Compare USB4 and Thunderbolt 4

USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 were released a year apart, and although there are some similarities between these two computer interfaces, there are also many differences.

They mark a significant shift in hardware connectivity from single-use ports to multifunctional interfaces that can be used to achieve almost anything.

Let's go over some of these specs in common and how to differentiate between them.

Specifications of USB 4.0 and Thunderbolt 4

The specifications of both communication protocols are listed below side by side for easy comparison.

	USB4	Thunderbolt 4
Connect	Have	Have
Minimum PC bandwidth	20Gbps	40Gbps
Maximum PC bandwidth	40Gbps	40Gbps
Minimum video output requirements	A 4K . monitor	Two 4K . monitors
Minimum data transfer requirements	USB 3.2—10Gbps	PCIe—32Gbps USB 3.2—10Gbps
Request wake-up from sleep state	Are not	Have
Intel VT-d-based DMA protection	Are not	Have
Thunderbolt Network	Are not	Have
Minimum (maximum) power supply	7.5W (240W max)	15W (240W)
Universal 40Gbps cable up to 2 meters in length	Are not	Have

Similarities and differences between USB4 and Thunderbolt 4

Similarities

Both protocols use the USB Type-C connector to transfer data, power, and connect devices. Other similarities include the same maximum bandwidth, DisplayPort support, and the ability to power the device.

In addition, USB4 is built on the same protocol as Thunderbolt 4.0, making both interfaces cross-compatible. This means that devices that support Thunderbolt 4 will also support USB 4 and vice versa. However, Thunderbolt 4 devices will have additional features and capabilities beyond USB 4 devices.

Difference

Compare USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 Picture 1 Compare USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 Picture 1

As for the difference, Thunderbolt 4 is basically USB4 with extra features. It assures you that you're getting the most out of what USB4 has to offer, doubling the number of 4K displays you can run from a single port, base bandwidth, and minimal power rating.

It also has a higher minimum data transfer rate of 32Gbps and supports several other features, such as wake from sleep, DMA protection, and forced charging.

Although the connectors are similar in shape, you can generally distinguish a USB port from a Thunderbolt port by the logo next to the port. USB4 ports will have the USB symbol and '20' or '40'. Thunderbolt 4 cables will usually have a lightning bolt shape with the number 4 underneath. However, it is not possible to locate a Thunderbolt 4 port on a computer without looking at the spec sheet.

Thunderbolt cables can also be passive, meaning no built-in circuitry. This means that conventional cables are capable of sustaining a maximum bandwidth of 40Gbps even at lengths of up to two meters, while USB4 cannot support 40Gbps over cables of two meters or more and reduce data rate down to 20Gbps.

Laptops and docks with USB4 will be cheaper than laptops with Thunderbolt 4 due to the lower minimum requirements. The USB4 protocol is also likely to be more widely available to users for the same reason.

Which option is better?

Thunderbolt 4 is superior to USB4, but it may not be the best choice, depending on your preferences.

If you're looking for an interface that offers the absolute best in power and performance, look no further than Thunderbolt 4-enabled hubs, docking stations and laptops. On the other hand, if you're more concerned with price and availability, With a selection of accessories to choose from, then USB4 might be the best choice for you.