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Thunderbolt 5 is the new generation of the Thunderbolt interface and isset to replace Thunderbolt 4.
As the name doesn’t give much away, here’s everything you need to know about Thunderbolt 5, how it compares to Thunderbolt 4, and why it’s worth upgrading when the time comes.
What Is Thunderbolt 5?
Thunderbolt 5 is the latest iteration of Intel’s Thunderbolt protocol. If the term Thunderbolt isn’t clear to you yet, this is a hardware interface developed by Intel that provides high-speed data transfer, video output, and power delivery over a single cable.
Like previous generations, Thunderbolt 5 is built on the widely-used USB protocol, although it uses the latest version: USB4 v2. It also supports PCI Gen 4 and DisplayPort 2.1 and is fully compatible with previous Thunderbolt standards.
Unlike the previous jump from Thunderbolt 3 to 4, Thunderbolt 5 significantly improves bandwidth and connectivity speeds, unlocking new possibilities. The key changes fall into three categories: higher minimum power delivery requirements, up to 2x maximum data transfer bandwidth, and higher minimum PC bandwidth.
Thunderbolt 5 delivers 80 gigabits per second (Gbps) of bi-directional bandwidth, and with Bandwidth Boost mode, up to 120Gbps in one direction and 40Gbps in the other. This is possible because it includes four lanes for data transfer (two for each direction at 40Gbps, adding up to 80Gbps). Boost mode combines three lanes to transfer data in one direction, resulting in a maximum of 120Gbps (40Gbps x 3).
For connecting monitors, it supports high-refresh-rate displays up to 540Hz, a first for the Thunderbolt protocol. Alternatively, you can simultaneously connect three 4K 144Hz monitors, a step up from the previous two at 60Hz. Plus, unlike version 4, it supports multiple 8K monitors simultaneously, thanks to the increase in bandwidth.
Thunderbolt 5 also significantly boosts power delivery, guaranteeing a minimum of 140W and a maximum of 240W. This means we’re about to see more ofthe best gaming laptopsusing a Thunderbolt-certified USB-C port for charging instead of proprietary ports. Here’s thedifference between Thunderbolt and USB-Cif you need more explanation.
The third major feature of Thunderbolt 5 is the 2x increase in data bandwidth from 32Gbps to 64Gbps, which comes in handy when connecting external SSDs and evenexternal GPUs.
Thunderbolt 5 vs. Thunderbolt 4: What’s the Difference?
Thunderbolt 5 and Thunderbolt 4 have several differences. For easier comparison, here’s a table summary of the technical capabilities of each protocol:
Thunderbolt 4
Thunderbolt 5
Connector Type
Minimum PC Bandwidth
Maximum PC Bandwidth
120Gbps (Bandwidth Boost mode)
Minimum PC Video Out Support Requirements
Dual 4K monitors
Dual 6K monitors
Maximum Data Transfer Bandwidth Requirements
Thunderbolt Networking
PC Power Delivery
Up to 100W
Minimum 140W (240W max)
Minimum PC port power for accessories
Required speed for universal cables up to 2 meters in length
Why You Should Upgrade to Thunderbolt 5
Thunderbolt 5 delivers higher bandwidth and connectivity speeds, enabling faster charging, faster data transfer, and simultaneous connection to multiple displays at higher resolutions and refresh rates than version 4. For creators and gamers, upgrading to Thunderbolt 5 is a no-brainer. First, this protocol guarantees you can connect to several high-resolution monitors simultaneously.
Doubling the bandwidth to 64Gbps is also impressive. It allows faster data transfer speeds, which can save you time if you regularly deal with large files on external storage devices for tasks like video editing. The increased charging speeds also unlock the doors for even faster charging speeds, meaning you can quickly fill your Thunderbolt 5-compliant laptop.
While only a few Thunderbolt 5 devices are available as ofthis writing, you should consider getting one if you feel bogged down by Thunderbolt 4’s limitations. If you’d like to buy a compliant cable, getCable Matter’s Thunderbolt 5 cable, the first on the market. It is available in 1ft, 1.6ft, and 3.3ft and supports 240W chargingand up to 120Gbps bandwidth. It supports a single 8K monitor at 120Hz, a single 4K 540Hz monitor, or three 4K 144Hz monitors.
