A Budget-Friendly Alternative to Apple’s Thunderbolt 4 Cable

OWC has introduced two new long active optical USB4 cables, with lengths of nearly 10 feet (3 meters) and 15 feet (4.5 meters), offering up to 40Gbps of data throughput. Priced at $98.99 and $129.99, respectively, these cables are a cost-effective alternative to Apple’s offerings.

Power and Compatibility

Apart from data throughput, OWC states that the 3m cable can deliver up to 240W of power, while the 4.5m cable supports 60W. These cables are also encased in braided nylon for flexibility and durability, compatible with Thunderbolt 3 or 4 devices.

Performance and Pricing

Intel guarantees Thunderbolt 4 performance up to 2 meters using copper cables. Apple’s Thunderbolt 4 cable costs $159 for 3 meters, while OWC’s optical cables offer longer lengths with high throughput due to fiber-optic technology.

OWC’s Innovation and Legacy

OWC’s optical cables pay homage to Thunderbolt’s origins as Light Peak, a fiber optic standard co-developed by Intel and Apple. While Thunderbolt technology has evolved, OWC continues to innovate with reliable and high-performance connectivity solutions.

Future-Proofing with Thunderbolt 5

In addition to cables, OWC offers a Thunderbolt 5 hub for advanced connectivity needs. Priced at $189.99, this hub supports multiple 8K displays and is a testament to OWC’s commitment to future-proofing technology.

FAQs

Q: Are OWC’s optical cables compatible with Thunderbolt 4 devices?

A: Yes, OWC’s optical cables work seamlessly with Thunderbolt 3 and 4 devices, providing high-speed data transfer and power delivery.

Q: Can OWC’s cables withstand electromagnetic interference?

A: OWC’s fiber-optic technology offers immunity to electromagnetic interference, ensuring reliable performance over long distances.

Credit: www.theverge.com