Thunderbolt cables and standard USB-C cables look very similar, but Thunderbolt cables support higher data transfer speeds and additional features. To identify a Thunderbolt cable, look for the lightning bolt icon on the cable or connectors. Thunderbolt cables often support speeds up to 40Gbps, while standard USB-C cables usually max out at lower speeds. Also, Thunderbolt cables may be more expensive and marketed specifically for high-performance tasks like video editing or connecting to multiple devices. Checking the product details or packaging can help confirm the cable type.

To ensure a USB-C cable supports fast charging, look for cables labeled with fast charging or Power Delivery (PD) compatibility. These cables are designed to handle higher wattages, often 60W or more, which speeds up charging for compatible devices. Additionally, check if the cable is USB-IF certified, which means it meets industry standards for safety and performance. Using a certified fast charging cable along with a compatible charger can help you charge devices more efficiently.

Yes, many USB-C cables can transfer data in addition to charging devices, but not all cables support the same data speeds. Some cables are designed primarily for charging and may have slower data transfer rates, while others support faster data protocols like USB 3.1 or Thunderbolt 3. When buying a cable, check the specifications to see if it supports data transfer and at what speed. This is especially important if you plan to use the cable for syncing files or connecting to external devices like monitors or drives.