Thunderbolt and USB4 cables in our range are USB-C cables for fast data transfer, video output and laptop charging, suited to anyone connecting docks, external SSDs or monitors. You will find USB-C to USB-C cables, extension cables and angled versions from StarTech, Micro Connect, OWC and Belkin, among others.
How to choose a Thunderbolt or USB4 cable
Data speed. Check the USB4 generation, because it sets the ceiling for transfer speed. Our range includes USB4 Gen 2x2 (20 Gbps), Gen 3x2 (40 Gbps) and Gen 4x2 (80 Gbps) cables. Most external SSDs and docks need 40 Gbps, while 80 Gbps only helps if both devices support it.
Charging power. Look at the USB Power Delivery rating if the cable will charge a laptop. Many cables in our range are rated up to 240 W, and others to 100 W or 60 W. A 60 W cable suits a thin ultrabook, but a workstation laptop may need 100 W or more.
Length and connector shape. Fast cables are usually short, and at the highest speeds longer passive cables often lose performance, so buy only the length you need. Most cables here have straight USB-C plugs at both ends. A few have angled plugs for tight spaces, and some extension cables have a female end to add reach to an existing cable.
Device compatibility. The cable only works as fast as the ports at both ends. A USB-C port without Thunderbolt or USB4 support will run a Thunderbolt cable at lower speed. Check your laptop, dock or monitor specifications before paying for a high-end cable. A few cables in our range are only USB 2.0, so they suit charging and basic data rather than fast storage or video.
Thunderbolt and USB4 cable brands we carry
- StarTech: a connectivity specialist known for adapters, docks and cables for office and IT environments, and the largest brand in this category in our range.
- OWC: known for Thunderbolt docks and storage for Mac users, so its cables pair naturally with those products.
- Belkin: a maker of charging and connectivity accessories for laptops and phones, including Thunderbolt cables.
- Lenovo and HP: laptop and PC manufacturers whose cables are made to go with their own docks and notebooks.
- Eaton: mainly known for power protection equipment such as UPS units, and also present here with connectivity products.
Also in our range: Micro Connect, Goobay, INLINE, AXAGON, Lindy and i-tec.
Frequently asked questions about Thunderbolt and USB4 cables
Is USB4 the same as Thunderbolt 4?
No, but they are closely related. Both use the USB-C connector and can reach 40 Gbps, and Thunderbolt 4 sets stricter minimum requirements, such as support for two external displays. A USB4 cable will often work with Thunderbolt devices, but the cable packaging should state the exact speed it supports.
Can I use a normal USB-C cable instead of a Thunderbolt cable?
It will usually connect, but at a much lower speed. Many standard USB-C cables only support USB 2.0 data rates and may not carry video. For a fast SSD, a dock or a high-resolution monitor, use a cable rated for USB4 or Thunderbolt.
Will a Thunderbolt cable work with a USB-C port?
Yes, in most cases. The connector is the same, but the connection runs at the speed of the slowest part, whether that is the port, the cable or the device. A laptop with a basic USB-C port will not gain Thunderbolt speeds from a better cable.
Do Thunderbolt and USB4 cables charge laptops?
Yes, if the cable supports USB Power Delivery. Check the wattage rating and match it to your laptop charger. A 240 W cable can supply any charger up to that level, while a 60 W cable will limit charging for laptops that need more.
