Introduction

Thunderbolt 4 is the latest and greatest interface for connecting your devices. It's the successor to Thunderbolt 3, and it offers a significant boost in speed, power, and versatility. Specifically, it supports data transfer speeds of up to 40Gbps, offers 100W PD rapid charging, and has the capability to drive two 4K displays simultaneously or one 8K display. Thunderbolt 4 boasts numerous technological advantages, including high performance, support for daisy-chaining, and exceptional compatibility.

As illustrated, each iteration of Thunderbolt technology introduces a host of new features and upgrades.

Moreover, Intel has recently unveiled the specifications for Thunderbolt 5, which will elevate the bandwidth from 40Gbps to 80Gbps, enable power delivery of up to 240W, and support dual 8K displays. The upcoming Intel 14th Gen processors are set to support the soon-to-be-launched Thunderbolt 5.

However, Thunderbolt 4 currently represents the highest standard available for transmission cables, offering higher data transfer rates and charging speeds, significantly enhancing productivity. So, we'll ditch the jargon and dive into the nitty-gritty: lengths, features you actually need, and ones you can skip. Ready to shake off the data doldrums and embrace Thunderbolt speed? Buckle up, this guide is about to take your tech life to the next level!

Apple

Apple Thunderbolt 4 Pro Cable (1 m)

Firstly, we can't overlook the industry leader - Apple. This one-meter Apple Thunderbolt 4 Pro Cable is crafted using a braiding technique, where fiber threads are twisted together before being meticulously woven, resulting in a higher density weave. This method minimizes tangling and prevents fraying, thus extending the cable's lifespan and enhancing its overall quality. In fact, we've even took apart this cable—click the link below to watch. The connector length is twice that of a standard USB-C cable, and the exterior features the iconic lightning symbol denoting Thunderbolt protocol.

In terms of performance, it boasts 100W fast charging, high-speed data transfer, and exceptional video transmission capabilities, excelling in every aspect of functionality. Its 100W fast charging supports rapid charging for laptops; the transfer speed of around 3000MB/s ensures lightning-fast transfer rates for mixed data files; and regarding video transmission, it offers superior video expansion capabilities.

Apple Thunderbolt 4 Pro Cable (1.8 m)

Apple's Thunderbolt 4 Pro Cable (1.8 m) breaks away from the company's traditional minimalist white-gray design, featuring an all-black braided cable that enhances durability and reduces tangling. The connector undergoes a matte treatment and bears the lightning logo representing Thunderbolt protocol compatibility. With a length of 1.8 meters, it suits most everyday cable needs.

Regarding charging, it supports up to 100W PD charging, data transfer rates of 40Gbps, and signal transmission for up to 8K video, allowing the iPhone 15 series' Thunderbolt/USB4 ports to unleash their full potential.

Apple Thunderbolt 4 Pro Cable (3 m)

The 3-meter variant shares the same design and many advantages as the 1.8-meter cable, providing consistent performance.

It supports up to 100W power delivery, and real-world testing has achieved write speeds of 1470MB/s and read speeds of 2639.5MB/s in data transfer, making it exceptionally friendly for video and graphics professionals with high-quality requirements.

Anker

Anker Thunderbolt 4 Cable

Next up is the Anker Thunderbolt 4 Cable, known for its high-quality construction. In terms of appearance, it shares similarities with other products on the list, except for one notable difference: not only does it feature the Anker and Thunderbolt logos, but it also includes a number 4, clearly indicating that it's a Thunderbolt 4 cable. Additionally, there's added protection at the connector-cable junction, enhancing its durability.

In terms of performance, it supports a maximum charge of 100W when used with a compatible charger, achieves a transfer speed of 40Gbps, and supports a single monitor in up to 8K resolution or dual monitors in 4K resolution. With a length of 2.3 feet, it's slightly shorter, so potential buyers should take note. The product comes with an 18-month warranty.

Belkin

Belkin Thunderbolt 4 Cable (1M, 3.3ft)

This 1-meter passive Belkin Thunderbolt 4 cable boasts a sleek all-black exterior. The connector features the company logo along with the lightning symbol denoting Thunderbolt compatibility. Due to the short transmission distance of 1 meter, the passive cable does not need integrate a chip, ensuring highly stable and reliable data transmission.

The cable supports the Thunderbolt 4 protocol and is backward compatible with Thunderbolt 3, USB4, USB3.2, and USB2.0. It also supports full-featured connectivity, ensuring high-speed data transfer. It supports up to 8K display output and 100W PD fast charging, making it suitable for smartphones, laptops, gaming consoles, and various electronic devices.

Belkin Thunderbolt 4 Cable (2M, 6.6ft)

The 2-meter active version incorporates an active chip internally to ensure stable transmission over longer distances. Its appearance mirrors that of the 1-meter variant.

In terms of performance, the cable, certified by Intel, achieves high-speed transmission up to 40Gbps, supports ultra-clear 8K60Hz video signal transmission, and delivers up to 100W PD charging. It's worth noting that due to the integration of the active chip, the 2-meter variant might have a relatively higher price compared to the 1-meter version.

CalDigit

CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 Cable

CalDigit, known for its reputable Thunderbolt 3/4 docking stations, offers a Thunderbolt 4 cable certified by Intel. The cable comes in an all-black design with the company logo and lightning symbol. It's available in two lengths, 0.8m and 2m.

Compatible with USB4, Thunderbolt 3, USB3.0/2.0 protocols, this cable supports high-speed data transfer of up to 40Gbps, ultra-clear 8K60Hz video signal transmission, and up to 100W PD charging.

FIBBR

FIBBR 40Gpbs Thunderbolt™ 4 Cable (1M)

The FIBBR Thunderbolt 4 cable features a commonly used black matte design in cable manufacturing. It's made using coaxial cable, ensuring better transmission speeds and cable flexibility than regular cables. The connector-cable junction is reinforced with TPE, enhancing product durability. The 1-meter length is suitable for most work and lifestyle scenarios.

Despite its simple appearance, this cable offers outstanding performance. It achieves high-speed data transmission of up to 40Gbps and 8K ultra-clear display extension. Additionally, it supports 100W PD charging for various devices.

WERO

WERO Thunderbolt 4 (40Gbps) Active Cable Pro 1.5M/2.0M

The WERO Thunderbolt 4 cable utilizes PVC material, offering a better tactile feel. Available in 1.5m and 2m lengths, both versions incorporate the Intel JHL5040D active chip for enhanced transmission stability.

Certified by Intel and listed on the Thunderbolt official website, this cable is backward compatible with Thunderbolt 3, USB4/3/2. It supports 40Gbps data transfer, 8K video transmission, and offers 100W output for charging.

UGREEN

UGREEN Thunderbolt 4 Cable (0.8 M)

UGREEN, an active participant in digital accessory development, presents its Thunderbolt 4 product line. The cable features an overall PVC construction, with the connector displaying the UGREEN logo and Thunderbolt symbol. The 0.8-meter cable length is suitable for most data transmission scenarios.

Impressive performance is a highlight of the UGREEN Thunderbolt cable. It supports up to 100W PD fast charging and boasts a high-speed data transfer rate of 40Gbps. Additionally, the cable supports up to 8K video transmission and is compatible with 4K displays, meeting the high-performance demands of content creators.

Zikko

Zikko Thunderbolt™ 4 Cable (0.8 M)

The Zikko Thunderbolt™ 4 Cable features an all-black design with a matte-finished connector, offering a sleek appearance. The cable is designed with a coaxial construction for added flexibility.

It not only delivers a stable 100W PD fast charge to your everyday electronic devices but also achieves data transfers at 40Gbps. Inside the cable, you'll find the Intel JHL5040D Redriver chip and the Infineon CYPD2105 E-marker chip, which enhance the cable's stability and reliability. While its name includes Thunderbolt™, don't worry, it's also compatible with USB4.

Zikko Thunderbolt™ 4 Cable (2 M)

The 2-meter version shares the same black TPE material and flexible coaxial cable design as the 0.8-meter variant. The connector features a matte finish for easy insertion and removal.

At the cable ends, Redriver chips ensure stable signal transmission over long distances, and the multiple layers of coaxial cable shielding reduce interference and signal loss. Supported by various technologies, this cable can deliver 100W PD fast charging, Thunderbolt-standard data transfer speeds, and extend the use of high-definition displays.

Summary of ChargerLAB

Thunderbolt 4 technology, as per official explanations, represents a step up from Thunderbolt 3, enhancing performance thresholds while broadening its application functionalities and introducing VT-d-based DMA protection. USB4 cables currently available in the market exhibit minimal differences in performance compared to Thunderbolt 4, leading to considerable marketing that portrays Thunderbolt 4 as essentially a USB4 specification cable. To discern between the two when making a purchase, consulting the Thunderbolt official website is recommended.

Among all the mentioned cables, prominent brands such as Apple, Belkin, and CalDigit are present, alongside smaller brands like FIBBR, WERO, and Zikko (Hong Kong). Major brands may come with a premium, while the latter often offers a better balance of cost and quality.

In terms of performance, since all cables adhere to Thunderbolt 4 specifications, significant performance disparities are unlikely. Differences primarily lie in the materials used and the cable length. With Apple offering three braided cables, the others are typically made of PVC or TPE. Braided cables generally boast superior durability but come at a higher price.

Regarding cable length, approximately 1 meter suffices for most everyday scenarios. Ultra-short Thunderbolt 4 cables, such as 0.3m or 0.5m, pair well with Thunderbolt docks or ssd enclosures. Cables exceeding 1.5m or 2m are more suited for video transmission scenarios, allowing users to select the ideal length based on their specific needs.

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