If you've got a drawer full of USB cables, you're probably aware they're not all the same, so how should you make sure you're ...

USB-C and Thunderbolt 3 docks will work as Thunderbolt ... The 16-inch MacBook Pro requires 140W to fast-charge via its MagSafe 3 cable, so owners of that laptop should look for a PD 3.1 charger.

Meanwhile, the USB-IF also has logos for the maximum charging speed – in the case of USB4 version 2.0, i.e. 240 watts. Thunderbolt 5 does not have this; only 140 watts are guaranteed.

Cables aside, OWC also recently announced a $189.99 Thunderbolt 5 hub, which went up for preorder in November and is available now. It’s got four Thunderbolt 5 ports and a single USB-A port and ...

In contrast, USB4 cables display the classic USB logo and are marked with a 20 or 40 designation to indicate their performance capabilities. Display support is another area where Thunderbolt 4 excels.

These cables have the same USB-C connection, however, so they will still work just at slower speeds. The OWC Thunderbolt cables are available now at the OWC site. Roman is a Macworld Senior Editor ...

OWC has introduced two new active optical USB4 cables offering extended lengths and high-speed connectivity at more competitive prices than Apple's only long Thunderbolt 4 cable offering.