In this video, we provide a guide to understanding USB-C and Thunderbolt ports, focusing on how to distinguish between the two and their respective capabilities. Thunderbolt offers faster data transfer speeds and higher bandwidth, allowing for multiple device connections simultaneously, while USB-C ports, though similar, have limitations in data transfer when used for video. The video also covers troubleshooting tips and common issues, such as video quality problems when using USB-C display ports, and provides solutions for connecting docking stations.
In this video, we'll provide a Dell guide to USB-C and Thunderbolt ports, including how to fix common issues. Though Thunderbolt and USB-C ports look similar, they are not interchangeable. Both Thunderbolt and Type-C ports are small, oval-shaped, and reversible, meaning you don’t have to worry about the orientation when inserting the connector. Both can charge devices, transfer data, and support up to 130 watts of charging power. Each port can transfer data between your smartphone, tablet, camera, or any device and your computer.
Thunderbolt transfers data much faster and reaches up to 40 gigabits per second compared to USB-C's 20 gigabits per second. This makes Thunderbolt capable of a wider range of applications, including delivering superior video quality. Thunderbolt's bandwidth is the biggest difference, as it can transmit large amounts of data, supply a charge, and achieve high-quality video all while using a single Thunderbolt connection. In other words, it serves as an ideal expansion slot, perfect for docking stations.
Thunderbolt can easily handle connecting multiple external devices to a PC such as a charger, external displays, storage devices, ethernet cables, headphones, and more. Because of the higher data bandwidth, USB-C ports will not support Thunderbolt devices. A Thunderbolt docking station must use a Thunderbolt port. To distinguish between the two, look for symbols: a Thunderbolt port is identified by a lightning bolt next to it, and a port with the letter "P" indicates a DisplayPort, meaning the USB-C port can also be used for video interface but cannot do it all at once like Thunderbolt.
If you're using a USB-C display port to charge or transfer data while using video, the video quality will be impacted. Additionally, when connecting a monitor, make sure to use a cable that supports video transmission. A typical USB-C charging cable for smartphones, for instance, will not work. If you're having video issues and can't get any video through a standard USB-C port, this could be the reason. When connecting two or more displays, it's important to use separate connections, not daisy-chaining the monitors, as this will avoid poor video quality.
If you are having issues connecting a Dell USB-C or Thunderbolt docking station to your laptop, the best place to start is by visiting Dell’s official support articles, where you'll find complete details to ensure a proper connection. These guides provide step-by-step instructions, including updating necessary drivers and firmware. If you encounter system policy prohibition when connecting a Thunderbolt docking station, contact your system administrator for assistance in adjusting your user permissions. If you have any questions about USB-C, Thunderbolt cables, or docking stations, contact us via one of the support options on our website.
