USB4 and Thunderbolt 4 both transfer data at 40Gbps over a USB-C connector — so what exactly is the difference when you place an order?
Compatibility
Thunderbolt 4 is a stricter certification from Intel: it guarantees 40Gbps minimum, dual 4K or one 8K display, 100W charging and wake-from-sleep over the cable. USB4 requires 20Gbps minimum in its base tier; 40Gbps is optional per device.
What to check when buying cables
- Data speed: look for "40Gbps" explicitly, not just "USB4" or "Thunderbolt compatible"
- Power: 240W requires PD 3.1 EPR certified cables (5A marked)
- Length: passive 40Gbps cables are reliable up to about 0.8m; longer runs need active chips
BEARKOO options
Our BK-C001 USB4 cable delivers 40Gbps data, 240W charging and 8K video; the BK-C002 is Intel-certified Thunderbolt 4. Both are nylon-braided and support OEM branding.
