What is Thunderbolt?

Thunderbolt is a high-speed interface developed by Intel in collaboration with Apple, used for connecting external peripherals to computers. It combines PCI Express (PCIe) and DisplayPort protocols into a single interface, allowing simultaneous data transfer and video output.

Thunderbolt cables are specifically designed for Thunderbolt devices and feature distinctive connectors. These cables come in various lengths and configurations, including passive and active types, depending on the connected devices’ specific requirements.

Thunderbolt connections support data transfer rates of up to 10 gigabits per second (Gbps).

Thunderbolt 2 is an enhanced version of the original Thunderbolt interface. It supports data transfer rates of up to 20 Gbps, doubling the speed of the original Thunderbolt. Thunderbolt 2 uses the same Mini DisplayPort connector and supports the same versatile connectivity options, including video output.

Thunderbolt 2 uses the same type of cable as the original Thunderbolt, featuring a Mini DisplayPort connector on both ends. These cables are available in various lengths and configurations, including passive and active types.

Thunderbolt 3 is a significant upgrade over Thunderbolt 2, utilising the USB Type-C connector. It combines Thunderbolt, USB, DisplayPort, and power delivery capabilities into a single compact port, supporting data transfer rates of up to 40 Gbps.

Thunderbolt 3 cables feature USB Type-C connectors on both ends and come in various lengths and configurations, including passive and active types, depending on the specific requirements of the connected devices.

Thunderbolt 3 connections support video output, allowing users to connect external displays, monitors, and projectors directly to Thunderbolt 3-enabled computers. With Thunderbolt 3, users can drive up to two 4K displays or one 5K display, providing immersive viewing experiences for multimedia and gaming applications.

Yes, Thunderbolt 3 includes power delivery capabilities, allowing the port to deliver up to 100 watts of power. This feature enables users to charge laptops and other devices directly from the Thunderbolt 3 port, eliminating the need for separate power adapters and simplifying cable management.

Absolutely. Thunderbolt 3 supports daisy-chaining, enabling users to connect multiple Thunderbolt 3 devices in series using a single Thunderbolt 3 port on the computer. This expands connectivity options and streamlines workflows by connecting multiple devices with a single cable.

Thunderbolt 4 is the latest iteration of the Thunderbolt interface, offering enhanced speed, versatility, and connectivity options. Like Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4 uses the USB Type-C connector and supports data transfer rates of up to 40 Gbps.

Thunderbolt 4 cables feature USB Type-C connectors on both ends and come in various lengths and configurations, including passive and active types. These cables support the same high-speed data transfer rates of up to 40 Gbps, allowing users to transfer large files, back up data, and edit high-resolution videos with ease.

Thunderbolt 4 connections support video output, allowing users to connect external displays, monitors, and projectors. With Thunderbolt 4, users can drive up to two 4K displays or one 8K display, providing immersive viewing experiences for multimedia and gaming applications.

Yes, Thunderbolt 4 includes power delivery capabilities, allowing the port to deliver up to 100 watts of power. This feature enables users to charge laptops and other devices directly from the Thunderbolt 4 port, eliminating the need for separate power adapters and simplifying cable management.

Absolutely. Thunderbolt 4 supports daisy-chaining, enabling users to connect multiple Thunderbolt 4 devices in series using a single Thunderbolt 4 port on the computer. This expands connectivity options and streamlines workflows by connecting multiple devices with a single cable.

Thunderbolt technology, from the original to Thunderbolt 4, continues to offer unmatched speed, versatility, and performance for connecting external peripherals to computers. It remains an ideal choice for professionals and power users who require high-speed data transfer and flexible connectivity options.