Affordable Thunderbolt 4 Alternative: OWC's New USB4 Cables

OWC Unveils New Long-Range USB4 Cables

OWC has recently introduced two standout additions to their product lineup: super-long active optical USB4 cables designed for high performance. Available in impressive lengths of nearly 10 feet (3 meters) and 15 feet (4.5 meters), these cables offer an astonishing data throughput of up to 40Gbps. This release caters to the increasing demand for reliable high-speed connections in various tech setups.

Pricing and Specifications

The cables are priced at $98.99 and $129.99 for the 3m and 4.5m options, respectively. However, customers may find slightly lower prices on OWC's website, making these cables a cost-effective solution compared to competitors, particularly Apple, which charges significantly more for similar specifications.

Power Delivery Features

Beyond data transfer capabilities, OWC's USB4 cables are equipped to deliver substantial power. The 3-meter cable can provide up to 240W of power, ideal for charging devices quickly, while the longer 4.5-meter variant offers a still respectable 60W. This feature enhances the versatility of these cables, allowing users to power their devices while simultaneously transferring data.

Durability and Compatibility

These new cables are built with a braided nylon cover, promising both flexibility and durability, which is essential for regular usage. Although they are not classified as Thunderbolt 4 cables, they are fully compatible with Thunderbolt 3 and 4 devices. This includes a wide range of docks and hubs, making them a practical choice for users with existing hardware.

Comparison to Other Cables

Intel typically guarantees Thunderbolt 4 performance up to 2 meters using traditional copper cables that require intricate technology to maintain high throughput. In contrast, OWC’s fiber-optic design minimizes electromagnetic interference, allowing for higher performance over longer distances. While other USB4 cables may offer longer lengths, they often fall short on data throughput capabilities.

A Nod to Thunderbolt's History

OWC’s latest offerings harken back to the origins of Thunderbolt, first conceptualized as Light Peak—a fiber optic cable standard by Intel and Apple. Although the technology shifted to copper cables, optical solutions still exist, such as those provided by Corning, which offers a remarkable 164-foot (50 meters) 5K optical display cable priced at $480.

OWC's Expanding Product Line

In addition to the new USB4 cables, OWC has also announced a Thunderbolt 5 hub priced at $189.99. This hub went up for preorder last November and is now available for purchase. It boasts four Thunderbolt 5 ports and a solitary USB-A port, with support for up to three simultaneous 8K displays at 60Hz. OWC continues to innovate in the realm of connectivity, catering to the evolving needs of tech enthusiasts and professionals.

Conclusion

With their impressive specifications and competitive pricing, OWC's new USB4 cables and Thunderbolt 5 hub present excellent options for anyone looking to enhance their tech setup. These advancements not only signify OWC's commitment to high-quality products but also reflect the growing trend towards faster, more versatile connectivity solutions.