Thunderbolt
Thunderbolt / USB4
Invented in
2011
Invented by
Intel & Apple
Availability
Common (pro)
A USB-C-shaped connector with serious muscle: developed by Intel and Apple to carry data, multiple displays and power over one cable. Thunderbolt 4/5 share the USB-C plug but add guaranteed bandwidth.
Technical specifications
Introduced2011 (Intel/Apple)
ConnectorUSB-C
Speed40 Gb/s (TB4) / 80+ (TB5)
Displaysup to 2× 4K / 1× 8K
Found on
a laptopa monitoran external drive
Recommended brands
01Apple
02OWC
03Cable Matters
Where to buy
Europe-focused retailer searches. Some links are affiliate links and may earn a commission.
Common adapters and cables
Fun fact
A single Thunderbolt cable can drive two 4K monitors, transfer data at 40+ Gb/s and charge a laptop, all at once.
Tips & tricks
Use a certified Thunderbolt cable (lightning-bolt mark), a plain USB-C lead caps the speed.
Philosophy
The high-performance sibling hiding inside the USB-C shell. Same plug, far more power, marked only by a tiny lightning bolt.
Applications
DataVideo / SAT
