What is Thunderbolt 5?

Thunderbolt 5 is the latest version of Intel’s Thunderbolt protocol, a hardware interface that provides high-speed data transfer, video output, and power over a single cable. Techno 24.Built on the USB4 v2 protocol, Thunderbolt 5 supports PCI Gen 4 and DisplayPort 2.1, and is backward compatible with previous versions of Thunderbolt.

Unlike the incremental improvements from Thunderbolt 3 to 4, Thunderbolt 5 opens up new possibilities for users by offering significant improvements in bandwidth, link speed, and power delivery.

Key features and improvements

one. Higher bandwidth:

• Standard mode: 80 gigabits per second (Gbps) bi-directional bandwidth.
• Bandwidth boost mode: By combining three data lines, speeds of up to 120 Gbps in one direction and 40 Gbps in the other direction are achieved.

2. Advanced display support:

• Supports high refresh rate displays up to 540 Hz.
• It allows you to connect three 4K 144Hz monitors simultaneously.
• Supports multiple 8K monitors simultaneously with increased bandwidth.

3. Increased power:

• The minimum output power is 140W, the maximum is 240W.
• It allows more devices, like gaming laptops, to use certified Thunderbolt-enabled USB-C ports instead of proprietary ports for charging.

4. Improved data transfer:

• Bandwidth has doubled from 32 Gbps to 64 Gbps, which is beneficial for external solid state and GPUs.

Thunderbolt 5 vs. Thunderbolt 4: Key Differences

Why upgrade to Thunderbolt 5?

Thunderbolt 5’s higher bandwidth and connection speeds enable faster data transfers, charging, and the ability to connect to multiple high-resolution displays simultaneously. For video editors, photographers, and gamers, this means smoother workflows and better productivity.

As devices demand more and more data and power, Thunderbolt 5 ensures your system stays current and future-proof.

While Thunderbolt 5 devices are just starting to appear on the market, early adopters can benefit from products like the Thunderbolt 5 cable from Cable Matters, which comes in a variety of lengths and supports up to 120Gbps bandwidth and 240W charging. This cable can work with one 8K monitor at 120Hz, one 4K monitor at 540Hz, or three 4K monitors at 144Hz.

Thunderbolt 5 is a significant step forward in the evolution of data transfer and connectivity interfaces. Its benefits increase interactivity and enable new capabilities, giving users good reasons to upgrade.