Best Thunderbolt Cables of 2026

Mike Davis Avatar
Mike Davis
Last Updated: Jan 22, 2026

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Thunderbolt cables are an essential component for anyone who requires high-speed data transfer between devices. These cables are designed to deliver lightning-fast data transfer speeds, making them ideal for video editors, gamers, and other professionals who need to transfer large amounts of data quickly. Thunderbolt cables are also versatile, as they can be used to connect a wide range of devices, including external hard drives, monitors, and more. With their ability to support multiple protocols and high bandwidth, Thunderbolt cables are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable and efficient way to transfer data quickly and easily.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

WARRKY USB-C to HDMI 4K Cable Cover #TOP 1
WARRKY USB-C to HDMI 4K Cable
ftb score rating icon 9.9
acer USB-C to DisplayPort Cable 6.6 FT Cover #TOP 2
acer USB-C to DisplayPort Cable 6.6 FT
ftb score rating icon 9.8
UGREEN USB C to DisplayPort 1.4 Cable 8K@60Hz Cover #TOP 3
UGREEN USB C to DisplayPort 1.4 Cable 8K@60Hz
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Thunderbolt Cables

#TOP 1

WARRKY USB-C to HDMI 4K Cable

WARRKY-AV-CH13B3
Silver Grey
WARRKY USB-C to HDMI 4K Cable Cover
WARRKY USB C to HDMI Cable 4K 60Hz[Anti-Interference, Gold-Plated Plugs] Aluminum HDR Type-C to HDMI 2.0 Cord, Thunderbolt 3/4/5 Compatible for iPhone 15/16 Series, MacBook, iMac, iPad Pro, Galaxy-6ft

The WARRKY USB-C HDMI Cable lets you easily connect your USB-C devices to HDMI displays with stunning 4K resolution at 60Hz. You can quickly mirror or extend your screen to larger monitors or TVs without worrying about unstable WiFi or complicated drivers. The cable’s gold-plated connectors and thick copper wiring ensure a fast, reliable signal with minimal interference, so your audio and video stay crystal clear. Its sturdy aluminum casing and unibody design help dissipate heat and prevent damage, making it durable for long-term use. Plus, it supports a wide range of devices, from the latest iPhones to MacBooks and Samsung Galaxy phones, giving you versatile compatibility.

What We Like
Plug-and-play setup
High-definition video and audio
Reliable connection, no lag
Sturdy braided cable
Supports multiple devices
What We Don't Like
Cable length options limited
#TOP 2

acer USB-C to DisplayPort Cable 6.6 FT

OCB246
6.6FT
acer USB-C to DisplayPort Cable 6.6 FT Cover
acer USB C to DisplayPort Cable 6.6 FT (4K@60HZ 2K@165Hz), Type-C to DisplayPort Cord (Sturdy Aluminum, Plug & Play) Thunderbolt 3/4/5 Compatible with MacBook Pro/Air, iPhone 16 Pro/Max, XPS, Surface

The acer USB-C DisplayPort Cable lets you connect your USB-C or Thunderbolt 3/4 devices to a DisplayPort monitor or projector with ease. It supports sharp 4K resolution at 60Hz and higher refresh rates at 2K, perfect for clear visuals whether you’re working or gaming. You’ll enjoy smooth and lag-free video thanks to FreeSync and G-Sync support, plus fast data transfer without delays. The cable also offers versatile screen options like Mirror, Extend, and Clamshell modes, helping you expand or duplicate your workspace effortlessly. Built with durable materials and a heat dissipation system, it’s designed to last and perform reliably over time.

What We Like
High picture quality
Durable braided design
Strong, stable connection
Works with MacBook Pro
No overheating issues
What We Don't Like
Monitor setting adjustment needed
#TOP 3

UGREEN USB C to DisplayPort 1.4 Cable 8K@60Hz

25158
Grey
6.6FT
UGREEN USB C to DisplayPort 1.4 Cable 8K@60Hz Cover
UGREEN USB C to DisplayPort 1.4 Cable 8K@60Hz 4K@240Hz Unidirectional Thunderbolt 4/3 to DisplayPort Cord USB C to DP 32.4Gbps Compatible iPhone 17, MacBook Pro/Air, iPad, Mac Mini, Galaxy, XPS, 6.6FT

The UGREEN USB C to DP Cable lets you easily connect your USB-C or Thunderbolt device to a DisplayPort monitor without needing extra drivers. It supports stunning visuals with up to 8K resolution at 60Hz, perfect for watching high-quality videos or detailed work. You can also link multiple monitors together for a flexible setup, ideal for multitasking or immersive gaming. The cable ensures smooth and stable data transfer at high speeds, reducing flickering and improving audio-visual quality. Plus, its braided nylon build and aluminum casing make it durable and easy to handle, providing a reliable connection every time you plug in.

What We Like
Durable braided construction
Stable high refresh rates
Wide compatibility with devices
Cost-effective solution
Easy plug-and-play setup
What We Don't Like
Occasional compatibility issues
Minor confusion about Thunderbolt support
#TOP 4

Anker 515 USB-C Cable: Fast Data Transfer, 8K HD Display, 240W Charging

A8487011
Black
3.3 Feet
Anker 515 USB-C Cable: Fast Data Transfer, 8K HD Display, 240W Charging Cover
Anker USB C Cable(3.3FT, 240W), USB 4 Data Cable, 40Gbps, 8K HD Display, Thunderbolt 4/3 Compatible, for iPhone 17, MacBook, Hub, Docking and More

The Anker 515 USB-C Cable is designed for fast and seamless data transfer at 40 Gbps, making it easy to transfer music, movies or TV shows in seconds. It also supports up to 8K@60Hz or 4K@144Hz HD display, allowing users to mirror or extend their screen. The cable can charge virtually any USB-C device, including phones, accessories, and laptops, with a maximum of 240W charge when paired with a compatible charger. It is durable and can withstand up to 5,000 bends, ensuring it lasts long. The package includes the Anker 515 USB-C to USB-C Cable, a welcome guide, an 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

What We Like
Ultra-fast charging speed
High-speed data transfer
Durable build quality
Versatile device compatibility
8K HD display support
What We Don't Like
Box packaging feels cheap
Price may be high for some
#TOP 5

Cable Matters USB-C to DisplayPort 1.4 Cable

201036-BLK-1.8m
Black
6 ft
Cable Matters USB-C to DisplayPort 1.4 Cable Cover
Cable Matters Unidirectional USB C to DisplayPort 1.4 Cable - 6ft, Support 8K@60Hz / 4K@240Hz, Thunderbolt 4 to DisplayPort Cable, Display Port to USB C, Black - Not for Portable USBC Monitor

The Cable Matters USB-C DisplayPort cable is designed to connect your USB-C or Thunderbolt 4/5 laptop to a DisplayPort monitor, supporting stunning resolutions like 8K at 60Hz and 4K at 240Hz. This means you can enjoy ultra-clear visuals whether you're gaming, creating content, or working on professional designs. It works with popular laptops like MacBook Pro and Dell XPS, and monitors including Dell UltraSharp and Samsung Odyssey. Plus, it supports advanced features like daisy-chaining multiple monitors and delivers rich 7.1 surround sound for immersive audio. The cable also ensures a secure connection with locking latches, so you won’t have to worry about accidental unplugging during important tasks.

What We Like
High refresh rate support
Strong build quality
Stable, plug-and-play connection
Excellent high-resolution compatibility
Works with various monitor brands
What We Don't Like
Limited bi-directional functionality
Occasional compatibility limits
#TOP 6

Anker Prime Thunderbolt 5 Cable

A84N1
Black
3.3FT
Anker Prime Thunderbolt 5 Cable Cover
Anker Prime Thunderbolt 5 Cable, 3.3 FT USB C to USB C Cable, 240W Charging, 80Gbps Data Transfer, Up to 120Gbps Bandwidth, 8K/4K Displays, for iPhone 16, MacBook, and More (Thunderbolt 5-Certified)

The Anker Thunderbolt 5 Cable offers lightning-fast data transfers, letting you move large files, like 5GB, in just one second. This means less waiting and more productivity. It supports dual 8K displays at 60Hz, so you can enjoy incredibly clear and detailed visuals across multiple screens, perfect for work or entertainment. The cable also delivers powerful charging with up to 240W, allowing you to charge your 16-inch MacBook Pro to half full in just 26 minutes. Overall, this cable helps you stay connected, productive, and powered up with ease.

What We Like
Blazing-fast data transfer
Premium, durable build quality
Supports Thunderbolt 5 and backward compatibility
High power delivery up to 240W
Reliable, stable performance
What We Don't Like
Higher price than standard cables
#TOP 7

Satechi Thunderbolt 5 Cable

ST-YTB5100K
Black
Satechi Thunderbolt 5 Cable Cover
Satechi Certified Thunderbolt 5 Cable, 240W PD, 120Gb/s Data, Dual 8K@60Hz, Triple 4K@144Hz, Braided Thunderbolt 5/4/3, Compatible USB-C Cable for iPhone 17, MacBook Air/Pro, Laptops

The Satechi Thunderbolt 5 cable offers a durable design that ensures long-lasting use with a braided exterior and reinforced connectors, so you won’t worry about wear and tear. It delivers incredibly fast transfer speeds, allowing you to move large files like videos and games quickly and efficiently. With up to 240W power delivery, this cable can keep your high-performance laptops charged even during heavy use. Plus, it supports stunning visuals with dual 8K or triple 4K monitor setups, making it perfect if you need sharp and smooth displays for work or entertainment.

What We Like
Excellent build quality
Braided durable cable
Thunderbolt 5 compatibility
Very fast data transfer
Clearly marked connectors
What We Don't Like
Limited by device Thunderbolt version
#TOP 8

UGREEN USB C to USB C 240W USB4 Cable

65383
Black
3.3 feet
UGREEN USB C to USB C 240W USB4 Cable Cover
UGREEN USB C to USB C Cable 240W USB4 Gen4 80Gbps Premium 17K Dual 8K Triple 4K Display PD3.1 Charging Compatible with Thunderbolt 4/3, USB C Monitors, MacBook, iPad, iPhone 17/16/15, 3.3FT

The UGREEN USB4 240W Cable is designed to keep your devices powered and connected with ease. It supports ultra-fast 240W charging, letting you quickly boost devices like the MacBook Pro 16” to over half battery in just 30 minutes. You’ll also enjoy blazing data transfer speeds up to 80Gbps, making it simple to move large files such as 4K movies in seconds. For those who need high-quality visuals, this cable supports stunning video outputs including up to 16K resolution or multiple 8K and 4K displays, perfect for gaming or professional work. This all-in-one cable works seamlessly with a wide range of USB-C and Thunderbolt devices, offering great convenience for your tech setup.

What We Like
Thick and durable build
High-speed data transfer
Ultra-fast charging capability
Premium braided cable
Reliable future-proofing
What We Don't Like
Stiffer and less flexible
Cable may feel bulky
#TOP 9

Silkland USB 4 Thunderbolt Cable

S3614
Black
Silkland USB 4 Thunderbolt Cable Cover
Silkland USB 4 for Thunderbolt 4 Cable 4FT, 40Gbps Data Sync, 8K/6K@60Hz, 240W Charging, [USB-IF Certified] USB C to USB C Thunderbolt Cable, Compatible for MacBook, iPhone 17/16, SSD, Docking,Monitor

The Silkland USB 4 Cable offers impressive speed, delivering data transfer rates up to 40Gbps. This means you can move large files, like a 10GB video, in just seconds, saving you valuable time. It also supports rapid charging with up to 240W, ensuring your devices are powered quickly and efficiently. With the ability to connect to high-resolution displays, you can enjoy stunning visuals at 8K or 5K, enhancing your work or entertainment experience. Plus, its compatibility with various devices guarantees seamless integration, making it a versatile choice for any tech setup.

What We Like
40Gbps high-speed data transfer
240W fast power delivery
Thunderbolt 3/4 compatibility
Excellent build quality
USB-IF certified
What We Don't Like
Minor emarker programming issue
No included Velcro tie
#TOP 10

Anker Prime Thunderbolt 4 Cable

A84N0
Black
3.3FT
Anker Prime Thunderbolt 4 Cable Cover
Anker Prime Thunderbolt 4 Cable, 3.3 ft USB C to USB C Cable, 240W Charging, 40Gbps Data Transfer, Supports 8K/4K Displays, for iPhone 16 Series, MacBook Air, iPad, Samsung (Thunderbolt 4-Certified)

The Anker Thunderbolt 4 Cable offers impressive features that enhance your device experience. With 240W ultra-fast charging, you can power your 14-inch MacBook Pro from zero to 50% in just 29 minutes, saving you valuable time. The remarkable 40Gbps data transfer speed allows you to share large files in a flash, making file management a breeze. If you enjoy high-quality visuals, this cable supports both single 8K and dual 4K displays, ensuring stunning clarity during streaming or multitasking. Plus, its Thunderbolt 4 certification guarantees safe and efficient charging and data transfer for your devices.

What We Like
Fast 240W charging
High-speed 40Gbps data transfer
Supports 8K/4K displays
Thunderbolt 4 certified
Buying Guide Image

Best Choices of Thunderbolt Cables for You

Introduction

When it comes to choosing Thunderbolt cables, there are a few key factors to consider in order to make the best decision for your needs. In this article, we will provide a brief overview of Thunderbolt technology and its features, as well as some tips for choosing the right Thunderbolt cable for your device.

What is Thunderbolt Technology?

Thunderbolt is a high-speed data transfer technology developed by Intel and Apple. It allows for the transfer of data, video, and audio over a single cable, at speeds of up to 40 Gbps. Thunderbolt cables are compatible with a wide range of devices, including computers, laptops, monitors, and other peripherals.

Features of Thunderbolt Cables

One of the key features of Thunderbolt cables is their speed. As mentioned above, Thunderbolt cables can transfer data at speeds of up to 40 Gbps, which is much faster than USB 3.0 or even Ethernet cables. This makes Thunderbolt cables ideal for transferring large files, such as video or audio files, quickly and efficiently.

Thunderbolt cables also have the ability to daisy chain multiple devices together, allowing you to connect multiple devices to a single Thunderbolt port on your computer. This can be useful for setting up a home theater system, or for connecting multiple external hard drives to your computer.

Choosing the Right Thunderbolt Cable

When choosing a Thunderbolt cable, there are a few key factors to consider. The first thing to consider is the length of the cable. Thunderbolt cables are available in a range of lengths, from 0.5 meters to 2 meters. It's important to choose a cable that is long enough to reach the devices you want to connect, but not so long that it becomes cumbersome or difficult to manage.

Another important factor to consider is the type of connector on the cable. Thunderbolt cables are available with either Mini DisplayPort or USB-C connectors. Mini DisplayPort connectors are compatible with older devices, while USB-C connectors are the newer standard and are compatible with a wider range of devices.

Finally, you should consider the quality of the cable itself. Thunderbolt cables can be expensive, so it's important to choose a cable that is made from high-quality materials and is designed to withstand frequent use. Look for cables that are certified by Intel and Apple, as these cables have been tested to ensure they meet the high standards of the Thunderbolt technology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right Thunderbolt cable is an important decision, as it can impact the speed and performance of your devices. By considering the length, connector type, and quality of the cable, you can make an informed decision and choose a Thunderbolt cable that meets your needs and provides the best possible performance for your devices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a Thunderbolt cable the same as USB-C?

While Thunderbolt and USB-C cables and ports may look identical, they are not the same. Thunderbolt connectors transfer data much faster than USB-C. However, on most devices, the cables and ports are compatible, allowing you to connect either cable to either port.

2. Are Thunderbolt cables still used?

Yes, Thunderbolt cables are still used, with the latest versions being Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4. These versions offer improved performance and features for compatible devices.

3. What are the different types of Thunderbolt cables?

There are three main versions of Thunderbolt cables: Thunderbolt 3, Thunderbolt 2, and Thunderbolt 1. These versions offer different capabilities and speeds.

4. Can I plug my USB-C into a Thunderbolt?

Yes, you can plug a USB-C device into a Thunderbolt 3 host connection. However, not all USB-C host connections support Thunderbolt 3 devices.

5. How do I know if my USB-C is Thunderbolt?

To check if your USB-C port supports Thunderbolt, look for the Thunderbolt's lightning symbol next to or near the port. This indicates that the port is Thunderbolt compatible.

6. Why was Thunderbolt discontinued?

Thunderbolt technology has not been discontinued. However, Apple's Thunderbolt Display, a specific product, has faced criticism for being overpriced and outdated.

7. How do I know if my Thunderbolt is 1 or 2?

Thunderbolt 2 offers channel bonding and full DisplayPort 1.2, providing support for full 4K video. Thunderbolt 1, on the other hand, has 4 independent 10 Gb/s channels. You can identify the version of Thunderbolt based on these differences.

8. Are all USB-C cables compatible with Thunderbolt?

Thunderbolt ports are fully compatible with USB-C devices and cables. However, Thunderbolt ports offer additional features such as connecting external 4K monitors and Thunderbolt expansion docks to your computer.

Editor's Notes

During our thunderbolt cable research, we found 24 thunderbolt cable products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 171,143 customer reviews through our big data system to write the thunderbolt cables list. We found that most customers choose thunderbolt cables with an average price of $25.55.

The thunderbolt cables are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of thunderbolt cables, including Warrky, acer, UGREEN, Anker, Cable Matters. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 799 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Mike Davis Avatar

Mike Davis is a professionally trained electrician with six years of working experience in the electronics industry. He has written an array of web and mobile-based articles for e-magazines and blogs. He loves trying out some novel and popular gadgets and his expertise is in the areas of electronics and computers which is built over many years of working and personal experiences.

Thunderbolt Cables Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Warrky acer UGREEN Anker Cable Matters Anker Satechi UGREEN Silkland Anker
Compatible Devices Smartphone,Tablet,Personal Computer,Monitor,Television,Projector,Laptop iPhone 16 Pro Max/16 Pro/16 Plus/15 Pro Max/15 Pro/15 Plus, Mac Mini M4/M4 Pro, MacBook Pro M4/M4 Pro/M4 Max, MacBook Air 2024, Galaxy S24/23 Ultra, iPad Pro 2024, iPad Air 2024, XPS 17/15/13, Dell, HP Chromebook x360, Surface Book 3/2, Samsung Tablet S9, Note 20, LG V40, Odyssey G8 G9, Nvidia RTX 3090 graphics cards, HDTV iPhone 17 Pro Max/17 Pro/Air/17/16 Pro Max/16 Pro/16 Plus/16, Mac Mini M4/M4 Pro, MacBook Pro M4/M4 Pro/M4 Max, MacBook Air 2024, Galaxy S25/24 Ultra, iPad Pro 2024, iPad Air 2024, XPS 17/15/13, Dell, HP Chromebook x360, Surface Book 3/2, Samsung Tablet S9, Note 20, LG V40, Valve Steam Deck, Odyssey G8 G9, Nvidia RTX 5090 and AMD Radeon RX 7900 graphics cards, HDTV Laptop, Monitor, Tablet, Television Laptop Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet Laptop, Tablet, Smart Phone Gaming Console, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet Docking Station; Monitor; SSD; Smartphone; Laptop; iPad Smartphone, Laptop, Tablet, Monitor
Special Feature 4K Ultra-High Defination - Digital Display, Data Transfer, High Speed, Alu Braided Data Transfer, High Speed Data Transfer, High Speed Data Transfer, Fast Charging, Ultra-Durable Braided, Data Transfer, Fast Charging Braided, Data Transfer, Fast Charging 40Gbps Data Transfer; 240W Fast Charging; 8K 60Hz Data Transfer, Fast Charging, Ultra-Durable
Cable Type - (One Way) Only USB Type-C Source to DP1.2 Port Display USB C to DP Cable USB USB USB USB USB USB4 Comaptible for Thunderbolt4 USB
Connector Type - - Usb Type C to Displayport; Thunderbolt 4/3 to Dp USB Type C Usb Type C, Displayport USB Type C USB Type C USB Type C Usb4 for Thunderbolt 4/3; Usb C; Type C; USB Type C
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy