Intel and Apple’s design can support protocols for video output and connecting high-speed devices such as Display Port and PCIe.
3. Daisy-chaining Capability: With Thunderbolt, you can connect devices in a chain. This removes the hassle of managing too many cables and expands connectivity options.

Is Thunderbolt The Same As USB-C?

We also shared in the introduction that Thunderbolt and USB-C look similar but differ in capability. Let’s have an in-depth look to know how they are different:

Connector Type vs. Protocol

If you compare USB-C and Thunderbolt, then USB-C is a type of connector that works well with a list of several protocols, including Thunderbolt. On the other hand, Thunderbolt is an interface protocol that appeals to you because of its high performance and the need for a USB-C connector to connect physically.  Remember that all Thunderbolt ports are USB-C, but all USB-C ports are not compatible with Thunderbolt. To avoid disappointment, look for the Thunderbolt icon next to the connector.

Speed and Performance

USB-C 3.1: USB-C 3.1 can offer up to 10 Gbps from Gen 1 and 20 Gbps from Gen 2, the maximum speed you can get.

Thunderbolt 3: The connector provides a data transfer speed of up to 40 Gbps.

Thunderbolt 4: Thunderbolt 4 breaks the record in offering high speeds, as it provides up to 80 Gbps.

Compatibility

Thunderbolt: Thunderbolt is mainly used for external graphics cards and storage in high-performing devices. You can use it with some USB-C devices, but remember that not all USB-C devices allow Thunderbolt.

USB-C: This connector type is appreciated for its broad compatibility because USB-C supports multiple devices and protocols. Furthermore, it offers a backward compatibility feature to suit old versions of USB so that you can use it with a USB-C adapter.

Power Delivery

None of the connectivity options will let you down when powering your devices. But Thunderbolt still wins the race compared to the USB-C cable in delivering faster and higher power charging ability, especially for laptops that can consume energy directly from the Thunderbolt charger.

How to Identify USB-C vs. Thunderbolt Ports?

You need to know how to identify USB-C and Thunderbolt ports. It can be easily done by recognizing the symbols and specifications mentioned on the device. Let us guide you:

Symbols and Logos

Thunderbolt: If you see a lightning bolt icon with the letter “p”, that indicates the PCI Express connection, which means it is Thunderbolt.

USB: USB-C is often represented by a trident-shaped symbol with its specific standard number. For example: 3.0.

Device Specifications

To identify whether your port is USB-C or Thunderbolt, thoroughly examine the device’s manual. The paper will tell you about the kinds of ports and their capabilities.

Use Cases and Applications

Let’s discuss how USB-C and Thunderbolt are used in different cases.

USB-C Applications

You can choose a USB-C connector type to charge everyday devices like tablets, smartphones, and laptops. Plus, it offers high-speed data transfer for video output and can also be used to connect external storage devices.

Thunderbolt Applications

You can apply Thunderbolt with heavy-duty tasks as it offers faster data transfer speed. It allows you to stream and edit videos and supports external GPUs.

Conclusion

Now, you can choose a USB-C or Thunderbolt connector type based on your preferences. If you want simple charging, then USB-C is your calling. But, for gaming purposes, you can go for Thunderbolt.