What is USB C? USB Type C and Thunderbolt 3 explained StarTech.com

There’s been quite a lot of buzz around USB-C, the new industry standard connector, and for many people, there’s an equal amount of confusion. The first question most people ask is - what exactly is USB-C?

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What is USB-C?

USB-C, also known as USB Type-C, is a new, sleek connector tailored to fit mobile devices as well as smaller Laptops and Tablets. Unlike the USB type A connector that most people are familiar with, USB-C is a unique new version of the USB connector. It is more compact and conveniently features a reversible plug and connector orientation.

It offers an array of performance benefits beyond what users may be used to with traditional USB functionality. USB-C supports up to 10Gbps data transfer speeds and scalable power delivery. It also supports USB-C Alternate Modes, which enable a USB-C cable to carry DisplayPort and Thunderbolt 3. Although the USB-C connector is very different than previous connectors, it’s backwards compatible with USB 3.0 and 2.0 peripherals using the appropriate port adaptors

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What is Thunderbolt 3?

While USB-C is getting a lot of attention, so too is Thunderbolt 3, the latest version of Thunderbolt technology. Thunderbolt 3 can potentially transfer data at speeds of up to 40Gbps. Thunderbolt 3 can simultaneously support the fastest data connections and the most video bandwidth of any single cable, while powering compatible devices.

The big news however, is the fact that Thunderbolt 3 has adopted the USB-C connector shape. Previously, the Thunderbolt interface used mini DisplayPort-shaped connectors that weren’t compatible with USB ports.

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What’s the difference between them?

With USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 being talked about almost interchangeably, it’s important we further clarify the differences between them.

USB-C is simply a new physical connection shape, not a new USB standard. Thunderbolt 3 is the latest version of the Thunderbolt technology standard. It is a superset solution which piggybacks on the benefits of the new USB-C connector’s capabilities and shape making it the USB-C that does it all.

OK, so why is all of this important? What’s all the hype about?

Allows users to do more

As device designs get smaller and lighter, a USB-C connector is needed to better suit compact form factors. It empowers both desk-bound and mobile users to connect to essential devices easily.

Whereas, each technology protocol required its own connector. USB-C delivers multiple protocols and supports these technologies through one connector.


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Connectivity challenges for users

The USB-C connector will soon be common in the next generation of computers, peripherals, and mobile devices, creating challenges for IT professionals and end users when they connect these new devices to existing legacy environments. Users need to be equipped and educated about the appropriate adapters, docking stations, and other connectivity accessories to take full advantage of the benefits
of USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 over USB-C.

This is where StarTech.com can help. With the most comprehensive product offering for USB-C Connectivity as well as trusted support worldwide, StarTech.com makes it easy to connect any USB-C device.

Learn more about our USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 products at startech.com/USB-C