In the world of modern computing, the concept of a single port doing it all has become a reality. Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 docks have revolutionized the way we connect our devices, offering unprecedented speed, power, and versatility. But with the introduction of Thunderbolt 4, the question on everyone’s mind is: should I get a Thunderbolt 3 or 4 dock? In this article, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two technologies, exploring their speed, compatibility, and features to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4
Before we dive into the comparison, let’s take a brief look at what Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 are.
Thunderbolt 3, introduced in 2015, is a high-speed peripheral interface developed by Intel. It uses the USB-C connector and offers speeds of up to 40 Gbps, making it significantly faster than USB 3.0. Thunderbolt 3 also supports power delivery (PD) up to 100W, allowing it to charge larger devices like laptops.
Thunderbolt 4, released in 2020, is the next generation of Thunderbolt technology. It builds upon the foundation laid by Thunderbolt 3, offering even faster speeds and improved capabilities. Thunderbolt 4 boasts speeds of up to 40 Gbps, while also introducing new features like multiple data streams and improved power delivery.
Speed: Thunderbolt 3 vs Thunderbolt 4
One of the most critical factors to consider when choosing between Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 docks is speed. Both technologies offer blistering fast transfer rates, but there are some key differences.
Thunderbolt 3:
- Maximum bandwidth: 40 Gbps
- Supports up to two 4K displays or one 5K display
- Suitable for most users, including those who need to transfer large files, stream high-definition video, and connect multiple peripherals.
Thunderbolt 4:
- Maximum bandwidth: 40 Gbps
- Supports up to two 4K displays or one 8K display
- Ideal for professionals and heavy users who require the fastest possible speeds, such as video editors, gamers, and data scientists.
As you can see, both Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 offer the same maximum bandwidth of 40 Gbps. However, Thunderbolt 4’s increased capabilities make it better suited for demanding applications that require multiple high-resolution displays and simultaneous data transfer.
Compatibility: Thunderbolt 3 vs Thunderbolt 4
Another crucial aspect to consider is compatibility. Will your devices work with a Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 dock?
Thunderbolt 3:
- Backwards compatible with USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 2 devices (with adapters)
- Supported by most modern Macs and PCs, including those with USB-C ports
Thunderbolt 4:
- Backwards compatible with Thunderbolt 3 devices and USB 3.2 Gen 2 devices
- Currently supported by select Intel-powered laptops and desktops, with wider adoption expected in the future
While Thunderbolt 3 has been around longer and enjoys broader support, Thunderbolt 4’s compatibility is growing rapidly. If you have newer devices or plan to upgrade to Thunderbolt 4-compatible hardware, a Thunderbolt 4 dock might be the better choice.
Features: Thunderbolt 3 vs Thunderbolt 4
Beyond speed and compatibility, Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 docks offer distinct features that might sway your decision.
Thunderbolt 3:
- Single-stream data transfer
- Up to 100W power delivery
- Supports DisplayPort, PCIe, and Power Delivery over USB-C
Thunderbolt 4:
- Multi-stream data transfer (up to 4 lanes)
- Up to 100W power delivery
- Supports DisplayPort, PCIe, and Power Delivery over USB-C, as well as USB4 and PCIe 3.0
Thunderbolt 4’s multi-stream data transfer capability allows for better performance when connecting multiple devices, making it ideal for those who need to connect multiple hard drives, SSDs, or high-speed peripherals.
Power Delivery: Thunderbolt 3 vs Thunderbolt 4
Both Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 docks support power delivery up to 100W, making them suitable for charging larger devices like laptops. However, Thunderbolt 4 takes power delivery to the next level:
- Thunderbolt 4 docks can charge devices up to 100W, while also providing up to 15W of power to downstream devices
This means that Thunderbolt 4 docks can charge your laptop while also powering other devices, like a USB-C monitor or a portable SSD.
Conclusion: Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 Dock?
So, should you opt for a Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 dock? The answer ultimately depends on your specific needs and devices.
If you:
- Have older devices that only support Thunderbolt 3
- Don’t need the absolute fastest speeds or newest features
- Are on a budget
Then a Thunderbolt 3 dock might be the better choice.
If you:
- Have newer devices that support Thunderbolt 4 or plan to upgrade soon
- Need the fastest possible speeds and newest features
- Are willing to invest in the latest technology
Then a Thunderbolt 4 dock is likely the better option.
Remember, Thunderbolt 4 is the newer, more advanced technology, but it’s not yet widely supported by all devices. If you’re unsure, consider your current device ecosystem and future plans before making a decision.
| Feature | Thunderbolt 3 | Thunderbolt 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Bandwidth | 40 Gbps | 40 Gbps |
| Display Support | Up to two 4K displays or one 5K display | Up to two 4K displays or one 8K display |
| Power Delivery | Up to 100W | Up to 100W, with up to 15W for downstream devices |
| Compatibility | Backwards compatible with USB 3.0 and Thunderbolt 2 devices (with adapters) | Backwards compatible with Thunderbolt 3 devices and USB 3.2 Gen 2 devices |
By considering your specific needs and weighing the differences between Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 docks, you’ll be able to make an informed decision and choose the perfect dock for your workflow.
What is Thunderbolt 3 and how does it differ from Thunderbolt 4?
Thunderbolt 3 is a high-speed connectivity standard developed by Intel that offers speeds of up to 40 Gbps, making it one of the fastest ports available. It was introduced in 2015 and has since become a popular choice for external devices and peripherals. Thunderbolt 3 uses the same physical connector as USB-C, but it has additional features and capabilities that set it apart from USB-C.
The main difference between Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 is the speed and capabilities of the port. Thunderbolt 4 offers even faster speeds of up to 40 Gbps, as well as additional features such as multiple display support and faster charging. Thunderbolt 4 is also backwards compatible with Thunderbolt 3 devices, making it a more versatile option.
What are the key benefits of using a Thunderbolt 3 dock?
One of the key benefits of using a Thunderbolt 3 dock is the speed it offers. With speeds of up to 40 Gbps, Thunderbolt 3 is significantly faster than USB-C, making it ideal for transferring large files and data. Additionally, Thunderbolt 3 docks often offer multiple ports, including USB-A, HDMI, and Ethernet, making it a convenient option for connecting multiple devices to your laptop.
Another benefit of using a Thunderbolt 3 dock is its versatility. Many Thunderbolt 3 docks come with additional features such as built-in charging, display support, and audio jacks, making it a great option for those who need a single dock to meet all their connectivity needs. Plus, Thunderbolt 3 is compatible with both Mac and PC, making it a great option for those who use multiple devices.
What are the key benefits of using a Thunderbolt 4 dock?
One of the key benefits of using a Thunderbolt 4 dock is its even faster speeds of up to 40 Gbps, making it ideal for those who need to transfer large files quickly. Additionally, Thunderbolt 4 docks often offer more features than Thunderbolt 3 docks, such as multiple display support, faster charging, and improved audio capabilities. This makes Thunderbolt 4 a great option for those who need a high-performance dock for demanding tasks.
Another benefit of using a Thunderbolt 4 dock is its backwards compatibility with Thunderbolt 3 devices. This means that if you have older devices that use Thunderbolt 3, you can still use them with a Thunderbolt 4 dock, making it a great option for those who have a mix of old and new devices.
Can I use a Thunderbolt 3 dock with a Thunderbolt 4 laptop?
Yes, you can use a Thunderbolt 3 dock with a Thunderbolt 4 laptop. Thunderbolt 4 is backwards compatible with Thunderbolt 3, so you can connect a Thunderbolt 3 dock to a Thunderbolt 4 port on your laptop. However, keep in mind that you will only be able to achieve speeds of up to 40 Gbps, which is the maximum speed of the Thunderbolt 3 dock.
It’s worth noting that you may not be able to take full advantage of the features of your Thunderbolt 4 laptop if you use a Thunderbolt 3 dock. For example, if your laptop supports multiple displays through Thunderbolt 4, you may not be able to use this feature with a Thunderbolt 3 dock.
Can I use a Thunderbolt 4 dock with a Thunderbolt 3 laptop?
No, you cannot use a Thunderbolt 4 dock with a Thunderbolt 3 laptop. Thunderbolt 4 docks require a Thunderbolt 4 port to function, and Thunderbolt 3 laptops do not have Thunderbolt 4 ports. If you try to connect a Thunderbolt 4 dock to a Thunderbolt 3 laptop, it will not work.
If you have a Thunderbolt 3 laptop and want to take advantage of the features of a Thunderbolt 4 dock, you may need to consider upgrading to a Thunderbolt 4 laptop or using a different type of dock that is compatible with your laptop.
Which type of dock is best for me?
The type of dock that is best for you depends on your specific needs and the type of devices you use. If you have a Thunderbolt 3 laptop and mostly use older devices, a Thunderbolt 3 dock may be a good option. However, if you have a Thunderbolt 4 laptop or need the latest and greatest features, a Thunderbolt 4 dock may be a better choice.
It’s also important to consider the specific features you need from a dock. Do you need multiple display support? Do you need fast charging? Do you need improved audio capabilities? Answering these questions can help you determine which type of dock is best for you.
Are Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 docks compatible with USB-C devices?
Yes, Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 docks are compatible with USB-C devices. Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 use the same physical connector as USB-C, and many USB-C devices are compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 docks. However, keep in mind that USB-C devices may not be able to take full advantage of the features of a Thunderbolt 3 or Thunderbolt 4 dock, and may only operate at slower speeds.
It’s also worth noting that not all USB-C devices are compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 docks, so it’s always a good idea to check the specifications of your device before purchasing a dock.