One of the reasons why users often get confused between Thunderbolt™ 3 and USB 3.1 Gen2 Type C is because the shape of both cables’ plugs looks exactly the same. However, the same plug is paired up with different transmission protocols. In other words, both cables are equipped with USB-C™ plugs but they each have their own transmission protocols, which are Thunderbolt™ 3 and USB 3.1.
Despite the difference in transmission protocols, Thunderbolt™3 and USB 3.1 Gen2 Type C can share the same USB-C™ port. For example, if users connect a USB-C™ laptop to a Thunderbolt™ 3 monitor, they can still be used as a set. The only difference is due to USB3.1 Gen2’s bandwidth limitation, the transmission bandwidth will go down from 40 Gb/s to 10 Gb/s.
Therefore, users need to make sure that their laptop’s USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alt mode. That is a mode which allows their USB-C equipped laptop to connect directly to a Thunderbolt™ 3 or USB-C™ monitors. Additionally, since there are several protocols for USB-C ports, users then must make sure what their laptop’s USB Typc C port supports, whether it’s DisplayPort Alternative Mode or power charging, so as to guarantee the monitor or laptop can enjoy the convenience that comes with the USB-C one cable solution.