Today's hottest deals

Computer Components FAQ

Q Thunderbolt speed?


A Currently up to 10 Gbps or 1250 MB/s, expected to double in 2014.
Thunderbolt, like USB, is a standard for connecting devices to a computer. It was released on Feb 2011. The maximum theoretical data transfer speed currently allowed by Thunderbolt is 10 Gbps or 1250 MBps, this maximum is expected to double in 2014 with the introduction of an even faster version code named Falcon Ridge. Theoretical maximums are one thing but real world speeds often lag significantly behind. In the case of Thunderbolt real world tests have measured transfer rates of over 700MB/s which is only 56% of the theoretical maximum but still significantly faster than its competitors. In addition to allowing the fastest peripheral connection speeds, Thunderbolt wires are capable of simultaneously carrying power (10 watts), video data (DisplayPort) and PCI Express. This versatility is one of Thunderbolt's key strengths as it removes the need for seperate video, power and data cables. As yet (2013) there are still very few Thunderbolt devices on the market and USB 3.0 is still the dominant connection interface by far. One of the reasons for the slow uptake is that thunderbolt cables cost approximately £25 per metre, around ten times more than USB 3.0 cables. Unlike regular cables, Thunderbolt cables are active which means they have micro-chips built into each end. These micro-chips regulate voltage and reduce noise thus enabling stable and high bandwidth connections.

Why does UserBenchmark have a bad reputation on reddit?
Marketers operate thousands of reddit accounts. Our benchmarks expose their spiel so they attack our reputation.
Why don’t PC brands endorse UserBenchmark?
Brands make boatloads on flagships like the 4090 and 14900KS. We help users get similar real-world performance for less money.
Why don’t youtubers promote UserBenchmark?
We don't pay youtubers, so they don't praise us. Moreover, our data obstructs youtubers who promote overpriced or inferior products.
Why does UserBenchmark have negative trustpilot reviews?
The 200+ trustpilot reviews are mostly written by virgin marketing accounts. Real users don't give a monkey's about big brands.
Why is UserBenchmark the gold standard for users?
Instead of pursuing brands for sponsorship, we've spent 13 years publishing real-world data for users.
The Best
CPUGPUSSD
Intel Core i5-12600K $159Nvidia RTX 4060 $295WD Black SN850X M.2 2TB $135
Intel Core i5-13600K $210Nvidia RTX 4060-Ti $380WD Black SN850X M.2 1TB $84
Intel Core i5-12400F $111Nvidia RTX 4070 $500Crucial T700 M.2 4TB $370
Today's hottest deals
If you buy something via a price link, UserBenchmark may earn a commission
About  •  User Guide  •  FAQs  •  Email  •  Privacy  •  Developer  •  YouTube Feedback