USB-C and USB4 refer to different parts of the same technology: USB-C is the physical connector, while USB4 is a data-transfer standard that uses that connector. USB4 matters for people using demanding equipment because it can carry power, video and high-speed data through one cable, supporting monitors, docks and fast external storage.

All USB4 cables use USB-C connectors, but older USB-C ports may only support USB 3.2 speeds of 10 or 20 Gbps rather than USB4’s original 40 Gbps. USB4 Version 2.0 can reach 80 Gbps and supports faster SSDs, dual high-resolution displays and external GPUs; however, it offers little practical benefit for basic peripherals such as keyboards and mice.