The 5 Best Thunderbolt 3 Cables
While there are still many types charging and connection cables floating around our modern-day world of consumer tech, the future is clear: Thunderbolt 3. Combing the charging power of USB-C and the data transfer capability of the original Thunderbolt technology, these cables represent the next evolution in digital connection for laptops, cellphones, and beyond. Not only do Thunderbolt 3-supported ports and cables allow for faster charging than USB-C alone, but they also allow for faster file transfer and, in many cases, 4K video transmission. So whether you have a MacBook Pro, a Google Pixel phone, or some other compatible device, be sure to check out our list of best Thunderbolt 3 cables and pick out one that's right for you.
1. Anker [Intel Certified] Thunderbolt 3.0 Cable
One Cable To Rule Them All
There are a number of cables that offer the kind of specs that that Anker’s Thunderbolt 3 cable does, but few do it as reliably or are as high quality from a construction standpoint. The Intel-certified model boasts premium performance in each of the main categories, including device charging of up to 100 watts, data transfer of up to 40 Gbps, and video transmission at a resolution of up to 5K on one screen, and 4K on two screens. It also works dependably with any USB-C-equipped device.
Pros:
- Backwards compatibility with USB 2.0
- Sturdy cable and connectors
- 18-month warranty
Cons:
- Only one cable length option
- A little expensive
2. Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Cable
A Great Value
For those who want to save a few bucks on their charging cable but still get all the advantages of Thunderbolt 3 technology, the Plugable Thunderbolt 3 Cable is an ideal choice. It offers many of the premium specs that other high-end models do, including rapid charging, 40Gbps file transfer speeds, and 5K video transmission for one display (or 4K for two). But it shaves a handful of dollars off the bottom line, which it’s able to do by compromising slightly on construction quality. It’s still plenty sturdy, though, with an 0.8 meter, flexible rubber cord.
Pros:
- DisplayPort alternate mode compatible
- Generous cable length
- Backed by 2 year warranty
Cons:
- Connection may be flimsy on some devices
- Materials don’t feel premium
3. Apple Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) Cable
The Apple-Approved Option
For users who have the latest MacBook Pro or iPad models, the choice of a Thunderbolt 3 cable is a no-brainer: get Apple’s own version. The company was the first to pioneer and incorporate Thunderbolt technology in its devices, after all, so you can trust that it has a track record of excellence in this area. Not only does their 0.8 meter Thunderbolt 3 cable check all the performance boxes — from data transfer up to 40 Gbps to USB 3.1 Gen 2 data transfer up to 10 Gbps to DisplayPort video output — but it also features Apple’s signature all-white design aesthetic, which means you don’t have to worry about it not matching the rest of your setup.
Pros:
- 100W charging
- Can be daisy-chained with 5 other devices
- High-quality construction
Cons:
- Pricey option
- Not great for non-Apple devices
4. Belkin Thunderbolt 3 Cable
The Gift Of Choice
Sometimes the standard 0.8-meter cable length isn’t enough to connect all your devices. That’s why Belkin’s Thunderbolt 3 cable comes in four different varieties, from a compact 1.6 feet to a generous 6.5 feet. Except the 3-foot cable, which only reaches 20 Gbps, each option boasts 40Gbps transfer speeds for quickly and reliably moving all your photos, videos, and files between up to three devices. Like other premium cables, it’s also capable of rapid charging up to 100 watts and streaming on 5K and ultra HD displays.
Pros:
- Great for gaming
- High-gloss polycarbonate material
- 2 year limited warranty
Cons:
- No DisplayPort alternate mode
- Longer cable is expensive
5. Cable Matters Certified 20 Gbps Thunderbolt 3 Cable
Less Speed, Lower Price
If you don’t need the absolute highest performance from your charging cable, the Cable Matter Thunderbolt 3 is a decent option. The certified model offers most of the specs that more expensive cables do, including video transmission at 4K resolution and 100 watts of charging, but sacrifices some speed on file and data transfers, reaching only 20Gbps on compatible devices. In doing so, though, it’s also able to lower its price tag, making it perfect as a backup cable or for anyone on a budget.
Pros:
- Compatible with a wide range of devices
- Bi-directional and reversible connector
- Two different color options
Cons:
- Not as fast as other cables
- 3.3-foot cable isn’t very compact
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Thunderbolt 3 cable?
A Thunderbolt 3 cable is a digital connection wire that uses Thunderbolt 3 technology to charge and transfer data between compatible devices. Thunderbolt 3 is the latest iteration of the connection port first developed and adopted by Apple in the earlier 2000s, which allowed for high-speed transmission of data, including video, for laptops and other computer periphery devices. Thunderbolt originally utilized DisplayPort architecture, but has since adopted the more modern USB-C. Today, Thunderbolt 3 offers some of the fastest charging and transfer speeds of any cable out there.
What should I look for in a Thunderbolt 3 cable?
Thunderbolt three cables offer high-end performance in three main categories: charging speeds, transfer speeds, and support for high-definition video transmissions. The best Thunderbolt 3 cables will be capable of up to 100 watts of rapid charging, 40Gbps of data transfer, and up to 5K video for compatible displays. Some cables will compromise on these specs in the interest of affordability, and you’ll have to decide for yourself what balance of performance and price is right for you.
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