How do you choose between USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 for your devices?

1 What is USB-C?

USB-C is a universal standard for connectors that can support various protocols, such as USB 3.1, USB 3.2, USB 4, DisplayPort, HDMI, and Power Delivery. USB-C connectors are reversible, meaning you can plug them in either way, and they are smaller than previous USB types. USB-C can deliver up to 100 watts of power, and up to 40 Gbps of data transfer speed with USB 4. However, not all USB-C cables and ports are the same, and they may support different protocols and speeds depending on the device and the cable.

2 What is Thunderbolt 3?

Thunderbolt 3 is a specific protocol that uses USB-C connectors to deliver high-performance data, power, and video transfer. Thunderbolt 3 can support up to 100 watts of power, and up to 40 Gbps of data transfer speed, which is twice as fast as USB 3.1. Thunderbolt 3 can also support up to two 4K displays or one 5K display, and connect to external graphics cards, docks, and storage devices. Thunderbolt 3 is compatible with USB-C devices, but not vice versa. You need a Thunderbolt 3 port and a Thunderbolt 3 cable to use Thunderbolt 3 features.

3 How to identify USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 ports and cables?

One way to tell the difference between USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 ports and cables is to look for the symbols on them. A USB-C port or cable may have a USB logo, a lightning bolt, or a number indicating the speed or protocol, such as 3.1 or 4. A Thunderbolt 3 port or cable will have a thunderbolt logo with a number 3 next to it. However, some devices may not have clear labels, so you may need to check the specifications or the manual of your device or cable to confirm what it supports.

4 How to choose between USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 for your devices?

When deciding between USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 for your devices, consider what you want to connect, what you want to do with them, and how much you are willing to spend. If you have devices that support Thunderbolt 3, such as a MacBook Pro or Dell XPS, you may want to take advantage of its speed and features. However, if you only have devices that support USB-C, such as a smartphone or tablet, either type of connection is suitable. If you need to transfer large files or stream high-resolution video, Thunderbolt 3 may be preferable for its performance and versatility. Alternatively, USB-C may be sufficient for charging your devices or syncing data. Keep in mind that Thunderbolt 3 cables and devices are typically more expensive than USB-C cables and devices due to their additional components and certification.

5 How to use USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 safely and efficiently?

When using USB-C and Thunderbolt 3, it’s important to follow some best practices to ensure safety and efficiency. Make sure to use certified cables and devices from reputable organizations, such as USB-IF or Intel. Additionally, you should use compatible cables and devices that support the same protocols and speeds as your ports and devices. Quality is also important, so use cables and devices made of quality materials with good shielding and insulation. Avoid bending, twisting, or stretching your cables, and store them properly when not in use.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?