The comparison between USB4 vs Thunderbolt 4 has become increasingly important in 2026. While both standards use the USB-C connector and offer high-speed performance, they are not identical.
Understanding the differences in speed, power delivery, certification, and compatibility will help you choose the right device or cable.
USB4 Official Specification (USB-IF)
What Is USB4?
USB4 is the latest generation of the USB protocol, designed to unify USB and Thunderbolt technologies. It supports:
- Up to 40Gbps data transfer
- USB Power Delivery
- DisplayPort Alt Mode
- Optional Thunderbolt 3 compatibility
USB4 builds upon USB-C and works with modern PD 3.1 charging standards.
What Is Thunderbolt 4?
Thunderbolt 4 is Intel’s certified high-performance interface. Unlike USB4, Thunderbolt 4 requires strict minimum specifications:
- Mandatory 40Gbps speed
- Dual 4K display support
- PCIe data support
- Certified cables and ports
USB4 vs Thunderbolt 4: Speed Comparison
| Feature | USB4 | Thunderbolt 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Speed | Up to 40Gbps (optional) | 40Gbps (mandatory) |
| Display Support | Optional dual display | Dual 4K required |
| PCIe Support | Optional | Required |
| Certification | Not mandatory | Intel certified |
Charging Differences
Both USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 rely on USB Power Delivery for charging.
With PD 3.1, USB-C cables can deliver up to 240W using EPR technology.
Learn more:
USB-C Cable Types Explained
Compatibility
- Thunderbolt 4 ports support USB4 devices
- USB4 ports may not support full Thunderbolt 4 features
- All use USB-C connectors
When Should You Choose USB4?
- Modern mid-range laptops
- General high-speed storage
- Cost-effective performance
When Should You Choose Thunderbolt 4?
- Professional editing setups
- Docking stations
- Guaranteed dual-monitor setups
FAQ
Is USB4 the same as Thunderbolt 4?
No. USB4 may reach 40Gbps, but Thunderbolt 4 guarantees it.
Can USB4 replace Thunderbolt 4?
For most users, yes. For professional setups, Thunderbolt 4 remains superior.
Do both use USB-C cables?
Yes. Both use USB-C connectors.
Final Verdict (2026 Update)
In the comparison of USB4 vs Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 4 offers guaranteed high performance, while USB4 provides flexible and affordable high-speed connectivity.
