The Best Connector EVER? - Thunderbolt 5
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Check out the MSI RadiX AXE6600 WiFi 6 Tri-Band Gaming Router today using the link below: lmg.gg Thanks to Ben Benson and Intel for their help with this episode! Learn about the new Thunderbolt 5 connector and how it builds upon USB 4 v2. Leave a reply with your requests for future episodes. ► GET MERCH: lttstore.com ► LTX 2023 TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW: lmg.gg ► GET EXCLUSIVE CONTENT ON FLOATPLANE: lmg.gg ► SPONSORS, AFFILIATES, AND PARTNERS: lmg.gg FOLLOW US ELSEWHERE --------------------------------------------------- Twitter: twitter.com Facebook: @LinusTech Instagram: @linustech TikTok: @linustech Twitch: twitch.tv
Thunderbolt 5 is presented as a notable evolution of the USB-C connected family, aiming to deliver both higher performance and broader capability than its predecessor and even outperforming USB 4 v2 in key areas. The video explains that while Thunderbolt 5 shares the same physical USB-C connector as USB4, it mandates a higher minimum performance floor, including data rates of up to 80 gigabits per second in each direction and the option for 120 gigabits per second in one direction with 40 in the opposite direction. It also emphasizes that Thunderbolt 5 can supply more power to higher-end devices, requiring at least one computer port capable of delivering up to 140 watts for laptops and 15 watts for accessories, which marks a shift from the USB 4 minimums. The host clarifies that the practical impact of these specs includes improved performance when using displays, storage, and external GPUs, with real-world benefits like supporting daisy-chained 6K monitors or three 4K displays at high refresh rates. The explanation covers how PAM3 signaling enables the higher data throughput by using three voltage levels, a technical detail that underpins the new capabilities. The video also discusses the expected timeline, noting that products supporting Thunderbolt 5 should begin appearing in 2024, but that for now it is primarily of interest to enthusiasts who need the extra bandwidth and power delivery, while USB still remains a versatile baseline for most users. Overall, the segment positions Thunderbolt 5 as a forward-looking upgrade that preserves compatibility while expanding raw performance for demanding setups and professional workflows, with caveats about real-world accessibility and the current maturity of the ecosystem.
Topics · technology · hardware · computing · consumer electronics
Questions answered
- What distinguishes Thunderbolt 5 from USB 4 v2 in terms of data rate and power delivery?
- Thunderbolt 5 sets a higher minimum data rate of up to 80 Gbps per direction (with potential 120 Gbps in one direction and 40 Gbps the other) and requires at least one device port capable of delivering up to 140 W for computers and 15 W for peripherals, compared to USB 4 v2 which has lower minimums.
- What practical devices or setups benefit most from Thunderbolt 5 according to the video?
- Practical benefits include support for daisy-chained high-resolution displays (like 6K or multiple 4K displays at high refresh rates), faster external storage and GPUs via PCIe bandwidth, and enhanced charging for demanding laptops, making TB5 appealing to enthusiasts and professionals with bandwidth-intensive workflows.