USB Type-C is just an interface standard. Compared with the previous USB Type A interface, the design is thinner, flippable and more expandable. We just need to know that the terminology is the USB Type-C interface, it does not mean any speed or function standard, it is just a kind of interface specification.
(image: plugable.com)
Let’s walk through more details.
1.Symbols
From the symbols on your PC, you will find obvious differences between them:
Only USB Type-C Port with a Thunderbolt logo aside can support Thunderbolt 3/4 protocol.
2. Speed
|
Standard |
Also Known As |
Logo |
Connector Types |
Max. Data Transfer Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
USB 1.1 |
Full Speed USB |
|
USB-A |
12 Mbps |
|
USB 2.0 |
Hi-Speed USB |
|
USB-A |
480 Mbps |
|
USB 3.2 Gen 1 |
USB 3.0 |
|
USB-A |
5 Gbps |
|
USB 3.2 Gen 2 |
USB 3.1 |
|
USB-A |
10 Gbps |
|
USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 |
USB 3.2 |
|
USB-C |
20 Gbps |
|
USB 4 |
USB4 Gen 2×2 |
|
USB-C |
20 Gbps |
|
USB 4 |
USB4 Gen 3×2 |
|
USB-C |
40 Gbps |
* USB 3.2 Gen 1: originally known as USB 3.0, and previously renamed to USB 3.1 Gen 1. It’s the original USB 3.0 specification, and it can transfer data at up to 5Gbps.
* USB 3.2 Gen 2: Previously known as USB 3.1, and then later as USB 3.1 Gen 2. It offers speeds at up to 10Gbps.
*USB 3.2 Gen 2x2: formally known as USB 3.2, it’s the newest and fastest spec, promising speeds at up to 20Gbps (by using two lanes of 10Gbps at once).
3. Compatibility
During the daily usage, you may be confused that sometimes Thunderbolt 3 cable can instead USB 3.1 Type-C port, but not vice versa, even if these cables share the same Type-C connector. Simultaneously, not all USB 3.1 Type-C cables can actually afford up to 100 Watts power, whatever Thunderbolt 3 or USB 3.1 Type-C.
The thing should be noticed is, Thunderbolt 3 devices cannot work with USB 3 Type-C ports and cables. It can be perfectly inserted without any issues but it doesn’t work at all due to protocol conflict.
But is there a cable rule them all? Absolutely yes!
That’s why Intel release the latest Thunderbolt 4. a port can rule them all.
(Image: Intel)
In general, it depends on your needs and devices you want to connect. A USB Type C 3.1 will meet most of people requirements. But if you need more powerful data transferring or plan to buy a Thunderbolt certified peripherals like SSD Enclosure and Capture Card, a PC with Thunderbolt 3/4 interface is must-have.
More Introduction from computer Manufacturer:
Apple Macbook: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201736
