The new Mac mini and MacBook Pro models with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips are the first computers in Apple’s range to integrate Thunderbolt 5 connectivity, a major advancement in bandwidth since Thunderbolt 3, introduced in 2015 (the 4th version being rather minor). This new standard promises clear improvements in speed and power, but for many readers it may be worth understanding whether Thunderbolt 5 actually meets your needs.
Usefulness, compatibility and accessories
As seen during its announcement at the end of 2023, the Thunderbolt 5 standard doubles the standard transfer speed to reach 80 Gbit/s in each direction (sending and receiving), and offers a special “Bandwidth Boost” mode allowing it to reach 120 Gbit/s. s for video-intensive tasks. This asymmetric mode devotes 120 Gbit/s to display data while allocating 40 Gbit/s to conventional data transfers, thus tripling the bandwidth compared to Thunderbolt 4. In addition, the standard increases the maximum power delivered to 240 W , compared to 100 W for Thunderbolt 4, providing faster charging for power-hungry devices like the 16-inch MacBook Pro. This additional bandwidth helps support more advanced display configurations for Macs with M4 Pro and M4 Max chips.
Like previous versions, Thunderbolt 5 remains compatible with Thunderbolt and USB devices, including USB4 2.0 devices. Which means you can charge your iPhone 15 or 16, as well as all iPads currently on the market. Even the latest AirPods 4 and AirPods Pro 2.
Thunderbolt 5 also integrates DisplayPort 2.1, allowing the use of 4K displays at 240 Hz, for better fluidity in games and videos. This is actually the most interesting point, since the latest Mac mini and MacBook Pro models equipped with Thunderbolt 5 offer advanced display options, with up to three Thunderbolt 5 ports for the M4 Pro and M4 Max models .
MacBook Pro with M4 Pro chip:
- Dual 6K displays at 60Hz via Thunderbolt.
- A 6K display at 60 Hz via Thunderbolt and a 4K display at 144 Hz via HDMI.
- An 8K display at 60 Hz via HDMI or 4K at 240 Hz via HDMI.
MacBook Pro with M4 Max chip:
- Three 6K displays at 60 Hz via Thunderbolt and one 4K display at 144 Hz via HDMI.
- Two 6K displays at 60 Hz via Thunderbolt and one 8K display at 60 Hz or 4K display at 240 Hz via HDMI.
Mac mini with M4 Pro chip:
- Three 6K displays at 60 Hz via Thunderbolt.
- An 8K screen at 60 Hz or 4K screen at 240 Hz via HDMI. Note: The Mac mini with
Note that the standard M4 chip includes Thunderbolt 4 ports and supports up to three external displays in specific configurations.
Thunderbolt 5: Is it really necessary?
For most users performing tasks like browsing, office work, or even photo editing, Thunderbolt 4’s 40 Gbps of bandwidth is more than enough. Even 4K video editing and working with large files remains smooth with the number 4 standard, since we have been working with it for years. Buying a base Mac mini M4 or MacBook Pro M4 doesn’t make sense for most of us.
In fact, Thunderbolt 5 becomes an essential asset for those who work with 8K video, high-resolution multi-monitor setups or regularly transfer large files. This technology will be particularly beneficial for virtual reality applications, 3D rendering or advanced video production. However, taking full advantage of Thunderbolt 5 requires compatible peripherals, which are still rare and often expensive. First of all, you need a Thunderbolt 5 stamped cable which starts at €79 from Apple or at €29 on Amazon. In fact, it’s all about preparing for the future, with future affordable 8K displays.
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