Not all Windows PCs are compatible with Thunderbolt devices. This article shows the recommended steps for determining if your PC has Thunderbolt support.
- About Thunderbolt & USB-C
- About Thunderbolt Support with USB4
- Check PC Specifications & System Requirements
- Check the USB-C Port
- Thunderbolt Certified Products
- About Thunderbolt Add-In Cards
Note: If your PC is not compatible with Thunderbolt, consider using a Universal Audio USB device.
About Thunderbolt & USB-C
Thunderbolt uses USB-C, which is a standard connector type that is shared with a variety of data protocols.
Not all USB-C connections have Thunderbolt support. USB-C is commonly used for connections that do not support Thunderbolt.
USB-C ports and cables that lack Thunderbolt support are not compatible with UA Thunderbolt devices.
About Thunderbolt Support with USB4
USB4 is capable of supporting Thunderbolt, but not all Windows systems will include that capability with their USB4 ports.
Check your PC's documentation to ensure Thunderbolt is listed in the official product specifications before connecting a UA Thunderbolt device.
Systems that have USB4 ports without Thunderbolt capability are not supported with UAD Thunderbolt devices.
Check PC Specifications & System Requirements
One way to tell if your Windows PC supports Thunderbolt is to check the system or motherboard's documentation.
If Thunderbolt is supported, it will be featured in the product specifications.
Check to ensure the system supports Thunderbolt and your computer confidently meets the System Requirements for UAD Thunderbolt devices.
Check the USB-C Port
Look for the Thunderbolt™ symbol.
The symbol resembles a lightning bolt with a defined arrowhead.
The symbol can be found next to ports that have Thunderbolt support.
The symbol will also appear on the connector housing of Thunderbolt cables.
Note: Not all Windows computers will show the Thunderbolt symbol near the port. When in doubt, check product specifications to verify.
Thunderbolt Certified Products
Thunderbolt certified products are listed here.
When choosing a Thunderbolt product, mind closely to ensure it meets the UA System Requirements.
About Thunderbolt Add-In Cards
Some manufacturers offer Thunderbolt add-in card products.
Thunderbolt add-in cards are compatible only with specific motherboards, and will not work outright on any system. It is not recommended to use a Thunderbolt add-in card on a motherboard that does not support it.
Mixing Thunderbolt add-in cards and motherboards from different manufacturers is generally not advised.
For additional info on compatibility and requirements:
- Check your system or motherboard's product webpage and documentation
- Check the Thunderbolt add-in card's product webpage and documentation
- Contact your system or motherboard manufacturer for additional qualified advice