USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 are essential in today's music studios, but their capabilities differ. USB-C is a more versatile and affordable solution for smaller projects, while Thunderbolt 3 offers the increased speed and performance needed for complex recordings and professional studios.
Key differences:
- Data transfer speed : USB-C (up to 10 Gbps), Thunderbolt 3 (up to 40 Gbps).
- Power supply : Both support up to 100W.
- Latency : Thunderbolt 3 provides lower latency, which is important for live monitoring.
- Price : USB-C cables and devices are cheaper, Thunderbolt 3 is more expensive but more efficient.
Which to choose? If you're working on smaller projects or on a budget, USB-C is a practical choice. If you're looking for professionalism, speed, and reliability, choose Thunderbolt 3.
USB-C features and benefits
Speed and compatibility
USB-C offers a variety of data transfer speeds , depending on the protocol selected. For example, USB 3.1/3.2 Gen 2 standards allow for speeds of up to 10 Gbps, while USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 variants can reach speeds of up to 20 Gbps [4] . While these speeds are slower than Thunderbolt 3, they are more than enough to power most audio devices.
This connector is extremely versatile, found on computers, tablets, phones, audio interfaces, and MIDI controllers. It simplifies and optimizes studio setups. In addition, USB-C ensures backward compatibility with older USB standards through the use of adapters.
Another important feature is the ability to support multiple protocols simultaneously. USB-C allows you to transfer data, a video signal via DisplayPort , and supply power using the Power Delivery function [4] . This means that a single cable can perform several functions at once - transfer data, power devices, and transmit a video signal. This functionality is especially useful for musicians, which we will discuss in more detail below.
Benefits for musicians
The compact and reversible USB-C design allows for neat, mobile studio setups. This not only saves time, but also reduces the risk of errors that can occur in a messy environment [1] .
Power Delivery is another important feature of USB-C. It can deliver up to 100W of power [4] , allowing many audio devices to be powered directly from a computer. This is especially useful for mobile studios or gigs where additional adapters or cables can be a hassle.
USB-C also supports video transmission, allowing for 4K resolution via the DisplayPort protocol [4] . This allows you to connect high-quality monitors, which is especially useful when working with DAW applications or using video projections during live performances.
Today’s audio equipment manufacturers are increasingly adopting USB-C connectors in their products [3] , demonstrating that investing in USB-C-enabled equipment is a long-term and smart strategy that ensures compatibility with the latest technological solutions.
AUTOGARSAS.LT specialists advise choosing only certified, high-quality USB-C cables intended for professional audio equipment [4] . High-quality cables ensure reliable data transfer and stable power supply - which is essential for smooth studio work.
Thunderbolt 3 features and benefits
Speed and performance
Thunderbolt 3 technology delivers an impressive 40 Gbps data transfer rate. That's four times faster than USB 3.1 (10 Gbps) and twice as fast as the previous Thunderbolt 2 standard [1] . This speed allows you to transfer 4K video or large audio files without any interruptions.
Although Thunderbolt 3 looks like USB-C, it requires special certified cables to achieve maximum speeds. This technology, developed in collaboration with Intel and Apple, combines PCI Express , DisplayPort, and power delivery. It's important to note that while Thunderbolt 3 can function like USB-C, not all USB-C ports support Thunderbolt 3 functionality.
Thunderbolt 3 supports up to two 4K displays (4096 x 2160, 30 bpp @ 60 Hz) or one 5K display, providing high video throughput. In addition, the minimal latency of PCI Express is crucial for working with professional audio.
One of the unique features of Thunderbolt 3 is the ability to connect up to six devices to a single port. This allows you to connect external drives, audio interfaces, monitors, and other devices in a single cycle without sacrificing performance. These capabilities make Thunderbolt 3 an extremely reliable solution for professional audio recording.
Benefits for musicians
For musicians, this technology means not only fast data transfer, but also reliable device control. Thunderbolt 3 can deliver from 15W to 100W of power, ensuring stable performance even under heavy loads [1] .
The high data transfer rate allows for simultaneous recording of multiple channels of high-resolution audio without interference – important for studios using more than 32 microphones. The low latency allows for real-time audio processing, which is essential for live monitoring and the use of virtual instruments.
In addition to speed and reliability, Thunderbolt 3 simplifies studio workflows by enabling fast file transfers between systems via 10GbE Ethernet. It also allows for the connection of external graphics cards, which improves the efficiency of VR or interactive visual performances - especially useful for musicians creating video installations.
AUTOGARSAS.LT experts emphasize that Thunderbolt 3 certified cables and devices meet strict Intel testing standards. This ensures stable 40 Gbps speeds and power delivery even under intensive use - especially important during critical recording sessions, when any interference can cause data loss or audio interruptions.
It is also worth considering the length of the cables, as it affects performance. For example, shorter (0.5 m) cables support 40 Gbps and 100 W, while longer (1 m) cables support 20 Gbps and 60 W [5] . Therefore, when planning a studio system, it is important to use shorter cables for critical devices such as main audio interfaces.
USB-C vs Thunderbolt 3 comparison
Comparison table: USB-C vs Thunderbolt 3
We present a comparison of the main technical characteristics, which will help you better understand the differences between these two technologies.
| Characteristics | USB-C (USB 3.1 Gen 2) | Thunderbolt 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Data transfer speed | Up to 10Gbps | Up to 40 Gbps [1] [2] |
| Energy supply | Up to 100W | Up to 100 W [1] [2] |
| Video output | 1× 4K (with adapters) | 2× 4K or 1× 5K (native) [1] [2] |
| Audio support | With adapters | Natural, low latency |
| Device chain connection | No | Yes (up to 6 devices) [1] [6] [5] |
| Delay duration | Larger | Minimum (for PCIe audio interfaces) |
| Compatibility | Universal, widespread | Requires Thunderbolt 3 port |
| Typical price | Lower | Higher |
This table shows that USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 have their own strengths, depending on the usage scenario. We will discuss how these differences are reflected in practice below.
USB-C cables are significantly cheaper, ranging from €5 to €30, while Thunderbolt 3 cables can cost from €30 to €100 or more. The situation is similar with audio interfaces: USB-C models usually cost €100–300, while Thunderbolt 3 models cost €300–800. It is also worth noting that Thunderbolt 3 ports support USB-C devices, but backward compatibility is not available [6] [5] .
Advantages and disadvantages for musicians
Each technology has its own advantages, which can be extremely important to musicians, depending on their needs.
Advantages of USB-C :
- Wide compatibility with various devices, including Android, Windows, and tablets.
- A lower price that allows budding musicians or home studio owners to build an affordable recording system.
- A suitable choice when working with a small number of channels (up to 24) or using MIDI controllers and two-channel audio interfaces.
USB-C is a great choice for those who create songs, electronic music or podcasts, as well as those for whom mobility and economy are important.
Thunderbolt 3 advantages :
- Ideal for professional studios and complex projects that require minimal latency and high data transfer speeds.
- Allows you to work with multi-channel recordings, drum sessions or intensive virtual instruments.
- Ensures extremely low latency, which is essential for real-time monitoring and recording.
Practical limitations also matter. USB-C interfaces sometimes require a larger buffer, which can result in latency of 10-15 milliseconds, which can be noticeable in real-time audio processing. Thunderbolt 3 provides almost imperceptible performance in this case, keeping latency below 5 milliseconds.
The final choice will depend on your studio needs and budget. If you work on smaller projects and want to keep costs low, USB-C can be a practical solution. However, if your goal is to expand your studio and work on more complex projects, Thunderbolt 3 will be a long-term investment that will pay off in better results. AUTOGARSAS.LT experts recommend carefully assessing your needs before choosing a technology.
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Choosing the right technology for your studio
Study needs assessment
Before deciding whether to go with USB-C or Thunderbolt 3, it’s important to carefully consider your studio’s needs and potential future expansion plans. One of the main criteria is data transfer speed. If you’re working with multi-channel recordings or massive audio libraries, Thunderbolt 3, with its 40 Gbps speed, may be a must-have. Meanwhile, for smaller studios, USB-C, with its 10 Gbps speed, is often sufficient [1] .
It’s also important to consider device compatibility and future expansion. Not all USB-C ports support Thunderbolt 3, so it’s important to check that your computer and audio equipment are compatible [3] . Thunderbolt 3 allows you to connect up to six devices to a single port without sacrificing performance, which is especially useful when expanding your studio with additional devices such as audio interfaces or storage drives [1] . USB-C often requires additional hubs, which can limit bandwidth if you use more devices.
For a professional studio using multi-channel equipment, Thunderbolt 3 is indispensable due to its high bandwidth and low latency. However, for a home studio recording using a two-channel USB-C audio interface, this solution is usually sufficient.
It should be noted that Thunderbolt 3 solutions are more expensive – the price of cables alone in Lithuania ranges from 5 to 39 euros [8] . However, the investment may pay off due to the ability to connect more devices through a single port. Below we will discuss how AUTOGARSAS.LT can help you choose the most suitable solution for your studio.
How AUTOGARSAS.LT can help
Depending on your studio needs, AUTOGARSAS.LT specialists offer assistance to make your choice optimal. Their more than 27 years of experience allows them to provide professional advice tailored to both your budget and future plans.
"Our goal is not just to sell equipment, but to help the customer create a sound that inspires every day." [7]
The store offers a wide range of high-quality audio equipment, including audio interfaces, cables, and other accessories compatible with both USB-C and Thunderbolt 3. The company also specializes in custom solutions, from equipment sales to sound system design and installation.
If you are a musician or audio enthusiast, you can contact AUTOGARSAS.LT specialists by phone, email, or visit their store in Kaunas. Here you can discuss your studio needs and find out which solution – USB-C or Thunderbolt 3 – best meets your expectations.
The best USB-C / Thunderbolt 3 Hub for music production ⚡️⚡️
Conclusions
USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 technologies have a significant impact on studio performance and creative possibilities. Thunderbolt 3 provides an impressive data transfer speed of 40 Gbps, while USB-C offers up to 10 Gbps. This makes Thunderbolt 3 an indispensable choice for sophisticated audio studios where multi-channel recording and minimal latency are important. In addition, the ability to connect up to six devices to a single port [6] [5] provides a great advantage when expanding your studio equipment. Meanwhile, USB-C is a great choice for home studios or aspiring musicians, as it provides a good balance of performance and price.
It is important to note that Thunderbolt 3 devices are compatible with USB devices, but not all USB-C cables can unlock the full potential of Thunderbolt 3. To take full advantage of the capabilities, it is necessary to use certified cables [6] [5] .
The final choice depends on your studio needs – number of tracks, intensity of virtual instrument usage and future expansion plans. Professional sound systems often require expert advice, and AUTOGARSAS.LT, with 27 years of experience, can help you find the most suitable solution for any studio.
Both USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 have their place in modern audio production. The successful choice depends on a careful assessment of the studio's needs and the application of the right technologies. Trust AUTOGARSAS.LT to help you make the best decision.
FAQs
What's the difference between USB-C and Thunderbolt 3, and which technology is better for musicians?
USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 are two widely used connection technologies, but they differ in their capabilities. Thunderbolt 3 stands out for its faster data transfer speeds and the ability to connect more devices simultaneously. This is especially useful for professional musicians who work with complex audio equipment or record multi-track audio.
Meanwhile, if you use simpler devices, such as MIDI keyboards or other standard accessories, USB-C usually fully meets your needs. AUTOGARSAS.LT offers a wide selection of audio equipment compatible with both USB-C and Thunderbolt 3, so that every music creator can work with reliable and high-quality equipment.
How do USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 speeds affect sound quality and studio work?
USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 connections provide the ultra-fast data transfer speeds that are essential for maintaining high-quality audio recordings and efficient studio work. Thanks to the fast data transfer, you can smoothly process high-resolution audio files, apply complex effects, and use virtual instruments without interruptions or delays.
These features are especially important for professional musicians and audio engineers who seek accuracy and maximum performance when working with recordings.
Can USB-C cables be used for Thunderbolt 3 functionality, and how do I choose the right cables for a music studio?
USB-C cables can support Thunderbolt 3 technology, but it's important to know that not all USB-C cables are compatible. To take full advantage of Thunderbolt 3 , it's important to choose only certified cables designed for this technology.
When it comes to professional music studios, sound quality is one of the most important aspects. Therefore, it is worth consulting with specialists who can help you choose the right cables and equipment for your studio's specific needs. Such a solution will not only help you avoid compatibility issues, but also ensure that your workflows run smoothly and without interruption.
