No, USB Type-C and Thunderbolt are not the same thing but they’re close – sort of. Let us explain!
It was in the early 1990s that the USB standard was first published and since then, USB interfaces have changed quite a bit to accommodate the growing technology. Today, USB-C is the accepted standard and is easily one of the most popular consumer cables in the world. USB-C does not describe the technology inside the cable. Instead, USB-C describes the type of connector and plug on the end.
USB-C is about the third of the size of the previous USB-A standard and provides quite the upgrade in functionality. The USB-C is used to charge devices from laptops and smartphones to all sorts. Very powerful and even hailed by some as ‘future-proof’, the USB-C connector is reversible as well meaning that there is no wrong way to plug it in.
Now let’s talk a little bit about Thunderbolt. The USB-C is the connector and so the technology inside is Thunderbolt. Approximately a decade ago, all the talk was about Firewire for high data transfer. Thunderbolt replaced Firewire, allowing the opportunity to share more power among multiple devices and to sync and charge at far faster capabilities than what was previously possible. Today’s latest Thunderbolt standard has up to 40Gbps bandwidth, reduced power consumption, and is reportedly able to move as much as 100 watts of power.
Therefore, Thunderbolt USB-C cables make for some of the most advanced in history. As technology continues to progress, Thunderbolt is just the beginning to capitalizing on the limitless uses of USB Type-C. In the years to come, USB-C is likely to remain as the standard – with or without Thunderbolt – helping millions of Canadians hook up and connect their devices.
In the USB Type-C PrimeCables category, some of the biggest selling items include the 1m USB-C to USB 3.1A Charging/Sync Cable with Aluminum Alloy Connector – White – PrimeCables® – 1/Pack for $5.99, the USB-C 3.1 to HDMI & USB 3.0 & RJ45 & Type-C Charging Adapter – 15CM – PrimeCables® for $43.99, the USB-C Adapter, USB Type C to Micro USB Convert Connector – PrimeCables® – 1/Pack for $3.99, and the USB-C to USB 3.1 M/F Cable Adapter, OTG Compatible – White – PrimeCables® for $6.99.
Now that the Type-C and Thunderbolt differences have hopefully been made somewhat clearer, please don’t hesitate to browse the PrimeCables to buy your USB Type-C on discount. All orders above $49 receives fast, free shipping to anywhere in Canada. In addition, there are free returns and a 1-year guarantee on all USB Type-C cables purchased through PrimeCables. Buy today to begin tapping into some of the fastest sync and charge cables in Canada!