Thunderbolt is a high-bandwidth interface that carries PCIe data and DisplayPort video over a single cable. Thunderbolt 3 and 4 use the USB-C connector and run at up to 40 Gbit/s.
Why it matters
Thunderbolt lets one cable connect external GPUs, fast NVMe storage enclosures, docking stations and multiple monitors. Daisy chaining allows several devices on one port.
Thunderbolt 4 sets higher minimum requirements than Thunderbolt 3, while USB4 includes Thunderbolt-compatible capability as an option.
Check the port markings and the device manual before buying a dock or enclosure, since the cable you use also affects the speed you get.
Example
A Thunderbolt dock might provide:
laptop -- 1 cable -- dock: 2 x 4K displays, gigabit Ethernet,
USB devices, 90 W chargingThe same dock plugged into a plain USB-C port without Thunderbolt may only work partially.
Common mistakes
- Using a non-Thunderbolt USB-C cable and getting USB speeds.
- Assuming every USB-C port supports Thunderbolt. Look for the lightning-bolt icon or the spec sheet.
- Buying a very long passive cable that cannot sustain full speed.
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