Understanding USB-C

Thunderbolt or USB4: Differences, benefits and choosing the right cable

Thunderbolt and USB4 both use the modern USB-C connector, but they are not automatically the same. The key factors are speed, video support, PCIe tunnelling, Power Delivery and the specific combination of device, port, dock and cable.

B2B Focus: Procurement, IT, Docking, Accessories – USB-C is merely the connector type; always check the specific features depending on the device
Quick guide to the key points
Quick decision: Comparison, cable selection, DINIC USB4 cables, FAQs
Thunderbolt und USB4 Vergleich Infografik
More like Thunderbolt

For docking, professional setups and predictable performance

  • Multiple monitors, a docking station, a fast external SSD or high-performance accessories.
  • Greater planning reliability thanks to Thunderbolt certification and defined minimum requirements.
  • Thunderbolt 4 remains at 40 Gbit/s; Thunderbolt 5 targets 80 Gbit/s and bandwidth boost scenarios up to 120 Gbit/s.
More like USB4

For modern USB-C setups offering good value for money

  • An excellent choice for office use, laptops, docks, monitors, external SSDs and universal accessories.
  • USB4 can dynamically utilise data and display protocols over a single connection.
  • With USB4, the range of functions depends more heavily on the device, port and cable labelling.
USB-C ≠ automatically USB4 – USB-C refers to the connector. Speed, video and charging power depend on the port, cable and device.
PD up to 240 W possible: USB Power Delivery 3.1 EPR enables up to 240 W – provided the power supply, cable and device support this.
E-mark is important: For high power and high data rates, appropriately specified, electronically marked cables are crucial.

Thunderbolt 4/5 and USB4 compared

The table is intended as a practical guide for purchasing and technical purposes. The data sheet, device connection, port symbol and cable marking are always decisive.

Feature Thunderbolt 4 Thunderbolt 5 USB4 / USB 40Gbps / USB 80Gbps
Connector USB-C USB-C USB-C
Data rate up to 40 Gbit/s up to 80 Gbit/s, up to 120 Gbit/s in one direction depending on the mode typically 20/40 Gbit/s; newer USB4 versions up to 80 Gbit/s with a suitable cable
Video ideal for docking and multi-monitor setups Designed for particularly demanding monitor and creator setups Display support is possible, but depends on the host, device and cable
PCIe / external SSD Very easy to plan for fast storage and docks even more headroom for high data loads Possible, but not implemented in the same way on every USB4 port
Charging Possible via USB Power Delivery Possible via USB Power Delivery Possible via USB Power Delivery, up to 240 W with a suitable EPR chain
Typical choice professional docks, multiple monitors, fast SSDs High-end workstations, content creators, very high video/data workloads Universal USB-C cables for everyday use, the office, modern laptops and accessories

Practical note: A USB4 cable with 40 Gbit/s and 240 W can be very well suited to many modern setups. However, it does not turn a USB4 port into a Thunderbolt port. The device on the other end must also support the relevant function.

What procurement and IT departments should look out for

  • Check the port: USB-C, USB4, Thunderbolt 4 and Thunderbolt 5 are not the same thing.
  • Check cable labelling: Note the data rate, charging power, E-mark and cable length.
  • Check monitor setup: The number of monitors, resolution and refresh rate are key factors.
  • Check the docking station: The dock, laptop and cable must all support the required performance together.

Cable selection: data rate, length and charging power

With USB-C cables, the connector shape alone is not enough. Specific details are crucial for stable performance: 40 Gbit/s or 80 Gbit/s, Power Delivery, E-Mark and the actual supported cable length.

Important: Long cables, active cables and very high data rates must be checked particularly carefully. Not every USB-C cable supports video, high-speed data and high charging power simultaneously.

DINIC USB4 cables for modern USB-C devices

The DINIC USB4 cable is a robust, universal solution for many modern USB-C set-ups: fast data transfer, high-power charging and versatile use with laptops, docks, monitors or external SSDs – depending on the device and port.

Business customers: mag-kabel.de

For commercial orders, resale, IT procurement and project requirements.

View USB4 cables at mag-kabel.de
Private customers: DINIC Shop

For individual purchases, personal use and smaller quantities in MAG GmbH’s retail shop.

View USB4 cables in the DINIC Shop
Contact for B2B enquiries To the product selection

FAQ: Thunderbolt, USB4 and USB-C explained briefly

Is USB-C the same as USB4?

No. USB-C refers to the connector type. USB4 describes the data standard. A USB-C cable or USB-C port can support a wide variety of functions.

When is Thunderbolt the better choice?

Thunderbolt is particularly useful when you need to connect multiple monitors, high-quality docking stations, fast external SSDs, or when precise minimum requirements are essential.

When is USB4 sufficient?

USB4 is sufficient for many modern office, laptop, docking and data applications. It is important that the port, cable and device all support the required functions.

Does 240 W automatically mean that every laptop charges at 240 W?

No. 240 W is only possible if the power supply, cable and device all support USB Power Delivery 3.1 EPR. The device will only draw the power it can negotiate and utilise.

Why is the E-mark important for USB-C cables?

An electronically marked cable can indicate important capabilities such as high current, Power Delivery and specific performance data. This is an important factor to consider when choosing cables for modern USB4 and PD setups.

Note: This page is intended for technical guidance. The specifications of the laptop, dock, monitor, power supply and cable remain authoritative.

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