Mac Tips

Thunderbolt 5 Explained

Everything you need to know about the next generation of connectivity.

Up to 120GbpsBlazing-fast data

8K DisplayHigh-res support

Up to 240WPower your devices

UniversalUSB4, USB-C, TB

Thunderbolt 5 is the latest version of Apple and Intel's high-speed connectivity standard — and the biggest leap the technology has taken in years. If you've seen "TB5" on a new Mac or dock and wondered what it actually means for you, here's a plain-English guide.

How fast is Thunderbolt 5?

Thunderbolt 5 delivers up to 80Gbps of bandwidth in both directions — double Thunderbolt 4. For demanding video work it can also boost to 120Gbps in one direction (Apple calls this "Bandwidth Boost") to drive the most demanding displays. It also roughly triples PCIe throughput, which is what makes external storage so much faster.

What can you actually do with it?

• Run multiple high-resolution displays, including 8K and high-refresh-rate monitors.
• Get blisteringly fast external storage — ideal for video editing, large libraries and backups.
• Connect external GPUs and pro peripherals with headroom to spare.
• Power and charge your laptop, drive displays and move data — all through a single cable.

Is it backwards compatible?

Yes. Thunderbolt 5 uses the same USB-C connector and is fully backwards compatible with Thunderbolt 4, Thunderbolt 3, USB4 and USB-C. You can plug older devices into a Thunderbolt 5 dock (they'll run at their own top speed), and a Thunderbolt 5 device into an older port (it'll run at the older port's speed).

Do you need Thunderbolt 5?

Thunderbolt 5 shines for creative pros and power users — video editors, photographers, 3D artists and anyone running multiple displays or fast external storage. For everyday use (one display, a keyboard, mouse and a drive), Thunderbolt 4 or even Thunderbolt 3 is still plenty.