Thunderbolt technology, developed by Intel, is an advanced USBC input/output technology that enables high-speed data transfer, video streaming,
and power delivery through a single cable. Thunderbolt uses a PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) interface to provide a fast and
versatile way to connect various devices, including external hard drives, monitors, graphics cards, docking stations, and more. It combines both
data and display protocols, allowing for simultaneous data transfer and video streaming. In simple terms - Thunderbolt technology provides a
versatile, high-speed, and streamlined solution for connecting multiple devices and transferring data, delivering an improved user experience for
both professionals and general consumers.
Thunderbolt 4 is the latest technology in the line-up with a maximum data transfer rate of 40 Gbps, making it one of the fastest connection technologies available. This allows for lightning-fast file transfers, faster backups, and seamless video playback.
Power delivery is another key feature of Thunderbolt. It can deliver up to 100 watts of power, making it possible to charge laptops, smartphones, and tablets directly from a Thunderbolt port. This simplifies cable management and eliminates the need for separate power adapters.
Additionally, with Thunderbolt’s daisy-chaining capability, multiple devices can be connected in a series through a single Thunderbolt port, eliminating the need for excessive cable clutter. This means that a single Thunderbolt port can support various peripherals and displays, offering a more streamlined and convenient setup.
High-speed Thunderbolt 4 technology leverages the power of your CPU (Central Processing Unit) to improve data and video performance, whilst enhancing gaming setups at the highest settings.
Thunderbolt 4 offers several advancements over Thunderbolt 3, delivering improved speed, enhanced video capabilities, better power delivery, and more reliable performance.
In terms of speed, Thunderbolt 4 has the same maximum data transfer rate as Thunderbolt 3, which is 40 Gbps. However, Thunderbolt 4 offers a significant improvement in video and data requirements. It doubles the minimum video and data requirements of Thunderbolt 3. Thunderbolt 4 supports sending a video signal to two 4K displays, or to one 8K display, where Thunderbolt 3 can only support a single 4K display.
Thunderbolt 3 systems support only a 16Gbps data rate via PCI Express, whereas Thunderbolt 4 doubles that requirement to 32Gbps. That added bandwidth will certainly be put to good use by anyone who regularly transfers gigantic files of high-resolution video and other large data sets from storage drives to their PC for editing.
Another advantage of Thunderbolt 4 is its power delivery capabilities. It can provide up to 100 watts of power delivery to connected devices, ensuring faster charging and better power management. This is especially useful for laptops and other devices that require high power consumption.
Thunderbolt 4 guarantees consistent performance across different devices and cables by introducing stricter certification requirements. It ensures compatibility and reliability, making it easier to connect Thunderbolt peripherals without any issues.
Thunderbolt™ technology delivers the best-in-class capabilities to drive high-bandwidth data, power, and video transfers for up to five devices on one connection. Gamers, creators, and workers can enjoy a clean desktop space with multiple displays and accessories on a powerful connectivity standard.
Ideal for home and business settings, Thunderbolt™ 4 is available on many modern computers and is compatible with Windows, Mac, Linux, and Chrome OS. Apple’s M2 MacBook Pro offers Thunderbolt 4 support.