However, it begs the question: do you really need Thunderbolt 5 on your computer or is it just an extra for specific tasks?
Thunderbolt 5 news
Thunderbolt 5 doubles the transfer speed of its predecessor Thunderbolt 4, reaching 80 Gbps in both directions and up to 120Gbps in “Enhanced Bandwidth” mode, ideal for high data-demanding tasks, such as 8K resolution video processing. In addition, it increases the supply capacity of power up to 240Wa significant improvement over the 100W that Thunderbolt 4 allowed. This is an advantage for devices that require fast charging, such as the 16-inch MacBook Pro.
Another key new feature of Thunderbolt 5 is its support for DisplayPort 2.1, which facilitates support for 4K screens at 240 Hzimproving visual quality in video game and video playback applications. It also maintains backward compatibility with Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 4, and USB devices, making the transition easier without having to change all your peripherals at once.
If your daily activities include web browsing, document editing, or photo retouching, Thunderbolt 4 already offers enough performance. In fact, even for tasks like editing 4K videos or handling large files, Thunderbolt 4’s 40 Gbps is typically more than adequate for professional users. For most Mac users, Thunderbolt 4 more than meets their needs.
Is it worth paying what it costs?
Thunderbolt 5 becomes a real advantage for those working in resource-intensive sectors, such as 8K video production, virtual reality or 3D rendering, where the additional bandwidth and improvements in display and fast charging can make a difference. big difference. In these cases, Thunderbolt 5 guarantees smoother and more efficient experience when working with extremely large files or multiple high-resolution displays simultaneously.
The arrival of Thunderbolt 5 also brings with it a new generation of compatible accessories. Apple has already launched its own Thunderbolt 5 Pro cable, with a price of 79 eurosdesigned to support maximum speed and power delivery. Likewise, OWC has launched the Envoy Ultra, an external SSD storage that reaches speeds greater than 6 GB per seconddoubling the storage capacities of previous Thunderbolt devices.
In addition, OWC has also launched a Thunderbolt 5 hub that expands a single port to three Thunderbolt 5 ports and one USB-A port, allowing the connection of up to three 8K displays and offering up to 140W of power, enough to charge a 16 MacBook Pro. inches.
For the average Mac user, Thunderbolt 5 shouldn’t be the deciding factor when choosing between an M4 model or an M4 Pro/Max. The M4 standard with Thunderbolt 4 remains more than enough for most everyday and professional tasks. However, if your work depends on high-speed data transfer and high-resolution displays, then a model with Thunderbolt 5 could be a future investment.
