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Is Thunderbolt 3 Cable The Same As USB C?

Views: 222 Author: Tina Publish Time: 2025-04-23 Origin: Site

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Content Menu

● Introduction

● Thunderbolt 3 vs USB-C: The Basics

>> Key Differences

● Physical Connector: The USB-C Shape

● Thunderbolt 3 Cable Capabilities

>> Cable Types: Passive vs Active

● USB-C Cable Capabilities

● Compatibility: What Works With What?

>> Thunderbolt 3 Cable in USB-C Port

>> USB-C Cable in Thunderbolt 3 Port

>> Thunderbolt 3 Device and USB-C Cable

>> Thunderbolt 3 Cable and USB-C Device

● How to Identify Thunderbolt 3 vs USB-C Cables

>> Thunderbolt 3 Cable

>> USB-C Cable

● Real-World Scenarios and Use Cases

>> Scenario 1: Connecting a Thunderbolt 3 Dock to Your Laptop

>> Scenario 2: Charging Your Phone

>> Scenario 3: Connecting a USB-C Monitor

>> Scenario 4: Using a Thunderbolt 3 Cable with a USB-C Hard Drive

● Conclusion

● Frequently Asked Questions

>> 1. Is Thunderbolt 3 cable the same as USB-C cable?

>> 2. Can I use a USB-C cable instead of a Thunderbolt 3 cable?

>> 3. Will a Thunderbolt 3 cable work as a regular USB-C cable?

>> 4. How do I know if my port supports Thunderbolt 3?

>> 5. What happens if I use the wrong cable?

>> 6. Do all USB-C cables support video and fast charging?

● Citations:

Introduction

In today's fast-evolving tech landscape, the question “Is Thunderbolt 3 cable the same as USB-C?” is more relevant than ever. Both Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C have become ubiquitous in laptops, monitors, external drives, and other peripherals. Their identical connector shapes often lead to confusion, but beneath the surface, they are fundamentally different technologies with distinct capabilities and use cases.

This comprehensive guide will demystify the differences between Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C cables, explain their compatibility, and help you choose the right cable for your devices. Along the way, we'll use diagrams and video references to illustrate key concepts, and we'll answer the most common questions users have about these modern connection standards.

is thunderbolt 3 cable the same as USB C

Thunderbolt 3 vs USB-C: The Basics

At first glance, Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C cables look identical. Both use the small, reversible USB-C connector, but the similarities largely end there.

- USB-C is a connector type (shape), not a protocol. It can carry a variety of data and power protocols, including USB 2.0, USB 3.x, DisplayPort, HDMI, and Thunderbolt[5][10].

- Thunderbolt 3 is a protocol that uses the USB-C connector but offers much higher data transfer rates, video capabilities, and power delivery[3][4][14].

Key Differences

Feature	USB-C (USB 3.2)	Thunderbolt 3
Connector	USB-C	USB-C
Max Data Transfer Rate	10-20 Gbps (USB 3.2)	40 Gbps
Video Support	Single 4K (usually)	Dual 4K or single 5K
Power Delivery	Up to 100W	Up to 100W
Daisy-Chaining	Not supported	Up to 6 devices
Protocols Supported	USB, DisplayPort, etc.	Thunderbolt, USB, DisplayPort, PCIe
Cable Requirements	Standard USB-C	Certified Thunderbolt 3

Physical Connector: The USB-C Shape

The confusion between Thunderbolt 3 and USB-C often arises because they share the same physical connector: the USB Type-C. This 24-pin connector is reversible and compact, designed to replace older USB-A and USB-B connectors[5][10].

However, the connector shape does not guarantee the protocol or capabilities. A USB-C port can support different protocols depending on the device's internal hardware and firmware. It may support:

- USB 2.0, 3.0, 3.1, 3.2

- DisplayPort Alt Mode

- Thunderbolt 3

- Power Delivery

Are Thunderbolt 3 And USB C Compatible

Thunderbolt 3 Cable Capabilities

Thunderbolt 3 is a high-speed hardware interface developed by Intel, offering the following features:

- Data Transfer: Up to 40 Gbps, four times faster than USB 3.2[3][4][12][14].

- Video: Supports two 4K displays at 60Hz or one 5K display[4][12].

- Power Delivery: Up to 100W, enough to charge laptops and other high-power devices[4][6][12].

- Daisy-Chaining: Connect up to six devices in sequence, such as monitors, storage, and docks[4][6][12].

- Networking: Enables 10 GbE networking between computers[4][12].

Cable Types: Passive vs Active

Passive Thunderbolt 3 Cables:

- Support 40 Gbps at lengths up to 0.5m; 20 Gbps up to 2m[9].

- Can be used as USB-C cables.

Active Thunderbolt 3 Cables:

- Support 40 Gbps at lengths up to 2m[9].

- May not support USB 3.x speeds, only USB 2.0 fallback[16].

USB-C Cable Capabilities

USB-C cables vary widely in capability:

- Data Transfer: Ranges from USB 2.0 (480 Mbps) to USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 (20 Gbps)[5][10].

- Video: Many support DisplayPort Alt Mode for video output, but usually only one display at up to 4K[10].

- Power Delivery: Up to 100W (20V, 5A), depending on the cable and device[10].

- Compatibility: Works with all USB-C devices, but not Thunderbolt 3 devices unless the cable is certified for Thunderbolt[7][13].

Compatibility: What Works With What?

This is where things get tricky. Here's how compatibility breaks down:

Thunderbolt 3 Cable in USB-C Port

- Works as a USB-C cable, supporting USB data, video (if device supports), and power delivery[6][15].

- Will not provide Thunderbolt speeds or features unless both devices and ports support Thunderbolt 3[6][7][14][15].

USB-C Cable in Thunderbolt 3 Port

- Works for USB data, video, and charging, but will not support Thunderbolt speeds or daisy-chaining[1][2][7][14].

- Some USB-C cables (especially cheap or older ones) may only support USB 2.0 speeds or charging[1][5][11].

Thunderbolt 3 Device and USB-C Cable

- Will not work. Thunderbolt 3 devices require a Thunderbolt 3 cable and port[7][13][16].

Thunderbolt 3 Cable and USB-C Device

- Works, but only at the USB-C device's maximum speed and capabilities[6][15][16].

How to Identify Thunderbolt 3 vs USB-C Cables

Thunderbolt 3 Cable

- Logo: Look for the Thunderbolt icon (a lightning bolt) and often the number 3 on the connector[7][6].

- Certification: Packaging or cable may state “Thunderbolt 3 Certified.”

USB-C Cable

- Logo: May have a USB logo, or no logo at all.

- Specs: Check packaging for USB version (e.g., USB 3.2 Gen 2, USB 2.0).

- No Thunderbolt logo: If it lacks the lightning bolt, it's not a Thunderbolt cable.

Real-World Scenarios and Use Cases

Scenario 1: Connecting a Thunderbolt 3 Dock to Your Laptop

- You need: A Thunderbolt 3 cable and a laptop with a Thunderbolt 3 port.

- Result: Full speed, multiple displays, daisy-chaining, and power delivery.

Scenario 2: Charging Your Phone

- You need: Any USB-C cable and charger (Thunderbolt 3 cables also work).

- Result: Charges at the maximum speed your phone and charger support.

Scenario 3: Connecting a USB-C Monitor

- You need: A USB-C cable that supports DisplayPort Alt Mode.

- Result: Video output at up to 4K, depending on monitor and cable.

Scenario 4: Using a Thunderbolt 3 Cable with a USB-C Hard Drive

- You need: Thunderbolt 3 cable (overkill, but works).

- Result: Data transfer at the drive's maximum USB speed.

Conclusion

Thunderbolt 3 cables and USB-C cables may look identical, but they are not the same. Thunderbolt 3 is a protocol that uses the USB-C connector to deliver ultra-fast data, high-resolution video, and power, while USB-C describes only the connector shape and can carry a variety of protocols at varying speeds.

- Thunderbolt 3 cables are always USB-C, but not all USB-C cables are Thunderbolt 3.

- For maximum compatibility and performance, always use a cable that matches your device's requirements.

- When in doubt, look for the Thunderbolt logo and check the specifications.

Understanding these differences will help you avoid performance bottlenecks, device incompatibility, and wasted money on the wrong cables.

Thunderbolt 3 Cable For USB C Devices

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Thunderbolt 3 cable the same as USB-C cable?

No. While both use the USB-C connector, Thunderbolt 3 cables are certified to carry Thunderbolt 3 signals at up to 40 Gbps, support daisy-chaining, and have more stringent requirements. USB-C cables may only support USB 2.0 or 3.x speeds and lack Thunderbolt features[2][3][7][14].

2. Can I use a USB-C cable instead of a Thunderbolt 3 cable?

Not for Thunderbolt devices. USB-C cables will not support Thunderbolt 3 speeds or features. For Thunderbolt 3 devices, you must use a certified Thunderbolt 3 cable[1][7][14][16].

3. Will a Thunderbolt 3 cable work as a regular USB-C cable?

Yes. Thunderbolt 3 cables are backward compatible and will function as high-quality USB-C cables for data, video, and charging[6][15][16].

4. How do I know if my port supports Thunderbolt 3?

Look for a lightning bolt icon next to the USB-C port on your device, or check the manufacturer's specifications[7][13].

5. What happens if I use the wrong cable?

- Using a USB-C cable with a Thunderbolt 3 device: Device may not function or will operate at reduced speed.

- Using a Thunderbolt 3 cable with a USB-C device: Works, but only at USB-C speeds and features[7][13][16].

6. Do all USB-C cables support video and fast charging?

No. Many USB-C cables only support charging or USB 2.0 data. For video or fast charging, ensure your cable is rated for USB 3.x, DisplayPort Alt Mode, and Power Delivery[1][5][10].

Citations:

[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/mac/comments/14ag1ht/can_you_use_a_usbc_instead_of_a_thunderbolt_cable/

[2] https://www.reddit.com/r/macbook/comments/s9jd6w/is_thunderbolt_3_and_usbc_the_same/

[3] https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/glossary/thunderbolt-vs-usb-c/

[4] https://www.cablestogo.com/tech/thunderbolt-3

[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USB-C

[6] https://support.apple.com/en-us/111750

[7] https://www.seagate.com/support/kb/lacie/frequently-asked-questions-about-thunderbolt-3-007771en/

[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/techsupport/comments/8xrv7m/whats_the_difference_between_usbc_and_thunderbolt/

[9] https://www.startech.com/en-us/blog/thunderbolt-3-the-basics

[10] https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/en-us/000141238/guide-to-usb-type-c

[11] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/254043493

[12] https://www.cablestogo.com/cables/usb/thunderbolt-cables/1-5ft-0-46m-thunderbolt-3-cable-40gbps/p/cg-28840

[13] https://www.seagate.com/support/kb/frequently-asked-questions-about-usb-c-007759en/

[14] https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/tech-takes/usb-c-vs-thunderbolt

[15] https://plugable.com/products/tbt3-40g80cm

[16] https://www.reddit.com/r/Thunderbolt/comments/a1rrrn/questions_about_thunderbolt_3_cables_usbc/

[17] https://superuser.com/questions/1009697/does-thunderbolt-3-require-a-special-cable

[18] https://www.pcmag.com/news/thunderbolt-3-vs-usb-c-whats-the-difference

[19] https://www.avast.com/c-thunderbolt-vs-usb-c

[20] https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/thunderbolt-3-4-or-usb-c-cable-which-is-the-right-choice.2341835/

[21] https://www.thunderbolttechnology.net/blog/thunderbolt-3-usb-c-does-it-all

[22] https://www.cablestogo.com/tech/usb-c

[23] https://www.hp.com/in-en/shop/tech-takes/post/whats-the-difference-between-usb-c-vs-thunderbolt-3

[24] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thunderbolt_(interface)

[25] https://learn.adafruit.com/understanding-usb-type-c-cable-types-pitfalls-and-more?view=all

[26] https://support.anker.com/s/article/What-are-the-differences-between-USB-C-and-Thunderbolt-3

[27] https://www.startech.com/en-us/blog/thunderbolt-3-the-basics

[28] https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/electronics/what-is-usb-c

[29] https://www.startech.com/en-us/faq/thunderbolt-3-usb-c-differences

[30] https://stock.adobe.com/search?k=thunderbolt+cable

[31] https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/TB3CabST2m--startech-thunderbolt-3-cable-2m-20-gbit-s-usb-c

[32] https://www.shutterstock.com/search/thunderbolt-cable

[33] https://www.startech.com/en-us/cables/tblt3mm2ma

[34] https://cabletimetech.com/blogs/knowledge/do-all-usb-c-cables-support-video-debunking-common-myths

[35] https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/tech-takes/usb-c-vs-thunderbolt

[36] https://discussions.apple.com/thread/252991701

[37] https://www.ryobitools.com/products/46396047458

[38] https://www.kensington.com/p/products/device-docking-connectivity-products/video-cables-adapters/0.7m-2.3ft-thunderbolt-3-cable-40gbps-100w-pd-certified-tb3-usb-c-compatible-K32300WW-SP/

[39] https://www.reddit.com/r/UsbCHardware/comments/iaor5x/can_all_usb_c_cables_support_video_outputsignal/

[40] https://www.benq.com/en-us/knowledge-center/knowledge/whats-the-difference-thunderbolt-3-and-usb-c.html

[41] https://www.walmart.com/ip/Belkin-Thunderbolt-3-Thunderbolt-cable-3-3-ft/134347398

[42] https://www.thunderbolttechnology.net/tech/faq

[43] https://www.dell.com/support/kbdoc/en-hr/000141309/guide-to-thunderbolt-3

[44] https://www.belkin.com/company/blog/usb-cables-ultimate-guide/

[45] https://apple.stackexchange.com/questions/306613/can-i-use-a-thunderbolt-3-cable-in-place-of-a-usb-c-cable

[46] https://www.seagate.com/support/kb/lacie/frequently-asked-questions-about-usb-c-007759en/

[47] https://www.seagate.com/support/kb/frequently-asked-questions-about-thunderbolt-3-007771en/

[48] https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/surface/frequently-asked-questions-about-usb-c-b9ddecf0-6637-2555-833a-6a9b6c9f444a

[49] https://uadforum.com/community/index.php?threads%2Fnewbie-thunderbolt-c-cable-question.41319%2F

[50] https://www.cdw.com/content/cdw/en/articles/hardware/thunderbolt-3-vs-usb-c-whats-right-for-you.html

[51] https://tethertools.com/product/tetherpro-usb-c-to-usb-c/

[52] https://bookstore.umaine.edu/Thunderbolt-3-USB-C-Cable-0.8m

[53] https://www.hollyland.com/blog/tips/do-all-usb-c-cables-support-video

[54] https://newnex.com/thunderbolt-vs-usb-c.php

[55] https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/usb-type-c-cable

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